Method for determining state of running agent located in machine, device configured for carrying out said method

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining the state of an operating agent, in particular an operating oil and / or a coolant, located in a machine, in particular with an operating agent replacement detection or a similar detection of a start event or event, comprising the following steps: supplying the operating agent of the machine to a spectroscopic device coupled to the machine, according to the invention, a spectroscopic measurement analysis is carried out by means of the measurement irradiation of the spectroscopic device, spectroscopic measurement results are determined on the basis of the spectroscopic measurement analysis, the spectroscopic measurement results are associated with a measurement reference in such a way that a measurement signal that can be evaluated is indicated from the association, the spectroscopic measurement results are repeatedly determined over a predetermined reference operating time interval following a starting event with respect to the operating agent, indicating spectroscopic measurement results associated with the reference operating time interval, and the measurement reference is determined from the spectroscopic measurement results.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for determining the state of a running agent, particularly running oil or coolant, located in a machine, the method particularly including detection of running agent replacement or detection of a start event or other event. The invention also relates to an apparatus, preferably a control and measuring device, for a machine or a machine having said control and measuring device, the apparatus configured to perform the method. Background Technology

[0002] DE 10 2020 126 900A1 describes a method for detecting the state of operating oil in a combustion engine. Here, the oil guiding system has an oil filter for measuring the operating oil and the oil pressure differential, the measuring mechanism being configured to detect the oil pressure differential or similar oil pressure relationship of the operating oil passing through the oil filter in the oil guiding system. Based on this, a number of relational parameter values ​​are assigned to the trend development at points in time during the operating duration.

[0003] Furthermore, it is known that in the laboratory, operating agents, especially oil samples, are analyzed using an infrared spectrometer in order to, for example, evaluate the aging of the operating agent, which requires a new control sample of the operating agent.

[0004] Furthermore, a sensor system is known from the prior art, which is also based on infrared spectroscopy, however, lacks the wavelength range of laboratory instruments. To obtain results, the sensor system operates using a control sample of the running agent from a laboratory setting, determining the values ​​of each constituent material by comparing actual and theoretical values. This involves representative characteristics of the running agent, such as acid or base values, especially in the case of running oils. The control sample is measured using a reference measurement system in the laboratory, and the reference values ​​are typically stored in a database within the sensor system.

[0005] However, the application of comparative samples is difficult in operating machinery, such as internal combustion engines, especially in ships, because in these cases, different manufacturers' types of operating agents, particularly oils, are often mixed. Similarly, the comparative samples are often unavailable, or the composition of the identified type of operating agent, particularly oil, has changed over time (e.g., through matching additives).

[0006] Furthermore, determining the status of a machine operating under the influence of an agent is entirely challenging in terms of drawing reliable conclusions regarding its continued operation, and is also highly systematic. The corresponding measurement methods used for probing and the generation of reliable conclusions regarding the necessity of agent replacement are thus relatively costly.

[0007] DE 20 2007 019 631U1 explains that the degree of wear in oil, particularly motor oil, can be determined using infrared spectroscopy. Absorption bands exist in the middle infrared range, which are representative of acid content, alcohol content, or water content. In particular, there is a representative spectral range for the water content of lubricating oil in the 2900 to 3000 nm range. Therefore, by performing infrared transmission on the lubricating oil, the water content can be determined. An apparatus for determining the water content in mineral oils and similar liquids is described, comprising a determined base number and a determined degree of blackening by means of an infrared measuring unit, through which the mineral oil to be tested continuously flows, and whose output measurement value forms a measure of the water content of the mineral oil in a selected spectral range. This article describes a configuration for determining the state of operating oil in a machine. An infrared measuring unit is constructed to flow through a cuvette, wherein infrared light transmitted through the cuvette is detected by an infrared receiver. The output measurement value of the infrared measuring unit is correlated with a stored baseline value by means of a calculation unit. This baseline value is obtained at time intervals from measurements of reference mineral oil flowing through a scavenging channel, taken during replacement of the mineral oil to be tested using the infrared measuring unit.

[0008] The output measurement value is calibrated using a calculation unit and a first correction value derived from the corresponding alkalinity of the mineral oil to be tested. An image receiver sensitive to white light is provided to detect the degree of blackening of the mineral oil to be tested. A second correction value is derived from the detected degree of blackening, and the detected water content of the mineral oil to be tested is mathematically correlated using this second correction value.

[0009] Starting with the known sensor systems explained at the beginning, especially from the previously mentioned DE 202007 019 631U1, IR-based operating agent condition monitoring systems, especially operating oil condition monitoring systems, have always relied on reference parameters, which are either recorded as database-based calibration values ​​or can be carried separately as in the mentioned utility model patent.

[0010] Here, the high cost of maintaining a database containing the operating agents, especially operating oils, and their parameters for each application is problematic. Furthermore, it has been virtually impossible to apply unknown or uncertain operating agents, especially unknown or uncertain operating oils, to date.

[0011] Particular problems arise with varying types of operating agents, especially operating oils, which in this field can occur either due to concessions on the operating agent or due to changing the operating agent. This is also problematic when it depends in part on the load or the surrounding environment. This is particularly true when only a relatively static reference value of the operating agent's condition is known. The operating agent's condition can only be considered critical when there is a risk of motor damage. Summary of the Invention

[0012] In this regard, the present invention is proposed with the objective of providing a method and apparatus, particularly having a monitoring mechanism for determining the state of a running agent located in a machine, by virtue of which the state of the running agent can be detected more flexibly and with less cost, but still preferably more reliably or in any case in a timely manner.

[0013] The method and apparatus shall include measures by which the operating status of the machine or system, or the method for monitoring the operating status, is made feasible in an improved manner. In particular, the correspondingly constructed controller, and especially the control and measurement device, shall include a control module by which warning and / or alarm statuses of the operating agent located in the machine can be detected more flexibly and with less cost, while still being more reliable or timely in any case.

[0014] The task is solved in the first aspect by the method according to claim 1.

[0015] The method according to the present invention for determining the state of an operating agent located in a machine comprises the following steps:

[0016] The operating agent of the machine is supplied to the spectral mechanism coupled to the machine;

[0017] Spectroscopic measurements and analyses are performed by means of irradiation by a spectroscopic apparatus;

[0018] Based on spectroscopic measurement analysis, determine the spectroscopic measurement results; and

[0019] The spectroscopic measurement results are correlated with a measurement reference, such that the correlation indicates a measurement signal that can be evaluated, wherein, it is set such that,

[0020] The spectroscopic measurements are repeated at predetermined reference operating time intervals, following the start event of the operating agent, with reference to the spectroscopic measurements belonging to the reference operating time interval, and a measurement reference is determined from the spectroscopic measurements.

[0021] - The measurement signals that can be evaluated are repeatedly indicated over the machine's operating time, so that the specific state characteristics of the operating agent can be signaled.

[0022] The task is addressed in a second aspect by means of an apparatus configured to perform the method.

[0023] The present invention relates in particular to a control and measurement device for a machine.

[0024] The present invention relates in particular to a machine having control and measuring devices.

[0025] In particular, the invention advantageously utilizes the method and similar apparatus described above to detect or similarly detect the initiation event or a start-up event; furthermore, the initiation event can be advantageously determined within the scope of the modified version. Moreover, the invention is distinguished by its advantageous methodological approach or technical sequence and evaluation method, which enables the advantageous determination of the measurement reference.

[0026] The present invention has recognized that a measurement reference can be determined during machine operation or, in any case, while the running agent is in the machine. As recognized by the present invention, initiation events, such as, for example, running agent replacement, are advantageously suited for determining the measurement reference in a subsequent phase (Nachgang) in direct time.

[0027] The measurement references assumed to be necessary (and mostly disadvantageously "static") in the prior art are no longer necessary. The present invention is conceived to determine reference values ​​for indicating measurement references during operation or, in any case, while the running agent is in the machine. This makes it feasible to determine the state of the running agent in the machine, by virtue of its ability to detect the running agent state more flexibly and with less expense, still preferably more reliably, or in any case, promptly.

[0028] Calibrations to be performed independently and separately from the machine become entirely or at least largely redundant. Instead, reference operating time intervals used to determine one or more reference values ​​are used to determine measurement references after a refrigerant change, starting from the initial event. This, in turn, provides reliable measurement references without the need for costly reference measurements or data.

[0029] It has been demonstrated that, during operation or in any case while the agent is in the machine, the definite reference value used to indicate the measurement reference can also be relatively easily accounted for variations in the type or condition of the agent.

[0030] Because the measurement reference is relatively reliable, it is also advantageous to provide an improved evaluation of the measurement signal over the machine's runtime. In this regard, a database can be eliminated; changes in the type of operating agent are essentially permitted during agent replacement, and subsequent reliable status determination is also achieved. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for prior chemical analysis of the operating agent, especially in the laboratory.

[0031] Advantageous modifications of the invention can be derived from the dependent claims, which provide detailed descriptions of the concepts set forth above within the scope of the task description, as well as advantageous feasible solutions with respect to other benefits.

[0032] The machine is formed, in particular, in the form of an internal combustion engine or a similar combustion motor, such as a motor in the form of a diesel motor or a gas or other Otto motor.

[0033] Within the scope of the present invention, an operating agent is generally understood to be a fluid or material, particularly a liquid, for use in operating machinery, especially for lubricating and / or cooling components and / or portions of machinery. Within the scope of the present modifications, an operating agent is understood to be an operating oil and / or coolant, or an operating agent comprising said operating oil and / or coolant. Advantageously, the operating agent is formed in the form of an operating oil and / or coolant.

[0034] Running agents are generally understood to preferably be fluids or materials that are directed within a machine to enable its operation, and which may be aged or deteriorated in condition, particularly fluids or materials, such as running agents, that remain in the machine for a relatively long operating duration and are circulated. However, it is also possible to involve running agents that have a relatively long residence time in the machine, which are externally supplied or diverted and remain in the machine for a relatively long operating duration.

[0035] Advantageously, the spectroscopic measurements are repeatedly determined for a reference number of repetitions, given a reference number of spectroscopic measurements associated with a reference operating time interval, and a reference operating time interval is determined following the start event of the operating agent, such that a reference number of spectroscopic measurements exist within the reference operating time interval. Thus, it is advantageous to determine, in the subsequent phase immediately following the start event, the range (i.e., the measurement scale and / or time scale) within which the measurement reference should be determined.

[0036] Advantageously, it has been found that the spectroscopic measurements remain substantially unchanged for a reference number of repetitions, especially within a predetermined constant range, where a reference number of spectroscopic measurements exist, from which a measurement reference is determined. This can be achieved, for example, by measuring a constant level of intensity for a defined reference running time interval. For this purpose, a small number of repetitions are often sufficient to determine the spectroscopic measurements. For example, a flat intensity value, or a flat intensity value of the measured spectrum, can be used as a reference intensity or reference spectrum to determine the measurement reference.

[0037] Advantageously, the spectroscopic measurement results are provided for use by means of measurement irradiation of at least one measurement irradiation line, a number of measurement irradiation lines, or a spectrum of measurement irradiation bands that is predetermined. Thus, for example, the spectroscopic measurement results can be the intensity obtained from spectroscopic measurement analysis of the agent by means of measurement irradiation. The intensity can be resolved spectrally. That is, the spectrum can be used as a spectroscopic measurement result or, in any case, from which a number of suitable or relevant spectroscopic measurement irradiation lines are obtained at a defined frequency (or wavelength).

[0038] Typical feasible measurement records using on-site infrared spectroscopy, especially when operating oil is used as the operating agent, involve:

[0039] -Water share

[0040] - The proportion of the running agent oxidation, nitration, and / or sulfidation

[0041] - The proportion of additives, such as phenols

[0042] - The proportion of additives such as ZDDP (zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate)

[0043] - The proportion of carbonates (especially used to determine TBN)

[0044] - Share of aromatic phosphoric acid

[0045] - Share of amino antioxidants

[0046] - Degree of CH bending vibration

[0047] ZDDP (zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate) is a major reactive agent in operating oil that reduces losses.

[0048] TBN, or Total Base Number, indicates the alkalinity of a lubricating material, such as in the case of operating oils. TBN is a factor used to control and manage oil life. The application of TBN helps neutralize acids formed during operation. For example, crankcase oils should maintain an appropriate TBN value during operation to prevent acid buildup. Detergents containing metals... It is the primary source of TBN used in lubricating materials. An important test is the measurement of TBN in motor oil. Here, the inorganic core at the center of basic calcium carbonate / calcium hydroxide is taken into account, which is held in a colloidal suspension in the lubricating material by detergent soap molecules.

[0049] Similarly, measurement records can be indicated using in-situ infrared spectroscopy, especially in the case of coolants or other operating agents.

[0050] Preferably, the measurement signal that can be evaluated is indicated instantaneously or continuously over the running time of the machine.

[0051] Spectroscopic measurements can be filtered by optical filters, and / or the evaluable measurement signals can be filtered by numerical filters. Such measures improve selectivity and enhance the evaluability of spectroscopic measurements.

[0052] Within the scope of a particularly preferred modification, the measurable measurement signal is indicated over the machine's runtime as a trend (Verlauf), wherein a defined state of the operating agent can be signaled by means of the trend. This has the advantage that analysis and correction relative to an alarm threshold (but primarily an error limit) are feasible in an improved manner. Events can also be derived in an improved manner based on the trend, if possible, by interpolating between the various measurement results.

[0053] Advantageously, the start event for the running agent is used to determine the start event for or applicable to determining the measurement reference; regarding the running agent, the start event is particularly selected from the group of: running agent replacement, running agent refill. Running agent replacement can also be determined in such a way that it is externally indicated. Advantageously, within the scope of a modification, the start event for the running agent is determined in such a way that the measurement signal is checked for a jump change with respect to the event time window.

[0054] In particular, the amplitude of a jump-type change can exceed a first event threshold, especially when the start event or a general event is identified as a change in the running agent. In particular, the amplitude of a jump-type change can exceed a second event threshold, especially when the start event or a general event is identified as a refill of the running agent.

[0055] Advantageously, within the scope of the modified scheme, the first event threshold is set to exceed the second event threshold. In other words, this relates to the understanding that a large jump in the measured data to a value changing in the direction toward a new running agent state signifies "running agent replacement," while a small jump to a better measured value in the direction toward a new running agent state signifies "running agent has been refilled."

[0056] In cases where a start event or a general event is determined, it is advantageous to set it as follows:

[0057] - Record at least one runtime indication of the event time window, and / or

[0058] - Record at least one spectral selectivity information of the spectroscopic measurement results for use in the measurement signal that can be evaluated over a time window.

[0059] At least one piece of spectral selectivity information is preferably evaluated in terms of a predetermined spectrum of the measured irradiation.

[0060] Measuring irradiation can include measuring irradiation lines or measuring spectral bands, involving one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of: the spectral position, spectral width, amplitude, gradient, and phase of the irradiation, and the relationship of the parameters relative to each other, especially the relationship between different spectral positions.

[0061] Preferably, at least one spectral selectivity information is selectively used for additives, particularly zinc, barium, boron, calcium, magnesium, or phosphorus and / or sulfates or chemical compounds in operating agents, especially in operating oils.

[0062] Advantageously, the measurement irradiation is in the infrared (IR) range of the optical spectrum, that is, particularly directed towards IR-active materials, especially in the range between 700 nm and 12 μm. Spectroscopic measurement analysis is not limited to (however preferably limited to) IR spectra; in this regard, additionally or alternatively, spectroscopic measurement analysis using X-ray (Roentgen), UV, VIS, or NIR or FIR spectra is also feasible; THz spectroscopy is also feasible. In this context, the concept of "spectrum" should be broadly understood as an examination performed using electromagnetic irradiation and should enable the determination of the event to be evaluated.

[0063] In this regard, not only IR spectroscopy can be applied, but also, alternatively, UV, VIS, NIR, or FIR spectroscopy can be applied. In this way, not only can IR-active substances in the running agent be identified, but also, alternatively, non-IR-active substances, such as elements or non-IR-active molecules, can be identified.

[0064] For example, metals are not well-suited for measurement using IR spectroscopy. FIR or THz spectroscopy is particularly suitable for measuring molecular or lattice vibrations. Furthermore, specific spectroscopic sensors can be used for metal particles; THz spectroscopy is particularly suitable for measuring lattice vibrations. Generally, advantageously, THz spectroscopy is suitable, for example, for measuring volume flow; preferably in a reflective manner. Additionally or alternatively, spectroscopic sensors can also be used for particles smaller than approximately 300 micrometers.

[0065] Within the scope of a particularly preferred modification, the upper error limit and / or lower error limit are indicated relative to the evaluable measurement signal that is repeatedly indicated over the running time. In particular, the upper error limit and / or the upper error limit can be advantageously indicated as the error limit direction by the trend of the evaluable measurement signal with respect to the running time, which presupposes a preferred trend of the evaluable measurement signal.

[0066] The concept of "preferred trend of a measurable measurement signal" generally refers to a general "trend" or "movement." This can preferably be pre-calculated based on the expected aging of the operating oil. Mathematically, this can be achieved by means of a predicted or similarly assumed amplitude and by means of a slope or, if possible, maintaining the same interval size. This should apply to measurable measurement signals repeatedly indicated over operating time, particularly their trends, where the interval size can be indicated as the trend of the average value or by means of an extrapolated limit curve. In this regard, more precisely, "preferred trend of a measurable measurement signal" refers to a trend band that can be assumed under the best-case scenario, accompanied by a determined error deviation.

[0067] Within the scope of the aforementioned modification, it has been particularly recognized that the carrying capacity of trends, such as trend bands including upper and / or lower error limits, can take into account normal operating agent aging or effects in terms of the size of their intervals relative to the actual trend; in other words, taking into account the deviations and / or errors that are generally expected. This can be, for example, deviations caused by water ingress or by diesel fuel ingress during normal use.

[0068] Spectroscopic mechanisms are advantageously part of more complex measurement mechanisms. In particular, measurement mechanisms can include additional measurement units, such as those configured to determine the temperature, viscosity, turbidity, or density of an agent.

[0069] In particular, it is possible to determine the upper and / or lower error limits of a measurement signal relative to a certain number of measurement parameters based on the operating agent and / or the machine, and / or to determine the operating environment of the machine. In particular, it is possible to independently determine at least one additional operating agent state parameter, selected from the group consisting of temperature, viscosity, turbidity, and density, relative to the spectroscopic measurement results, especially with respect to a reference operating time interval.

[0070] Within the scope of a particularly preferred modification, the defined state characteristics of the operating agent can be signaled in consideration of events selected from the group consisting of: operating agent replacement, operating agent refilling, water introduction into the operating agent, fuel introduction into the operating agent, and introduction of contaminants and / or soot into the operating agent.

[0071] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings compared to the prior art, which is also partially shown. The embodiments are not necessarily presented to scale; rather, the drawings are implemented in a schematic and / or slightly modified manner where illustrative purposes are helpful. Reference is made to the relevant prior art in relation to the teachings which can be directly identified from the drawings. It should be considered that a wide variety of modifications and changes can be made to the form and details of the embodiments without departing from the general concept of the invention. The features of the invention disclosed in the specification, the drawings, and the claims are important not only individually but also in arbitrary combinations for modifications of the invention. Furthermore, all combinations of at least two features disclosed in the specification, the drawings, and / or the claims fall within the scope of protection of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0072] The general concept of the invention is not limited to the exact form or details of the preferred embodiments shown and described below, nor is it limited to a subject matter that would be restrictive compared to the subject matter claimed in the claims. Values ​​within the indicated size ranges, falling within the mentioned limits, should also be disclosed as extreme values ​​and can be used freely and claimed. Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will emerge from the subsequent description of preferred embodiments and, with reference to the accompanying drawings; wherein:

[0073] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a machine is shown, which operates using mineral oil and has a control and measurement system according to a preferred embodiment;

[0074] Figure 2View (A) shows the signal flow of a reference operating time interval for the duration of operation of a machine operating with mineral oil, after a start event (in this case, an oil change in an internal combustion engine with a combustion motor), wherein the start event (as is currently the oil change) can be identified as an event in the signal flow and used to determine the measurement reference.

[0075] View (B) shows a flowchart of the method flow for determining a measurement reference;

[0076] Figure 3 The signal flow of the running time is shown as an example of the running duration of a machine (in this case, an internal combustion engine, i.e., with a combustion motor) that operates using mineral oil, wherein determined events (such as oil change and oil refill as present) can be identified as events in the signal flow.

[0077] Figure 4 A flowchart of a first embodiment of a method for oil replacement detection in a first variant is shown;

[0078] Figure 5 It shows something similar to Figure 3 The exemplary signal trend, in which water inflow can be identified as an event in the signal trend, and the signal trend is below the lower error limit of the trend band to indicate a warning.

[0079] Figure 6A A flowchart of a first embodiment of a method for indicating an alarm prompt is shown;

[0080] Figure 6B A flowchart of a first embodiment of a method for indicating a warning message is shown;

[0081] Figure 7A , Figure 7B The example shown is similar to the one illustrated. Figure 5 The signal path, based on the error limit within the signal path. Figure 7A The trend bands that can be identified and based on Figure 7B An event that can be identified, which can infer motor damage, wherein the signal trend is below the lower error limit of the trend band to indicate a warning.

[0082] Figure 8A , Figure 8B The example shown is similar to the one illustrated. Figure 1The signal trend has an error limit and carries a trend band, and in addition, foreign materials are introduced ( Figure 8A ) and air introduction ( Figure 8B The signal trend can be identified as an event, and the signal trend is below the lower error limit of the trend band. Figure 8A ), or the signal trend exceeds the upper error limit of the trend band ( Figure 8B ), to indicate warning prompts;

[0083] Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates a control and measurement system, specifically designed according to a preferred modification, that incorporates the demonstrated functions for determining oil condition. Detailed Implementation

[0084] Figure 1 A preferred embodiment of the device 1000 according to the invention is schematically illustrated in summary. It is a system consisting of a control unit 300 and a measuring device at the machine 100, and has a corresponding mechanism 200 for signaling or monitoring, or similarly for indicating or displaying the operating agent BM (such as, for example, coolant KM or operating oil) located in the machine. ) state.

[0085] Below, according to the operating oil in machine 100 The invention is illustrated by non-limiting embodiments. It should be understood that, within the scope of the invention, in the operation of oil... The features described therein, and particularly preferred, have proven to be particularly relevant and advantageous. It should also be understood that the described features, as illustrated, or similarly, can also relate to the mentioned advantages with respect to other operating agents BM (such as, for example, coolant KM). In summary, the concept of the invention is based on the operating oil in machine 100. The non-limiting embodiments are illustrated and, in my view, can also be passed on to other operating agents BM in the machine 100, such as, for example, coolant KM.

[0086] In detail, Figure 1 The image first schematically illustrates a system of apparatus 1000 having a machine 100, which is currently described non-limitingly according to a combustion motor within the scope of a preferred embodiment. The machine primarily uses a running agent BM (currently running oil) to lubricate its motor and its components, such as pistons, connecting rods, crankshafts, and camshafts. The machine is operated by means of a running agent BM located within it. Essentially, within the scope of the inventive concept, other machines can also be included that are capable of operation by means of a running agent BM located within the machine. For example, the following description of the drawings also applies to working machines or machines within the scope of energy generation, and additionally or alternatively to their transmission mechanisms or the transmission mechanisms themselves; such machines can also be operated by means of a corresponding running agent BM located within the machine, particularly for lubricating their rotating parts and, if possible, also for lubricating their supports.

[0087] Currently, the machine 100 is equipped with a sensing mechanism, which here definitively includes an analytical mechanism similar to the sensing mechanism or spectral mechanism 600, which, according to the present embodiment, includes at least one intensity sensor Sens_I.

[0088] In this embodiment, the spectral mechanism 600 is advantageously part of the more complex measuring mechanism 800. In particular, the measuring mechanism 800 can include additional measuring units, such as a measuring unit 700 configured to determine temperature, which here has a temperature sensor Sens_T. Additional measuring units configured to determine the viscosity, turbidity, or density of the running agent BM can also be provided.

[0089] The spectral mechanism 600, which includes at least the intensity sensor Sens_I, and other components of the analysis mechanism, are preferably configured to instantaneously or continuously and repeatedly indicate the measurable measurement signal S over the operating time of the machine 100. In particular, field measurements are performed over long operating time intervals, typically throughout the entire motor operating time, at regular, short intervals. These intervals are selected, in particular, taking into account the desired or technically feasible time resolution, for example, corresponding to the smallest possible or appropriate time period Δt. Furthermore, the operating time interval to be monitored, such as the operating time t (especially...), can be appropriately determined. Figure 2 View (A), Figure 3 The fault or oil change should be identified no later than a measurable event E after the said running time t.

[0090] A spectral mechanism 600, having at least an intensity sensor Sens_I, can be arranged within or around the machine 100 itself, and in any case, at crucial operating intervals, in order to utilize the operating oil... Measurements are taken at the location to perform measurements on the operating oil. The spectroscopic measurement and analysis is coupled to machine 100.

[0091] The current machine 100, which is in the form of a combustion motor, is also equipped with an additional sensing mechanism, such as at least one for determining the operating oil. The oil temperature is sensed by a Sens_T temperature sensor. Currently, according to the concept of the present invention, machine 100 is constructed with a spectral sensor Sens_I, which is used to sense the operating oil temperature. The spectroscopic measurement analysis determines the spectroscopic measurement results.

[0092] Because such spectroscopic measurements typically depend on the operating oil. The temperature, that is, the measurement result is indicated taking into account the corresponding operating oil temperature; in order to obtain comparable measurement results, the spectroscopic measurement results are determined at temperatures that are kept as similar as possible. Overall, the measurement result is indicated taking into account, for example, the intensity I determined by the spectroscopic measurement analysis via the spectral sensor Sens_I and the temperature determined by the temperature sensor Sens_T. In practice, to avoid measurement errors, the spectroscopic measurement results should be considered in relation to the operating oil temperature. The relationship between temperature and signal strength. Signal strength, primarily measured by infrared, typically depends on oil temperature.

[0093] The signal strength T during transmission measurements increases with rising oil temperature (the signal strength decreases during reflection measurements). For example, during new oil filling (as per its relation to...). Figure 3 As explained, the jump in signal strength I during transmission measurement T is smaller than during oil change. Therefore, the running oil should be changed first. It is then heated to the operating temperature so that it can be reliably detected by measurement technology; this can be controlled by temperature measurement.

[0094] Nevertheless, the filtered measurements can be stored separately, for example, in a corresponding array (or all values ​​can be stored in a data unit or similar file / array, or otherwise, in a suitable manner). The measurements can be filtered according to a temperature window for evaluation; for example, filtered at 5° intervals corresponding to a temperature diagram.

[0095] Then, these values ​​associated with temperature are evaluated as their own rows and columns. These rows and columns move relative to each other on the "y-axis," but should have the same trend.

[0096] Essentially, spectroscopic measurements can also be filtered by other physical and / or measurement techniques, such as the temperature filter mentioned herein. Optical filters (which are not explained in detail herein) have also proven advantageous for reasons of selectivity.

[0097] When the previously mentioned trends should not be the same after the application of a suitable (as exemplarily illustrated previously) physical and / or measurement technique filter, it can be inferred that the running oil... It has been worn out. This is credible because, under such conditions, the oil is running... The proportion of soot in the solution is significant, which can also be verified by measurements using broadband spectrometry. Operating oil At higher temperatures, light is more transparent, and the effect is no longer fully manifested when soot is formed.

[0098] The numerical filtering methods described are merely illustrative; other numerical implementations are possible. For example, signals can be shifted or expanded as mentioned above or similarly, especially by standardization. Spectroscopic measurements can also be smoothed, especially by averaging, or by interpolation or extrapolation to indicate the signal. Spectroscopic measurements can also undergo numerical frequency filtering.

[0099] Overall, the spectroscopic measurements, whether processed or otherwise suitable, and thus capable of being evaluated, can be transmitted via a communication bus or similar signaling mechanism for evaluation, or can be used for further analysis on a suitable monitoring facility or interface.

[0100] In particular, the mechanism 200 shown schematically here is configured to signal or monitor spectroscopic measurement results determined based on spectroscopic measurement analysis, and to communicate the measurement results to the control unit 300. The mechanism 200 may have a corresponding data interface and data lines, and is associated with or connected to the machine 100 for the purpose of transmitting data.

[0101] The control unit 300 is configured to control the temperature sensing mechanism Sens_T and the spectral mechanism 600, which has at least an intensity sensor Sens_I, such that they indicate a measurable measurement signal S. The measurable measurement signal S should be repeatedly indicated during the operation of the machine 100, so that during this period, the mechanism 200 can be used to analyze the operating oil. The definite state characteristics of Z are signaled.

[0102] It has been proven that, as explained at the beginning, (in) Figure 2 View (A) or Figure 3 (Exemplary and more detailed) A suitable graph of a spectroscopic measurement result MY, such as intensity I, is correlated with a measurement reference MY0, such as preferred intensity I0, so that the measurement signal S that can be evaluated can be indicated from exactly this correlation.

[0103] According to Figure 1In the embodiment shown, the first control module 400 is configured to evaluate the spectroscopic measurement result MY in relation to the determination of the measurement reference MY0 and / or the start event EAn or event En (e.g., EA1, EA2 or E1, E2, etc.). This implementation is currently preferably based on determining the intensity difference ΔI of the intensity I in terms of transmission T as the basis for the spectroscopic measurement result MY with respect to one or more extreme values ​​lim1, lim2, which are mentioned here only exemplarily and conceptually. Figures 2 to 4 The view will be further explained.

[0104] In addition, a second control module 500 is provided, which is configured to, when the spectroscopic measurement result MY gives an indication of an erroneous direction or is designed to provide a reason for an alarm (error or alarm A will trigger the operation of the machine's oil flow). When the status signal is deteriorating or an alarm is about to be triggered, issue a warning W and / or an alarm A.

[0105] Currently, for the second control module 500, it is exemplarily pointed out that, in the case of alarm A, this is based on the intensity difference Delta_I in the sense of the amplitude ΔY of the jump change in the measured signal S with respect to the alarm threshold lim_A. Figure 6A It is pointed out that, in the case of warning W, the relative intensity difference Delta_I is indicated based on the jump amplitude ΔY of the measured signal S with respect to the error band B or the warning threshold lim_W associated with it. Figure 6B ).

[0106] The first control module 400 then mainly based on Figures 2 to 4 The views are illustrated in detail by way of preferred embodiments.

[0107] The second control module 500 then mainly based on Figure 5 Implementation examples Figure 6A , Figure 6B Implementation methods and Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8A , Figure 8B Other embodiments are illustrated by way of example.

[0108] The control unit 300 corresponds to the device 1000 in terms of... Figure 9 It is explained in detail and illustrated there in various ways.

[0109] Below, based on calculations, an exemplary illustration is shown how to handle the operation of the oil during transmission measurements. The value itself is deteriorating, such as the current value for operating oil. The value of water in it.

[0110] Figure 2 View (A) exemplarily illustrates the trend of intensity I with respect to operating time t regarding control module 400, wherein the intensity I in terms of transmission during operation... The aspect was determined. During the running time t, an oil change was identified, meaning that running oil remained in machine 100 after the oil change. The operating oil has a high transmission T, so the spectroscopic measurement result MY is distinguished by a jump in intensity I_t0 before the oil change (at time t-1) and after the oil change (at time t0). In other words, there exists a jump amplitude ΔY0 corresponding to the jump (from the parameter measurement value Y-1 to Y0), which is related to the corresponding amplitude of the measurement signal S (i.e., S(Delta_I)), and in this regard, this defines the start event EA.

[0111] In response, compared to the intensity I_t-1 at time t-1 before the oil change, the intensity I_t0 increases dramatically at time t0 after the oil change.

[0112] The corresponding spectroscopic measurement result MY (which is associated with intensity I_t-1) is currently labeled with the subordinate parameter measurement value Y-1, and the spectroscopic measurement result MY after oil change (which is associated with intensity I_t0) is currently labeled with the subordinate parameter measurement value Y0. The two spectroscopic measurement results MY (that is, their subordinate parameter measurements Y-1 and Y0) are currently shown with dashed lines.

[0113] Currently, the oil change event E (formerly known as the start event EA) can be considered as the start event EA at the time point t0 in question, so that the measurement reference MY0, along with the subordinate parameter measurement value Y0, can be indicated regarding the spectroscopic measurement result MY.

[0114] In this regard, according to the concept of the present invention, the spectroscopic measurement result MY follows a predetermined start event EA (which relates to the running oil). The reference operating time interval R (in the form of oil replacement) is repeatedly determined between the start and end times t0 and tR of the reference operating time interval R. This determination is, for example, repeated 20 to 30 times over a time interval Δt during the operating time t.

[0115] In this regard, the reference operating time interval R, that is, between time points t0 and t_R, indicates the repeatedly determined spectroscopic measurement result MY. After the start event EA (currently in the form of oil change), for the determined finite reference operating time interval R, which is relatively small compared to the total operating time interval of machine 100, it is possible to start from the following, i.e., operating oil... Its characteristics remain unchanged or can be changed negligibly.

[0116] For example, repeatedly determining the spectroscopic measurement result MY can be used to determine the relevant measurement reference MYR from the spectroscopic measurement result MY for a reference running time interval R, which can be based on the fact that it is consistent with the value of the measurement reference Y0.

[0117] In response, Figure 2 View (B) illustrates the appropriate method flow for determining the measurement reference Y0. After indicating the presence of a start event EA (currently in the form of an oil change), the flow for repeatedly determining the spectroscopic measurement result MY begins with the measurement of intensity I_t and in order to indicate the start of the spectroscopic measurement result MY.

[0118] In other words, after starting step S1.1, the measurement step S1.2 involves measuring the oil in operation. The intensity I_t of the aspect is measured; this is accompanied by setting the time period Δt as close as possible (dichter) or, in any case, a suitable time period with meaningful resolution for the reference operating time interval R, and repeatedly determining the operating oil. In the case of MY, the results of spectroscopic measurements in this aspect.

[0119] In step S1.3, it is checked whether the intensity I_t determined in the subsequent step is significantly greater than the intensity I_t-1 determined in the previous step. If this is not the case ("No"), the method returns to step S1.2 via loop S1.4, that is, the intensity I_t is then measured again in the next time period to determine another spectroscopic measurement MY in the reference running time interval R.

[0120] In other words, given a reference number of spectroscopic measurements MY belonging to a reference operating time interval R, the spectroscopic measurements MY are repeatedly determined for a reference number of repetitions, and the reference operating time interval R following the start event EA with respect to the running agent BM is determined, such that a reference number of spectroscopic measurements MY exist in the reference operating time interval R.

[0121] As has been shown, the implementation of the loop S1.4 for a relatively short time period Δt, for example up to 10 or 20 times, is applicable to the operating oil in machine 100 after an oil change (i.e., after the start event EA). Determine a reliable measurement reference MY0.

[0122] The relevant measurement reference MYR can appear in the reference running time interval R, for example, in the case of averaging or other applications of spectroscopic or numerical filtering immediately following the measurement result MY. It should be understood that the measurement result MY can essentially be a composite measurement result over the reference running time interval R, such as a simple intensity or intensity spectrum, which is determined in a frequency-resolved manner.

[0123] When the previously mentioned time value or magnitude of the value is not initially known, it is possible to store appropriate values ​​t, I_t, and I_t-1 as previously measured. Based on the learned values, a warning notification can be generated indicating when an oil change has occurred.

[0124] When the values ​​are known or learned from the beginning, especially at different parts of the spectrum, it becomes possible to detect whether the same oil type has been consistently used. With the same oil type, jumps at all parts of the spectrum must be considered identical relative to each other. If different operating oils are then used… The jump is not performed at the same rate in all parts (e.g., different operating oils). (With different additives).

[0125] The type of oil can also be identified based on specific relative changes during oil changes. If an unknown operating oil is then added... This will be communicated, and the initial limit assumption of the oil used will be used as a warning.

[0126] To avoid erroneous measurements during oil refilling, it is advantageous to also note the following: during oil refilling, the proportion of new oil should not be directed through the sensor, but rather supplied by passing alongside the sensor, thus allowing the existing operating oil in the oil sump to pass through. The new oil is well and thoroughly mixed before it reaches the sensor. Alternatively, when this is not feasible, the value should be observed over a range until it reaches a stable state (i.e., by which time mixing has occurred).

[0127] In other words, according to the concept of the present invention, the previously mentioned relevant measurement reference MYR (or in the simplest case, measurement reference MY0, as exemplarily shown here based on intensity I_t0) is for the operating oil. The specific type is determined, in this respect, instead of calibration, as is necessary in the prior art for the type explained at the beginning. Advantageously, therefore, for operating oil Individual calibration of the characteristics becomes redundant; especially for running oil. Removing it from machine 100 becomes redundant.

[0128] More precisely, the determination of the measurement reference MY0 (or better yet, the determination of the relevant measurement reference MYR) can be tailored to the operating oil. During operation or under any circumstances, when running oil This occurs during operation within machine 100. In other words, it is configured for operation with a defined state. The state determination is always performed within machine 100, where the "operation" of machine 100 itself is not necessarily required.

[0129] In this regard, a spectroscopic mechanism 600 with its own energy source can be used when the machine 100 is not in operation. For example, the spectroscopic mechanism 600 or a similar analytical device can be equipped with its own energy source, which supplies power to the operating oil located in the machine 100 when the machine 100 is stopped. Analysis is performed. As explained, the spectral mechanism 600 can be part of a more complex measuring mechanism 800, which in the current embodiment also includes a measuring unit 700 configured to determine temperature.

[0130] Operating oil It is possible to pump water through machine 100 (e.g., via a booster pump or other motor), and the sensors or similar analytical devices of the spectrometer 600 can operate independently of this location; that is, if possible, also independently of the ECU 300 of machine 100. Furthermore, this has the advantage of allowing for early condition determination; that is, therefore, it is possible to detect intruding water, especially earlier, before machine 100 is operational, because during oil operation... Instead of forming a lake, it consists of water and running oil. They are continuously mixed. Currently, the intensity sensor Sens_I is part of the spectral mechanism 600, and the temperature sensor Sens-T is part of the measurement unit 700 configured to determine the temperature.

[0131] Example: Calculate the oil filling amount using a total volume of 100 liters (where oil change is used as an example of the start event EA):

[0132] Y0 = The parameter measurement value of MY at time point t0 after an oil change (e.g., for additives) (which is associated with strength I_t0);

[0133] Yn = The parameter measurement value of MY at time point t-1 before oil refilling (which is associated with strength I_t-1), for refilling n = 1, 2, 3, ...;

[0134] YnN = The parameter measurement value corresponding to the measurement result MY directly after oil refilling, for other refills n = 1, 2, 3, ...;

[0135] ΔYnN = the difference in parameter measurements after oil refilling; n = 1, 2, 3, ...;

[0136] Xn = Refill volume, in liters. The following example uses 100 liters of new oil (after an oil change).

[0137] ΔYnN=YnN-Yn, for refilling n=1,2,3,…; ΔYiSv is the amplitude of the change in the measured signal S.

[0138] Xn=100l*(ΔYnN / Y0)

[0139] Obviously, the 100 liters of new oil mentioned in the example (after an oil change) can be replaced by any amount of oil using other variables.

[0140] exist Figure 3 The illustration, based on calculations, schematically demonstrates how it is possible to identify, for example, during transmission measurements (i.e., measurements of intensity I in terms of transmission T) such as in running oil. The deteriorating value of the water content and how to address it. The results of the reflection measurement (that is, the measurement of the intensity I in terms of reflection R) have a corresponding opposite, specifically complementary, trend of the stated value (the normalized values ​​of the intensity I in terms of transmission T and reflection R add up to 1; they are complementary in this respect).

[0141] exist Figure 3 The trend of the spectroscopic measurement result MY, as indicated in the figure, is derived from the repeated indication of the intensity I with respect to the operating time t, which allows for the determination of the operating oil. The definite state feature Z is signaled. State feature Z is derived from definite events E1, E2, ..., En at time points t1, t2…tn during operating time t, which, exemplarily, can be identified for operating oil. The first refill, the second refill, and so on up to any nth refill.

[0142] In addition to what has already been based on Figure 2 In addition to the start event EA (which is referred to here as the first start event EA1 for the first oil change) illustrated by the view, another start event EA2 in the form of another oil change can be identified at a subsequent time point t02 as the running time t progresses.

[0143] For each of the additional events E1 to En that present the first to nth oil refills, in principle, a similar indicator to that during an oil change can be identified; however, there is a smaller amplitude of change ΔY with a jump-like increase, which in... Figure 3 The trend of the measurement result MY can be identified by the differences in the measured parameter values ​​ΔY1n, ΔY2n, and ΔYnN.

[0144] The following describes how oil changes and refills can be detected.

[0145] 1) The reliability of oil changes can be verified in the following ways:

[0146] A large jump in the measured value of MY towards a value that changes in the direction toward a new oil condition means "oil replacement," while a small jump towards a "better" measured value (in the direction toward a new oil condition) means "oil has been refilled."

[0147] The number of hours of operation time t is recorded using a data logger, exceeding the oil change period. A "large" jump is then used as a marker that an oil change has occurred and is accordingly marked as a reference measurement in the data logger. For this purpose, all values ​​that show a significant change during an oil change are appropriate, as the properties of the oil change with aging, for example, by a reduction in additives, a change in the 80-point acid or base value, or an increase in turbidity, thereby reducing the signal strength at the reference point. Regarding turbidity, a measurement point is considered as a "signal reference" where the wavelength is not absorbed by the present molecules, but is purely a measure of the oil's opacity.

[0148] 2) When refilling oil, the refill amount can be reliably verified in the following manner:

[0149] The estimation is carried out in accordance with the measurement standards, which are technically verifiable.

[0150] a) As a basis, use the first measurement immediately after the oil change or the average of more than 90 measurements over a short time interval (e.g., one measurement out of 10 measurements every 1 / 2 hour).

[0151] b) In order to quantify the refill amount, the total amount of oil present in the motor must be known.

[0152] c) During refilling, a “small” jump occurs in the measurement. This “small” jump is converted into a proportion relative to a “large” jump (during oil change), thereby calculating the refill amount.

[0153] d) Optionally, once present, the refill amount can be reliably verified using an oil condition sensor (in the case of a stopped motor and a defined temperature).

[0154] Suitable materials for this method are those that are unaffected by external changes during motor operation and whose values ​​are proportional to the amount of refill. Typically, the following are suitable:

[0155] - Additives: The additives are applicable because they only increase in concentration when refilling with new oil, provided the same type of oil is used.

[0156] - Sulfate: This assumes the motor is operating with low-sulfur fuel according to standards (e.g., DIN 110 EN 590). If sulfur-containing fuel is used, sulfate cannot be considered for estimation.

[0157] Inappropriate, or more precisely, unsuitable, aspects include the following:

[0158] - Water: It is produced during combustion and can also act as blow-by gas during combustion in a small area due to the high humidity of the air in the cylinder, passing next to the piston and reaching the running oil. middle.

[0159] Additionally, multiple motor starts and short motor running times increase the water content in the oil.

[0160] - Base value and acid value: As previously explained, these are affected by additional chemical reactions during combustion, depending on engine operation (especially the air-fuel ratio), fuel quality, engine condition (e.g., piston ring aging), and the values ​​change accordingly. Additionally, operating temperature plays a role, and atmospheric composition depends on the surrounding environment.

[0161] - Oxidation and nitration: These depend heavily on motor operation, fuel quality, motor condition, and ambient conditions.

[0162] Furthermore, however, pure intensity measurements are particularly suitable within the infrared measurement range in which optically active substances are either absent or unnecessary. Then, the intensity reduction is purely due to the operating oil. The turbidity was measured, for example, in... Figure 3The path V of the measurement signal S that can be evaluated is identified in the graph; this is taken into account the reference measurement in the reference operating time interval R, as is based on... Figure 2 The view is shown and explained as described.

[0163] Oil refilling within the scope of events E1…En can be identified by the increase in intensity (above the second extreme value lim2) of the measured intensity, which serves as the basis for the spectroscopic measurement result MY, wherein the second extreme value is less than the extreme value lim2 at the start of the oil change events EA1, EA2.

[0164] On the one hand, this allows for the determination of oil changes as start events EA1, EA2, or as simple events E. Furthermore, this allows for the determination of oil refills as one or more events from E1 to En. It allows for the distinction between oil changes (corresponding to a larger change in amplitude ΔY of the measured signal S above amplitude lim1) and oil refills (accompanied by a smaller change in amplitude ΔY of the measured signal S above the smaller amplitude lim2) by the difference in intensity of Delta_I in the sense of the jump in amplitude ΔY of the measured signal S with respect to amplitude lim1.

[0165] Used for the operating oil located in machine 100 The corresponding flowchart for the method of state determination (capable of...) Figure 1 The first control module 400 shown in the figure is implemented in Figure 4 As shown in the diagram; here, an oil change detection is performed or a similar detection is performed on the start event EA and another event E.

[0166] The previously explained determination of the measurement reference MY0 after the start event EA, which takes the form of the first oil change (first start event EA1 or second start event EA2), is... Figure 4 This is part of the method flow in the embodiments. For steps S1.1 to S1.4 in the method flow, refer to... Figure 2 The method flow shown in the view, especially in the embodiment according to view (B).

[0167] If, in step S1.3, it can be identified that the amplitude of the change in intensity I_t has increased compared to the intensity I_t-1 in the previous step (that is, the transmission T has increased in the case described above), then in step S2.0, the transition ("yes") will query the extreme values ​​lim1 and lim2 of the larger and smaller amplitudes as previously explained.

[0168] Therefore, in step S2.1, it is inquired whether the subsequent intensity I_t exceeds the previously determined intensity I_t-1 by a first extreme value lim1. Specifically, it is inquired whether the change amplitude ΔY of the measured signal S or S(I_t-I_t-1) exceeds the first extreme value lim1 as the larger amplitude. If this is the case ("yes"), then in step S2.2, an oil change is identified and the corresponding running time point t and the intensity I_t therefor or the measured value MY as a measurement reference MY0 (see in...) Figure 2 The embodiments in the view are stored.

[0169] Conversely, if the query is denied (“No”) in step S3.0, then in step S3.1, it is checked whether the subsequent intensity I_t at time point t exceeds the previously measured intensity I_t-1 by a second extreme value lim2. Specifically, it is queried whether the amplitude ΔY or S(I_t-I_t-1) of the measured signal S exceeds the second extreme value lim2, which is a smaller amplitude. In the case of measurement as transmission T, the second extreme value lim2 is less than the first extreme value lim1.

[0170] The situation described is, for example, realistic for the running time points t1, t2, and tn of the spectroscopic measurement results MY present there; that is, correspondingly after oil refilling, for the parameter measurement values ​​Y1, Y1N or Y2, Y2N or Yn, YnN, etc. In other words, if the intensity changes ΔI1, ΔI2, ΔIn or the corresponding jump changes in the measurement result MY, or the differences ΔY1N, ΔY2N, ΔYnN in the amplitude of the change in the measurement signal S or S(I_t-I_t-1) exceed the second extreme value lim2, then oil refilling is deduced and the corresponding running time point t, along with the intensity values ​​I_t and I_t-1 or the corresponding amplitude of the measurement signal S, is stored.

[0171] The process then proceeds to the next time period via a further step S4.0, in which intensity I_t+1 continues to be measured. This is also the case when the query in step S3.1 is answered negatively ("No"), thus step S4.1 returns the method to the starting point of measurement step S1.2.

[0172] exist Figure 5 The diagram illustrates the operation of oil. Detection of water ingress. Figure 5 Firstly, taking the measurement of transmission T as an example, it can be identified that the signal S of the spectroscopic measurement result MY changes with the operation of the oil. The increase in contaminants decreases throughout the overall process. During oil changes or dilutions, contaminants decrease incrementally and there are signal jumps due to excessive transmission, as indicated by this. Figure 4 As explained, or in any case, the increasing signal trend of MY in spectroscopic measurements. Furthermore, in Figure 5 It can also exemplarily identify the oil change start event EA and the (predicted) oil refill event E.

[0173] In response, Figure 5 An exemplary signal path V for signal S is shown, similar to... Figure 2 View (A) and Figure 3 Furthermore, water ingress can be identified as event E_W in the signal trend, and the signal trend is below the lower error limit uFG of the trend band B, which has upper and lower error limits oFG and uFG. This triggers the warning indication W.

[0174] Currently, the incoming cooling water is detected via transmission measurement T, which measures the infrared frequencies of the water and, if possible, also the infrared frequencies of substances such as sodium (a coolant additive). Similarly, reflectance measurement is feasible, using qualitatively similar standards, as illustrated here using transmission measurement T as an example. Measurements are performed relative to time t because the operating oil... Water is slowly absorbed through the surrounding air and through the water produced during combustion, via "blow-by gas" passing next to the piston rings.

[0175] According to Figure 5 In the example of influent measured by intensity (where there is an option without a trend band B or lower or upper error limits uFG, oFG), furthermore, the spectroscopic measurement result Y eventually falls below the first lower threshold SG; a yellow alarm gA is issued. If it falls below the second lower threshold SR, a red alarm rA is issued. In each alarm type and depending on the application, appropriate measures can be introduced until the motor automatically shuts down.

[0176] The absorption spectrum can also be considered, which tends to move in the opposite direction to some extent. The signal then increases as a function of time due to the increased contaminants. During an oil change, the signal jumps downwards because the absorption is very small due to the reduction in contaminants; correspondingly, an alarm is then triggered.

[0177] In general, Figure 6A A flowchart of a first embodiment of a method for indicating an alarm prompt is shown, and Figure 6B A flowchart of a first embodiment of a method for indicating a warning message is shown. The corresponding controller includes module 500 (as in...). Figure 1 As shown and illustrated, the module enables more reliable detection of operating oil located in the machine. Warning and / or alarm status.

[0178] Following the initial step S6.1, in step S6.2, the operating oil is measured using a spectral mechanism 600 with at least an intensity sensor Sens_I. The strength I of the aspect. In the inspection step S6.3A or S6.3W, a condition check is performed. Currently, for the second control module 500, it is exemplarily indicated that this is based on the strength difference with respect to the error band or on the strength difference with respect to the alarm threshold; that is, the inspection step S6.2A checks the absolute strength I_t with respect to the alarm threshold limA, that is, the alarm threshold yellow alarm SG or red alarm SR (in the embodiment described herein, the first and second lower thresholds SG, SR), and conversely, the inspection step S6.2B checks the strength I_t of the deviation relative to the error deviation ΔB with respect to the trend band B. The error deviation ΔB is essentially preset by the previously mentioned lower or upper error limits uFG, oFG.

[0179] It can be identified that in step S6.4A, an alarm is triggered only when the absolute value of the intensity I_t or the absolute value of the related measurement signal S exceeds the threshold lim_A. Conversely, in step S6.4W, a warning is triggered when the warning threshold lim_W is exceeded after the preset error limits uFG and oFG by the difference in intensity or a similar relative value I_t-1–I_t or the difference in the related measurement signal S.

[0180] The method is implemented as a loop, with a feedback step S6.5 leading to the measurement step S6.2.

[0181] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8A , Figure 8B It shows something similar to Figure 5 Another exemplary signal trend, in which, in addition, other events can be identified in the signal trend, and the signal trend is below the lower error limit uFG of trend band B. This prompts a warning indication.

[0182] first, Figure 7A Based on the transmission measurement T, the known trend of the oil contaminant was shown during normal operation. Therefore, the upper and lower error limits oFG and uFG of the trend band B can be optionally set, as has been done according to... Figure 5 As explained, if the error falls below or exceeds the upper and / or lower error limits oFG and uFG, which are the error limit directions, the operator can be informed (e.g., via a display) that an anomaly has occurred at machine 100 or a similar instrument and should be investigated. Gradient direction can also be taken into account, either as an adjunct or alternative to the error limits uFG and oFG.

[0183] Exceeding trend band B can trigger an early warning signal, which is used to issue an early warning W about an anomaly in the oil condition when the upper or lower error limits oFG, uFG of trend band B are exceeded. In other words, it has proven advantageous that such an early indication can be made significantly earlier than alarm A (e.g., yellow alarm gA or red alarm rA with a fixed threshold), because the alarm is again issued only based on static criteria (and thus potentially too late).

[0184] Running oil In an alarm state, the motor, technical system, or similar machine 100 may be in danger due to the oil condition being too severely deteriorated.

[0185] It has been proven that the basis for trend band B is the elimination of oil in operation. The measurement tolerances, production tolerances, and temperature tolerances are guaranteed by determining a measurement reference based on the measurement results from spectroscopic measurements according to the present invention.

[0186] Therefore, production tolerances have been eliminated by reference strength; since the operating oil is assumed to be the oil located in the motor.

[0187] It is possible to measure temperature simultaneously and thus take into account temperature tolerances. Accordingly, temperature can be measured within a range of 800 using a complex measuring mechanism. Figure 1 and Figure 9 The measurement unit 700, which is configured to determine temperature and is shown and illustrated, performs the measurement together with a temperature sensor Sens_T. Additional tolerances (such as those related to water ingress) can also be learned, for example, through empirical values ​​or in a similar manner. Further measurement units can be provided within the scope of the complex measurement mechanism 800.

[0188] The previously mentioned trend bands are specifically designed to accommodate these tolerances. In the current case, in addition, these tolerances have been eliminated, meaning that oil condition determination and monitoring are significantly more accurate, and the tolerance bands are thus constructed in a particularly precise manner so that early oil deterioration can be detected.

[0189] exist Figure 7B The document explains the operation of oil. The detection of diesel fuel in the signal. This can be identified as another event E_D in the signal trend, and the signal trend is below the lower error limit uFG of the trend band B.

[0190] The described method using the error limits uFg and oFG of trend band B can be applied additionally or alternatively in a similar manner, with gradient determination.

[0191] Fuel introduction can be detected, for example, by the rapid decrease of oil additives, such as zinc, barium, boron, calcium, magnesium or phosphorus (depending on the base additives in the oil) 250.

[0192] Signal changes in the event of initial signs of motor damage can be categorized into the following types:

[0193] -Due to the rapid signal changes caused by oil dilution,

[0194] - If there is a significant temperature difference between water or fuel and motor oil, the signal changes rapidly due to the temperature change of the oil.

[0195] Signal trends are determined using gradients. Typically, the downward trend of an additive is determined based on records over a longer period, as these records are stored for days or weeks in modern instruments. An alarm is triggered if the gradient changes significantly within a defined time interval compared to previous records.

[0196] Figure 8A An example of transmission measurement illustrates the application of transmission measurement to operating oil. The detection of dirt and / or soot and / or materials outside the sensor's range. This can be identified as an additional event E_R in the signal path, and the signal path is below the lower error limit uFG of trend band B.

[0197] Because soot is generally infrared active, it allows for broadband measurements, replacing measurements (measurement parameters) that are only taken in one band.

[0198] Alternatively, a narrow band can be considered that is not within the range of the substances to be tested (water, nitrates, sulfates, etc.), but only reacts to (infrared-active) soot and contaminants (transmission or absorption intensity).

[0199] When the narrow bands of the irradiated spectrum show no change or only minor change "outside the specific substance being tested (as mentioned above)," the introduction of an unknown material is present. In cases of significant turbidity, that is, in the case of a significant decrease in the intensity I at the transmission measurement T, it is mostly soot, because it affects many wavelengths of the transmitted irradiated spectrum.

[0200] Signal strength is also a measure of oil contamination. Similar to the methods used for oil aging, signal strength can be considered as another measurement indicator. If the strength decreases within preset error limits (oFG, uFG) or decreases relatively uniformly, it relates to normal oil aging. If one or more parameters decrease rapidly, it more specifically relates to a motor problem. The decrease in oil opacity during refilling should also be considered.

[0201] Figure 8B An example of transmission measurement illustrates the indication for air. This can be identified as another event E_L in the signal trajectory, and the signal trajectory exceeds the upper error limit oFG of the trend band B.

[0202] Air is typically present in oil, causing signal jumps at all measurement sites. If jumps are only observed at the measurement site, then foreign material has been introduced. In the case of air, the oil is more transparent and the signal intensity increases during transmission measurements. In the case of foreign material, the oil becomes more turbid and the signal intensity decreases due to refraction.

[0203] Specifically, Figure 9 The diagram schematically illustrates a control and measurement system 1000, according to a preferred modification, having the demonstrated functions for determining oil condition.

[0204] from Figure 1 Departure, at Figure 9 The preferred embodiment of the device 1000 according to the concept of the present invention is shown in general outline; here, that is, a control unit ECU 300 and a spectral mechanism 600 having an intensity sensor Sens_I within the scope of a complex measuring mechanism 800 are shown, as well as a measuring unit 700 configured for determining temperature, which here has a temperature sensor Sens_T and, if possible, one or more additional measuring units 710, 720, 730 for determining the viscosity, turbidity, or density of the running agent BM.

[0205] The device 1000 has a corresponding mechanism 200 for signaling, monitoring, or similarly indicating or displaying the operating oil in the machine. The state; communication between the control unit ECU 300 and other components of the device 1000 is bidirectional via a mechanism 200 for signaling or monitoring.

[0206] Device 1000 is configured to administer an operating agent BM (such as, but not only, operating oil) located in machine 100. Methods for determining the state, especially oil change detection or similar detection of start event EA or event E.

[0207] Device 1000 is specifically designed to ensure the machine operates smoothly with oil. A supply unit (not shown here) of a spectral mechanism 600 with an intensity sensor Sens_I coupled to the machine. Furthermore, the spectral mechanism 600 with the intensity sensor Sens_I is configured to perform spectroscopic measurement analysis by means of measurement irradiation by the spectral mechanism and to determine the spectroscopic measurement result MY based on the spectroscopic measurement analysis.

[0208] Furthermore, the device 1000 is equipped with, for example, a computing module housed in the control unit 300, which allows the spectroscopic measurement result MY to be correlated with a measurement reference MY0 or a related measurement reference MYR, such that an evaluable measurement signal S can be identified from the correlation. Therefore, the evaluable measurement signal S can be repeatedly identified over the operating time t of the machine 100, enabling the identification of operating oil... The definite state characteristics Z can be signaled.

[0209] In addition, a reference module 900 is provided, which, according to Figure 2 As illustrated by the view, it is constructed for use in a predetermined, following manner regarding the operation of oil. At the reference operating time interval R of the start event EA, the spectroscopic measurement result MY is repeatedly determined when the spectroscopic measurement result MY corresponding to the reference operating time interval R is indicated, and measurement references MY0 and MYR are determined from the spectroscopic measurement result. Thus, for example, the oil type can also be determined.

[0210] Furthermore, the reference module 900 is further configured to select the start event EA regarding the operating oil as a determination for or applicable to determining particularly relevant measurement references MY0, MYR regarding the operating oil. Or a similar starting event EAn for the operating agent BM; especially in the form of oil change, and if possible, also in the form of oil refill. Reference module 900 is configured to determine the operating oil. The start event EA causes the check, measurement signal S to have a jump change in the sense of the amplitude S(Delta_I) of the measurement signal S with respect to the event time window.

[0211] The device 1000 also has a first control module 400 configured to evaluate the spectroscopic measurement result MY in relation to the determination of particularly relevant measurement references MY0, MYR and / or event E, wherein the implementation is currently preferably carried out on the basis of determining the determined intensity difference ΔI as the basis for the spectroscopic measurement result MY with respect to one or more extreme values ​​lim1, lim2.

[0212] The first control module 400 is specifically configured to verify that the amplitude of a jump-type change S (Delta_I) of the measured signal S, which is associated with a jump-type change, exceeds or passes through a first event threshold lim1, thereby confirming that the start event or other event can be verified as an oil change. The first control module 400 is specifically configured to verify that the amplitude of a jump-type change, which is associated with a jump-type change, exceeds or passes through a second event threshold lim2, thereby confirming that the start event or other event can be verified as an oil refill. The first event threshold lim1 exceeds the second event threshold lim2 in the case of transmission measurement.

[0213] The device or control and measurement device 1000 also has a second control module 500 configured to indicate a warning W and / or an alarm A when the spectroscopic measurement result MY gives a direction for identification of an error or is designed to provide a reason for an alarm, the error or alarm A signaling the deterioration or alarm-prone state of the operating oil in the machine 100.

[0214] Currently, for the second control module 500, it is exemplarily indicated that, in the case of alarm A, the amplitude S(Delta_I) of the change in the intensity difference Delta_I or the measured signal S with respect to the alarm threshold limA is indicated (in... Figure 6A (As shown in the diagram) and in the case of warning W, the amplitude S(Delta_I) of the relative intensity difference Delta_I or the measured signal S with respect to the trend band B or its error deviation ΔB is indicated. Figure 6B The second control module 500 is specifically configured to indicate upper and / or lower error limits oFG, uFG oFg, uFG relative to an evaluable measurement signal MY that is repeatedly indicated over runtime t; in particular, by indicating the upper and / or lower error limits oFG, uFG as error limit directions through the direction of the evaluable measurement signal MY with respect to runtime t, the preferred direction V of the pre-defined evaluable measurement signal S is indicated.

[0215] List of reference numerals

[0216] 100 machines

[0217] 200 A mechanism for signaling, monitoring, or similarly indicating or displaying the status of operating oil located in a machine.

[0218] 300 control unit

[0219] 400 First Control Module

[0220] 500 Second Control Module

[0221] 600 Spectral Mechanism

[0222] 700 temperature measurement unit

[0223] 710, 720, and 730 are additional measuring units used to determine the viscosity, turbidity, or density of the running agent BM.

[0224] 800 Measurement Agency

[0225] 900 Reference Module

[0226] 1000 devices

[0227] Sens_I intensity sensor

[0228] uFG, Ofg lower error limit, upper error limit

[0229] I_t-1–I_t intensity

[0230] W Warning

[0231] Alarm A

[0232] Ga, rA Yellow Alert, Red Alert

[0233] SG first threshold, alarm threshold yellow alarm

[0234] SR second threshold, alarm threshold red alarm

[0235] lim_Alim_W is the warning threshold used for alarm A or warning W.

[0236] BM KM operating agents, operating oils, and coolants.

[0237] MY measurement results, intensity I

[0238] MY0 Measurement Reference

[0239] Trend B

[0240] ΔB error deviation

[0241] S is the measurement signal that can be evaluated.

[0242] E, En, E1, E1 event, running oil refill

[0243] EAN, EA1, EA2 start events, operating oil change

[0244] R Reference Running Time Interval

[0245] Z-state characteristics

[0246] V-shaped path

[0247] Y-1 and Y0 parameter measurement values

[0248] ΔY, ΔY0, and S(Delta_I) correspond to the amplitude of the jump-like change or the amplitude of the measured signal S.

[0249] Delta_I intensity difference

[0250] lim2 smaller amplitude

[0251] lim1 larger amplitude

[0252] t0 is the time point after oil change, and the starting point of the reference operating time interval R.

[0253] tR is the end point of the reference running time interval R.

[0254] The time point before t-1 oil change

[0255] t running time

[0256] Δt time period, resolution

[0257] I_t-1, I_t0, I1t-1, I1t, I2t-1, I2t intensity.

Claims

1. A method for determining the state of an operating agent (BM) located in a machine (100), particularly having operating agent replacement detection or similar detection of a start event (EAn) or event (En), comprising the following steps: The operating agent (BM) of the machine is supplied to the spectral unit (600) coupled to the machine (100). By means of the measurement illumination of the spectral mechanism (600), a spectroscopic measurement analysis is performed, and based on the spectroscopic measurement analysis, the spectroscopic measurement result (MY) is determined. The spectroscopic measurement result (MY) is correlated with a measurement reference (MY0) such that the correlation indicates the measurement signal (S) that can be evaluated, wherein, The spectroscopic measurement result (MY) is repeatedly determined at a predetermined reference operating time interval (R) following the start event (EAn) of the running agent (BM), indicating the spectroscopic measurement result (MY) corresponding to the reference operating time interval (R), and the measurement reference (MY0) is determined from the spectroscopic measurement result. - The measurable measurement signal (S) is repeatedly indicated over the running time (t) of the machine (100) so that a defined state characteristic (Z) for the operating agent (BM) can be signaled.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The running agent (BM) is used to run oil. It is formed in the form of and / or coolant (KM).

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The spectroscopic measurement result (MY) is repeatedly determined for a reference number of repetitions in the case of a reference number of spectroscopic measurement results (MY) associated with the reference running time interval (R), and the reference running time interval (R) following the start event (EA) with respect to the running agent (BM) is determined such that there are a reference number of spectroscopic measurement results (MY) in the reference running time interval (R).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The inspection checks that, for a reference number of repetitions, the spectroscopic measurement result (MY) remains substantially unchanged, wherein the spectroscopic measurement results of the reference number of times lie within a predetermined constant range, wherein the measurement reference (MY0) is determined from the substantially unchanged spectroscopic measurement results (MY) of the reference number of times the reference running time interval (R).

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spectroscopic measurement results (MY) are provided for use by means of measurement irradiation of at least one measurement irradiation line, a certain number of measurement irradiation lines, or a predetermined spectrum of the spectral band of the measurement irradiation.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The spectroscopic measurement (MY) is processed through an optical filter, and / or The measurement signal (S) that can be evaluated undergoes a numerical filter.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The start event (EAn) for the running agent (BM) is the start event for determining the running agent as used for or applicable to determining the measurement reference (MY0), and the start event is selected from the group of: running agent replacement, running agent refill, especially running oil replacement (EA1, EA2), and running oil refill (E1, E2).

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The start event (EAn) of the running agent (BM) is determined by checking that the measurement signal (S) has a jump change over the event time window.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The amplitude of the jump change (ΔY, S(Delta_I)) associated with the jump change exceeds the first event threshold, especially exceeding the first event threshold in the form of a relatively large amplitude (lim1), especially when the start event or other event is confirmed to be a change of operating agent, especially a change of operating oil (EA1, EA2).

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The amplitude of the jump change (ΔY, S(Delta_I)) associated with the jump change exceeds the second event threshold, especially in the form of a relatively small amplitude (lim2), especially when the start event or other event is confirmed to be runner refill.

11. The method according to claims 9 and 10, wherein, The first event threshold exceeds the second event threshold.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The upper and / or lower error limits (oFG, uFG) are indicated over runtime (t) relative to the repeatedly indicated evaluable measurement signal (MY).

13. The method according to claims 6 and 12, wherein, - The measurable measurement signal (S) with respect to the operating time (t) of the machine (100) is indicated as a direction (V), wherein, by means of the direction, a defined state of the operating agent can be signaled, and / or - By indicating the direction of the evaluable measurement signal (S) with respect to the running time (t), the upper error limit and / or lower error limit (oFG, uFG) are used as error limit directions, which presuppose the preferred direction of the evaluable measurement signal (S).

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The defined state characteristics (Z) of the operating agent (BM) can be signaled in consideration of events (En) selected from the group consisting of: operating agent replacement, operating agent refilling, water introduction into the operating agent, fuel introduction into the operating agent, and contaminant and / or soot introduction into the operating agent.

15. An apparatus, preferably a control and measuring device (300), for a machine or a machine (100) having said control and measuring device, configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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