Valve device

Abstract

A valve device comprises:-a valve having a movable piston (21) for closing and opening the valve; -a magnet (22) or a magnetisable element, and-a sensor unit (6) having a magnetic field sensor (64) for determining the position of the piston (21). The magnet (22) or magnetisable element and the sensor unit (6) can be moved relative to each other by the movement of the piston (22). The magnetic field sensor (64) forms an at least two-dimensional vector for detecting the magnetic flux density. The evaluation unit determines an angular change of the at least two-dimensional vector. A valve device and a corresponding method enable accurate determination of the position of the piston even in narrow spaces.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a valve device, particularly a valve device for use in high-pressure environments, such as those used for hydrogen applications. More specifically, it relates to a valve device for hydrogen refueling stations. The invention is also suitable for use in blow molding equipment, such as extrusion blow molding machines or stretch blow molding machines used to produce hollow bodies made of plastic using compressed air. The invention also relates to a method for determining the position of a piston in the valve device. Background Technology

[0002] Valve equipment is used in a variety of fields. Solenoid valves and / or pneumatically operated valves close and open according to the instructions of a control device.

[0003] In many applications, there is a need to identify whether a valve is open or closed. This is the case, for example, when valves are in high-pressure environments, especially in hydrogen applications, such as hydrogen refueling stations.

[0004] It is known in the prior art that magnetic field sensors, especially Hall sensors, are used to monitor valves.

[0005] DE 37 30 940 A1 discloses a pre-controlled directional valve with a movable piston, the position of which is measured by means of a Hall sensor. A permanent magnet is centrally disposed in the piston. The Hall sensor is fixedly located in an intermediate plate between the pre-control device and the valve housing.

[0006] DE 44 17 464 A1 shows a valve having a coil element actuated by a pilot component and a Hall sensor that detects the movement tendency of the coil element in order to determine whether the coil element is fixedly attached.

[0007] CN 103148222 A describes a hydraulic control valve having an electromagnetic pilot valve and a Hall sensor.

[0008] Magnetic field sensors determine the field strength and can identify whether a valve is closed or open. For this purpose, the magnetic field sensor must be positioned relatively close to the movable magnetic field transmission mechanism, i.e., the permanent magnet, to ensure reliable measurements. However, such close placement is often difficult due to space constraints. Furthermore, interfering elements, such as components made of metal or magnet coils, can affect the measurement. Additionally, in some applications, it is advantageous to also identify the valve's intermediate position. This is advantageous, for example, for troubleshooting during manufacturing or for safety reasons. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to realize an improved valve device having a piston position determining device.

[0010] The objective is achieved by a valve device having the features of claim 1 or 16 and a method having the features of claim 15.

[0011] In some embodiments, the valve device according to the invention has a valve having a movable piston for closing and opening the valve. The valve device has a magnet or magnetizable element and a sensor unit having a magnetic field sensor for determining the position of the piston. The magnet or magnetizable element and the sensor unit can move relative to each other through the movement of the piston. The magnetic field sensor constitutes at least a two-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density. An evaluation unit is present, which determines the angular changes of at least the two-dimensional vector.

[0012] In a method for determining the position of a piston in a valve device, a magnetic field sensor detects at least a two-dimensional vector of magnetic flux density. According to the invention, the angular change of at least two-dimensional vectors is determined by means of an evaluation unit. This angular change occurs if a magnet or magnetizable element moves relative to the sensor unit during piston movement.

[0013] Unlike known position sensors, which determine the field strength, this method assesses the magnetic field in at least two directions. Thus, the measurement no longer depends on the temperature dependence of the field strength of the magnet. Preferably, the field is measured in two or three dimensions, and the spatial vector is calculated. Preferably, a transformation from Cartesian coordinates to spherical coordinates is performed. Preferably, the coordinate system with zeros in the magnetic field sensor is incorporated into a reference coordinate system with zeros in the magnet or magnetizable element. Preferably, the magnetic field sensor is oriented accordingly, with the zeros of the two coordinate systems not aligned. Preferably, the coordinate system with zeros in the magnetic field sensor is rotated such that the principal axes of the coordinate system are parallel to the direction of movement of the valve's piston.

[0014] Because of the solution according to the invention, the magnetic field sensor no longer needs to be forcibly positioned perpendicular to or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the piston. The magnetic field sensor can also be oriented at an angle relative to the piston. This improves the feasibility of mounting the sensor unit into the valve device. This is particularly advantageous in confined space conditions. The specific configuration of the sensor unit according to the invention, due to its flexibility in terms of mounting method, can be applied to valve devices with different configurations. This minimizes manufacturing costs because the same type of sensor unit can be used multiple times.

[0015] If a valve assembly has two or more valves, then due to the flexibility in the placement of the sensor units, two or more sensor units can also be installed within the valve assembly. Thus, the valve assembly, especially multiple valves within the valve body, can be monitored using specially configured sensor units.

[0016] If the magnetic field sensor is located in a fixed part of the valve device, it can be positioned near a movable piston. This improves measurement accuracy.

[0017] More precise measurement of the position is feasible. The effects of interference can be more easily eliminated. Furthermore, the intermediate position of the piston can be determined, allowing identification not only of the open and closed positions. However, according to embodiments, the proposed positions are not necessarily precise, but rather provide a closed and open state within a bandwidth, at least in some embodiments. If an optical display is present, for example, red light can indicate the valve's fully open to nearly fully open state, green light indicates the valve's fully closed or nearly fully closed state, and blue light indicates the intermediate position of the piston. In other embodiments, other colors and / or finer gradations are present.

[0018] Preferably, all coordinates in the Cartesian coordinate system are used for transformation to the spherical coordinate system. If the sensor unit is not oriented within the valve body, then preferably only the axial angle and the vector value, that is, the vector length, are considered. If the sensor unit is oriented within the valve body, then preferably the radial angle is also considered.

[0019] However, in a preferred embodiment, not only is the three-dimensional vector determined but also evaluated. This improves measurement accuracy and allows for the free selection of the angle at which the magnetic field sensor is positioned relative to the piston or relative to the measured magnetic field. In the preferred embodiment, the magnetic field sensor thus constitutes a three-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density.

[0020] All magnetic field sensors constituting the space vector for detecting magnetic field lines can be used. Preferably, the magnetic field sensor is at least one 2D Hall sensor, and more preferably at least one 3D Hall sensor.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the magnet is a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet is preferably made of a hard magnetic material. In other embodiments, the magnet is an electromagnet.

[0022] The magnetizable element is preferably made of a soft magnetic material, more preferably of a magnetically conductive material with low remanence, and even more preferably of a magnetically conductive material with very low remanence.

[0023] Preferably, a magnet or magnetizable element is disposed within the piston, and the sensor unit is fixedly positioned. This facilitates the installation of the sensor unit and enables cable connections from the sensor unit to the control device. Furthermore, the piston can be manufactured cost-effectively.

[0024] If a magnetizable element is disposed in the piston, then the associated magnet, especially a permanent magnet or electromagnet, is preferably disposed in a fixed position, preferably adjacent to the sensor unit.

[0025] The magnet or magnetizable element defines a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system with three axes. When the valve is closed, the zero point is preferably located at the center of the magnet. The sensor unit also defines a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system with three axes. The zero point is preferably located at the center of the sensor element.

[0026] The magnetic field sensor can be arbitrarily positioned within the coordinate system of the magnet. However, preferably, the magnetic field sensor is configured, taking into account the existing spatial conditions, so that it can optimally identify angular changes in the two-dimensional or three-dimensional vector of magnetic flux density caused by the movement of the piston.

[0027] Depending on the configuration and spatial arrangement of the valve unit, the magnetic field sensor can therefore be positioned at an angle, i.e., tilted, relative to the three axes of the Cartesian coordinate system or relative to at least one of them. That is, the sensor element can be tilted relative to the axis.

[0028] The magnet or magnetizable element is preferably disc-shaped, ring-shaped, cylindrical, prismatic, or rod-shaped. If the valve piston is rotatable, then the magnet or magnetizable element is preferably rotationally symmetrical.

[0029] Preferably, the magnet or magnetizable element is positioned relative to the center of the piston's longitudinal axis. This simplifies the calculation of the piston's position, as the piston's longitudinal axis is aligned with the axis of the Cartesian coordinate system. This is particularly advantageous when the piston is rotatable.

[0030] Preferably, in the method according to the invention, the detected magnetic field vector is converted from the Cartesian coordinate system of the sensor unit to the spherical coordinate system.

[0031] Preferably, not only the magnetic field sensor, but the entire sensor unit is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the piston, i.e., at an angle not equal to 0° and preferably not 90°. This simplifies the positioning of the sensor unit near the piston in the valve device, especially in confined spaces. This simplifies the compact design. Especially in the so-called manifolds of hydrogen stations, where multiple valve devices are matrixed into a single unit, it is feasible to have at least one sensor unit in each valve device.

[0032] The valve device partially includes a solenoid valve with a conductor coil that generates a magnetic field. This solenoid valve can be one whose piston is monitored by a sensor unit. However, it can also be a second valve adjacent to the monitored valve assembly, for example, within the same valve block. For example, the solenoid valve can be a pilot valve for a pre-controlled pneumatic valve. The magnetic field generated by the conductor coil affects the magnetic field measurement. Such solenoid valves are subject to wear and must be replaced periodically. To ensure equivalent measurements when replacing the solenoid valve, it is advantageous that the conductor coil is positioned in a predetermined energizing direction within the valve device. Thus, the interfering field generated by the conductor coil is always oriented identically within the valve device. Consequently, the polarity of the interfering field is always the same relative to the piston and the magnetic field sensor. If a magnet is located in the piston, it is periodically replaced along with the piston during maintenance. Therefore, it is preferable that the magnetic poles are always oriented identically in each piston. The interfering field can be correspondingly considered or compensated for by the evaluation unit in the same manner and method.

[0033] If the solenoid valve housing is made of metal, the influence of the magnetic field of the conductor coil can be reduced. This is especially true when the solenoid valve is not being monitored. If a deflector element made of a magnetically permeable material is provided between the conductor coil and the magnetic field sensor, the influence of the interference field can be alternatively or additionally reduced. This is particularly advantageous when the solenoid valve is not being monitored. The deflector element is preferably made of a magnetically permeable material, i.e., a magnetizable material, such as steel. The deflector element deflects the magnetic field lines of the interference field in a suitable manner. The deflector element is, for example, an annular plate or sleeve, which is preferably disposed around or formed part of the armature of the solenoid valve, preferably forming a portion away from the conductor coil. The sleeve is preferably part of the armature guide tube.

[0034] The use of a deflecting element is claimed herein as a separate invention. This magnetic field deflecting element can also be used in other sensor units for valve devices, without any sensor unit determining angular changes or tilting.

[0035] Magnetic field sensors are temperature-dependent. Furthermore, magnetic field sensors and other components of the sensor unit, such as the evaluation unit, are typically only usable at temperatures up to approximately -40°C. However, valve units used in hydrogen applications are partially subjected to temperatures up to -50°C or lower. Preferably, the sensor unit therefore has a heating device for heating the magnetic field sensor and / or the evaluation unit. A heating resistor is preferably used. According to embodiments, the heating device primarily heats the magnetic field sensor, with or without the evaluation unit and / or other components of the sensor unit. In some preferred embodiments, the evaluation unit is part of the sensor unit, particularly part of the microprocessor of the control unit. In other embodiments, the evaluation unit is part of a separate control device.

[0036] Preferably, the magnetic field sensor is conditioned to a predetermined temperature or a predetermined temperature range, i.e., maintained at said temperature. This improves measurement accuracy. Preferably, the sensor unit has a temperature sensor for this purpose.

[0037] If the sensor unit includes other components, such as an evaluation unit, it is advantageous for safety reasons to house all components within a cast-in-place housing. For example, for many applications, explosion-proof protection is essential. The caster is preferably an epoxy, polyurethane, or silicone resin. This caster protects the components while also providing thermal insulation. The housing, at least the tip, i.e., the free end region, is preferably made of plastic. This allows for the formation of a thin end region while meeting sufficient explosion-proof requirements. The housing is preferably constructed as a single piece.

[0038] To achieve optimal temperature control of the magnetic field sensor with minimal heating power in the cast sensor unit, the components are preferably arranged as follows: the magnetic field sensor is disposed on a first side of the circuit board, and the heating element is disposed on the side of the circuit board opposite to the first side. The circuit board has a through-hole extending from a second side to the first side in the region of the heating element. The through-hole is also referred to as a via. A heat conductor is provided in the through-hole. For this purpose, the inner wall of the via is preferably covered with a copper layer or other material with good thermal conductivity along its entire length. Thus, heat is selectively carried from the heating element to the side of the magnetic field sensor. Electrically printed conductors disposed on said side further conduct the heat to the magnetic field sensor. Preferably, the heating element is disposed adjacent to but spaced apart from the magnetic field sensor. Preferably, a thermally conductive pad is disposed between the heating element and the circuit board to conduct the heat generated by the heating element into the via. The heating power required for temperature control of the components, especially the magnetic field sensor, can be minimized by applying some or all of these measures. Preferably, the copper traces on the circuit board are also used for heat conduction, especially on the side of the heating element. Placing the heating element on the side of the circuit board opposite the magnetic field sensor allows for a space-saving design. However, in some embodiments, the heating element is placed on the same side as the magnetic field sensor.

[0039] Preferably, a temperature-dependent heating resistor is used as the heating device, and the heat power of the heating resistor decreases as the temperature increases. Preferably, the resistance value of the heating resistor increases exponentially from a certain temperature. This prevents overheating and improves explosion-proof performance. A PTC resistor is preferably used.

[0040] The arrangement of the heating device on the side of the circuit board opposite the magnetic field sensor and the heat transfer via a via are claimed herein as a separate invention. This arrangement can also be applied to other sensor units for valve devices, where the sensor unit is arranged with an uncertain angular variation or tilt. In a preferred variation, the through-hole is provided with a thermally conductive material, preferably with the inner side correspondingly coated, or the through-hole is completely filled with a thermally conductive material. Alternatively or additionally, a thermally conductive pad is preferably provided between the heating device and the circuit board. Alternatively or additionally, a thermally conductive pad exists between the magnetic field sensor and the circuit board. These components are preferably housed within a cast housing of the sensor unit.

[0041] The circuit board is preferably constructed in multiple layers. Preferably, the circuit board is an FR-4 circuit board, that is, the circuit board is made of flame-retardant and fire-resistant materials.

[0042] Preferably, the sensor unit is rod-shaped. The sensor unit preferably has a housing, wherein the housing has an elongated shape and terminates in a free end region. A magnetic field sensor is preferably disposed in the free end region. Preferably, the housing contains all components of the sensor unit. Preferably, the evaluation unit is also a component of the sensor unit and is therefore preferably also disposed within the housing.

[0043] The placement of the magnetic field sensor in the free end region of the housing, particularly in the narrowed end region, offers the advantage of allowing the sensor to be positioned as close as possible to the piston or its magnet within the valve device. This optimizes the measurement.

[0044] The housing preferably has a mechanism for securing the sensor unit in a recess in the valve device, particularly the valve block.

[0045] Preferably, a cable is provided for connection to an external control unit. Preferably, the cable is encased in a housing and additionally secured via a cable screw-in device. This improves explosion protection.

[0046] In some embodiments, the sensor unit according to the invention is formed as a separate unit, which can be disposed in a valve device, particularly in a valve block. The sensor unit is preferably housed within and removed from the valve block installed in the facility. This facilitates maintenance of the valve device or facility. The sensor unit has a magnetic field sensor for determining the position of the piston. The magnetic field sensor constitutes at least a two-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density. Furthermore, the sensor unit, configured as a separate unit, preferably has an evaluation unit that determines the angular changes of at least a two-dimensional vector.

[0047] The sensor unit is preferably connected to the control unit of the valve device or to a facility using the valve device. The sensor unit preferably transmits information about the piston's state to the control unit. Therefore, information about the piston's state is stored digitally.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, the sensor unit preferably has an optical display indicating whether the sensor unit is operable. Alternatively or additionally, the optical display may indicate the position of the piston. The optical display is, for example, light, particularly light from one or more LEDs disposed in the housing of the sensor unit. In particular, the LEDs are disposed on a circuit board. Preferably, at least one notch, i.e., a window, for optical position indication is present in the housing. When the valve device is installed in the facility together with the sensor unit, the optical display is preferably also identifiable by the user. Alternatively, the housing or cable rendezvous may be designed to be at least partially transparent to ensure optical indication. Preferably, the light is emitted rearward. The transparent construction has the advantage that the visual indication is well visible. Furthermore, no seals and / or additional components are required for light emission. This also minimizes costs.

[0049] In some embodiments, the valve device according to the invention has a valve having a movable piston for closing and opening the valve. The valve device has a magnet or magnetizable element and a sensor unit having a magnetic field sensor for determining the position of the piston. The magnet or magnetizable element and the sensor unit can move relative to each other by the movement of the piston. The magnetic field sensor, preferably the entire sensor unit, is arranged obliquely relative to the longitudinal central axis of the piston and / or the magnet. According to embodiments of the valve unit, as described above, the measurement is performed by means of determining the angle change or by means of other measurement methods, particularly by determining the field strength. The valve device can be combined with the features of the dependent claims and the features described above, even without determining the angle change. This is particularly relevant when using compensation for the temperature dependence of the field strength measurement or when the magnet is kept at a constant temperature.

[0050] Other embodiments are described in the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Preferred embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only and should not be interpreted restrictively. The drawings show:

[0052] Figure 1 A perspective view of a valve device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 2 A longitudinal section is shown through the valve device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 3 A longitudinal section is shown through the valve device according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 4 The following is an illustration based on the invention. Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the sensor unit;

[0056] Figure 5 Showing through according to Figure 4 The longitudinal section of the sensor unit;

[0057] Figure 6 A magnified diagram showing the penetration based on Figure 4 A partial cross-section of the sensor unit;

[0058] Figure 7 Showing according to Figure 4 A stereoscopic view of a portion of the sensor unit.

[0059] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a valve device according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown in a first view, which has an illustration of a Cartesian magnetic coordinate system relating to a piston;

[0060] Figure 9 Shown in second view according to Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the valve equipment;

[0061] Figure 10 Showing according to Figure 6 The sensor unit has a Cartesian sensor coordinate system and a spherical coordinate system for plotting the sensor unit;

[0062] Figure 11 A longitudinal section is shown through the valve device according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 12 A longitudinal section is shown through the valve device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 13a Showing according to Figure 12 A diagram showing a portion of the valve device in the first end position of the valve piston, which has magnetic field lines.

[0065] Figure 13b Showing according to Figure 13a The image is presented as a black / white line drawing;

[0066] Figure 14a Showing according to Figure 12 A portion of the valve device in the second end position of the piston;

[0067] Figure 14b Showing according to Figure 14aThe image is presented as a black / white line drawing;

[0068] Figure 15 Showing according to Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a portion of a valve device, showing a coordinate system and simplified magnetic field lines;

[0069] Figure 16 Showing according to Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a portion of a valve device, showing a coordinate system and simplified magnetic field lines.

[0070] Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating the evaluation of sensor unit measurement data in one variation of the method is shown.

[0071] Identical or similar components and parts are given the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0072] The valves shown in the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the invention. Other types of valves with pistons may also be used. The features shown in the various drawings are also present in or at least integrated into the embodiments according to the remaining drawings. The descriptions below for each drawing can also be applied correspondingly to the valves in the other drawings. Therefore, the description of one drawing below temporarily provides indications of the other drawings in order to illustrate features that are not identifiable or sufficiently identifiable in the drawings currently described in this way.

[0073] exist Figure 1 The figure shows a valve device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The valve device has a valve block 1, which has a main valve 2 (not visible in the figure) and a housing having a solenoid valve 3. The main valve has a movable piston 21, and the solenoid valve is also referred to as a pilot valve. The main valve 2 and the piston 21 are, for example, in… Figure 2 As can be seen, the sensor unit 6 is disposed in the receiving opening of the valve block 1, wherein the sensor unit 6 extends from the receiving opening, which is here the orifice. The sensor unit 6 is set at a certain angle relative to the direction of movement of the piston 21, that is, the sensor unit is set at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the piston 21.

[0074] exist Figure 8 and Figure 9In this diagram, the longitudinal axis of the piston is denoted by L1, and the longitudinal axis of the sensor unit is denoted by L2. The piston 21, or a magnet 22 disposed at or within the piston 21, defines a Cartesian magnetic coordinate system X1, Y1, Z1. The Y1 axis of the magnetic coordinate system preferably extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the piston, and thus parallel to its direction of motion. The zero point of the magnetic coordinate system is preferably located within the magnet 22. If a magnetizable element is disposed at or within the piston instead of the magnet 22, the zero point is preferably located within said element. A corresponding magnetic spherical coordinate system is not shown. However, this magnetic spherical coordinate system can be established in a simple manner and method by those skilled in the art.

[0075] The sensor unit 6 is therefore arranged at an angle relative to the piston 21. “Inclined” means that the sensor axis L2 extends at an angle not equal to 0° relative to each of at least two, preferably three, axes of the Cartesian coordinate system of the piston 21 or the magnet 22.

[0076] exist Figure 2 The diagram shows a valve device according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sensor unit 6 and the valve unit are connected to... Figure 1 The same applies. The valve unit itself is known. The valve unit corresponds substantially to the provisions of WO 2022 / 109041 A1 in terms of its operation. Figure 6 The valve.

[0077] The main valve 2 has a fixed valve body 20 and a movable piston 21. A magnet 22 is disposed in the piston 21. Preferably, the magnet is disposed in the free end of the piston 21, that is, away from the valve body 20. The magnet 22 is preferably annular, disc-shaped, or rod-shaped.

[0078] The solenoid valve 3 has an electrical connector and an electromagnetic component with a solenoid coil housing 30 and a solenoid coil 32. A guide tube 33 and an armature 34 are provided in the electromagnetic component. The solenoid coil 32, the guide tube 33, and the armature 34 are... Figure 8 As can be seen in the image. The guide tube 33 is typically formed of a non-magnetic material. According to embodiments, the guide tube is one-piece, two-piece, or three-piece. In multi-piece embodiments, a portion of the guide tube may be magnetizable while another portion is non-magnetizable. The orientation of the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic coil 32 is... Figure 8 As can be seen from the illustration of the North Pole (N) and the South Pole (S). Preferably, the orientation is known. However, the orientation can also have different polarities.

[0079] The inlet channel 10 extends from the outside through the valve block 1 into the valve chamber 12 of the valve block 1. Similarly, the outlet channel 11 extends outward from the valve chamber 12 through the valve block 1. In this example, the inlet channel 10 and the outlet channel 11 extend parallel to each other and are offset. Other types of orientation are possible.

[0080] An inlet pipe 4 is provided in the inlet channel 10. A discharge pipe 5 is provided in the discharge channel 11. The piston 21 closes the valve chamber 12 relative to the inlet channel 10.

[0081] The sensor unit 6 is tilted within the valve block 1, and the sensor unit can be tilted about two of the three coordinate axes of the magnet or relative to all three coordinate axes. Figure 1 In this configuration, the sensor unit is tilted relative to all three coordinate axes. Figure 2 In the figure, sensor unit 6 extends parallel to the third coordinate axis that extends in the attached plane.

[0082] The receiving opening for the sensor unit 6 is located between the inlet channel 10 and the solenoid valve 3.

[0083] The sensor unit 6 is rod-shaped. The sensor unit has a housing 60 with external threads 601. The housing is screwed into a receiving opening in the valve block 1. The use of threads is just one of several ways to secure the sensor unit 6 in the valve block. Alternatively, bayonet or snap-fit ​​connections, spring connections, or clamping connections can be used, for example, when the sensor unit is not rotating. In some embodiments, the rotational position is uncertain in the installed state. In other embodiments, directional mounting can be achieved, such that the sensor unit is positioned in a defined rotational position within the valve block 1. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a slot in the sensor unit and a corresponding pin in the valve block.

[0084] In another variation, in addition to the external thread 601, there is a retaining ring with a sleeve having external threads surrounding the housing. The retaining ring can be positioned and fixed at different locations in the longitudinal direction on the external thread 601 of the housing 60. The external thread 601 is configured to be shorter than in the embodiment shown in the figures. Connection with the valve block 1 is achieved via the external thread of the sleeve of the retaining ring. Thus, the sensor unit 6 does not rotate when fastened in the valve block. Furthermore, the sensor unit 6 can be screwed into the valve block 1 at different depths.

[0085] The sensor cable 62 is fixedly connected to the housing 60. Preferably, this is done by means of a cable screw-in device 61. Preferably, the sensor cable 62 is additionally cast into the housing 60, for example, with epoxy resin.

[0086] The opposite free end region 600 of the sensor unit 6 is preferably reduced. A magnetic field sensor 64 is disposed in or near its tip. The free end region 600, and thus the magnetic field sensor 64, is optimally positioned near the magnet 22 of the movable piston 21. Thus, the position of the piston 21 can be detected by means of the magnetic field sensor 64.

[0087] exist Figure 3 The text shows the data according to... Figure 2 A variation of the valve device. The difference is that the receiving opening for the sensor unit 6 is located between the discharge opening 11 and the receiving opening of the valve body 20.

[0088] exist Figures 4 to 7 The sensor unit 6 is shown. The sensor unit is rod-shaped and has a housing 60 with a reduced free end region 600. A sensor cable 62 is inserted into the housing 60, wherein the sensor cable is fixedly connected to the housing 60 by means of a cable screw-in device 61. The cable end 620 is soldered to a circuit board 63.

[0089] The circuit board 63 is completely surrounded by the housing 60. The housing 60 is preferably at least partially cast, preferably cast with epoxy resin.

[0090] In the free end region 600, the circuit board 63 is preferably scaled down. A magnetic field sensor 64 is provided at its front end. The magnetic field sensor is preferably a 2D Hall sensor, more preferably a 3D Hall sensor. Alternatively, the magnetic field sensor is another sensor capable of detecting the field vector of the magnetic field of the magnet 22 in two-dimensional or three-dimensional space.

[0091] Preferably, the microcontroller 67 is disposed on the circuit board 63. The microcontroller has an evaluation unit for evaluating the signal of the magnetic field sensor 64. The microcontroller 67 is preferably disposed in a wider area of ​​the circuit board 63.

[0092] In addition, at least one light-emitting diode (LED) 68 is present on the circuit board 63. The LED is placed adjacent to at least one window 602. The window 602 is preferably sealed, for example, by casting. Alternatively, the cable reel device 61 is made transparent.

[0093] Furthermore, a heating device 65 is provided, which is preferably disposed on the circuit board 63 adjacent to the magnetic field sensor 64 in the free end region 600. The heating device 65 is preferably located on the opposite side of the circuit board 63, offset from and spaced from the magnetic field sensor 64 in the longitudinal direction of the sensor unit 6. If sufficient space exists, the heating device 65 may also be disposed on the same side of the circuit board 63 as the magnetic field sensor 64.

[0094] exist Figure 7 Only a portion of the circuit board 63 in this area is shown. The upper and lower sides of the circuit board 63 are visible and are marked with reference numeral 63. The outline of the circuit board 63 is not shown. The material of the circuit board 63 is also not visible between the upper and lower sides.

[0095] exist Figure 7 In the circuit board 63, printed conductors 632 can be seen, which partially lead from the microcontroller 67 to the heating element 65 and the magnetic field sensor 64. To specifically direct heat from the heating element 65 to the magnetic field sensor 64, a through-hole 630, also called a via, is present in the circuit board 63. The via is cylindrical, with its inner wall coated with copper. Figure 7 The copper wall 631 can be seen in the figure. For optimal heat conduction, a thermal pad is preferably provided between the underside of the circuit board 63 and the heating device 65. This is not visible in the figures.

[0096] If the valve device has a solenoid valve, the magnetic field of the solenoid valve's conductor coil may affect the measurement of the magnetic field sensor 64. If the solenoid valve is housed in a housing made of magnetically conductive material, the interference field is reduced because the magnetic field lines of the magnetic field generated in the conductor coil are deflected toward the housing.

[0097] An alternative or additional reduction of the interference field is the placement of a deflection element that deflects the magnetic field of the solenoid valve away from the magnetic field sensor 64. The deflection element is made of a material with good magnetic permeability. Figure 11 and Figure 12 Two examples for this are given below. Figure 11 In this configuration, an annular plate 7, made of a material with good magnetic permeability, surrounds the guide tube 33 of the armature 34 of the solenoid valve 3. Figure 12 In addition to the annular plate 7, there is also a sleeve 8 made of a material with good magnetic permeability. The sleeve 8 is preferably the magnetizable portion of the otherwise non-magnetizable guide tube 33. The sleeve 8 can also be used without the annular plate 7.

[0098] exist Figure 10The Cartesian sensor coordinate system x, y, z and its corresponding spherical coordinate system M, α, β can be seen, all sharing the same zero point and extending through the magnetic field sensor 64. The y-axis extends in the longitudinal direction of the sensor unit 6. The radial angle α is defined in the xz plane and determined by the projection of the 3D field vector of the magnetic field sensor 64. The radial angle has a value range of 0 to 360°. The axial angle β has a value range of 0 to 180°. The axial angle lies in a plane unfolding between the 3D vector of the field strength and the y-axis. When the 3D vector rotates about the y-axis, the plane rotates together about the y-axis. Therefore, when the sensor unit 6 is screwed into the valve block 1, the rotation of the sensor unit 6 about the y-axis, i.e., about the axis of rotation, only affects the radial angle α, but not the axial angle β. Therefore, it is preferable to evaluate the axial angle β, but not the radial angle α. However, the radial angle α can also be evaluated when the sensor unit 6 is oriented and assembled in the valve block 1. The arrangement of the sensor coordinate system shown corresponds to an ideal arrangement, where the sensor element of the magnetic field sensor is located at the zero point. In practice, field vectors measured by magnetic field sensors typically require zero-point calibration, as further explained below. Figure 14a , Figure 14b As described.

[0099] exist Figure 13a , Figure 13b and Figure 14a , Figure 14b The magnetic lines of force of the solenoid valve 3 and the magnetic field lines of the magnet 22 of the monitored piston 21 can be seen. The armature 34 is schematically shown. The sleeve 8 is provided with an annular plate 7.

[0100] A magnet 22 is disposed within the piston 21. The poles of the magnet 22 are positioned above or below the piston 21 in the direction of movement, as can be seen from the magnetic field lines 9 shown.

[0101] Piston 21 is not shown in the accompanying drawings. However, magnet 22, which is fixedly connected to piston 21, is present in... Figure 13a , Figure 13b and Figure 14a , Figure 14b Its position is shown in the diagram. The position of the armature 34 of the solenoid valve 3, i.e., the solenoid component, can be identified by the retaining ring 34 shown in the diagram of the solenoid component. The retaining ring 34 is also known as a Seeger ring. Figure 13a , Figure 13b In the middle, piston 21 is in the first end position, thus being in the open state of the main valve, and... Figure 14a , Figure 14b In the middle, piston 21 is in the second end position of piston 21, thus being in the closed state of the main valve.

[0102] In the two attached figures Figure 13a , Figure 13b, Figure 14a , Figure 14b The diagram schematically shows the free end region 600 of the sensor unit and the magnetic field sensor 64. They are fixedly positioned within the valve device.

[0103] As can be seen, the magnetic field lines of the interference field 90 of the conductor coil 32 are deflected into the sleeve 8 and the annular plate 7. Therefore, the interference field 90 has a small effect in the region of the magnetic field sensor 64.

[0104] exist Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the middle, it is shown that... Figure 13a , Figure 13b and Figure 14a , Figure 14b The same situation applies, where the magnetic field of magnet 22 is shown only with simplified lines. Figure 15 The position of piston 21 in the middle corresponds to Figure 13a , Figure 13b The position in the middle, Figure 16 The position of piston 21 in the middle corresponds to Figure 14a , Figure 14b The position in the middle.

[0105] Such as through combined observation Figure 13a , Figure 13b and Figure 14a , Figure 14b as well as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As can be seen, the movement of piston 21 and thus magnet 22 causes a change in magnetic field lines 9. This affects the magnetic field lines 91. Figure 13a , Figure 13b , Figure 14a , Figure 14b This can be clearly seen in the region of the magnetic field sensor 64, particularly in the changes in the angle W of the field vector R and the length or magnitude of the field vector R. This change in the field vector R is evident in... Figure 15 and Figure 16 This is clearly visible. It is important to note that... Figure 10 coordinate system and Figure 15 and Figure 16 The coordinate systems in the two coordinate systems are not all oriented. Figure 10 In the image, the y-axis extends along the longitudinal direction of the sensor unit. Figure 15 and Figure 16 In this context, the x-axis is the coordinate system, but in the opposite direction. Despite the different definitions of the coordinate system, the evaluation of the data remains the same.

[0106] As described above, the axial angle is specifically changed so that angles W1 and W2 shown in the figure substantially correspond to the axial angle. Figure 15 and Figure 16In this context, the changes in the radial vector are represented by R1 and R2. This angle, or angle change ΔW, is detected and evaluated using the magnetic field vector 64 and the evaluation unit to obtain information about the position of the piston 21. In some embodiments, the magnitude or magnitude change ΔR is also detected and evaluated.

[0107] Figure 17 The method according to the invention is illustrated in flowchart form, for example, how it is performed in order to obtain the aforementioned information about the position of the piston.

[0108] The magnetic field sensor 64 measures the magnetic flux density in the x, y, and z directions of a Cartesian sensor coordinate system using its sensor element. Preferably, the obtained values ​​are adjusted based on a prior known non-uniformity of the sensor. The compensated values ​​x', y', z' of the field vector are then converted into spherical coordinates M, α, and β. Preferably, compensation is made for a prior known deviation of the sensor element's position from its zero position. The compensated spherical coordinates M', α', and β' are rotated so that the coordinate axis M' of the spherical coordinate system extends parallel to the longitudinal central axis L1 of the piston 21, and thus parallel to the y-axis of the magnet coordinate system.

[0109] Because the Hall sensor element is located on the surface of the circuit board in the magnetic field sensor, and because the middle plane of the circuit board is on the sensor axis, the sensor element has a distance from the sensor's axis of rotation. This distance is typically half the thickness of the circuit board. Due to this radial angle (see...) Figure 10 By rotating the sensor, the orientation of the magnet as seen from the sensor element can be determined. This allows for compensation of the aforementioned spacing. The compensated spherical coordinates M'', α'', and β'' are then obtained.

[0110] Preferably, sensor unit 6 has at least one temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of sensor unit 6 or for measuring the temperature of different components or different areas of sensor unit 6. Preferably, the temperature of magnetic field sensor 64 is measured. Preferably, the measured temperature is taken into account when further compensating to correct the spherical coordinates. The obtained coordinates are M''', α''', and β'''. These coordinates or signals can be filtered for calculating the piston position (M K ''', α K ''' and β K The output value indicates whether the piston is closed, open, or in an intermediate position. Calculations can be performed in various ways and methods.

[0111] For example, calculations can be performed using lookup tables, polynomial interpolation, and / or analytical methods. The zero-point comparisons of α0''' and β0''', based on the obtained zero-point coordinates M0''', are also preferably used to calculate the piston position.

[0112] Preferably, a reliability check is performed additionally or previously by means of filtering to check whether the measured and compensated values ​​are within a preset range (M). P ''', α P ''' and β P If this is not the case, a fault report will be generated or a fault will be displayed.

[0113] When the measured and compensated values ​​deviate significantly from the zero point, the wear on the indicating valve is relatively high and the valve should be replaced promptly.

[0114] The device and method according to the invention enable precise determination of the piston position even in confined spaces.

[0115] List of reference numerals

[0116] 1 Valve Block

[0117] 10 Entering the Channel

[0118] 11 Discharge Channel

[0119] 12 valve chambers

[0120] 2 main valves

[0121] 20 Valve Body

[0122] 21 Piston

[0123] 22 magnets

[0124] 3 Solenoid valves

[0125] 30 Electromagnetic coil housing

[0126] 31 electrical connector

[0127] 32 conductor coil

[0128] 33 guide tube

[0129] 34 Armature

[0130] 35-inch Seeger swivel

[0131] 4. Entering the pipeline

[0132] 5 Discharge Pipeline

[0133] 6 sensor units

[0134] 60 housing

[0135] 600 Free End Region

[0136] 601 external thread

[0137] 602 window

[0138] 61 Cable Spinner

[0139] 62 sensor cable

[0140] 620 cable end

[0141] 63 circuit board

[0142] 630 through opening

[0143] 631 Copper Wall

[0144] 632 Printed Conductor

[0145] 64 magnetic field sensors

[0146] 65 heating device

[0147] 67 microcontroller

[0148] 68 Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)

[0149] 7 Ring Plate

[0150] 8 sleeves

[0151] 9 magnetic field lines

[0152] 90 interference field

[0153] 91 magnetic field lines

[0154] X, y, z Cartesian sensor coordinate system

[0155] M, α, β sensor spherical coordinate system

[0156] X1, Y1, Z1 Cartesian magnet coordinate system

[0157] The longitudinal centerline of the L1 piston

[0158] L2 sensor axis

[0159] Antarctica

[0160] S Arctic

[0161] Field vectors R1 and R2

[0162] Angles W1 and W2

Claims

1. A valve device, - It has a valve having a movable piston (21) for closing and opening the valve. - Having a magnet (22) or a magnetizable element, and - It has a sensor unit (6) having a magnetic field sensor (64) for determining the position of the piston (21). The magnet (22) or the magnetizable element and the sensor unit (6) are movable relative to each other by the movement of the piston (21). The magnetic field sensor (64) constitutes at least a two-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density. Its features are, An evaluation unit is provided, which determines the angular changes of the at least two-dimensional vectors.

2. The valve device according to claim 1, The magnetic field sensor (64) therein constitutes a three-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density.

3. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the magnetic field sensor (64) is a 2D Hall sensor or a 3D Hall sensor.

4. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the magnet (22) or the magnetizable element defines a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system having three axes (X1, Y1, Z1), and wherein the magnetic field sensor (64) is disposed at an angle relative to the axes (X1, Y1, Z1).

5. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the magnet (22) or the magnetizable element defines a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system having three axes (X1, Y1, Z1), and wherein the magnetic field sensor (64) is inclined relative to the axes (X1, Y1, Z1) or inclined relative to at least one of the axes (X1, Y1, Z1).

6. The valve device according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the magnet (22) or the magnetizable element is disposed centrally relative to the longitudinal central axis (L1) of the piston (21).

7. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensor unit (6) is disposed obliquely relative to the longitudinal central axis (L1) of the piston (21).

8. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the valve of the valve device or the second valve of the valve device has a conductor coil (32) that generates a magnetic field.

9. The valve device according to claim 8, wherein the conductor coil (32) is disposed in the valve device in a predetermined energizing direction.

10. The valve device according to any one of claims 8 or 9, wherein a deflection element (7, 8) made of magnetically conductive material is provided between the conductor coil (32) and the magnetic field sensor (54).

11. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the sensor unit (6) has a heating device (65) for heating the magnetic field sensor (64).

12. The valve device according to claim 11, wherein the magnetic field sensor (64) is disposed on a first side of the circuit board (63), and the heating device (65) is disposed on a side of the circuit board (63) opposite to the first side, wherein the circuit board (63) has a through opening (630) extending from a second side of the circuit board (63) to the first side in the region of the heating device (65), wherein a heat conductor (631) is disposed in the through opening (630), the heat conductor preferably being made of copper.

13. The valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the sensor unit (6) has a housing (60) having an elongated shape and terminating in a free end region (600), and wherein the magnetic field sensor (64) is disposed in the free end region (600).

14. A sensor unit for a valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, The sensor unit (6) has a magnetic field sensor (64) for determining the position of the piston (21). The magnetic field sensor (64) constitutes at least a two-dimensional vector for detecting magnetic flux density. Furthermore, the sensor unit (6) wherein the sensor unit (6) has an evaluation unit that determines the angular changes of the at least two-dimensional vector.

15. A method for determining the position of a piston (21) in a valve device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a magnetic field sensor (64) detects at least a two-dimensional vector of magnetic flux density and determines the position of the piston (21) by means of the magnetic field sensor (64). Its features are, The angular change of the at least two-dimensional vector is determined by means of the evaluation unit, wherein the angular change occurs in the relative motion of the magnet (22) or the magnetizable element and the sensor unit (6) through the motion of the piston (21).

16. A valve device, - It has a valve having a movable piston (21) for closing and opening the valve. - Having a magnet (22) or a magnetizable element, and - It has a sensor unit (6) having a magnetic field sensor (64) for determining the position of the piston (21). The magnet (22) or the magnetizable element and the sensor unit (6) are movable relative to each other by the movement of the piston (22). Its features are, The sensor unit (6) is arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal central axis (L1) of the piston (21).

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