Monitoring of a device for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a forming machine

Abstract

Method for monitoring a device for supplying temperature control media (1) to a tool (2) of a forming machine, wherein the device for supplying temperature control media (1) has a supply line (3) and a return line (6) between which at least one temperature control line (4, 5) is arranged, wherein at least one measuring element (8), in particular a volume flow measuring element, is arranged in each of the temperature control lines to be actually monitored, and at least one actuating element, in particular a volume flow valve (7), is arranged in each temperature control line to be regulated or controlled, characterized in that - at least one pressure drop is measured in at least one temperature control line (4,5). - based on at least one volume flow rate measured with the at least one measuring element (8) and based on at least one measured pressure drop, at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or at least one change in resistance of the at least one temperature control line (4,5) is calculated. - when calculating the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one change in resistance, the degree of opening of the at least one actuator (7) is taken into account.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for monitoring a device for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a molding machine according to the features of the preamble of claim 1 and a device with the features of the preamble of claim 21. The invention further relates to a computer program product and a computer-readable storage medium for carrying out a method according to the invention. The invention further relates to a computer-readable data carrier and a data carrier signal for such a computer program product. The invention further relates to a molding machine, in particular an injection molding machine, with a device according to the invention.

[0002] The condition of tool cooling channels, or other media-flowing cooling channels in machine components, depends on the quality of the cooling medium flowing through them. Over time, the quality of the cooling medium deteriorates, which can lead to the formation of deposits in the cooling circuits. These deposits consist, for example, of rust or limescale, sometimes also called boiler scale. These deposits form a kind of insulating layer in the cooling channel of a tool component. This negatively affects the heat exchange between the components being cooled and the medium, which can lead to undesirable temperature changes in the components.

[0003] Using the example of a mold cooling channel in an injection molding machine, the mold cavity wall temperature can change. An undesired change in this temperature can lead to problems with the molded part, as the thermal conditions are altered. The consequences can be demolding or quality problems such as warpage due to differential shrinkage. Optical surface differences, residual stresses, or variations in crystallization in semi-crystalline plastics can also arise in the molded part due to changes in the mold cavity wall temperature. Of course, other quality problems such as deviations in dimensions and tolerances are also possible.

[0004] Such problems result in disadvantages such as higher costs due to defective parts, higher costs and time expenditure due to maintenance that is too frequent or too infrequent, longer machine operating times including longer cooling times, higher personnel costs and / or energy costs.

[0005] For these reasons, it is common practice to monitor temperature control lines by installing sensors to measure pressure and / or volume flow, as disclosed in the following publications: DE 10 2009 051 931 A1, DE 697 06 458 T2, DE 10 2008 003 315 A1, DE 88 02 462 U1, DE 10 2012 023 848 A1 and DE 10 2013 016 773 B4.

[0006] To detect deposits and / or blockages in a temperature control fluid supply unit, these measurements involve measuring a pressure drop and / or flow rate. By comparing the measured pressures and / or flow rates with preset values ​​or previously measured reference values, changes in the temperature control lines caused by deposits, blockages, or similar issues can be identified.

[0007] The disadvantage of currently used methods for identifying deposits and / or blockages is that either the forming tool has to be taken out of service or the control of the temperature control media supply unit or individual temperature control channels is no longer possible during operation.

[0008] Another disadvantage of the current state of the art is that deposits and / or blockages are only detected late. For example, a thin but elongated insulating layer along a cooling channel can lead to the aforementioned problems early on, without being detected by existing monitoring methods. Only when the insulating layer has reached an undesirable thickness do current methods detect the deposits.

[0009] The object of the present invention is therefore to eliminate at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a method that is improved compared to the prior art and is characterized in particular by reliable detection of blockages and deposits in the temperature control lines and / or the temperature control channels during operation.

[0010] Furthermore, a device for carrying out a method according to the invention shall be provided.

[0011] The invention increases the efficiency of a temperature control media supply unit by determining the condition during operation and enabling better planned maintenance of a forming tool.

[0012] The object of the present invention is solved by - a method having the features of claim 1 - a device having the features of claim 21 - a computer program product having the features of claim 35 - a computer-readable storage medium having the features of claim 36 - a computer-readable data carrier having the features of claim 37 - a data carrier signal with the features of claim 38 - a forming machine, in particular an injection molding machine, having the features of claim 39

[0013] The problem is solved according to a main aspect of the invention by means of a method according to claim 1, namely by a method for monitoring a device for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a forming machine, wherein the device for supplying temperature control media has a supply line and a return line, between which at least one temperature control line is arranged, wherein at least one measuring element, in particular a volume flow measuring element, is arranged in each of the temperature control lines to be actually monitored, and at least one actuating element, in particular a volume flow valve, is arranged in each temperature control line to be regulated or controlled, wherein at least one pressure drop in the at least one temperature control line is measured.Based on at least one volume flow rate measured with the at least one measuring element and based on at least one measured pressure drop, at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one change in resistance of the at least one temperature control line is calculated, taking into account the degree of opening of the at least one actuator in the calculation of the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one change in resistance.

[0014] In other words, the technical problem is solved by measuring the pressure drop in at least one temperature control line. Each temperature control line to be monitored includes a measuring element, in particular a flow meter, and each temperature control line to be regulated or controlled additionally includes at least one actuator, in particular a flow control valve. By simultaneously measuring a pressure drop and a flow rate, a hydraulic resistance and / or a change in resistance can be measured in each temperature control line, in particular in each temperature control channel of a tool. The degree of opening of the at least one actuator is taken into account in this hydraulic resistance and / or this change in hydraulic resistance.This makes it possible to determine the hydraulic resistances of temperature control lines, especially temperature control channels, couplings, hoses and / or similar components, during operation, in order to identify deposits and / or blockages and simultaneously to regulate and / or control the supply of the temperature control media.

[0015] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the monitoring of the device for supplying the temperature control medium to the tool of a forming machine is further carried out by measuring at least one temperature change in the at least one temperature control line, calculating at least one volume flow rate based on at least one volume flow rate measured with the at least one measuring element, and calculating at least one heat flow rate and / or at least one heat flow rate change in the at least one temperature control line based on the at least one temperature change.

[0016] In other words, this involves measuring the temperature change of at least one cooling line. Each cooling line to be monitored contains a measuring element, in particular a volumetric flow meter. By simultaneously measuring a temperature change and a volumetric flow rate, a heat flow and / or a heat flow rate change can be calculated for each cooling line, especially each cooling circuit of a tool. This makes it possible to determine the heat flows of cooling lines, especially cooling channels, couplings, hoses, and / or similar components, during operation in order to identify deposits and / or blockages.

[0017] A method according to the invention, as well as, based thereon, a device, a computer program product, a computer-readable storage medium, a computer-readable data carrier, a data carrier signal, a computer and a forming machine, in particular an injection molding machine, can be used and subsequently installed in already known embodiments of the prior art, as described, for example, in the introduction to the description.

[0018] An advantage of the invention is that deposits and / or blockages can be detected early and reliably by calculating the hydraulic resistance and / or the heat flow and / or changes in the hydraulic resistance and / or the heat flow. For example, coarse blockages can be detected by measuring the hydraulic resistance and / or its changes, and / or thin but extensive deposits can be identified by measuring the heat flow and / or its changes.

[0019] Further advantages of this invention are that monitoring during operation is possible regardless of the degree of opening of the actuator and that continuous regulation or control of each temperature control circuit and / or temperature control channel to be regulated or controlled is possible.

[0020] Furthermore, a maximum of two pressure sensors are needed in the central inlet and outlet, instead of two pressure sensors in each individual circuit.

[0021] Additionally, it is possible to classify the temperature control circuits and thus assign them to a model, for example a CAD model, which allows hose routing errors to be detected.

[0022] In contrast to the prior art, this new invention enables permanent and reliable monitoring of the temperature control circuit. Furthermore, the influence of an existing actuator, such as a control valve or regulating valve, can be included in the calculation using a controlled temperature control media distributor.

[0023] Therefore, no intervention in other process settings is required for monitoring, controlling and / or regulating the supply of temperature control media.

[0024] Such a temperature control media supply unit is capable of measuring at least one pressure drop and / or one temperature change as well as at least one volume flow rate.

[0025] To measure such a pressure drop, two pressure sensors are usually required. A pressure drop can also be measured with only one pressure sensor if, for example, the supply pressure is known and sufficiently constant.

[0026] To measure such a temperature change, two temperature sensors are usually required. A temperature change can also be measured with only one temperature sensor if, for example, the supply temperature is known and sufficiently constant.

[0027] In order to further describe the functioning of the main aspect of the invention, it is assumed that the pressure drop and the volume flow rate of at least one temperature control line are measured by two pressure sensors and a further measuring element in this line.

[0028] A preferred embodiment with two pressure sensors for measuring a pressure drop and a measuring element for measuring a volume flow rate is a proposed design arrangement, which is not to be understood as limiting. Any possible design measure is conceivable in which a pressure drop and a volume flow rate can be achieved according to a method with the features of claim 1.

[0029] It may also be provided that, in addition to measuring a volume flow rate, a mass flow rate and / or another value correlating with the volume flow rate is also measured and / or calculated using the volume flow rate.

[0030] At least one hydraulic resistance between the pressure sensors is responsible for the measured pressure drop. This hydraulic resistance is typically the hydraulic resistance of a cooling channel through a forming tool.

[0031] In addition to the contribution of a cooling channel through a shaping tool, the hydraulic resistance of a cooling line can also be increased by resistance contributions from hoses, couplings, distributors, further cooling channels or similar components.

[0032] In the described case, the section of the temperature control line, which is to be monitored and controlled or regulated, includes at least one additional measuring element, in particular a volume flow meter, and at least one actuator, in particular a valve, in particular a volume flow valve, between the two pressure sensors.

[0033] The actuator, in particular the flow control valve, can represent an additional hydraulic resistance, the magnitude of which depends primarily on the degree of opening of the actuator.

[0034] The exact placement of the measuring element and the actuator in the temperature control line is not relevant, as long as they are installed in the temperature control line to be monitored and controlled or regulated and are taken into account by the measured pressure drop.

[0035] The actuator can be used to control or regulate the volume flow or a temperature difference in a temperature control channel and / or circuit. The temperature difference can be determined between the supply flow, particularly before the forming tool, and the return flow, particularly after the forming tool.

[0036] The degree of opening of the actuator can be changed as a control variable to achieve and / or stabilize a desired setpoint for a volume flow rate or a temperature difference. These parameters are process parameters that can be stored in data sets as setpoints or monitoring values.

[0037] The actuator can be connected to a control unit and subsequently to a data processing unit, making the degree of opening of the actuator permanently known and controllable or adjustable.

[0038] It may be provided that the actuator has a position feedback function which, after a controlled change in the degree of opening of the actuator, outputs a signal regarding the actual position of the actuator and / or the actual prevailing degree of opening of the actuator.

[0039] It may be intended that the actuator is free of position feedback. In this embodiment, after the actuator is activated, a predetermined setpoint is assumed to be the actual value of the actuator.

[0040] Knowing the actuator's opening degree and the current flow rate, the actuator's hydraulic resistance is then known. This hydraulic resistance can be calculated using the current opening degree, either via a mathematical function and / or retrieved from a database.

[0041] The mathematical function for calculating the hydraulic resistance can, for example, be an approximation function that links the hydraulic resistance to the (percentage) opening degree of the actuator via coefficients.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, a pressure drop or hydraulic resistance of the actuator can also be calculated using stored pressure or resistance profiles. These pressure or resistance profiles can be measured or calculated as a function of a measured flow rate and / or an actuator opening degree, possibly also expressed as a percentage.

[0043] By knowing the hydraulic resistance of an actuator and the volume flow rate within a temperature control line and / or a temperature control circuit, the resulting pressure drop can be calculated for each degree of opening of the actuator.

[0044] Knowing the pressure drop across the actuator and the total pressure drop across a temperature control line, the previously unknown pressure drop across the temperature control channel can be calculated using a tool. This pressure drop may represent only the temperature control channel itself, but it could also include other components such as hoses, couplings, multiple temperature control channels, or similar elements. The hydraulic resistance of the pressure drop can then be calculated.

[0045] In this way, the hydraulic resistance of each temperature control channel in a temperature control line to be monitored and controlled or regulated can be calculated at any time and at any degree of opening of the actuator during control or regulation operation.

[0046] Both current and stored hydraulic resistance values ​​and / or resistance changes can be output and made available to the operating personnel.

[0047] It may be necessary to determine the actual state and / or a reference state of temperature control channels using a forming tool before production.

[0048] It may be possible to determine the actual state and / or a reference state of temperature control channels after production using a forming tool.

[0049] Determining the actual state and / or a reference state of temperature control channels can, for example, serve to detect changes in the temperature control channels that result from operation and / or storage.

[0050] It may be necessary to determine the actual state and / or a reference state of cooling channels in the new condition of the forming tool.

[0051] Instead of or in addition to determining the actual state and / or reference state of temperature control channels, the actual state and / or reference state of temperature control channels can be transmitted, whereby the transmission takes place electrically and / or electronically, preferably via data set and / or cloud.

[0052] The condition of the tool and / or the temperature control channels can be made accessible to the operating personnel via an output element, preferably a visualization device, through pressure drops and / or hydraulic resistances. These values ​​can be made available to the operating personnel acoustically and / or visually.

[0053] Hydraulic resistances represent easily interpretable state and process parameters. This enables optimally planned and continuously condition-based maintenance of forming tools and machines.

[0054] It may also be provided that pressure drops, volume flows and / or hydraulic resistances are made available as absolute values, comparative values ​​and / or relative values.

[0055] In another embodiment, pressure drops and / or hydraulic resistances can be specified as percentages. In such an embodiment, the actual state of a temperature control line's hydraulic resistance, in combination with its reference state and / or target state, can result in a percentage and be displayed as such. In this embodiment, a relative value of 100% can correspond to a flow rate corresponding to the reference state and / or target state, a relative value below 100% to a partial blockage, a relative value of 0% to a complete blockage, and a relative value above 100% to an excessively low actual state of a temperature control line's hydraulic resistance, for example, due to a cracked or burst hose. Relative values ​​for pressure drops and / or hydraulic resistances represent easily understandable values.

[0056] In another embodiment, it can be provided that measured values ​​for pressure differences and volume flows and / or correlating quantities are determined for the at least one temperature control line, these measured values ​​are compared with each other, and by comparison with each other represent comparative values ​​or lead to comparative values ​​that reflect hydraulic resistances and / or changes in hydraulic resistance with regard to the respective opening degree of the at least one actuator. In this embodiment, a temperature control line can be compared with itself over a certain period of time and / or a section of a temperature control line can be compared with another section of the same temperature control line and / or one temperature control line can be compared with another temperature control line.

[0057] In a particularly preferred embodiment, it can be provided that measured values ​​for the pressure differences and the volume flows and / or correlating quantities are determined for the at least one temperature control line, wherein these quantities represent real numbers, preferably rational numbers, and can optionally be compared with each other, preferably in a table and / or a matrix.

[0058] Changes in these values ​​can also be made available to the operating personnel so that they can react promptly to any deterioration in the temperature control lines. If the change is at or above a defined threshold, for example R, TK Depending on the -factor, an alarm, a production stoppage or similar may be triggered on the machine and / or a warning message for upcoming maintenance may be issued.

[0059] If changes are measured when a tool is re-clamped, the operator can set these changed parameters as the new reference state. This is particularly useful if the hydraulic resistances have decreased during maintenance.

[0060] Checking changed parameters, determining an actual or reference state, and setting changed parameters as a new reference can be done either automatically by the device or manually by the operating personnel.

[0061] By monitoring temperature control lines and simultaneously controlling and / or regulating the actuators present in the temperature control lines, it is possible to check whether the temperature control circuits have been correctly connected to the distribution circuit in comparison to a reference.

[0062] The reference can come from previous measurements, from a part data set of the tool, or from a data set of an identical tool.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, this reference can also be derived from simulation data and / or CAD models of the tool.

[0064] This would allow for an assignment process where, for example, the connected temperature control channels can be assigned to corresponding temperature control channels in a CAD model, and the measured hydraulic resistances can be compared with the calculated hydraulic resistances. This can be done for all existing temperature control channels or only a subset.

[0065] By assigning measured to calculated temperature control channels and comparing calculated and measured parameters, state tables can be created which include values ​​such as volume flow, temperature, pressure, hydraulic resistances and / or similar, as well as changes to these values, and can be assigned to the correct temperature control channel, the correct temperature control circuit and / or the correct temperature control line.

[0066] For example, if the hydraulic resistance of a temperature control channel deviates from the reference value within a defined permissible range, the control unit can issue a warning message, an alarm, or a notification. For instance, incorrect tubing could result in a temperature control circuit being connected to the wrong distribution circuit.

[0067] The notification can be forwarded to a higher level.

[0068] This clue can be used to identify that temperature control circuits were swapped during connection.

[0069] It is conceivable that the data processing unit, by comparing it with the reference and independently detecting an error, for example a hose fault, can automatically swap the set values ​​so that the correct assignment and control or regulation is available to the operating personnel during operation and on the output element, preferably the visualization device.

[0070] Another way to utilize calculations for temperature control lines based on effective process parameters is to determine the optimal tubing configuration. For example, it can be advantageous to group similar temperature control circuits onto the same controlled temperature control manifold. Calculating individual hydraulic resistances and / or changes in hydraulic resistance may allow for recommendations on how to connect the temperature control circuits to ensure that the resulting total hydraulic resistance of a temperature control line with series-connected circuits is sufficiently low.

[0071] If there are so many temperature control lines and / or circuits that not all can be connected to the terminals of the temperature control manifold, several lines and / or circuits must be connected in series. If those lines and / or circuits with already high hydraulic resistance are connected in series, the overall resistance of these connected lines and / or circuits increases unduly, resulting in insufficient flow of temperature control fluid. Therefore, it is recommended to connect those lines and / or circuits with lower hydraulic resistance in series and to avoid connecting those with high resistance in series.The decision regarding which temperature control lines and / or circuits are connected in series can be based on hydraulic resistances derived from measurements or data sets such as CAD and / or simulation data. The relevance of the temperature control circuit to component quality can also be factored into the decision.

[0072] Depending on the design and any combinations of different controlled temperature control media distributors, the calculations can also include the measured pressure drops and / or the measured volume flows within a distributor circuit and / or the measurement parameters of several distributor circuits.

[0073] Measured or calculated parameters of a tool, such as the opening degrees of actuators or the hydraulic resistances of temperature control channels, can be made available not only to one machine but also to multiple machines via a data connection, such as a cloud. Saving this data in a data set is also possible.

[0074] It is also conceivable that hose breaks or leaks could be detected if the hydraulic resistance suddenly and unexpectedly drops sharply.

[0075] The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. In an embodiment with two or more temperature control lines, for example, any combination of the disclosed arrangements of the measuring elements and / or actuators can be implemented, such as one pressure sensor in each of the temperature control lines and one pressure sensor in the supply or return line. In other embodiments with one or more temperature control lines, the tool can also be passed through multiple times. Multiple components can also be used per temperature control line, for example, several measuring elements and / or actuators of various types and designs.

[0076] Any conceivable combination of components and lines is possible that allows a measurement of a pressure drop in at least one temperature control line, whereby this measured pressure drop with a measured volume flow rate allows at least a hydraulic resistance and / or a change in resistance to be calculated, taking into account the degree of opening of an actuator by the hydraulic resistance.

[0077] It is conceivable that various types and designs of actuators may be used within the temperature control media supply unit. For example, different valves may be used, which, due to their manufacturing tolerances or different designs, are desired or necessary in specific temperature control circuits. Therefore, it is also possible to use motor-operated and / or manually operated actuators, whereby the degree of opening can be monitored by the control unit and / or by manual reading on a scale. To ensure monitoring, a calculation or retrieval of a hydraulic resistance as a function of the actuator's degree of opening must be provided for all actuators used.

[0078] The method for monitoring a device for a temperature control media supply is also applicable to other media-flowing machine components in which at least one temperature control line is equipped with a measuring element and an actuator, for example in control cabinet cooling systems, oil coolers, crossbeams, drive cooling systems, cooling systems for controllers or other electrical and electronic components of a forming machine.

[0079] What has been said so far about the functioning of the main aspect of the invention can be applied analogously to the preferred aspect of the invention, which is why the differences of the preferred aspect will be described primarily below.

[0080] In order to further describe the functioning of the preferred aspect of the invention, it is assumed that the temperature change and the volume flow rate of at least one temperature control line are measured by two temperature sensors and a further measuring element in this line.

[0081] It is conceivable that the temperature change could be measured by a temperature sensor in the central supply line and a temperature sensor in each temperature control line that is actually to be monitored. This specific arrangement of the temperature sensors should not be considered restrictive.

[0082] The measuring element for measuring the volume flow can be provided directly in the temperature control line to be monitored, in particular in the temperature control circuit to be monitored.

[0083] The temperature change of the temperature control medium measured by the temperature sensors and the volume flow rate measured by the measuring element can be used to calculate the heat flow. The heat flow can be calculated using the following formula: QTM=m˙TM⋅cTM⋅ΔT=ΦTM⋅ρTM⋅cTM⋅ΔT ΔT=Tbefore−Tafter

[0084] This refers to - Q TM the at least one heat flow of the temperature control medium in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored, - ṁ TM the at least one mass flow of the temperature control medium in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored, - c TM the specific heat capacity of the temperature control medium, where the specific heat capacity can be considered to be approximately constant at a substantially constant temperature, - ΔT the temperature change between the temperature sensors, - Φ TMthe at least one volume flow rate of the temperature control medium in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored, - ρ TM the density of the temperature control medium, where the density can be considered to be approximately constant at a substantially constant temperature, - T vor the temperature of the temperature control medium at the flow-technically upstream temperature sensor and - T nach the temperature of the temperature control medium at the downstream temperature sensor in terms of flow technology.

[0085] The material-specific properties of the density and heat capacity of the temperature control medium can be considered either constant and therefore temperature-independent, or variable and temperature-dependent. For temperature-dependent densities and / or heat capacities, corresponding table values ​​can be entered manually and / or retrieved from a memory.

[0086] Instead of the heat flow rate, a derived quantity can also be used for monitoring. For example, if the density and specific heat capacity of the temperature control medium are essentially constant, a quantity derived from the heat flow rate can be used, which is simply calculated from the mathematical product of the volume flow rate and the temperature change. This example should not be considered restrictive. Any derived quantity related to the heat flow rate can be used.

[0087] The temperature change can be either positive or negative.

[0088] When the temperature changes positively, the measured temperature of the upstream temperature sensor is higher than the measured temperature of the downstream temperature sensor. This means that the temperature control medium has a warming effect and is therefore itself cooled down.

[0089] When the temperature changes negatively, the measured temperature of the upstream temperature sensor is lower than the measured temperature of the downstream temperature sensor. This means that the temperature control medium has a cooling effect and is therefore itself heated.

[0090] The heat flow can be calculated during operation and compared to a reference value, where the reference value was measured, for example, at the start of operation and / or after the installation of a new or recently serviced tool. The reference value can be a preset value retrieved from memory or from a simulation. The generation of a reference value is not limited to the aforementioned examples.

[0091] If deposits form during operation, creating an insulating layer in the cooling lines, heat exchange between the tool and the cooling medium can be reduced, leading to a change in the tool's temperature. This can result in increased energy consumption for heating the tool.

[0092] It may also be provided that the heat flow for heating and / or cooling a tool is calculated.

[0093] By comparing the heat flow with a reference value, a deviation can be calculated. This deviation can also be an average of the heat flow over the duration of a forming cycle.

[0094] The advantage of the preferred aspect of the invention is that in some cases of deposits and / or blockages only a slight change in hydraulic resistance can be observed, whereas the change in the dissipated heat flow can be more pronounced and thus easier to observe.

[0095] The term "temperature control line" refers to a connection between the supply and return lines of a temperature control media supply unit. A temperature control line thus includes all technical components connected in series between the supply and return lines. In the case of a parallel connection, two or more temperature control lines can share sections along their path. For example, a section of the line beginning after the supply line can belong to both temperature control line 1 and temperature control line 2 until the starting section of both lines reaches a junction point.

[0096] A temperature control circuit describes only that section of a temperature control line which, in the presence of a parallel circuit, is either: from the splitting point of a temperature control line into at least two sections to the merging of the at least two sections or from the splitting point of a temperature control line into at least two sections to the point where the at least two sections open into one or more return lines or starting from one or more preliminary sections and continuing to the merging of at least two sections of at least two temperature control lines.

[0097] As a rule, a temperature control circuit therefore includes a tool component to be cooled, corresponding hoses, couplings and / or other supply devices, sensors such as those typically for pressure, flow rate and temperature, control elements and / or regulators, and similar components. The aforementioned components of a temperature control circuit are consequently also components of a temperature control line, whereby the number and combination of components used in a temperature control line and / or a temperature control circuit are in no way limited or prescribed by the above examples.

[0098] A temperature control channel is only that section of a temperature control line that passes through a forming tool.

[0099] Therefore, a temperature control media supply unit must consist of at least one temperature control line. Ideally, this temperature control line includes at least one temperature control channel. When using a parallel connection, multiple temperature control circuits can be installed, each ideally including one temperature control channel.

[0100] A volumetric flow measuring element can also be understood as a flow sensor.

[0101] A volume flow valve can also be understood as a flow regulator or a flow control valve.

[0102] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

[0103] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that by measuring the at least one pressure drop, the sum of the pressure drops of at least two hydraulic resistance components, in particular of at least one consumer component of the forming machine, preferably of a temperature control channel through the tool, of a control cabinet cooling system, of a heat exchanger for an oil cooler, of a crosshead cooling system or of a heat exchanger for a drive, as well as of at least one actuator, is measured and / or calculated, wherein one hydraulic resistance component of the at least two hydraulic resistance components represents the at least one actuator.

[0104] This means that a measured pressure drop can result from at least two hydraulic resistance contributions, namely through at least one temperature control channel through a tool and through at least one actuator, whereby an unlimited number of temperature control lines, implemented in a parallel circuit, are possible.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one pressure drop is measured by a pressure sensor in the supply line and a pressure sensor in the return line, and / or the at least one temperature change is measured by a temperature sensor in the supply line and a temperature sensor in the return line.

[0106] This saves on manufacturing costs, since even with multiple temperature control lines, which can be configured in parallel, only two pressure sensors are needed, one each in the supply and return lines. It is assumed that the pressure drop across all parallel circuits remains approximately the same.

[0107] If, due to the size of the temperature control media supply device, additional pressures and / or pressure drops besides the at least one pressure drop in a temperature control line need to be measured, any number of additional pressure sensors can be provided. The number, design, and / or position of the additional pressure sensors within the temperature control media supply device are freely selectable.

[0108] It may be possible to measure more than one pressure drop for any given temperature control circuit and / or line. An individual pressure drop in a temperature control circuit and / or line can thus be used to calculate the hydraulic resistance of that circuit and / or line. This can be useful, for example, when increased accuracy is required.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one pressure drop is measured by two pressure sensors arranged in series in the at least one temperature control line and / or the at least one temperature change is measured by two temperature sensors arranged in series in the at least one temperature control line.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one change in resistance of at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled is calculated from at least two values, in particular at least one temperature control channel through a tool and at least one actuator.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow and / or the at least one heat flow change is displayed by an output element, preferably a visualization device, in particular on a screen.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that at least one permissible range is defined for the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or for the at least one heat flow of the at least one temperature control line, and / or at least one permissible change range is defined for the at least one resistance change and / or for the at least one heat flow change of the at least one temperature control line, and that a warning signal is issued when the at least one permissible range is exceeded by the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or by the at least one heat flow and / or when the at least one permissible change range is exceeded by the at least one resistance change and / or by the at least one heat flow change.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the warning signal is output visually, in particular by display on a screen, and / or that the warning signal is output acoustically.

[0114] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the forming machine is switched off when the warning signal is issued.

[0115] It may be provided that when the at least one permissible range is exceeded by the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or when the at least one permissible change range is exceeded by the at least one resistance change, a maintenance command for the mold is issued and / or information about planned maintenance is made available in a higher-level production planning platform or level.

[0116] A maintenance order and / or information about planned maintenance can influence the availability of a tool for production.

[0117] Since hydraulic resistance and / or its changes are easily interpretable parameters for the operating personnel, they can be displayed via an acoustic signal and / or visually on a screen or similar device. It is also possible to make such signals available across machines to the entire production environment and / or machine park, provided a suitable connection exists between individual machines (LAN via Ethernet, for example, or wirelessly). The size of such a network can be any desired dimension, thus spanning different machine parks at different locations. Such a network can also be used for centralized monitoring, control, and / or regulation.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, it may be provided that, in order to determine the at least one permissible range and / or the at least one permissible change range before, during and / or after operation, a calculation of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) is carried out using measurement data and / or data from a simulation and / or design data, in particular CAD data.

[0119] In order to determine the permissible ranges and / or the permissible target values ​​of the hydraulic resistances and / or resistance changes, a measurement of reference values ​​of the hydraulic resistances and / or resistance changes can be carried out on the machine.

[0120] It may be provided that the permitted ranges and / or the permitted setpoint values ​​of the hydraulic resistances and / or resistance changes are set by an operator by means of a freely selectable setting and / or a predefined setting.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change of the consumer component of the forming machine is calculated at least once by means of measurement data and at least once by means of data from a simulation or by means of design data, in particular CAD data, wherein the at least two calculated values ​​of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change are compared in order to detect a deviation or agreement.

[0122] In such an embodiment, the new condition of a tool can be derived and / or hose faults can be detected by comparing a measured hydraulic resistance with simulation or CAD data.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, it may be provided that the comparison of the at least two calculated values ​​of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change takes into account temperatures and / or temperature differences.

[0124] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that a hose routing proposal is created based on absolute values, comparative values, relative values ​​and / or one or more series according to the magnitude of the hydraulic resistances and / or changes in hydraulic resistance and / or the heat flows and / or changes in heat flow of the consumer components, wherein consumer components with low hydraulic resistances and / or low heat flows are connected in series.

[0125] In a preferred embodiment, it may be provided that the hose routing proposal is created and / or adapted taking into account the measured and / or predetermined temperatures and / or temperature differences of the consumer components.

[0126] If temperatures and / or temperature differences are available from simulation data or design data, they can be incorporated into a tubing layout proposal for series / parallel connection of the consumer components and / or compared with the measured values. For example, a simulation might show a very low temperature difference for a consumer component, while measurements reveal a very high temperature difference, even though there are no hydraulic anomalies. This comparison can identify existing deposits or thermal insulation layers in the cooling lines.

[0127] Such measurements and simulations can also be performed directly before operation begins. Furthermore, they can be carried out at regular intervals. The development of hydraulic resistances and / or resistance changes, as well as their permissible ranges and target values, can be documented in this way to achieve even better condition-based planning of equipment maintenance.

[0128] For comparable or identical machines or comparable machine settings, stored data can therefore be used, and measurements and simulations can be saved to a self-selected extent.

[0129] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance R i the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Ri=Δp(δ)Φin Δp(δ)=Δp2i+Δp(δ)7i is calculated. This refers to - R i the at least one hydraulic resistance in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled i - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator - Φ i the at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled i - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. i cross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2ithe at least one pressure drop of at least one temperature control channel through a tool in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled and - Δp(δ) 7i the at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled

[0130] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance R 2i of at least one tool in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Δp(δ)7i=R(δ)7i⋅Φin Δp2i=Δp(δ)−Δp(δ)7i R2i=Δp2iΦin is calculated. This refers to: - Δp(δ) 7ithe at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled - R(δ) 7i the at least one hydraulic resistance of the at least one actuator as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled - Φ i the at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled i - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. i cross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2ithe at least one pressure drop of at least one temperature control channel through a tool in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled i - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator and - R 2i the at least one hydraulic resistance of a temperature control channel through a tool in the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled i

[0131] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one hydraulic resistance R(δ) 7iof the at least one actuator as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled is read from a computer-readable storage medium and / or calculated by a processor by an approximation function.

[0132] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that the temperature of the temperature control medium is measured and that the temperature of the temperature control medium is taken into account when calculating the at least one hydraulic resistance R.

[0133] For example, a measured temperature difference between the flow and return of a temperature control line and / or within a temperature control circuit can be used as an optimization criterion. If multiple temperature control circuits are present, considering at least one temperature and / or at least one temperature difference can be used to plan efficient tubing configurations for series-connected temperature control circuits.

[0134] One embodiment of this can include four temperature control circuits. Two circuits have high hydraulic resistance but a low temperature difference. Two other circuits have high hydraulic resistance but a higher temperature difference. By connecting the circuits in series, the hydraulic resistance increases and the flow rate decreases, thereby increasing the temperature difference. However, the temperature difference in the first two circuits may still be within the desired range. Therefore, it would be preferable to connect in series those circuits that still have a temperature difference within the permissible range.

[0135] When measuring temperature, at least one temperature sensor can be installed in the temperature control line being monitored. Such a temperature sensor can be connected to the data processing unit. It is also conceivable to consider other parameters such as the Reynolds number, viscosity, and / or compressibility of the temperature control medium. Furthermore, such temperature-corrected data can be made available on a computer-readable storage medium.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that water is used as the temperature control medium.

[0137] Due to its high heat capacity, water is well-suited as a temperature control medium in many cases. Of course, other media or water with additives can also be used.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment of a method for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a forming machine, wherein at least one actuator, in particular a flow control valve, is regulated or controlled according to a setpoint for a pressure of the temperature control medium and / or for a flow rate of the temperature control medium, it can be provided that the setpoint depends on the at least one hydraulic resistance R 2i and / or at least one change in resistance ΔR 2i a temperature control channel through a tool in which at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled is calculated.

[0139] In a further embodiment of the invention, the actuator can be regulated or controlled based on a setpoint. This setpoint can be derived from at least one hydraulic resistance R. 2i and / or a change in resistance ΔR 2iThe temperature of a temperature control channel can be calculated by a tool for a temperature control line i. In addition to a control and / or regulation unit of the actuator required for this purpose, a data processing unit can be used, which can be connected to the at least one actuator and the at least one measuring element.

[0140] Furthermore, protection is sought for a device for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a forming machine with - a pre-flow for the central supply of a temperature control medium - a return flow for the central discharge of the temperature control medium - at least one temperature control line, which is connected to the supply and return lines, for temperature control of the tool - at least one measuring element, in particular a volume flow measuring element, in each of the temperature control lines to be monitored, for measuring at least one volume flow - at least one actuator, in particular a volume flow valve, in each of the temperature control lines to be regulated or controlled for regulating or controlling a volume flow and - Data processing unit which is connected to the at least one actuator and the at least one measuring element wherein - at least two pressure sensors are provided, which are connected to the data processing unit, for measuring at least one pressure drop - based on at least one measured volume flow rate and at least one measured pressure drop from the data processing unit, at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one resistance change of the at least one temperature control line can be calculated. - when calculating the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one change in resistance, the degree of opening of the at least one actuator is taken into account. - which can be represented by an output element, preferably a visualization device, at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one change in resistance.

[0141] According to a preferred aspect, it is further stipulated that - at least two temperature sensors are provided, which are connected to the data processing unit, for measuring at least one temperature change - based on at least one measured volume flow rate and at least one measured temperature change from the data processing unit, at least one heat flow rate (Q) and / or at least one heat flow rate change of the at least one temperature control line can be calculated. - which can be represented by at least one heat flow (Q) and / or at least one heat flow change by an output element, preferably a visualization device

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, it can be provided that at least one consumer component of the forming machine, preferably a temperature control channel through the tool, a control cabinet cooling system, a heat exchanger for an oil cooler, a crosshead cooling system or a heat exchanger for a drive, as well as at least one actuator, are arranged in series one behind the other between at least two pressure sensors.

[0143] In a preferred embodiment of a data processing device, it may be provided that, using the at least one measured pressure drop and the regulated or controlled opening degree of the at least one actuator, at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one change in resistance is calculated.

[0144] In a preferred embodiment of a device, it can be provided that a temperature sensor connected to the data processing unit is provided for measuring the temperature of the temperature control medium and that the at least one hydraulic resistance can be calculated based on the temperature.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment of a device, it can be provided that at least one permissible range for the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or for the at least one heat flow and / or at least one permissible change range for the at least one resistance change and / or for the at least one heat flow change of the at least one temperature control line can be stored in the data processing unit, and that a warning signal can be output when the at least one permissible range is exceeded by the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or by the at least one heat flow and / or when the at least one change range is exceeded by the at least one resistance change and / or by the at least one heat flow change.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, a data processing unit is available in which at least one permissible range for the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one permissible change range for the at least one resistance change of the at least one temperature control line can be stored. This data processing unit can output a warning signal when the at least one hydraulic resistance leaves the at least one permissible range and / or when the at least one resistance change leaves the at least one permissible change range.

[0147] Furthermore, protection is sought for a computer program product for carrying out a method according to the invention.

[0148] Furthermore, protection is sought for a computer-readable storage medium for carrying out a method according to the invention.

[0149] Furthermore, protection is sought for a computer-readable data carrier for carrying out a method according to the invention.

[0150] Furthermore, protection is sought for a data carrier signal for carrying out a method according to the invention.

[0151] Furthermore, protection is sought for a forming machine that can carry out a method according to the invention.

[0152] Forming machines can include injection molding machines, injection presses, presses, and the like. Forming machines in which the plasticized material is fed into an open mold are also conceivable.

[0153] Further advantages and details of the invention will become apparent from the figures and the accompanying figure description. These show: Fig. 1 Schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with two parallel-connected temperature control lines; Fig. 2 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with a temperature control line; Fig. 3 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with two parallel-connected temperature control lines, two pressure sensors at the beginning of each temperature control circuit and a pressure sensor in the return line; Fig. 4 Another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit, similar to the embodiment from Fig. 3; Fig. 5 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit, similar to the embodiments from Fig. 3 and Fig. 4; Fig. 6 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with two parallel-connected temperature control lines and two pressure sensors at the beginning and end of each temperature control circuit; Fig. 7 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with two parallel-connected temperature control lines, a pressure sensor in the supply line and two pressure sensors at the end of each temperature control circuit; Fig. 7b another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with two parallel-connected temperature control lines, a temperature sensor in the supply line and a temperature sensor at the end of each temperature control circuit; Fig. 8 another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit with hydraulic circuit symbols and with three parallel-connected temperature control lines; Fig. 9 Relationship between the pressure drop in bar and the volume flow rate in l / min as a function of the opening degree of a specific actuator; Fig. 10 Approximation function for determining a hydraulic resistance using a coefficient as a function of the percentage valve position of an actuator; Fig. 11: a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the invention; Fig. 12: a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0154] Fig. Figure 1 shows a temperature control supply unit 1 for temperature control of two temperature control channels of a tool 2, in particular a tool of a forming machine, especially an injection mold. Fig. Figure 1 on the left shows the supply line 3 for the temperature control medium. Supply line 3 is the central supply line for the entire temperature control supply unit.

[0155] The return line 6 is visible on the right side. This return line 6 serves to drain the temperature control medium.

[0156] In principle, multiple supply or return lines could be planned; however, the measurement of a pressure drop between supply and return lines must be ensured for each temperature control line to be monitored. This pressure drop is measured with the pressure sensors 9, one of which is preferably located in the supply line 3 and one in the return line 6. In this way, a pressure drop for both temperature control lines or circuits 4, 5 can be measured in parallel. Since the individual circuits are connected in parallel, the pressure drop in each circuit is approximately constant.

[0157] A parallel circuit is, as in Fig. 8. Recognizable, not limited to two temperature control lines, but can include any number of temperature control lines or circuits. Each temperature control line to be monitored contains one element to be monitored, typically a temperature-controlled tool with temperature control channels 2.

[0158] It is conceivable that several such temperature control channels 2 are provided, running through the same or different tools. This would allow for multiple temperature control channels to be considered within a single temperature control line or circuit. The extent of monitoring for each individual temperature control channel therefore depends on the design and the number and arrangement of the measuring elements.

[0159] For each temperature control channel 2 to be monitored, at least one measuring element 8, in particular a volume flow meter, must be provided. With the two measuring elements 8 in the two temperature control lines 4, 5, two volume flow rates Φ4 and Φ5 can thus be measured.

[0160] In addition to the monitoring, each temperature control line to be controlled or regulated also contains an actuator 7, in particular a valve, in particular a volume flow valve.

[0161] The measuring elements 8, in particular the volumetric flow measuring elements, are connected to a data processing unit 10, as are the pressure sensors 9. This data processing unit 10 has an output element 11, preferably a visualization device.

[0162] The actuators 7 are connected to a control unit 12.

[0163] This control unit 12 is in turn connected to the data processing unit 10.

[0164] In this way, measured values ​​from the pressure sensors 9 and the measuring elements 8 can be received by the data processing unit 10, evaluated, and output via the output element 11, preferably the visualization device. Subsequently, a signal for controlling or regulating the actuators 7 can be sent via the control unit 12.

[0165] Of course, the control unit 12 and the data processing unit 10 are merely logically separate units and can easily be housed in a single physical installation. In modern forming machines, it is standard practice for both to be integrated into a common machine control system.

[0166] Fig. Figure 2 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with only one temperature control line or one temperature control circuit 4 analogous to the Fig. 1

[0167] Fig. Figure 3 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4, 5, two pressure sensors 9 at the beginning of each temperature control circuit 4, 5 and a pressure sensor 9 in the return line 6. The remaining components are analogous to the previous figures.

[0168] Due to the central supply line 3 and return line 6, an almost constant pressure drop can be assumed in the two temperature control circuits 4 and 5. However, if it is desired to measure the pressure drops from supply line 3 for each temperature control circuit separately, independent of the supply pressure of the temperature control medium, such an arrangement is recommended. This might be the case, for example, if different supply lines 3 are used.

[0169] Fig. Figure 4 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1, similar to the embodiment from Figure 4. Fig. 3.

[0170] In this embodiment, however, the positions of the measuring elements 8 and the actuators 7 are different from the embodiment shown. Fig. 3 is reversed. In other words, in the two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4, 5 shown, the actuators 7 are connected downstream of the temperature control channels 2 and upstream of the measuring elements 8.

[0171] Fig. Figure 5 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1, similar to the embodiments from Fig. 3 and Fig. 4.

[0172] In this embodiment, however, the positions of the temperature control channels 2 and the actuators 7 are different from the embodiment shown. Fig. 4 is reversed. In other words, in the two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4, 5 shown, the temperature control channels 2 are connected downstream of the actuators 7 and upstream of the measuring elements 8.

[0173] Fig. Figure 6 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4, 5 and two pressure sensors 9 at the beginning and end of each temperature control circuit 4, 5. The remaining components are analogous to the previous figures.

[0174] Due to the central supply line 3 and return line 6, an almost constant pressure drop can be assumed in the two temperature control circuits 4 and 5. However, if it is desired to measure the pressure drops of individual temperature control circuits completely independently of the supply pressure and other temperature control circuits, such an arrangement is recommended. This might be the case, for example, if different supply lines 3, different return lines 6, and / or higher accuracy are required.

[0175] Fig. Figure 7 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4, 5, two pressure sensors 9 at the end of each temperature control circuit 4, 5 and a pressure sensor 9 in the supply line 3. The remaining components are analogous to the previous figures.

[0176] Due to the central supply line 3 and return line 6, an almost constant pressure drop can be assumed in the two temperature control circuits 4 and 5. However, if it is desired to measure the pressure drops of the individual temperature control circuits separately, such an arrangement is recommended. This might be the case, for example, if the temperature control channels 2 of the temperature control circuits 4 and 5 to be monitored and controlled or regulated have significantly different hydraulic resistances and higher accuracy of the pressure measurement is required. This can occur, for example, due to significantly different geometries of the temperature control channels in the individual temperature control circuits.

[0177] Fig. Figure 7b shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with two parallel-connected temperature control lines 4,5, a temperature sensor 13 in the supply line 3 and a temperature sensor 13 at the end of each respective temperature control circuit 4,5.

[0178] The temperature of the temperature control medium measured by the flow-technically upstream temperature sensor 13 in the supply line 3 is made available to the data processing unit 10.

[0179] The temperatures of the temperature control medium measured by the downstream temperature sensors 13 in the temperature control lines 4 and 5 are made available to the data processing unit 10.

[0180] Volume flows can be measured by the measuring elements 8 in the two temperature control lines 4 and 5 and made available to the data processing unit 10.

[0181] The temperature changes of the temperature control medium in the temperature control lines 4 and 5 can be converted into heat flows for the two temperature control lines 4 and 5 by the data processing unit 10 in conjunction with the measured volume flows in the temperature control lines 4 and 5.

[0182] The calculated heat flows and / or the changes in the heat flows of the temperature control lines 4 and 5 can be output to the operating personnel via output element 10.

[0183] Fig. Figure 8 shows another schematic embodiment of a temperature control media supply unit 1 with three parallel-connected temperature control circuits 17.

[0184] Here, all hydraulic components are shown with circuit symbols. As in the previous figures, a supply line 3 and a return line 6 are shown, each containing a pressure sensor 9, a temperature sensor 13, and a motor-operated shut-off valve 14.

[0185] The temperature control line 16 begins after the motor-operated shut-off valve 14 and extends to a first splitting point, where the temperature control line is divided into two sections. One of these two sections is the line leading to the tool 15 of a temperature control circuit 17. In this embodiment, this first temperature control circuit 17 is identical in design to two further temperature control circuits. The first temperature control circuit 17 begins at the first splitting point of the temperature control line 16 and ends at the last junction before the return line 6. The first temperature control circuit 17 includes a temperature control channel 18 that runs through the tool 15.

[0186] There are three parallel-connected temperature control circuits 17, each with a manually operated shut-off valve 14 in the line flowing to the tool 15. In the lines of each temperature control circuit 17 flowing away from the tool 15, there is a throttle valve 7, a flow meter 8, and a temperature sensor 13. The throttle valve 7 is motor-operated, connected to the control unit 12, and allows control or regulation of the flow rate by adjusting the cross-sectional area. All sensors for pressure, temperature, and flow rate of the temperature control media supply unit 1 are connected to the data processing unit 10, which in turn is connected to an output element 11, preferably a visualization device, and the control unit 12.

[0187] The pressure sensors 9 in the flow line 3 and in the return line 6 can be used to measure a pressure difference.

[0188] The pressure difference can be controlled or regulated by the actuators 7.

[0189] The pressure difference can be used to calculate one or more hydraulic resistances and / or one or more changes in hydraulic resistances.

[0190] Temperature differences can be measured by the temperature sensor 13 in the flow line 3, in the individual temperature control circuits 17 and / or in the return line 6.

[0191] The temperature differences can be controlled or regulated by the actuators 7.

[0192] The temperature differences can be used to calculate one or more heat flows and / or one or more changes in heat flows.

[0193] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, both aspects of the invention can be implemented in one and the same temperature control media supply 1. It can be provided that the monitoring of the temperature control media supply 1 is carried out either by hydraulic resistances and / or their changes or by heat flows and / or their changes. However, it can also be provided that the monitoring is carried out by both hydraulic resistances and / or their changes and by heat flows and / or their changes.

[0194] The same can also apply to the control and / or regulation of the temperature control medium supply 1. For example, the existing actuators 7 can be used to control and / or regulate the temperature control medium supply 1 in conjunction with hydraulic resistances and / or changes in resistance and / or heat flows and / or changes in heat flow.

[0195] The in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 8 does not represent a limitation of the claimed invention, but is merely intended to illustrate a specific hydraulic circuit diagram as it can be used in practice. Combinations and hybrid forms of all previously mentioned embodiments are possible, as is the use of additional and / or different components. Likewise, the number of temperature control lines or circuits is not limited.

[0196] Fig. Figure 9 shows a diagram with several previously measured and subsequently stored curves of pressure drops (y-axis) as a function of the volume flow (x-axis) and the degree of opening δ of a specific actuator 7.

[0197] For a specific actuator 7, in particular a flow control valve, of defined size, design, etc., the resulting pressure drops due to a specific flow rate and a specific opening degree δ can be measured. These measuring points are marked with crosses in the diagram.

[0198] With a constant opening degree δ, pressure drop profiles can be determined as a function of the available volume flow. These profiles are shown in the diagram with dashed lines and can essentially be seen as the connection between the pressure drops marked with crosses.

[0199] The opening degree δ increases continuously from the steepest characteristic curve, on the left of the diagram, to the flattest characteristic curve, on the right of the diagram. The smaller the opening degree δ of the actuator 7, i.e., the smaller the cross-sectional area of ​​the volume flow through the actuator 7, the greater its hydraulic resistance. With increasing volume flow, the influence of the hydraulic resistance becomes apparent through a greater pressure drop and thus a steeper characteristic curve.

[0200] Knowing the degree of opening δ of the actuator 7 and the available volume flow, the pressure drop caused by the actuator 7 can be determined, as can be seen from the diagram.

[0201] Consequently, the hydraulic resistance can also be determined, which is not shown in the diagram.

[0202] Fig. Figure 10 shows a graphical approximation function for determining a hydraulic resistance of an actuator 7, here a valve V.

[0203] The x-axis of the diagram shows the percentage of the valve V open. The y-axis represents the hydraulic resistance of the valve V.

[0204] If the opening degree δ of the valve V is known, the pressure drop of the valve V can subsequently be calculated using this approximation function and together with a measured volume flow rate.

[0205] Fig. Figure 11 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0206] In a method according to the first aspect of the invention, a temperature control media supply 1 can be monitored and / or controlled or regulated by performing the following steps.

[0207] First, a pressure difference Δp, in particular a pressure drop Δp, is measured, preferably with two pressure sensors 9. Then, a volume flow rate Φ is measured with a measuring element 8. A hydraulic resistance R can be calculated from the pressure drop Δp and the volume flow rate Φ via a data processing unit 10. i a temperature control line i can be calculated. From the opening degree of the actuator 7 and the hydraulic resistance R i can the hydraulic resistance R 2i The temperature of a tool 2 in a temperature control line i can be calculated. This is achieved by balancing (R). 2i -Ref) of hydraulic resistance R 2i Any deviation can be determined using a tool 2 with a reference value Ref.

[0208] If a deviation in the hydraulic resistance R occurs during the process 2iIf a reference value Ref is detected, a control signal (Control) can be output via an output element 11 and / or a control or regulation step (Control) can be initiated automatically, whereby the opening degree of the actuator 7 can be changed in the course of a control or regulation.

[0209] The procedure can be automatically repeated at regular intervals and / or at any time by staff.

[0210] The in Fig. Figure 11, illustrating the process flow according to the first aspect of the invention, is merely an exemplary embodiment and serves to demonstrate a specific process flow. Therefore, this exemplary embodiment is not to be understood as limiting.

[0211] Fig. Figure 12 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0212] First, a temperature difference ΔT is measured, preferably with two temperature sensors 13. Then, a volume flow rate Φ is measured with a measuring element 8. A heat flow rate Q for a temperature control line, a temperature control circuit, and / or an entire temperature control media supply 1 can be calculated from the temperature difference ΔT and the volume flow rate Φ using a data processing unit 10. Any deviation can be determined by comparing (Q-Ref) the heat flow rate Q with a reference value Ref.

[0213] If, during the course of the process, a deviation of the heat flow Q from a reference value Ref is detected, a control signal (Control) can, for example, be output via an output element 11. It can also be provided that a control step (Control) is initiated automatically, whereby, in the case of control or regulation, the opening degree of the actuator 7 can be changed.

[0214] The procedure can be automatically repeated at regular intervals and / or at any time by staff.

[0215] The in Fig. Figure 12, illustrating the process flow according to the second aspect of the invention, is merely an exemplary embodiment and serves to demonstrate a specific process flow. Therefore, this exemplary embodiment should not be understood as limiting. Reference symbol list: 1 temperature control media supply unit 2 temperature control circuits through one tool 3 Inlet 4 Temperature control lines or temperature control circuits 4 5 Temperature control lines or temperature control circuits 5 6 Return 7 Actuator 8 measuring element 9 Pressure sensor 10 Data processing unit 11 Output element 12 Control unit 13 Temperature sensor 14 Shut-off valve, manually operated and / or motor operated 15 tools 16 Temperature control lines 17 Temperature control circuit 18 Temperature control channel

Claims

[1] Method for monitoring a device for supplying temperature control media (1) to a tool (2) of a forming machine, wherein the device for supplying temperature control media (1) has a supply line (3) and a return line (6) between which at least one temperature control line (4, 5) is arranged, wherein at least one measuring element (8), in particular a volume flow measuring element, is arranged in each of the temperature control lines to be actually monitored, and at least one actuating element, in particular a volume flow valve (7), is arranged in each temperature control line to be regulated or controlled. characterized by , that - at least one pressure drop is measured in at least one temperature control line (4,5). - based on at least one volume flow rate measured with the at least one measuring element (8) and based on at least one measured pressure drop, at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or at least one change in resistance of the at least one temperature control line (4,5) is calculated. - when calculating the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one change in resistance, the degree of opening of the at least one actuator (7) is taken into account. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that - at least one temperature change is measured in at least one temperature control line (4,5) - based on at least one volume flow rate measured with the at least one measuring element (8) and based on at least one temperature change, at least one heat flow rate (Q) and / or at least one heat flow change of the at least one temperature control line (4,5) is calculated. [3] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that by measuring the at least one pressure drop the sum of the pressure drops of at least two hydraulic resistance values, in particular of at least one consumer component of the forming machine, preferably of a temperature control channel through the tool (2), of a control cabinet cooling system, of a heat exchanger for an oil cooler, of a crosshead cooling system or of a heat exchanger for a drive, as well as of at least one actuator (7), is measured and / or calculated, wherein one hydraulic resistance value of the at least two hydraulic resistance values ​​represents the at least one actuator (7). [4] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by, that at least one pressure drop is measured by one pressure sensor (9) in the flow line (3) and one pressure sensor (9) in the return line (6) and / or at least one temperature change is measured by one temperature sensor (13) in the flow line (3) and one temperature sensor (13) in the return line (6). [5] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the at least one pressure drop is measured by two pressure sensors (9) arranged in series in the at least one temperature control line (4,5) and / or the at least one temperature change is measured by two temperature sensors (13) arranged in series in the at least one temperature control line (4,5). [6] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one change in resistance of at least one temperature control line (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled is calculated from at least two values, in particular at least one temperature control channel through the tool (2) and at least one actuator (7). [7] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that the at least one hydraulic resistance and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change is displayed by an output element (11), preferably a visualization device, particularly preferably a screen. [8] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by, that at least one permissible range is defined for the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or for the at least one heat flow (Q) of the at least one temperature control line (4,5) and / or at least one permissible change range is defined for the at least one resistance change and / or for the at least one heat flow change of the at least one temperature control line (4,5), and that a warning signal is issued when the at least one permissible range is exceeded by the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or by the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or when the at least one permissible change range is exceeded by the at least one resistance change and / or by the at least one heat flow change. [9] Method according to claim 8, characterized by that the warning signal is displayed visually, in particular by being shown on the screen, and / or that the warning signal is displayed audibly. [10] Method according to at least one of claims 8 to 9, characterized by , that to determine the at least one permissible range and / or the at least one permissible change range before, during and / or after operation, a calculation of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) is carried out using measurement data and / or data from a simulation and / or design data, in particular CAD data. [11] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by , that at least two temperature control lines (4,5) are provided, wherein the at least two temperature control lines (4,5) run through a tool (2) of a forming machine and / or the at least two temperature control lines (4,5) are connected in parallel. [12] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by, that the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change of the consumer component of the forming machine is calculated at least once by measurement data and at least once by data from a simulation or by design data, in particular CAD data, wherein the at least two calculated values ​​of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change and / or the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change are compared to detect a deviation or agreement. [13] Method according to claim 12, characterized by, that the comparison of the at least two calculated values ​​of the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one resistance change takes into account temperatures and / or temperature differences. [14] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by , that a hose routing proposal is created based on absolute values, comparative values, relative values ​​and / or one or more series according to the magnitude of the hydraulic resistances and / or changes in hydraulic resistance and / or the heat flows and / or changes in heat flow of the consumer components, whereby consumer components with low hydraulic resistances and / or low heat flows are connected in series. [15] Method according to claim 14, characterized by, that the hose routing proposal is created and / or adapted taking into account the measured and / or predetermined temperatures and / or temperature differences of the consumer components. [16] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15, characterized by , that at least one hydraulic resistance (R i ) the at least one temperature control line (i) (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Ri=Δp(δ)Φin Δp(δ)=Δp2i+Δp(δ)7i is calculated, whereby - R i the at least one hydraulic resistance in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled, - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator (7), - Φ i the at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled, - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. i cross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2i the at least one pressure drop of at least one temperature control channel through the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled and - Δp(δ) 7i denotes the at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled. [17] Method according to claim 16, characterized by, that at least one hydraulic resistance (R 2i ) of a temperature control channel of the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line (i) (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Δp(δ)7i=R(δ)7i⋅Φin Δp2i=Δp(δ)−Δp(δ)7i R2i=Δp2iΦin is calculated, whereby - Δp(δ) 7i the at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled, - R(δ) 7i the at least one hydraulic resistance of the at least one actuator (7) as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled, - Φ ithe at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled, - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. i cross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2i the at least one pressure drop of at least one temperature control channel through the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line to be monitored and regulated or controlled as a function of the degree of opening δ of the at least one actuator (7) and - R 2idenotes the at least one hydraulic resistance of a temperature control channel through the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line i to be monitored and regulated or controlled. [18] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by , that at least one hydraulic resistance R(δ) 7i of the at least one actuator (7) as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled is read from a computer-readable storage medium and / or calculated by a processor by an approximation function. [19] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 18, characterized by , that a temperature of the temperature control medium is measured and that the temperature of the temperature control medium is taken into account when calculating at least one hydraulic resistance (R). [20] Method for supplying temperature control media to a tool (2) of a forming machine according to at least one of claims 1 to 19, wherein at least one actuator (7), in particular a volume flow valve, is regulated or controlled according to a setpoint for a pressure of the temperature control medium and / or for a volume flow of the temperature control medium, characterized by that the setpoint depends on at least one hydraulic resistance R 2i and / or at least one change in resistance ΔR 2i a temperature control channel through the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line i (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled is calculated. [21] Device for supplying temperature control media to a tool of a forming machine with - a pre-flow (3) to the central supply of a temperature control medium, - a return flow (6) for the central discharge of the temperature control medium, - at least one temperature control line (4, 5) which is connected to the supply (3) and the return (6) for temperature control of the tool (2), - at least one measuring element (8), in particular at least one volume flow measuring element, in each of the temperature control lines (4, 5) to be monitored for measuring at least one volume flow, - at least one actuator (7), in particular at least one volume flow valve, in each of the temperature control lines (4, 5) to be regulated or controlled for regulating or controlling a volume flow and - Data processing unit (10) which is connected to the at least one actuator (7) and the at least one measuring element (8), characterized by , that - at least two pressure sensors (9) are provided which are connected to the data processing unit (10) for measuring at least one pressure drop - based on at least one measured volume flow rate and at least one measured pressure drop from the data processing unit (10) at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or at least one resistance change of the at least one temperature control line (4, 5) can be calculated - when calculating the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one change in resistance, the degree of opening of the at least one actuator (7) is taken into account. - the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or the at least one change in resistance can be represented by an output element (11), preferably a visualization device. [22] Device according to claim 21, characterized by , that - at least two temperature sensors (13) are provided which are connected to the data processing unit (10) for measuring at least one temperature change - based on at least one measured volume flow rate and based on at least one measured temperature change from the data processing unit (10) at least one heat flow rate (Q) and / or at least one heat flow rate change of the at least one temperature control line (4, 5) can be calculated - the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or the at least one heat flow change can be represented by an output element (11), preferably a visualization device. [23] Device according to claim 21, characterized by , that at least one consumer component of the forming machine, preferably a temperature control channel through the tool (2), a control cabinet cooling system, a heat exchanger for an oil cooler, a crosshead cooling system or a heat exchanger for a drive, and at least one actuator (7) are arranged in series one after the other between at least two pressure sensors (9). [24] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 23, characterized by , that of the at least two pressure sensors (9) and / or temperature sensors (13) one pressure sensor (9) and / or one temperature sensor (13) is arranged in the flow line (3) and one pressure sensor (9) and / or one temperature sensor (13) is arranged in the return line (6). [25] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 24, characterized by , that the at least two pressure sensors (9) and / or the at least two temperature sensors (13) are arranged in the at least one temperature control line (4, 5). [26] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 25, characterized by , that the output element (11), preferably the visualization device, is designed as a screen. [27] Device for data processing for a device for supplying temperature control media according to at least one of claims 21 to 26, comprising means for carrying out at least one method according to claims 1 to 20, in which at least one hydraulic resistance and / or at least one change in resistance is calculated with the at least one measured pressure drop and the regulated or controlled degree of opening of the at least one actuator (7). [28] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 27, characterized by, that in the data processing unit (10) at least one permissible range for the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or for the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or at least one permissible change range for the at least one resistance change and / or for the at least one heat flow change of the at least one temperature control line (4,5) can be stored and that when the at least one permissible range is exceeded by the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) and / or by the at least one heat flow (Q) and / or when the at least one change range is exceeded by the at least one resistance change and / or by the at least one heat flow change, a warning signal can be output. [29] Device according to claim 28, characterized by that the warning signal can be output visually, in particular by display on the screen, and / or that the warning signal can be output audibly. [30] Device according to claim 28 or 29, characterized by , that when the warning signal is issued the forming machine can be switched off by the data processing unit (10). [31] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 30, characterized by , that a data processing unit (10) has at least one hydraulic resistance (R i ) the at least one temperature control line (i) (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Ri=Δp(δ)Φin Δp(δ)=Δp2i+Δp(δ)7i calculated, whereby - R i the at least one hydraulic resistance in the at least one temperature control line i, - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line as a function of the opening degree δ of the at least one actuator (7), - Φ i the at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line i, - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. i cross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2i the at least one pressure drop of at least one cooling channel through the tool (2) in the at least one cooling line i and - Δp(δ) 7i denotes the at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i. [32] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 31, characterized by , that a data processing unit (10) has at least one hydraulic resistance (R 2i) of the at least one tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line (i) (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled according to the equations Δp(δ)7i=R(δ)7i⋅Φin Δp2i=Δp(δ)−Δp(δ)7i R2i=Δp2iΦin calculated, whereby - Δp(δ) 7i the at least one pressure drop as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i, - R(δ) 7i the at least one hydraulic resistance of the at least one actuator (7) as a function of the degree of opening (δ) of the at least one actuator (7) in the at least one temperature control line i, - Φ i the at least one volume flow in the at least one temperature control line i, - n is a dimensionless characteristic value depending on various parameters such as the volume flow rate Φ. icross-sectional area through which the flow passes and / or the flow conditions, where in the case of a circular cross-section and ideal flow conditions the characteristic value n is approximately 2, - Δp 2i the at least one pressure drop of at least one cooling channel through the tool (2) in the at least one cooling line i - Δp(δ) the at least one pressure drop of the supply system with the at least one temperature control line as a function of the opening degree δ of the at least one actuator (7) and - R 2i denotes the at least one hydraulic resistance of a cooling channel through the tool (2) in the at least one cooling line i. [33] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 32 comprising at least one actuator (7), in particular a volume flow valve, which is connected to a control or regulating device (12) for controlling or regulating the actuator (7) according to a setpoint for a pressure of the temperature control medium and / or for a volume flow of the temperature control medium, characterized by that the setpoint depends on at least one hydraulic resistance R 2i and / or at least one change in resistance ΔR 2i of a temperature control channel through the tool (2) in the at least one temperature control line i (4,5) to be monitored and regulated or controlled is calculated. [34] Device according to at least one of claims 21 to 33, characterized by, that a temperature sensor connected to the data processing unit (10) is provided for measuring the temperature of the temperature control medium and that the at least one hydraulic resistance (R) can be calculated based on the temperature. [35] Computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause it to execute at least one method of claims 1 to 20. [36] Computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause it to execute at least one method of claims 1 to 20. [37] Computer-readable data carrier on which the computer program product according to claim 35 is stored. [38] Data carrier signal which transmits the computer program product according to claim 35. [39] Molding machine, in particular injection molding machine, with a device according to at least one of claims 21 to 34.

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