Valve, measuring device and position sensor

Abstract

The utility model relates to a valve, measuring device and position sensor, the valve has position measuring system, including the control valve and driver for adjusting process fluid flow and the support for connecting driver and valve, the adjusting rod and measuring device linearly moving in the support, the measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet, wherein, the magnet is fastened on the adjusting rod through the magnet holder, and the sensor is fastened on the support through the sensor module. Sensor module is connected with at least one fastening device, for arranging sensor module in the support of control valve. For this, the at least one fastening device forms defined interface, and the interface is complementary with the multiple fastening points of support. The adjusting rod has the receiving section for fixing the magnet holder, wherein, the fastening device, the magnet holder and the receiving section of adjusting rod are designed and coordinated with each other, so that the sensor and the magnet are aligned relative to each other independently of the selected fastening point on the support.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a control valve with a position measuring device for regulating process fluids, and such measuring device, particularly to a non-contact sensor device. Background Technology

[0002] A control valve typically has a valve element that regulates the flow cross-section between the inlet and outlet inside the valve body. The valve element is connected to a regulating rod and is typically moved by a pneumatic actuator. The actuator is usually located outside the valve body. The regulating rod extends from the valve body in a sealed manner. Utility Model Content

[0003] This utility model also relates to a position measuring device for determining the position of the valve stem of a valve actuator.

[0004] Control valves typically require position sensors to detect the valve's position so that the positioner can be adjusted to a precise location. For this purpose, absolute measurement methods are preferred because reference measurements are not possible in process equipment, and the valve must be immediately adjusted to the desired opening section after a malfunction or equipment startup. Due to the harsh environment of process equipment, non-contact measurement methods are preferred. Furthermore, the measuring device is preferably installed as far away from the process fluid as possible.

[0005] Different valves, actuators, and positioners are typically used in combination, with varying valve stroke ranges. Actuator position is usually detected via a drive rod and a sensor fixedly mounted on a bracket. Here, position sensors, particularly magnetic or optical stroke measurement methods, are employed.

[0006] Position sensors are known from EP 3 161 361 A1 and EP 1 282 798 B1, which are housed within a bracket between the actuator and the valve body. The advantage of this arrangement is that the sensor system is entirely outside the valve body, in an area protected from process fluids. Furthermore, the positioner can be easily mounted in this area of ​​the bracket. Connection between the sensor system and the positioner can be achieved via a short path. This arrangement is particularly suitable for modular structures. Actuators with different stroke forces and stroke lengths can be combined with different control valves via the bracket.

[0007] Here, the position sensor system is located inside the bracket. The disadvantages of the existing system are that the sensor system reduces the maximum possible stroke length of the actuator, and on the one hand, retrofitting an existing valve with an improved sensor system would result in high regulation costs. On the other hand, the flexibility to change the position of the sensor system on the valve is very limited in the existing system.

[0008] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to improve upon the prior art and provide a position sensor for a control valve that is suitable for different, particularly large, stroke lengths and can be fixed at different positions on the control valve in a modular manner with reduced adjustment costs.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the position sensor comprises: a sensor module having a sensor for detecting the position of a magnet relative to the sensor; a housing; and a fastening device for fastening the sensor module to the housing. The housing further has a central region for receiving movable parts, particularly the adjusting rod of a valve. Specifically, the housing surrounds the central region. Here, the housing is essentially a cuboid, wherein the central region represents an axis of the cuboid that extends perpendicularly and centrally to two opposite sides of the housing. In the mounted form of the position sensor, the adjusting rod of the control valve preferably extends parallel to or concentrically relative to the central region. As described later, the housing can be specifically designed as a support for the control valve, for connecting the actuator and the valve housing.

[0010] The fastening device has a first fastening interface. The housing has at least one, preferably multiple, second fastening interfaces. The second fastening interfaces are designed to complement the first fastening interfaces, allowing the first and second fastening interfaces to connect to each other. With the first and second fastening interfaces connected, the relative position of the sensor module with respect to the central region of the housing, particularly its distance and tilt, remains the same regardless of which second fastening interface the sensor module is fastened to. This means that, in principle, the sensor module can be fastened to all sides of the housing via the first fastening interface, and the position of the sensor module relative to the central region (where, in use, a valve adjustment rod is located, and the adjustment rod is equipped with a magnet for position determination) is always the same.

[0011] Here, the fastening device itself can be implemented in different ways. On the one hand, the fastening device can be a component of the sensor housing. On the other hand, the fastening device can be a separate part, such as a plate, or the fastening device can be a component of another peripheral assembly (such as the wall of a positioner for a control valve). For all embodiments, it is important that the magnetic sensor or sensor module is connected to the fastening device so that the sensor is arranged near the magnet in the installed state to detect the magnetic field.

[0012] In this way, by defining the interface, the adjustment costs of placing the sensor module can be reduced. Furthermore, it allows the sensor module to be placed in different locations, such as on the support of the control valve. This increases flexibility, especially when retrofitting valves with this sensor device.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the position sensor's fastening device has a plate with a single-sided enclosed housing. It is also conceivable that the sensor or sensor module is connected to the fastening plate or intermediate plate. In this way, the housing (e.g., a support for a control valve) can be enclosed by mounting the sensor module on the mounting side.

[0014] As previously mentioned, the fastening device can be, for example, a separate plate with holes and / or threads forming an interface for connection with the housing. This plate can, for example, be a plate arranged between the valve support and the positioner for fastening. This allows for the retrofitting of the position sensor without altering existing components. In this way, the design of, for example, the positioner can preferably remain unchanged. Only the fastening possibility needs to be established on the positioner and / or the housing or support to fasten the intermediate plate. In particular, the intermediate plate can be a positioner mounting plate that is already in use. This plate can be reused by accordingly modifying or supplementing the fastening holes and their precise location according to the interface to be defined. Therefore, the retrofitting of the sensor used can be carried out in a material-saving manner.

[0015] Alternatively, the fastening device can be the sidewall of a positioner. Positioners are typically positioned close to the valve to be regulated and are usually directly connected to the support of the control valve. By using one of the positioner walls as a carrier for the sensor system, the number of components is reduced, and existing fastening devices can be reused. In this case, the interface for fastening is defined through high-precision positioning via holes and / or threads in the positioner wall.

[0016] One embodiment of this measuring device is designed for use with a control valve, wherein the control valve includes an actuator, an adjusting rod, and a bracket surrounding the adjusting rod for connecting the valve and the actuator. The measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet, as well as a magnet retainer for receiving the at least one magnet. The magnet retainer also has a receiving opening for receiving the adjusting rod of the control valve. Here, the sensor is housed in a sensor module. The sensor module is designed to be directly or indirectly fastened to the bracket of the positioner and / or the control valve, and extends into the bracket in the fastened state. Furthermore, the sensor module is designed with or connected to a fastening device such that, in the fastened state, the fastening device closes the side of the bracket where the sensor module is mounted.

[0017] The principle behind this magnetic sensor system is that the resistance of the sensor element changes when it is exposed to a magnetic field. Therefore, if a valve control rod with a fixed magnet moves relative to the sensor, the magnetic field induced in the sensor changes, allowing the sensor module to detect the valve position and make corresponding adjustments non-contactly.

[0018] A valve with a position measurement system according to one embodiment includes a control valve for regulating the flow of process fluid, an actuator, a bracket for connecting the actuator and the valve, an adjusting rod (also called an adjusting shaft) that moves linearly within the bracket, and a measuring device. The measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet. The magnet is secured to the adjusting rod by a magnet retainer, and the sensor is secured to the bracket by a sensor module, as described in detail below. Here, the sensor module is coupled to at least one fastening device designed to house the sensor module within the bracket of the control valve. This at least one fastening device forms a defined interface that can complement multiple fastening points on the bracket, allowing the sensor module to be positioned at different locations within the bracket without functional loss. Therefore, in some embodiments, multiple fastening points can also be formed on the bracket as a defined interface, all of which are designed and configured to house the sensor module, such that the sensor module, after installation, is aligned with and functionally interconnected with the magnet device. This allows the user flexibility in arranging the measuring device. Needless to say, this interface is only formed for those fastening points that are actually set or designed to receive the sensor module. Therefore, regardless of which preset fastening point is chosen for reception, the aligned arrangement of the sensor module and the magnet is possible. In the simplest form, the bracket has exactly one fastening point designed to receive the sensor module.

[0019] The control valve's adjusting rod has a receiving section, preferably a screw-in portion in the surface of the adjusting rod, for securing the magnet retainer. The fastening device, magnet retainer, and receiving section of the adjusting rod are designed and coordinated so that the sensor and magnet are aligned relative to each other at each preset fastening point on the bracket. Due to the defined interface, the sensor's function is therefore independent of the individual selected fastening points of the sensor module and fastening device on the bracket. The magnet retainer is fixed to the adjusting shaft or adjusting rod. Here, fixing is achieved, for example, through a screw-in portion (especially a groove) on the adjusting shaft, so that the magnet position is coordinated with the sensor position.

[0020] Here, "mutual alignment" means that the secured sensor module has a position relative to the bracket and adjusting rod that corresponds to a magnet arranged in a predefined position on the adjusting rod. Specifically, this means that the magnet arranged in the predefined position on the adjusting rod has no lateral offset relative to the sensor from the main extension direction of the adjusting rod within tolerance, but can be aligned with the sensor by simple rotation around the adjusting rod.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the magnetically sensitive sensor is a TMR sensor, or tunneling magnetoresistive sensor. TMR sensors feature extremely low power consumption and high magnetic field sensitivity. Due to the high sensitivity of TMR technology, the measurement range can be expanded for the same magnet length compared to other sensor types, such as Hall effect sensors or AMR sensors, i.e., anisotropic magnetoresistive sensors. Therefore, based on the TMR effect, a 360-degree magnetic vector rotation can be definitively detected, rather than the typical 180-degree rotation of known AMR technologies, enabling a much larger measurement length for the same magnet length. This is particularly advantageous when constructing absolute measurement systems. Thus, TMR sensors facilitate the measurement of larger travel lengths without altering the magnet size or length. In this way, the limits of measurable travel length that would otherwise require conventional, more complex incremental or vernier-based 2-rail or multi-rail measurement systems can be postponed. This is particularly advantageous when using short adjustment rods and / or low-structure brackets, enabling improved utilization of installation space.

[0022] In at least one embodiment of the valve, the fastening device is the wall of the positioner. Alternatively, the fastening device can be designed as an intermediate plate. Advantageously, the fastening device can be directly mounted on the bracket.

[0023] This intermediate plate allows the sensor module to be mounted on different positioners and different bracket structures. Therefore, the intermediate plate can serve as an adapter for different configurations of positioners and control valve structures. Furthermore, the intermediate plate is suitable for placement independently of the positioner to secure the sensor module to other defined locations on the bracket.

[0024] In some support structures, an intermediate plate is already present to provide a conventional positioner accessory for mechanical stroke detection of the adjusting rod. Therefore, this existing system can be adapted for use with the magnetic sensor system described herein with minor modifications.

[0025] The fastening devices, particularly the walls of the intermediate plate and / or locators, and / or another sealing plate for closing the bracket, can have magnetic shielding material. Thus, the bracket can be closed and magnetically shielded by using the fastening components that are inherently necessary. This closure or shielding can be achieved on multiple sides through the fastening devices (particularly the walls of the intermediate plate and / or locators) and / or the sealing plates.

[0026] Here, the bracket is typically rectangular in shape, with two sides open and the remaining sides enclosed by material. To enclose the internal space of the bracket, a material with a ferritic composition is usually used. For example, if one open side of the bracket is closed with a locator, and the other open side is closed with a sensor module with an intermediate plate, the sensor module arranged in the bracket and the magnet mounted on the adjusting rod can be completely surrounded by the ferritic shell, thus largely or completely shielding it from external magnetic fields. This improves the measurement accuracy or sensitivity of the sensor. In embodiments where the sensor module is mounted on the locator wall and the bracket is assembled on only one side, an additional sealing plate can close the still open portion of the bracket.

[0027] In at least one advantageous improvement, the sensor module can have a plug-in interface for direct contact between the magnetic sensor and the positioner. In embodiments where the sensor module connects directly to the positioner without an intermediate board, a direct electrical plug-in connection between the sensor module and the positioner can thus be achieved. This eliminates the need for cable wiring.

[0028] The actual valve element of such a control valve typically consists of a valve body and an axially movable valve cone introduced into the valve body for regulating the process fluid. The valve cone can be moved by a pneumatic actuator via a valve stem. The valve stem of the valve element extends from inside the valve body in a sealing manner at a cover of the valve body. The actuator has a drive rod, previously referred to herein as an adjusting rod. The drive rod and valve stem can be connected within a bracket via a coupling. Alternatively, for simplicity of description, as chosen in this case, only a single rod, namely the adjusting rod, may be used, which is then directly coupled to the valve cone.

[0029] The valve cone is exposed to high process pressures during operation. With an asymmetrical cone geometry, this can result in torque on the drive rod. For example, in a pneumatic diaphragm actuator, the drive rod is fixed to a tray of the diaphragm, while the diaphragm itself is fixed to the actuator housing, making the torsion of the drive rod dependent on the elasticity of the diaphragm's free length. This torsion can affect the measurement accuracy of position measurement systems because the magnet may twist by up to 5° relative to the magnetic sensor during operation.

[0030] Therefore, another task is to provide a measuring device for controlling valves, particularly a magnet retainer and a valve, which has higher tolerances for the torsion of the magnet relative to the magnetic sensor.

[0031] According to one embodiment, a magnetic retainer for fastening to the control valve's adjusting rod, suitable for such a control valve, has a retainer with an abutment and two legs. Here, the abutment can be geometrically based on a semi-cylindrical shape, having concentrically arranged outer and inner surfaces. The inner surface has a radius of curvature corresponding to the radius of curvature of the adjusting rod to be received. The legs of the retainer extend radially from the abutment and are designed to face each other. The legs open into a predefined opening. The dimensions of this opening and the inner contour of the abutment are designed to allow the magnetic retainer to receive the valve's adjusting rod. The shape of the magnetic retainer thus formed can be particularly similar to that of a horseshoe. The magnetic retainer also has a fixing element on its inner contour. This fixing element improves the retention of the magnetic retainer on the adjusting rod. On the outer side, the magnetic retainer has at least one magnet, preferably two, arranged side-by-side in a row along the circumference of the magnetic retainer. Thus, the magnet can be positioned close to a magnetic sensor. A magnetic receiving portion can be formed for this magnet or these magnets. Magnets can also be integrated into the cage, for example, by being covered by the material of the magnet holder during manufacturing.

[0032] Particularly advantageous is the arrangement of two or more magnets side-by-side, especially parallel to each other, along the circumference of a magnet holder surrounding an adjusting rod. It has been shown that this arrangement on the magnet holder generates favorable magnetic lines of force, such that torsion of the shaft and the magnet holder has almost no effect on the measurement signal. In this way, the tolerance of the sensor system relative to the torsion of the magnet holder relative to the sensor during operation can be improved.

[0033] In summary, the magnet retainer is open on one side, allowing it to be mounted on the adjusting rod after the control valve, consisting of the actuator, bracket, valve, and adjusting rod, has been fully assembled. The complementary design of the screw-in portion (e.g., a groove as a receiving section) or protrusion (e.g., a protrusion as a fixing element) on the adjusting rod and the fixing element on the magnet retainer allows for improved, preferably precise, axial positioning of the magnet system relative to the magnetic sensor. Needless to say, protrusions can also be formed on the adjusting rod, and grooves can also be formed on the magnet retainer.

[0034] Here, the dimensions of all components are within the defined dimensional stability and tolerance range. This ensures that, after installation, the distance between the magnet system and the magnetic sensor lies within the allowable tolerance band for the required measurement accuracy. By using the magnetic sensor and this magnet holder, a non-contact, wear-free measuring device that can be either electrical or mechanical is created.

[0035] In this way, a measuring device for a control valve can be provided, wherein the measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet, and a magnet retainer for receiving the at least one magnet. The magnet retainer also has a receiving opening for receiving the control valve adjusting rod. Here, the sensor is disposed in a sensor module, which can be arranged in a bracket and at least indirectly fastened to the bracket. The magnet retainer has a self-adjusting adjusting element. This adjusting element preferably has at least one bevel designed to mate with a predefined receiving section (particularly on the adjusting rod of the control valve), and engages or can be engaged with the receiving section in the installed state. Here, at least one opening for receiving at least one clamping screw is formed in the adjusting element.

[0036] Therefore, the magnet retainer can be clamped to the adjusting rod by at least one screw to secure it. This is particularly advantageous because the angular position of the magnet retainer can be adapted to the precise position of the magnetic sensor before clamping it to the adjusting rod. This is also particularly advantageous because the adjusting rod is rotationally symmetrical, and its specific angular position within the valve is only revealed after the control valve is fully assembled.

[0037] In at least one embodiment, the magnet retainer is secured by clamping screws arranged laterally through the two legs of the magnet retainer. This has the advantage of generating a large clamping force and the clamping screws not directly contacting the adjusting rod.

[0038] Compared to the implementation method where the clamping screw acts directly on the adjusting rod, using a laterally extending screw will not damage the adjusting rod, especially the screw-in portion, i.e., the receiving section or groove.

[0039] When using plastic for the magnet retainer, it may be advantageous to use clamping screws that are not supported on the legs, because otherwise, the widening of the magnet retainer legs cannot be ruled out, and the clamping force on the adjusting rod may decrease over time. Therefore, using such laterally extending clamping screws can improve the maintenance of the clamping force. If the clamping screws pass through both legs, with the legs pulled closer together by corresponding clamping screws, a clamping force that remains substantially constant over time can be applied to the adjusting rod.

[0040] In one embodiment of a valve with a position measurement system, the control valve for regulating the flow of process fluid has an actuator, a bracket for connecting the actuator to the valve, an adjusting rod that moves linearly within the bracket, and a measuring device. The measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet, wherein the magnet is arranged on the adjusting rod by a magnet holder, and the sensor is arranged in the bracket by a sensor module and is at least indirectly fastened to the bracket.

[0041] The magnet retainer also features an adjusting element whose shape complements that of the receiving section on the adjusting rod. This allows the magnet retainer, arranged on the adjusting rod via the adjusting element and the receiving section, to be axially fixed, with the magnetic sensor and magnet aligned with each other. The magnet retainer also has two opposing legs that open to a width corresponding to the diameter of the adjusting rod, allowing the adjusting rod to be radially introduced into the magnet retainer, or introduced through the opening in the installed state. This provides a control valve with a non-contact and wear-free measurement system. In particular, this measuring device can be used to retrofit valves without disassembling the valve structure.

[0042] In at least one embodiment of the valve, at least two magnets arranged side-by-side, particularly parallel to each other, are fixed to a magnet holder. This helps to provide higher tolerances in the event that the magnets may be twisted during initial installation and that the adjusting rod may twist during operation.

[0043] The magnet, or these magnets, can be designed as bar magnets. The length and size of the magnet can be easily adapted to different drive strokes. Furthermore, various adjusting rod diameters can be easily achieved, for example, by using magnet holders of different sizes, such as those with larger or smaller diameters.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, the valve with a position measuring system has a magnetic retainer that is fixed to the adjusting rod by a clamping screw. This improves the retention of the magnetic retainer and reduces accidental twisting of the magnetic retainer on the adjusting rod.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the valve has a magnet retainer, wherein a clamping screw is arranged laterally through two legs of the magnet retainer and secures the magnet retainer by pulling the legs closer together. Here, the clamping screw can also be advantageously designed as a mating screw, radially fixing the magnet retainer to the adjusting rod. This reduces the clearance of the magnet retainer on the adjusting rod, thereby allowing for improved sensor measurement accuracy.

[0046] The fitting screw can be designed to form a shape-lock with the valve stem groove. This shape-lock installation can further reduce axial slippage.

[0047] Advantageously, the magnet retainer of the valve with a position measuring system may have at least one snap-fit ​​nose on the inner circumference of the receiving end of the adjusting rod for radial fixation on the adjusting rod. In this way, the magnet retainer can be positioned at a predetermined location on the adjusting rod, and the snap-fit ​​nose prevents accidental removal of the magnet retainer from the rod. The snap-fit ​​nose also serves for coarse pre-adjustment. Once the magnet retainer is engaged, it can no longer slide in the radial direction.

[0048] The magnet holder can be made of plastic or composed of plastic. In particular, the magnet holder can be made of PEek (polyetheretherketone) and can be thermoplastic or mechanically manufactured.

[0049] Control valves with position measurement systems can also have a magnetic retainer comprising or made of a non-magnetic metal. This could be, for example, a magnetic retainer manufactured in a MIM (metal injection molding) process. This reduces interference with the magnetic field during measurement.

[0050] The valve has a position measurement system comprising a control valve and an actuator for regulating the flow of process fluid, a bracket for connecting the actuator to the valve, an adjusting rod that moves linearly within the bracket, and a measuring device. The measuring device has at least one magnetically sensitive sensor and at least one magnet, wherein the magnet is secured to the adjusting rod by a magnet retainer, and the sensor is secured to the bracket by a sensor module connected to at least one fastening device for arranging the sensor module within the bracket of the control valve. The at least one fastening device forms a defined interface complementary to a plurality of fastening points on the bracket. The adjusting rod has a receiving section for securing the magnet retainer. The fastening device, the magnet retainer, and the receiving section of the adjusting rod are designed and coordinated such that the sensor and the magnet are aligned relative to each other independently of selected, pre-designed receiving points on the bracket.

[0051] The valve has a position measurement system, and the magnetically sensitive sensor is a TMR sensor.

[0052] The valve has a position measurement system, and the fastening device is the wall of the positioner.

[0053] The valve has a position measurement system, and the fastening device is an intermediate plate.

[0054] The valve has a position measurement system, and the fastening device can be mounted on the bracket.

[0055] The valve has a position measurement system, the fastening device and / or the sealing plate has magnetic shielding material, and the bracket is sealed on multiple sides by the fastening device and / or the sealing plate.

[0056] The valve has a position measurement system, and the sensor module has a plug-in interface for direct contact between the sensor and the positioner.

[0057] The measuring device is used to control a valve having an actuator, an adjusting rod, and a bracket surrounding the adjusting rod for connecting the valve to the actuator. The measuring device includes a housing, at least one magnetically sensitive sensor, at least one magnet, and a magnet retainer for receiving the at least one magnet. The magnet retainer also has a receiving opening designed to receive the adjusting rod of the control valve. The sensor is disposed in a sensor module designed to be directly or indirectly fastened to the positioner and / or the housing such that the sensor module extends into the housing while fastened to it, and the housing is closed on the side where the sensor module is mounted.

[0058] The position sensor includes a sensor module with a sensor for detecting the position of a magnet relative to the sensor; a housing; and a fastening device for directly or indirectly fastening the sensor module to the housing, wherein the housing has a central region for receiving a movable part, the fastening device has a first fastening interface, and the housing has a plurality of second fastening interfaces designed to complement the first fastening interfaces such that, regardless of the selected second fastening interface of the sensor module, the relative position of the sensor module to the central region of the housing is the same for each second fastening interface.

[0059] The fastening device has a plate that closes the housing on one side.

[0060] The housing has a central region for receiving the regulating rod of the valve. Attached Figure Description

[0061] The embodiments, improvements, and examples of this utility model are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0062] Figure 1 The sensor module and magnet holder are shown.

[0063] Figure 2 A perspective view showing an embodiment of the measuring device in a disassembled state;

[0064] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 2 A perspective view of the measuring device in its assembled state;

[0065] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a control valve having a measuring device according to one embodiment is shown;

[0066] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of a control valve with a measuring device according to another embodiment is shown; Figure 6A cross-sectional view of a control valve with a measuring device according to another embodiment;

[0067] Figure 7 A perspective view of a magnet holder according to one embodiment is shown;

[0068] Figure 8 A perspective view of a magnet holder according to another embodiment is shown;

[0069] Figure 9 Showing the installation status Figure 8 A perspective view of the magnet holder in the image.

[0070] List of reference numerals

[0071] 1 Valve

[0072] 10 Measuring devices for control valves

[0073] 20 sensor modules

[0074] 21 Sensor Housing

[0075] 22 sensors

[0076] 23. Protrusion

[0077] 24 Intermediate Plate

[0078] 25 First through hole

[0079] 26 Opening

[0080] 27 Circuit Board

[0081] 28 First fastening hole

[0082] 29 First Plug Connector

[0083] 30 stents

[0084] 32 Second fastening hole

[0085] 34. Enclosed panel

[0086] 35 end plate

[0087] 36 side panels

[0088] 40 Positioner

[0089] 41 Positioner Wall

[0090] 42 Second through hole

[0091] 43 Screw Channel

[0092] 44 Second Plug Connector

[0093] 50 Adjustment rod

[0094] 52 Valve Interface

[0095] 54 slots

[0096] 56 Driver Interface

[0097] 60 Valve Actuator

[0098] 70 valve housing

[0099] 100 Magnet Holder

[0100] 101 Cage

[0101] 102 Magnets

[0102] 103 Reception Department

[0103] 104 Adjusting the web

[0104] 105 outriggers

[0105] 106 First clamping screw

[0106] 112 Screw receiving part

[0107] 114 Threaded hole

[0108] 116 Second clamping screw

[0109] 118 Clip-on nose Detailed Implementation

[0110] In the figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally identical components. For clarity and better readability, descriptions of these components are repeated only where necessary.

[0111] Figure 1 An embodiment of a sensor module 20 and a magnet holder 100 for controlling a valve is shown. The sensor module 20 has a sensor housing 21. The sensor housing 21 is basically formed as a cuboid with two protrusions 23 on one side (hereinafter also referred to as the fastening side), the protrusions having two openings 26 for fastening. Here, the openings 26 are configured as holes that allow the sensor module 20 to be fastened to a fastening device. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening device is an intermediate plate 24, as described in more detail later. In an alternative embodiment discussed later, the fastening device is designed as the wall 41 of the positioner 40.

[0112] In this respect, the protrusion 23 represents a fastening device for the sensor module 20 in this embodiment and other embodiments. The protrusion can also be specifically designed to be planar, so that the intermediate plate 24 can be omitted or the locator 40 can be used as the module carrier.

[0113] A recess is formed in the sensor housing 21 on the side opposite to the fastening side. A sensor 22, designed as a magnetic sensor, is arranged on the inner wall of the recess at the distal end of the sensor housing 21 from the fastening side. Here, the magnetic sensor is fastened to a circuit board 27, which is connected to the sensor housing 21. Figure 1 As shown, the magnetic sensor or circuit board can be secured to the sensor housing 21 by tightening screws. This allows for precise definition of the location of the holes used for securing the sensor. Similarly, in the illustrated embodiment, the sensor housing 21 is secured to the fastening device 24 using screws.

[0114] The sensor module 20 has a cable pass-through hole not shown here or alternatively has a plug connector for contacting external components (such as a positioner).

[0115] The intermediate plate 24 is designed with multiple through openings 25, each designed as a first through hole 25. The positions of these first through holes 25 are precisely predefined. These first through holes 25 allow the intermediate plate 24 to be fastened to other components, such as the housing of the positioner 40, the housing of the valve, or the bracket 30, as described in more detail later. Furthermore, the intermediate plate 24 has multiple (two in this case) first fastening holes 28 designed for fastening the intermediate plate 24 to, for example, a valve bracket or a typical housing.

[0116] Figure 1 A magnet retainer 100 is also shown. The magnet retainer 100 is arranged on an adjusting rod 50. For this purpose, the magnet retainer 100 has a retainer 101. The retainer 101 has an opening that substantially corresponds to the circumference of the adjusting rod 50, around which the magnet retainer 100 is pre-arranged. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet retainer 100 has an adjusting web 104 along the inner surface of the retainer. The adjusting web 104 is designed to engage with a slot 54 formed at a predefined position along the surface of the adjusting rod 50. Preferably, the adjusting web 104 is designed to form a form-locking connection with the slot 54.

[0117] With the magnet holder 100 mounted on, for example, the adjusting rod 50 of valve 1, at least one magnet 102 is arranged on the side facing the sensor module. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, two magnets 102 are used. The magnets 102 are arranged circumferentially and parallel to each other in the illustrated embodiment. Furthermore, a magnet holder 100 is mounted on an adjusting rod, aligning the magnets 102 with the sensor housing 21, and particularly with the magnetic sensor. Figure 1In the context of this, “alignment” should be understood as the magnet arranged on the adjusting rod passing the magnetic sensor by the minimum possible distance within tolerance when the adjusting rod moves vertically (as occurs when the valve is adjusted by the valve actuator), i.e., not being twisted or offset relative to the position sensor along the adjusting rod 50.

[0118] The magnet retainer 100 also has a first clamping screw 106. The first clamping screw 106 is arranged on the side of the adjusting rod opposite to the magnet 102. The clamping screw allows the adjusting web 104 to be clamped in the slot 54. In an alternative embodiment, the first clamping screw 106 may be replaced by another fastening method, or it may be omitted entirely. The adjusting rod 50 has a drive interface 56 at its first end for connecting the adjusting rod to a valve actuator. At the opposite end of the adjusting rod, it has a valve interface 52 for connecting to a valve element that controls the process fluid. The valve interface of the adjusting rod may also be an interface with a valve stem, wherein the valve stem is guided into the valve housing and coupled therein to the actual valve cone.

[0119] Figure 2 A perspective view of the measuring device 10 used to control the valve is shown. The connection is also shown here. Figure 1 The components that have already been described are not visible even if they are obscured by other parts. Figure 2 Sensor module 20 is also shown. Sensor module 20 is then secured to intermediate plate 24. Figure 2 A valve actuator 60 is arranged on the drive interface 56 of the invisible adjusting rod 50.

[0120] A housing, also referred to as a support in the context of a valve, is formed around the adjusting rod 50 and on the valve actuator 60. The housing is essentially designed in a cuboid shape. Here, the valve actuator 60 is arranged on the upper side of the housing. The valve stem passes centrally through the center of the housing 30, concentrically relative to the surface normals of the upper and lower sides of the housing. An end plate 35 is formed on the lower side of the housing, through which the adjusting rod 50 extends from the housing.

[0121] according to Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the two opposite sides of the housing are further enclosed by housing plates 36, which are designed with openings according to the planned function. The number and type of openings may vary depending on the function.

[0122] To secure the plates, multiple fastening holes are formed in the housing. The exact locations of these fastening holes are precisely predefined. For example... Figure 2 As shown and Figure 3As can be seen, the intermediate plate 24 serves both to receive the sensor module 20 and to fasten it to the positioner 40, as well as to fasten it to the housing. Fastening plates known in prior art devices are used to fasten conventional positioners (e.g., designed for connection to valve supports) and can be easily modified or reused for use with magnetic sensors. Here, the intermediate plate 24 closes one of the open sides of the housing. Therefore, in this embodiment, one side of the housing is open.

[0123] As mentioned earlier, the plates of a closed shell can have the property of shielding magnetic fields. Therefore, with appropriate material selection, through... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The embodiment shown, with commonly used components, already achieves magnetic shielding on five of the six sides of the housing. Needless to say, the remaining open sides can also be enclosed with plates. This achieves complete magnetic shielding.

[0124] A positioner 40 is provided on the surface of the intermediate plate 24 facing away from the sensor housing 21. The positioner wall facing the intermediate plate 24 has multiple second through holes 42, only one of which is visible as shown in the figure. In the assembled state, the second through holes 42 of the positioner 40 coincide with the first through holes 25 provided in the intermediate plate 24.

[0125] Figure 3 It shows the results from a slightly different perspective. Figure 2 The measuring device is in an assembled state. The connection between the positioner and the intermediate plate is made by screws, which pass through the second through hole 42 of the positioner and (in... Figure 3 The first through-hole 25 (not visible in the middle) of the intermediate plate is tightened. The locator 40 has a screw channel 43 to reach the second through-hole 42. The through-hole and / or the first through-hole 25 may also be threaded. In this way, the gaps when the components are fastened together can be minimized.

[0126] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a control valve with a measuring device is shown. Figure 4 The text shows something like this. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment of the measuring device. Furthermore, the adjusting rod 50 is connected to the valve housing 70 on the valve interface side or coupled to the actual valve element that regulates the process fluid. Here, the positioner 40 is coupled to the sensor module 20 and the valve support (formerly referred to as the housing) via the intermediate plate 24. From the valve housing 70, the adjusting rod 50 passes through the central region of the support 30 to the valve actuator 60. The side of the support 30 opposite the positioner 40 is closed by a sealing plate 34. Due to the selected section plane in the figure, the fastening of the positioner 40 or the intermediate plate 24 and the sealing plate 34 to the support 30 is not visible.

[0127] Such as combination Figure 1In the preferred embodiment shown, the adjusting rod 50 has a slot 54. The slot 54 is formed at a predefined position on the adjusting rod where a magnet holder 100 is arranged. Here, a magnet 102 is arranged on the side of the adjusting rod 50 facing the sensor module. The position of the magnet holder 100, or the magnet 102 held by the magnet holder 100, can be precisely predefined using this slot 54, thus allowing for measurements without the need for sensor calibration, or enabling essentially adjustment-free absolute measurements.

[0128] As previously mentioned, this allows for precise positioning of the sensor module relative to the magnet holder or relative to the magnet.

[0129] Figure 5 An alternative embodiment of a control valve with a position measuring device is shown. Here, the sensor module 20 is directly mounted on the side wall 41 of the positioner 40. In this embodiment, the sensor module 20 has a first plug connector 29. The first plug connector 29 can be used for direct electrical coupling to the positioner 40. For this purpose, the positioner 40 itself has a second plug connector 44. The first plug connector 29 on the sensor housing 21 and the second plug connector 44 on the positioner 40 are aligned and automatically coupled and connected when the sensor housing 21 is fastened to the positioner 40. In an alternative embodiment, for example according to Figure 4 or Figure 6 The sensor module 20 may have a cable conduit. In this way, a connecting cable can be guided from the sensor module 20 to the positioner 40. The cable conduit may also pass specifically through the interior of the bracket 30.

[0130] Figure 6 Another embodiment of a control valve with a position measuring device is shown. Here, the sensor module 20 is arranged on a fastening plate corresponding to the intermediate plate 24. Therefore, the fastening plate is given the same reference numeral 24, specifically because it can clearly be the same plate, which also allows for fastening between the bracket 30 and the positioner 40. According to... Figure 6 In this embodiment, the fastening plate 24 is arranged on the side of the bracket 30 opposite to or relative to the positioner 40. As previously mentioned, a cable outlet may optionally be provided on the sensor module 20 (in... Figure 6 (Not shown in the image). This allows the sensor module 20 to be secured in a position away from and in contact with the positioner 40.

[0131] Valves and auxiliary components, such as actuators, brackets, or positioners, are typically highly standardized due to the associated development costs. Therefore, the various components of sensor module 20, including the intermediate plate or fastening plate 24, and the drilled holes in the positioner wall 41, also have standardized dimensions in terms of their fastening.

[0132] For this reason, precise positioning of the fastening components can be defined. This allows for the definition of the fastening interface when the positions of the necessary fastening elements (e.g., the first through-hole 25 or first fastening hole 28 of the intermediate plate 24, the second through-hole 42 of the locator 40, or the fastening hole of the housing) are known. With proper design of the sensor housing 21, the magnetic sensor can be positioned in a precisely predefined location. Similarly, the dimensions of the adjusting rod 50 and the position of the slot 54, as previously described, are standardized or precisely known, such that the magnet holder 100 is positioned in a precise preset position on the adjusting rod 50 and relative to the magnetic sensor. Therefore, after the magnet holder 100 is installed, only torsion of the magnet 102 held by the magnet holder 100 about the longitudinal axis of the adjusting rod is possible. Position compensation of the magnet twisted in this way can be easily performed during installation. For this purpose, for example, marks applied to the magnet holder 100 and / or the sensor housing can be aligned or brought into relative relationships, or another auxiliary tool for measuring magnet alignment can be used. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the magnet holder 100 is fixed in the adjusted position after installation by the first clamping screw 106.

[0133] Figure 7 Showing the corresponding magnified perspective view Figure 1 The magnet retainer of this embodiment does not have an adjusting rod. The retainer 101 of the magnet retainer 100 is substantially horseshoe-shaped, having a semi-circular abutment 103 for direct positioning around the adjusting rod, and two legs 105 extending tangentially from the abutment 103. Here, a first clamping screw 106 is designed to extend into or through the retainer 101 through one of the legs 105 in a threaded drilled hole. When used with the adjusting rod, by rotating the first clamping screw 106, the screw shank is pushed against the adjusting rod, resulting in clamping and thus a secure positioning of the magnet retainer 100. An adjusting web 104 is formed in the magnet retainer 100 along the internal contour of the retainer 101. In particular, the adjusting web has a wedge-shaped or prismatic shape, the width and side profile of which allow for form-locking with a slot provided in the adjusting rod. The magnet 102 is arranged opposite the first clamping screw 106.

[0134] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet 102 is partially surrounded by the material of the magnet holder 100. In an alternative embodiment, the magnet 102 may be disposed as an integral part of the magnet holder 100, i.e., completely surrounded by the holding material. Here, the magnetization of the magnet can be performed before or after the magnet is mounted to the magnet holder.

[0135] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the magnet holder 110 is shown. Figure 8 The magnet holder 110 and Figure 7 The main difference in the illustrated magnet retainer 100 is that, instead of a pre-set clamping screw for direct contact with the adjusting rod, a clamping device is provided. This clamping device does not have a screw; instead, the legs of the retainer 101 themselves serve as clamping elements. For this purpose, a through hole is formed through one leg 105 of the retainer 101 as a screw receiving portion 112 for receiving the head portion of the clamping screw, while a threaded hole 114 is formed in the other leg for receiving the threaded end of the screw and screwing the screw into the threaded hole 114. The screw receiving portion 112 and the threaded hole 114 are arranged in or through the fixing element. Here, the center point of the through hole of the screw receiving portion 112 is farther from the free end of the leg 105 than the center point of the threaded hole 114.

[0136] like Figure 9 As shown, this results in the introduced screw extending obliquely from one leg to the other. Needless to say, this is only one possible implementation. The screw could also have a straight orientation without departing from the concept of this invention. Furthermore, threaded holes could be replaced by through holes, and the screw could be tightened in another manner (e.g., by means of a nut or bolt). As previously described, the retainer 101 is essentially a semi-cylinder with its open end transitioning to the leg 105. A snap-fit ​​nose 118 is provided in the transition region from the curved abutment 103 to the leg 105. The snap-fit ​​nose is a protrusion on the internal contour of the magnet retainer, sized and designed such that an adjusting rod of a defined diameter, when introduced into the magnet retainer, can elastically squeeze the leg 105 through the snap-fit ​​nose, but due to the restoring force of the leg, the snap-fit ​​nose secures the adjusting rod within the retainer 101. Thus, the position of the adjusting rod is already coarsely adjusted, and only the alignment of the magnet 102 is required during installation. Figure 9 On axis A, the sensor will be ideally arranged to detect the magnetic field lines in the most symmetrical direction possible and the magnetic field in the sensor as strong as possible.

[0137] Figure 9 A second clamping screw 116 is also shown, which is designed here to engage with slot 54 (in Figure 9 The mating screw is not visible in the middle. Here, the second clamping screw 116 has a tangential orientation relative to the adjusting rod 50 housed in the magnet holder 100. In use, the adjusting rod 50 (in particular the groove 54 of the adjusting rod 50) engages with the adjusting web 104 of the magnet holder 100 through the opening of the support leg 105 in the magnet holder 100.

Claims

1. A valve (1) having a position measuring system, the position measuring system comprising a control valve (70) and an actuator for regulating the flow of a process fluid, a bracket (30) for connecting the actuator to the valve (1), an adjusting rod (50) linearly movable within the bracket (30), and a measuring device (10), the measuring device having at least one magnetically sensitive sensor (22) and at least one magnet (102), wherein, The magnet (102) is fastened to the adjusting rod (50) by a magnet holder (100), and the sensor (22) is fastened to the bracket (30) by a sensor module (20). The sensor module (20) is characterized in that it is connected to at least one fastening device for arranging the sensor module (20) in the bracket (30) of the control valve (70), wherein the at least one fastening device forms a defined interface that is complementary to a plurality of fastening points of the bracket (30), and wherein the adjusting rod (50) has a receiving section for fixing the magnet retainer (100), wherein the fastening device, the magnet retainer (100) and the receiving section of the adjusting rod (50) are designed and coordinated to such that the sensor (22) and the magnet (102) are aligned relative to each other independently of the selected, preset fastening points on the bracket (30) for receiving.

2. The valve according to claim 1, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The magnetically sensitive sensor (22) is a TMR sensor.

3. The valve according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The fastening device is the wall of the positioner (40).

4. The valve according to claim 1, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The fastening device is an intermediate plate (24).

5. The valve (1) according to claim 1, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The fastening device can be installed on the bracket (30).

6. The valve according to claim 1, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The fastening device and / or the enclosure plate (34) have magnetic shielding material, and the bracket (30) is enclosed on multiple sides by the fastening device and / or the enclosure plate (34).

7. The valve according to claim 3, wherein the valve (1) has a position measuring system, characterized in that, The sensor module (20) has a plug-in interface for direct contact between the sensor (22) and the positioner (40).

8. A measuring device (10) for controlling a valve, the control valve having an actuator, an adjusting rod, and a bracket surrounding the adjusting rod for connecting the valve to the actuator, wherein, The measuring device has a housing, at least one magnetically sensitive sensor (22) and at least one magnet (102) and a magnet holder (100) for receiving the at least one magnet (102), wherein the magnet holder (100) also has a receiving opening designed to receive an adjusting rod (50) of a control valve (1), and the sensor (22) is disposed in a sensor module (20), characterized in that the sensor module (20) is designed to be directly or indirectly fastened to the positioner (40) and / or the housing such that the sensor module (20) extends into the housing while being fastened to the housing, and the housing is closed on the side where the sensor module (20) is mounted.

9. A position sensor comprising: a sensor module (20) with a sensor (22) for detecting the position of a magnet (102) relative to the sensor (22); a housing; and a fastening device for directly or indirectly fastening the sensor module (20) to the housing, wherein, The housing has a central region for receiving movable parts. The fastening device is characterized in that it has a first fastening interface and the housing has a plurality of second fastening interfaces, the second fastening interfaces being designed to complement the first fastening interface such that the relative position of the sensor module (20) with respect to the central region of the housing is the same for each second fastening interface, regardless of the selected second fastening interface of the sensor module (20).

10. The position sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fastening device has a plate that closes the housing on one side.

11. The position sensor according to claim 9, characterized in that, The housing has a central region for receiving the adjusting rod (50) of the valve (1).

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