Hydraulic valve assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a hydraulic valve assembly (10) having a connecting block (12) and at least one valve segment (14.1... 14.n), the hydraulic valve assembly (10) comprising a main electronic mount (16) in which a main electronic module (18) is arranged, the valve segment (14.1... 14.n) comprising a valve segment electronic mount (20. 1... 20. N) in which a valve segment electronic module (20. 1... 22. N) is arranged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydraulic valve assembly, in particular to a hydraulic valve assembly comprising a connection block and at least one valve section hydraulically connected to the connection block. Background Art

[0002] Such hydraulic valve assemblies are known from the prior art, for example from EP 2 063 159 A1. In a hydraulic valve assembly, a plurality of valve sections are mounted in series like a sandwich and are controlled via a common bus system, with valve electronics integrated in the housing of each valve section. The valve electronics can communicate via the bus system with a higher-level control unit that is not part of the valve assembly. For this purpose, a contact pin can be inserted into the cable of the bus system through a cover to produce a signal connection.

[0003] This hydraulic valve assembly is used to control hydraulic consumers in mobile hydraulic applications. Examples include agricultural and forestry machines such as tractors or harvesters. In addition, supports, masts or mobile hydraulic systems connected to the machine, such as front loaders, balers, loaders, earth augers or cable winches, can be controlled.

[0004] A disadvantage of the known solutions is that the valve electronics are located in the housing of the valve section, which means that maintenance or replacement of the valve electronics requires considerable effort. Furthermore, replacement usually requires a new cable, which is then penetrated by the contact pins during reassembly. The hydraulic circuit also has to be opened for this purpose, which in turn leads to unwanted ingress of dust. Furthermore, the valve electronics are designed in such a way that all relevant functions for valve control are provided in the electronics. This results in relatively expensive valve electronics per valve section.

[0005] Furthermore, if a fault occurs in the hydraulic components or in the valve electronics, the known hydraulic valve assemblies can only be used to a limited extent. Summary of the invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic valve assembly with onboard electronic equipment, which is more practical, has higher usability and is more structurally reasonable.

[0007] The above mentioned problem is solved by a hydraulic valve assembly according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0008] The hydraulic valve assembly according to the invention comprises a connection block. A main electronics module is arranged in a main electronics support of the hydraulic valve assembly. Furthermore, the hydraulic valve assembly according to the invention comprises at least one valve section. The valve section is hydraulically connected to the connection block in a known manner, whereby, for example, a hydraulic consumer connected to the valve section can be pressurized via the connection block and the valve section or, for example, can also be relieved to a tank. The valve section comprises a valve section electronics support. The valve section electronics module is arranged on the valve section electronics support.

[0009] This provides a simple hydraulic valve assembly. The main electronics module and the valve section electronics module are each arranged in their own bracket and are therefore easily accessible and easily interchangeable. As a result, the design of the hydraulic valve assembly is economical and simple. In addition, the hydraulic valve assembly can be replaced quickly and easily, thus reducing downtime.

[0010] Preferably, the connection block has a main electronics support in the form of a connection block electronics support, wherein the main electronics module is the connection block electronics module. However, it is also conceivable, for example, that the end plate of the hydraulic valve assembly has a main electronics support in which the main electronics module is arranged.

[0011] Preferably, the main electronic module is detachably arranged in the main electronic support. In particular, it is preferred if the main electronic module can be fixed in the main electronic support by a positive connection or a force-fit connection (for example, by a clip connection, a latch ear or a guide rail connection). Preferably, the main electronic module has a contact interface, which can establish a signal, data and voltage transmission connection with the main electronic support when the main electronic module is arranged in the main electronic support. This can be a plug connection. Of course, it is also conceivable that the contact interface is at least partially configured for wireless signal, data and voltage transmission, for example via an NFC interface. Preferably, the main electronic support is arranged in a freely accessible area of ​​the hydraulic valve assembly, in particular an area facing the environment. In other words, preferably, the main electronic module can be directly inserted into or removed from the main electronic support without the need for additional assembly or disassembly steps, whereby it is easier to replace the main electronic module when necessary.

[0012] Preferably, the valve section electronics module is detachably arranged in the valve section electronics support. In particular, it is more preferred if the valve section electronics module can be fixed in the valve section electronics support by a positive connection or a force fit connection, for example by a clip connection, a latching lug or a guide rail connection. Preferably, the valve section electronics support is arranged in a freely accessible area of ​​the valve section, in particular an area facing the environment. In other words, it is very advantageous if the valve section module can be directly inserted into or removed from the valve section electronics support without the need for additional assembly or disassembly steps. As a result, it is easier to replace the valve section module when necessary.

[0013] Preferably, the valve section electronics module has a contact interface, which can establish a signal, data and voltage transmission connection with the valve section electronics support when the valve section electronics module is arranged in the valve section electronics support. This can be a plug connection. Of course, it is also conceivable that the contact interface is at least partially configured for wireless signal, data and voltage transmission, for example via an NFC interface. This means that both the main electronics module and the valve section electronics module can be easily replaced, for example in the event of a fault.

[0014] Preferably, the main electronic module is different from the valve section electronic module, wherein the main electronic module has a main control unit. In this case, it is more preferred if the valve section electronic module has an auxiliary control unit. This means that computationally intensive tasks, including computationally intensive tasks of the individual valve sections, can be performed by the main control unit, such as control, regulation, equipment monitoring and predictive maintenance tasks. Less computationally intensive tasks can be performed by the auxiliary control unit. However, it is also conceivable that all control processes and tasks can be performed by the main control unit. This will result in slightly higher costs for the main electronic module, but significantly lower costs for the valve section electronic module. In this case, it is more preferred if the main control unit has a main central processing unit and the auxiliary control unit has an auxiliary central processing unit with much lower computing power.

[0015] Preferably, the hydraulic valve assembly has an electrical backbone, via which the main electronic module and the valve section electronic module are interconnected. The electrical backbone is the physical interface between the connection block and the valve section. Control and regulation signals are transmitted via the electrical backbone. The electrical backbone is also used to power the valve section. Therefore, the main electronic module preferably has a backbone communication unit.

[0016] For connection to a higher-level unit, it is preferred if the main electronic module has an external communication unit for connecting to a bus system, in particular an external communication unit for connecting to a fieldbus system. Depending on the configuration of the external communication unit, various fieldbus systems can be connected, such as CAN, Ethernet, FlexRay, LIN or IO-Link.

[0017] Preferably, the external communication unit has an interface for wireless communication and / or data transmission. For example, the interface can be a Bluetooth interface, a WiFi interface, a 5G interface or an NFC interface. The interface can be used to transmit specific information to a mobile device or a device not connected by a cable, or to receive information from a mobile device or a device not connected by a cable.

[0018] Preferably, the valve section electronic module has a motion control unit. The motion control unit can be a solenoid valve control unit. The solenoid valve control unit is configured to apply current and voltage to the solenoid valve (e.g. proportional solenoid valve) of the valve section via digital values ​​calculated by the main electronic module via the backbone communication unit, thereby generating a controllable hydraulic flow on the hydraulic consumer. The digital values ​​are mainly calculated by the main control unit. The motion control unit can also be a motor control unit. The motor control unit is used to control an electric motor or an electromechanical drive device so as to initiate the required movement and achieve a controllable hydraulic flow on the hydraulic consumer. To this end, the electric motor is periodically energized so that the shaft performs a specified rotational movement, which is converted into a specified linear movement of the output element via a gearbox.

[0019] Preferably, the main electronic module has a voltage connection and a voltage regulator so that the supply voltage can be applied to the valve section electronic module preferably via the electrical backbone. The voltage regulator processes the input voltage provided via the voltage connection so that it is suitably stable, constant and fused as the supply voltage for the electronic components inside the main electronic module and the valve section electronic module, so that no further processing of the supply voltage for the internal components is required. On the other hand, the voltage regulator regulates the input voltage so that the stability of the electrical energy and the current and voltage limits are sufficient to meet the requirements of the solenoid valve control unit to drive at least one solenoid valve. In addition, the voltage regulator also provides overvoltage, reverse polarity and load dump protection for the supply voltage provided to all downstream users (such as the internal components of the main electronic module and the valve section electronic module).

[0020] Preferably, the valve section has a movable hydraulic closing element, in particular a valve spool piston. The closing element can be moved between at least two positions in a generally known manner, for example to supply the required pressure or oil quantity to the hydraulic consumer or to release pressure to the tank. Therefore, the valve section preferably has at least one working connection for connecting a hydraulic consumer.

[0021] Preferably, the signal-controlled movement of the closing element can lead to the working connection being released. In particular, it is preferred if the signal-controlled movement is initiated by a signal from the bus system. In this case, it is conceivable to install a quick coupling on the working connection. If the hydraulic consumer is now connected to the working connection via the quick coupling, an electronically activated release can be achieved. There is no need to provide a hand lever or the like for manual release. If the working connection is not released, it may not be possible to connect the hydraulic consumer via the quick coupling, for example due to a temperature-related volume increase in the hydraulic oil.

[0022] Preferably, the valve section electronic module has a sensor module. Depending on the variant, the sensor module is configured to read discrete, internal or external sensors. The sensor module is also configured to additionally read sensors with a bus interface. The sensors can be, for example, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, position sensors, etc. The recorded physical values ​​(temperature, pressure, acceleration, etc.) can be used directly in the auxiliary control unit or the valve section electronic module to optimize the control, and can also be provided to the main control unit or the main electronic module for computing-intensive tasks (such as artificial intelligence control algorithms, condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, etc.).

[0023] Preferably, the valve section is a first valve section and the valve section electronic module is a first valve section electronic module. The hydraulic valve assembly preferably comprises at least one second valve section with a second valve section electronic module, whereby the connecting block is hydraulically connected to the first valve section and the second valve section. In this way, different valve section electronic modules can be used for the first valve section and the second valve section. Thus, if, for example, the support is controlled only by the second valve section electronic module, it is not necessary to provide a position sensor for the second valve section electronic module.

[0024] In this case, the main electronic module is preferably connected to the first valve section electronic module via an electrical backbone. Preferably, the second valve section electronic module has a feed-through for the electrical backbone. The second valve section electronic module is preferably not connected to the first valve section electronic module via an electrical backbone, whereby certain regulation, monitoring or control tasks of the second valve section are performed by the first valve section electronic module. It is therefore particularly advantageous if the first valve section electronic module has an auxiliary control unit and the second valve section electronic module does not. In this way, the structure of the second valve section electronic module is particularly simple and the performance is particularly good.

[0025] Preferably, the first valve section has at least a first actuation unit, and if the second valve section has at least a second actuation unit, the first actuation unit and the second actuation unit are connected to the motion control unit of the first valve section electronic module. Thus, the movement of the first valve section closing member and the second valve section closing member can be realized by the motion control unit. This reduces the cost of the valve section electronic module.

[0026] The first actuation unit may be a first magnet or a first electromechanical drive. The second actuation unit may be a second solenoid valve or a second electromechanical drive. Thus, depending on the design, the valve section may be driven by an electromagnetic, electromechanical or motor.

[0027] Preferably, the first valve section electronic module has a backbone communication unit. The electrical backbone represents the physical interface between the connection block and the valve section. Control and regulation signals are transmitted via the physical interface. The electrical backbone is also used to supply power to the valve section. It is therefore particularly advantageous if the first valve section electronic module has a backbone communication unit.

[0028] Preferably, the second valve section has a movable hydraulic closing member, in particular a valve spool piston. The second valve section electronic module preferably has a second position sensor for monitoring the position of the closing member. The second position sensor is preferably connected to an auxiliary control unit of the first valve section electronic module. The signal preparation and processing of the second position sensor does not require extensive calculations and can therefore be done by the auxiliary control unit of the first valve section electronic module. This means that the second valve section electronic module does not require an auxiliary control unit, which reduces the overall costs.

[0029] Although only two valve section electronic modules are described above, a hydraulic valve assembly including three or more valve sections also falls within the scope of the present disclosure. The valve section electronic modules of each valve section can be configured differently as required, such as with or without an auxiliary control unit, with or without a position sensor, etc.

[0030] Furthermore, preferably, the valve sections have the same configuration except for the electronic modules of the valve sections. For example, by replacing the electronic modules of the valve sections, the function of the valve sections can be adjusted relatively easily. It is particularly advantageous if the working connections of the valve sections are equipped with quick-release clutches. This means that even in remote areas, if a valve section fails, the basic hydraulic function can be maintained.

[0031] Furthermore, the hydraulic valve assembly according to the invention also allows the replacement of the valve section electronics module during use as part of a short interruption. It is sufficient to equip the tractor cab with a corresponding valve section electronics module, for example. In this case, it is also conceivable to parameterize the newly connected valve section electronics module via the main electronics module or the main control unit and / or the auxiliary control unit of another valve section electronics module. This can significantly reduce downtime.

[0032] Brief description of the attached figure

[0033] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. The drawings schematically show:

[0034] Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0035] Figure 2 is a second perspective view of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 is a top view of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0037] Figure 4 is a first side view of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0038] Figure 5 is along Figure 4 The cross section of line AA is shown;

[0039] Figure 6 is a second side view of the hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0040] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the main electronic module or valve section electronic module;

[0041] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a first variant of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0042] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a second variant of the hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention;

[0043] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram of a third variant of a hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention; and

[0044] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a fourth variant of the hydraulic valve assembly according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] Figures 1 to 6 Various views of a hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the invention are shown. The hydraulic valve assembly 10 shown in the figure has a connection block 12 and six valve sections 14.1 to 14.6. The hydraulic valve assembly 10 adopts a sandwich structure, and oil is supplied to each valve section 14.1 to 14.6 through the connection block 12. Therefore, common hydraulic components that are not shown or described in detail, such as inlet regulators, pressure, oil tanks and LS connectors, are arranged in and on the connection block 12. In addition, see Figures 8 to 11 Corresponding hydraulic oil supply pipes 34 are also provided between the connecting block 12 and the individual valve sections 14.1 to 14.n.

[0046] The hydraulic valve assembly 10 is further provided with a main electronics support 16 in which a main electronics module 18 is arranged. More precisely, the connection block 12 has a main electronics support in the form of the connection block electronics support 16. The main electronics module in the form of the connection block electronics module 18 is detachably arranged in the connection block electronics support 16, for example by means of corresponding latching elements 32 on the connection plug 30, see also Figure 7 Each valve section 14.1 to 14.6 has a valve section electronics support 20.1 to 20.6. For example, the valve section electronics module 22.1 to 22.6 can be detachably arranged in each valve section electronics support 20.1 to 20.6 by means of a corresponding latching element 32 on the connecting plug 30, see Figure 7Although the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.6 are identical in appearance and can be installed in any valve section electronic bracket 20.1 to 20.6 via the connecting plug 30 in principle, the functions of the various valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.6 may also be different due to different internal electronic components and configurations, which will be described in detail below. Here, the connecting plug 30 is provided in the form of a USB plug as an example.

[0047] Each valve section 14.1 to 14.6 has two working connections 24.5a, 24.5b, 24.6a and 24.6b, which are provided with quick-release clutches for connecting hydraulic consumers. The working connections 24.5a, 24.5b, 24.6a and 24.6b are provided with covers.

[0048] To release the respective working port 24.5a, 24.5b, 24.6a and 24.6b, each valve section 14.1 to 14.6 has a hand lever 26.1 to 26.6. The hand lever 26.1 to 26.6 is optional, as the pressure can also be released electronically, as described in detail below.

[0049] An electrical backbone 28 in the form of a cable harness (eg Figure 5 ) is protected and operated within the hydraulic valve assembly 10.

[0050] Reference Figures 8 to 11 , four different variants of the hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the invention will be explained below. These variants differ in principle only in the internal structure of the main electronic module 18 or the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.6.

[0051] Figure 8 A first variant of the hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the invention is shown. In the exemplary embodiment, the main electronic module 18 has a main circuit board 36 on which a main control unit 38 is arranged. In this example, the main control unit 38 is a main CPU configured to increase computing power. In addition, the main electronic module also has a voltage regulator 40, a backbone communication unit 42 and an external communication unit 44.

[0052] The voltage regulator 40 processes the input voltage provided via the voltage connection 46 so that it is suitably stable, constant and fused as the supply voltage for the electronic components inside the main electronic module 18 and the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n, so that no further processing of the supply voltage for the internal components is required. On the other hand, the voltage regulator 40 regulates the input voltage so that the stability of the electric energy and the current and voltage limits are sufficient to meet the requirements of the motion control units 52.1 to 52.n of the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n to drive the actuation units 54.1 to 54.n, which will be described in detail below. In addition, the voltage regulator 40 also provides overvoltage, reverse polarity and load dump protection for the supply voltage provided to all downstream users, such as the main electronic module 18 and the internal components of the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22n.

[0053] Depending on the electromagnetic, electromechanical or electric drive of the valve sections 14.1 to 14.n, the motion control units 52.1 to 52.n are configured as solenoid valve control units or motor control units. Thus, the actuation units 54.1 to 54.n are configured as proportional solenoid valves or electromechanical or electric actuators.

[0054] The electrical backbone 28 is physically connected via the electrical backbone communication unit 42. The main control unit 38 exchanges digital data with the various internal components of the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n (eg, with the solenoid valve control units 52.1 to 52.n) via the backbone communication unit 42.

[0055] The external communication unit 44 is configured for connection to a higher-level unit and for physical connection to a bus system 48, in particular to a fieldbus system. Depending on the configuration of the external communication unit 44, various fieldbus systems 48 can be connected, such as CAN, Ethernet, FlexRay, LIN or IO-Link. Control and regulation commands entered by the user via a joystick or an input device in the tractor cab can be transmitted via the fieldbus system 48, for example.

[0056] Furthermore, the connection block 12 has interfaces for hydraulic connections 50, in particular pump connections and tank connections. The pressure applied via the pump connection is distributed in a conventional manner to the individual valve sections 14.1 to 14.n via the hydraulic supply line 34. Thus, the returning hydraulic oil is discharged into the tank via the hydraulic supply line 34 and the tank connection.

[0057] In the present exemplary embodiment, the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n all have the same configuration, each valve section electronic module has a secondary circuit board 62.1 to 62.n, each circuit board is provided with a motion control unit 52.1 to 52.n and a position sensor 58.1 to 58.n. In the following, the motion control unit 52.1 to 52.n will be exemplified as a solenoid valve control unit, and therefore, the description is also applicable to the configuration of the motion control unit 52.1 to 52.n as a motor control unit.

[0058] The individually controllable solenoid valve control units 52.1 to 52.n input current and voltage into the solenoid devices 54.1 to 54.n through digital values ​​calculated by the main control unit 38 and transmitted through the backbone communication unit 42, thereby generating a controllable hydraulic flow at the corresponding hydraulic working ports 24.1a, 24.1b to 24.na, 24.nb. As shown in the figure, each solenoid device 54.1 to 54.n has two respective proportional solenoid valves, which move the corresponding closing members 56.1 to 56.n of the respective valve sections 14.1 to 14.n in a known conventional manner. In the exemplary embodiment, the closing members 56.1 to 56.n are valve column pistons.

[0059] The position sensors 58.1 to 58.n report the position of the spool pistons 56.1 to 56.n of the respective valve sections 14.1 to 14.n digitally to the main control unit 38 via the electrical backbone 28 through the backbone communication unit 42. With the help of the spool positions returned by the position sensors 58.1 to 58.n, the main control unit 38 can calculate new default values ​​for the respective solenoid valve control units 52.1 to 52.n, thereby realizing closed-loop control of the hydraulic flow of the hydraulic consumers connected to the hydraulic working ports 24.1a, 24.1b to 24.na, 24.nb.

[0060] In addition, the external communication unit 44 may also have a wireless communication interface, such as a Bluetooth interface or a near field communication interface, so that data can be transmitted with a mobile device or the like.

[0061] Fig. 9 A second variant of the hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The first variant shown differs in the configuration of the valve section electronics modules 22 . 1 to 22 . n .

[0062] In the present exemplary embodiment, the first valve section electronic module 22.1 and the third valve section electronic module 22.3 each have only feedthroughs 60.1 and 60.3 for the electrical backbone 28 and the position sensors 58.1 and 58.3. The second valve section electronic module 22.2 is provided with an auxiliary control unit 64.2, a solenoid valve control unit 52.2, a position sensor 58.2 and a backbone communication unit 66.2 on a secondary circuit board 62.2.

[0063] The position sensors 58.1 and 58.3 of the first valve section electronic module 22.1 and the third valve section electronic module 22.3 are connected to the auxiliary control unit 64.2 of the second valve section electronic module 22.2 via a connection 68, which can also be part of the electrical backbone 28. Similarly, the electromagnetic devices 54.1 and 54.3 of the first valve section 14.1 and the third valve section 14.3 are connected to the electromagnetic valve control unit 52.2 of the second valve section electronic module 22.2 via a connection 70, which can also be part of the electrical backbone 28. The auxiliary control unit 64.2 and the main control unit 38 exchange digital data via the backbone communication unit 66.2 of the second valve section electronic module 22.2. Compared with the main control unit 38, the auxiliary control unit 64.2 can be configured for tasks that are less computationally intensive.

[0064] The directly connected position sensors 58.1 to 58.3 here report the spool position of each valve section 14.1 to 14.3 digitally via the electrical backbone 28 and via the electrical backbone communication units 42, 52.2 to the main control unit 38 via the auxiliary control unit 64.2. With the help of the fed-back spool position, the main control unit can calculate new default values ​​for the second valve section electronic module 22.2 and thus achieve closed-loop control of the hydraulic flow of the hydraulic consumers connected to the hydraulic working connections 24.1a, 24.1b to 24.3a, 24.3b by correspondingly transmitting the default values ​​to the auxiliary control unit 64.2.

[0065] Fig.10 The third variant of the hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the present invention is shown. The third variant differs from the first and second variants in that the structures of all valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n are the same as those of the first and second variants. Fig. 9The second valve section electronic module 22.2 in the second variant shown is basically the same. In addition, all valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n also have sensor modules 72.1 to 72.n. Depending on the variant, each sensor module 72.1 to 72.n is configured to read discrete, internal or external sensors. Each sensor module 72.1 to 72.n can also be configured to additionally read sensors with a bus interface. The sensor can be a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a position sensor, etc. The recorded physical values ​​(temperature, pressure, acceleration, etc.) can be directly used in the auxiliary control unit 64.1 to 64.n or the valve section electronic module 22.1 to 22.n to optimize the control, and can also be provided to the main control unit 38 or the main electronic module 18 for computing-intensive tasks (such as artificial intelligence control algorithms, condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, etc.).

[0066] In addition, the main electronic module 18 also has a sensor module 74. The sensor module 74 can also be configured to read discrete, internal or external sensors. The sensor module 74 can also be configured to additionally read sensors with a bus interface. For example, the sensor can be a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a position sensor, etc. The recorded physical values ​​(temperature, pressure, acceleration, etc.) can be directly used for control optimization or other tasks of the main control unit 38 (such as artificial intelligence control algorithms, condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, etc.).

[0067] Fig.11 A fourth variant of the hydraulic valve assembly 10 according to the present invention is shown. Figures 8 to 10 The variant shown differs in that the first valve section electronic module 22.1 is configured in accordance with Fig.10 The configuration of the first valve section electronic module 22.1 of the illustrated variant is similar, and the configuration of the second valve section electronic module 22.2 is similar. Fig. 9 The configuration of the second valve section electronic module 22.2 of the illustrated variant is similar, and the configuration of the third valve section electronic module 22.3 is similar. Fig. 9 The configuration of the third valve section electronic module 22.3 of the illustrated variant is similar, and the configuration of the fourth valve section electronic module 22.4 is similar. Figure 8 The configuration of one of the valve section electronic modules 22.1 to 22.n of the variant shown is similar. Fig.10 The main electronic module 18 shown corresponds.

[0068] In addition, Figures 8 to 11In all four variants shown, the hydraulic working connections 24.1a, 24.1b to 24.na, 24nb can be released without the use of a hand lever. To this end, the user issues a signal via the fieldbus system 50, for example on an input device. The master control unit 38 generates a control sequence, which then causes a certain movement of the valve spool piston via the electrical backbone 28 and other components on the solenoid valve device 54.1 to 54.n and releases the hydraulic working connection 24.1a, 24.1b to 24.na, 24nb to the oil tank.

[0069] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. used in the present disclosure do not determine the required order, but are only conceptually distinguished from each element. Therefore, for example, having a "second" element but not having a "first" element is also part of the present disclosure.

[0070] Reference numerals

[0071] 10Hydraulic valve assembly

[0072] 12 connection blocks

[0073] 14.1...14.n valve section

[0074] 16 Main electronic bracket / connection block electronic bracket

[0075] 18 Main electronic module / connection block electronic module

[0076] 20.1...20.n valve section electronic bracket

[0077] 22.1...22.n Valve section electronic module

[0078] 24.1a...24.na Hydraulic working connection

[0079] 24.1b...24.nb Hydraulic working connection

[0080] 26.1...26.nHand lever

[0081] 28 electrical backbone

[0082] 30 connection plug

[0083] 32 Latch elements

[0084] 34 Hydraulic oil supply pipe

[0085] 36 Main circuit board

[0086] 38 master control unit

[0087] 40 Voltage Regulator

[0088] 42 backbone communication units

[0089] 44 External communication unit

[0090] 46 Voltage connection

[0091] 48 bus connections

[0092] 50 Hydraulic connector

[0093] 52.1...52.n Motion Control Unit

[0094] 54.1...54.n Actuating unit

[0095] 56.1...56.n Closing piece

[0096] 58.1...58.n Position sensor

[0097] 60.1...60.n Feedthrough

[0098] 62.1...62.n Secondary circuit board

[0099] 64.1...64.n Auxiliary control unit

[0100] 66.1...66.n Backbone communication unit

[0101] 68 Connectors

[0102] 70 Connectors

[0103] 72.1...72.n sensor modules

[0104] 74 sensor modules

Claims

1. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) comprising a connection block (12) and at least one valve section (14.1 ... 14.n) hydraulically connected to the connection block (12), in, The hydraulic valve assembly (10) comprises a main electronic bracket (16), in which a main electronic module (18) is arranged, and The valve section (14.1 ... 14.n) comprises a valve section electronic bracket (20.1 ... 20.n), and a valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) is arranged in the valve section electronic bracket (20.1 ... 20.n).

2. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 1, in, The connection block (12) comprises the main electronic support in the form of a connection block electronic support (16), and wherein the main electronic module is a connection block electronic module (18).

3. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 1 or 2, in, The main electronic module (18) is detachably arranged in the main electronic bracket (16).

4. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) is detachably arranged in the valve section electronic bracket (20.1 ... 20.n).

5. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, The main electronic module (18) is different from the valve section electronic modules (22.1 . . . 22.n), and the main electronic module (18) comprises a main control unit (38).

6. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 5, in, The valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) comprises an auxiliary control unit (64.1 ... 64.n).

7. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The hydraulic valve assembly (10) comprises an electrical backbone (28), via which the main electronic module (18) and the valve section electronic modules (22.1 . . . 22.n) are interconnected.

8. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 7, in, The main electronic module (18) includes a backbone communication unit (42).

9. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The main electronic module (18) comprises an external communication unit (44) for connecting to a bus system (48), in particular to a fieldbus system.

10. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 9, in, The external communication unit (44) comprises an interface for wireless communication and / or data transmission.

11. Hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) comprises a motion control unit (52.1 ... 52.n), wherein the motion control unit (52.1 ... 52.n) is preferably configured as a solenoid valve control unit or a motor control unit.

12. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The main electronic module (18) comprises a voltage connection and a voltage regulator (40), wherein a supply voltage can preferably be applied to the valve section electronic modules (22.1 . . . 22.n) via an electrical backbone (28).

13. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section (14.1 ... 14.n) comprises a movable hydraulic closing element (56.1 ... 56.n), in particular a valve plunger piston.

14. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 13, in, The valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) comprises a position sensor (58.1 ... 58.n) for monitoring the position of the closing element (56.1 ... 56.n).

15. Hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section (14.1 ... 14.n) comprises at least one working connection (24.1a ... 24.na, 24.1b ... 24.nb) for connecting a hydraulic consumer.

16. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 15, in, The movement of the closing member (56.1 ... 56.n) controlled by the signal can cause the working connection (24.1a ... 24.na, 24.1b ... 24.nb) to be released.

17. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 16, in, The signal-controlled movement is initiated by a signal sent by the bus system (48).

18. Hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section electronic module (22.1 ... 22.n) comprises a sensor module (72.1 ... 72.n).

19. Hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The valve section (14.1) is a first valve section, and the valve section electronic module is a first valve section electronic module (22.1), and The hydraulic valve assembly (10) further comprises at least one second valve section (14.2 ... 14.n) having a second valve section electronic module (22.2 ... 22.n), wherein the connection block (12) is hydraulically connected to the first valve section (22.1) and the second valve section (14.2 ... 14.n).

20. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 19, in, The main electronic module (18) is connected to the first valve section electronic module (22.1) via an electrical backbone (28).

21. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 20, in, The second valve section electronic module (22.2 ... 22.n) has a feed-through (60.1 ... 60.n) for the electrical backbone (28).

22. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 21, in, The second valve section electronic module (22.2...22.n) is connected to the first valve section electronic module (22.1).

23. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to claim 22, in, The first valve section electronic module (22.1) comprises an auxiliary control unit (64.1...64.n), and wherein the second valve section electronic module (22.2...22.n) does not comprise an auxiliary control unit.

24. A hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 19 to 23, wherein: The first valve section (14.1) comprises at least one first actuating unit (54.1), and the second valve section (14.2...14.n) comprises at least one second actuating unit (54.2...54.n), wherein the first actuating unit and the second actuating unit are connected to a motion control unit (52.1...52.n) of the first valve section electronic module (22.1), wherein the first actuating unit (54.1) is preferably a first solenoid valve or a first electromechanical drive device, and wherein the second actuating unit (54.2...54.n) is preferably a second solenoid valve or a second electromechanical drive device.

25. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 19 to 24, in, The first valve section electronic module (22.1) comprises a backbone communication unit (66.1...66.n).

26. Hydraulic valve assembly (10) according to any one of the preceding claims 19 to 25, in, The second valve section (14.2...14.n) comprises a movable hydraulic closing element (56.2...56.n), in particular a valve column piston, wherein the second valve section electronic module (22.2...22.n) comprises a second position sensor (58.2...58.n), which is used to monitor the position of the closing element (56.2...56.n).

27. The hydraulic valve assembly (10) of claim 26, wherein: The second position sensor (58.2...58.n) is connected to the auxiliary control unit (64.1...64.n) of the first valve section electronic module (22.1).

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