Valve arrangement, valve unit and method for controlling a valve unit in a valve arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a valve arrangement (1) for supplying compressed air consumers, comprising a base plate (4) on which a plurality of valve sockets (6) are formed, each of which has a fluid interface (7) and a communication interface (8), wherein the communication interfaces (8) are connected to a controller (3) which is designed to provide electrical signals to the communication interfaces (7) and to receive electrical signals from the communication interfaces (7), and comprising at least one valve unit (51) which is arranged on one of the valve sockets (6) and is connected to the fluid interface (7) and the communication interface (8).According to the invention, the controller (3) is designed to read out a memory module (71) of the respective valve unit (51) and, depending on a result of the readout process, to block or release program modules (36, 37, 38) stored in a control memory (33) of the controller (3) and to use released program modules (36, 37, 38) for controlling the respective valve unit (51).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a valve arrangement for supplying compressed air consumers, comprising a base plate on which a plurality of valve sockets are formed, each having a fluid interface and a communication interface. The communication interfaces are connected to a controller configured to provide electrical signals to the communication interfaces and to receive electrical signals from the communication interfaces. The invention also relates to at least one valve unit arranged at one of the valve sockets and connected to the fluid interface and the communication interface. Furthermore, the invention relates to a valve unit and a method for controlling a valve unit in a valve arrangement.

[0002] From WO 1994 / 004831 A1, an electro-pneumatic control device is known with a valve station designed in the manner of an assembly, which has a fluid distributor equipped with a plurality of valves as well as electrically actuated valve drives and a central electronic control unit supplying the electrical actuation signals for the valve drives.

[0003] DE 10 2019 217 604 A1 discloses a valve module comprising a conductor track carrier with an electrical resistance arrangement in which valve module identification information is stored by one or more electrical resistance values.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a valve arrangement, a valve unit and a method for controlling a valve unit in a valve arrangement, which enable advantageous adaptation to different operating conditions.

[0005] This object is achieved according to a first aspect of the invention for a valve arrangement in that the controller is designed to read out a memory module that is assigned to the respective valve unit and, depending on a result of the readout process, to block or release program modules that are stored in a control memory of the controller and, in particular, to use exclusively released program modules for controlling the respective valve unit.

[0006] Such a valve arrangement can be used, for example, in the field of factory automation to supply compressed air-driven actuators, in particular pneumatic cylinders, with the required compressed air flows for performing movements in a production facility. It has long been known to choose a modular design for the valve arrangement. A base plate, which forms the mechanical structure for the valve arrangement, is provided with several valve slots, each of which has a fluid interface and a communication interface. A valve unit can be plugged into each of these valve slots.The valve unit comprises an electrically controllable valve, for example a solenoid valve or a piezo valve, which can be switched, for example, between a closed state and an open state via electrical signals that can be provided to the valve unit via the communication interface. Preferably, the electrically controllable valve serves as a pilot valve for a pneumatically controlled main valve, which can also be integrated into the valve unit and which can be switched between a closed state and an open state depending on a switching position of the pilot valve, so that a large compressed air flow, which is provided to the respective valve unit via the fluid interface, can be influenced with relatively low electrical energy consumption.

[0007] To control the valve units, the valve arrangement comprises a controller whose task is to coordinate all processes necessary for the operation of the valve arrangement and, in particular, to provide control signals for the valve units. The controller thus comprises those components of the valve arrangement that are designed to receive, process, and transmit signals. For example, the controller is designed to process sensor signals from sensors that are assigned to the valve units or the fluid consumers that are assigned to the valve units and that are provided to the controller, for example, via an input module of the valve arrangement, in order to determine information for controlling the valve units, in particular for closed-loop control of the valve units.For this purpose, the control preferably comprises a computer program with which incoming information can be processed in the form of input signals and output in the form of output signals.

[0008] It is preferably provided that the control system comprises electrical output stages with which output signals serving as control signals can be converted, for example, into coil currents for the connected valve units.

[0009] The controller can also be designed to receive electrical signals that can be provided by the valve units via the communication interfaces, whereby these electrical signals can be, for example, status messages that are transmitted directly via the communication interfaces.

[0010] In such valve arrangements, it is also known that the control unit can also determine information about the respective valve units during bidirectional communication, which is carried out via the communication interfaces with the valve units. This information particularly concerns the valve type installed in the respective valve unit. By taking the valve type into account, the controller can advantageously control the respective valve unit.

[0011] According to the invention, it is provided that the controller is designed to read a memory module assigned to the valve unit arranged at the respective valve slot via the respective communication interface. It can be provided that the memory module is mechanically connected to the valve unit and can be read by the controller via the communication interface of the respective valve slot. Alternatively, it is provided that the memory module is arranged at the respective valve slot of the base plate, in particular at the communication interface, and can thus be read by the controller directly and without the need to access the valve unit arranged at the respective valve slot.

[0012] During the processing of a computer program running in the controller, the controller uses the read information to determine the extent to which the respective valve unit is assigned one or more authorizations to use one or more program modules stored in the controller's memory. These program modules represent predefined functions that can be performed by the controller in conjunction with the respective valve unit and that enable an expansion of the functional scope for the respective valve unit beyond the purely basic function of the valve unit (opening and closing the electrically controlled valve and, if applicable, opening and closing the pneumatically controlled main valve).Such program modules can, for example, be directed to a specific switching behavior of the valve unit and / or to the execution of diagnostic processes and / or the execution of operating data storage and / or operating data evaluations for the respective valve unit.

[0013] If the controller determines that the read information contains one or more authorizations for using program modules, which can be done, for example, by comparing the information with an authorization table stored in the controller, those program modules for which there is a match between the read information and the authorization table can be used for the subsequent control of the respective valve unit. If the read information does not contain any authorizations, the controller can either block the non-approved program modules for use with the respective valve unit, thus preventing the use of these program modules, or simply not use the non-approved program modules for the respective valve unit.

[0014] The information stored in the memory module assigned to the respective valve unit, which informs the controller whether and to what extent program modules may be used for this valve unit, is a type of activation code that is preferably stored in the respective memory module in a tamper-proof and copy-protected manner. The program modules that can be activated for processing in the controller using these activation codes are stored in the controller's control memory. The information stored in the memory module assigned to the valve unit therefore serves exclusively to activate the program modules in the controller; however, it does not contain any additional information regarding the function of the program module to be activated.

[0015] In addition, information can also be stored in the electronic memory of the memory module with which a parameterization of the control system for controlling the respective valve unit can be carried out, whereby this parameterization can also be used independently of the released program module(s).

[0016] Advantageous further developments of the invention are the subject of the subclaims.

[0017] It is expedient if the memory module has an electronic memory, in particular an EPROM, EEPROM or flash memory. This allows even complex information to be stored in the memory module in order to meet counterfeit security and copy protection requirements. On the one hand, it is important to prevent the unauthorized use of program modules that were not paid for by the customer when purchasing the respective valve unit. On the other hand, it is also important to prevent the use of program modules for valve units that are not intended for these valve units, which could therefore potentially lead to damage or at least malfunctions in the respective valve units. An electronic memory is understood to be a device in which a large number of semiconductor switches on a microchip are used to store the required information.Preferably, the electronic memory can retain the stored information even without a continuous electrical power supply. For example, the electronic memory can be an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or a flash memory (a digital memory chip for non-volatile storage without maintenance power consumption).

[0018] It is advantageous if the controller comprises a central processing unit configured for external communication with a higher-level controller as well as for internal communication with the communication interfaces. This central processing unit forms a component of the control unit and is configured to convert control commands provided by a higher-level machine controller or system controller via a communication connection, in particular a bus connection or an IO-Link connection, into control signals for the valve units.

[0019] This central processing unit comprises, in particular, a microcontroller or microprocessor designed to execute the computer program associated with the control system. The central processing unit can be connected to a higher-level machine control or system control system via a communication link, for example a bus connection (Profibus, Profinet, EtherCat, etc.), and for this purpose converts control commands received via the bus connection into control signals for the valve units. For internal communication between the central processing unit and the communication interfaces, either serial communication via an internal bus system of the valve arrangement or parallel communication via a plurality of parallel signal lines, also referred to as a multi-pin connection, can be provided.It is preferably provided that the control signals of the central processing device are converted into control currents for the valve units via electrical output stages assigned to the controller or the communication interfaces.

[0020] Furthermore, the central processing device can be designed to process sensor signals from sensors assigned to the valve units or the fluid consumers assigned to the valve units in order to determine information for controlling the valve units, in particular for closed-loop control of the valve units.

[0021] For example, a program module that is activated for a specific valve unit can include a special controller that enables advantageous control of the valve unit. Since programming this controller can be a considerable effort, the controller is not provided as standard for the respective valve unit, but only in the event that the user of the valve assembly has requested and paid for activation of this controller when ordering the valve unit. Only for this case is it intended that the memory module contain the information in the form of an activation code, which is intended to ensure that the associated program module stored in the controller can be used to control this valve unit.

[0022] In a further development of the invention, the controller comprises a plurality of communication processors assigned to the respective communication interfaces and configured for internal bus communication with the central processing device and for reading the respectively assigned memory module via the respective communication interface, in particular embodied as a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI). The communication processors can each be connected exclusively to one valve slot. Alternatively, at least one communication processor, preferably all communication processors, can be connected to more than one valve slot.The communication processors can be considered bus participants of an internal bus network configured within the valve assembly to ensure the most flexible scalability for the valve assembly possible, not limited by the number of available electrical lines. The task of the communication processors can be to extract control signals from the central processing device intended for the valve unit assigned to the respective communication interface from the bus communication and to convert them into corresponding control signals for an electrical output stage located locally at the valve socket, which then provides the electrical supply, in particular the electrical coil current, for the valve unit.Additionally or alternatively, the communications processor can be designed to process signals, in particular sensor signals, from the valve unit connected to the communications interface. This signal processing can, for example, include amplifying the incoming signals, if necessary, performing analog-to-digital conversion of the incoming signals, and then converting the signals into the coding of the bus protocol. A further task of the communications processor is to first determine whether the valve unit connected to the communications interface is equipped with a memory module. If so, the communications processor can read the memory content of the memory module of the connected valve unit, convert it into the coding of the bus protocol, and then transmit it to the central processing unit of the controller via the bus connection.It is preferably provided that the communication interface is designed as a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and that the communication processor is adapted to communicate with the valve unit and in particular with the memory module in accordance with this communication standard.

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the communication processors can also directly detect the control process for the assigned valve unit. For example, the communication processors can generate control signals locally, individually adapted to the respective valve unit, provided, for example, that individual parameters for the respective valve unit are stored in the memory module, which are transmitted via the communication interface and the associated communication processor during the readout process. The communication processors can also be configured to individually read the respective memory module of the assigned valve unit and to enable program modules based on the read information, as well as to control the valve unit with the enabled program modules.In this case, it can be provided that the individual communications processor has its own local memory for the program modules. Alternatively, it can be provided that the communications processor, based on the determined release codes, retrieves the program modules stored in the central processing device and stores them in its own main memory for local processing.

[0024] The communications processor can also be configured as an array of multiple processors optimized for specific purposes. For example, one of these processors can be optimized for bus communication, while another of these processors is configured to calculate control signals for the valve unit, and a third processor is responsible for managing the program modules and release codes.

[0025] Preferably, the controller is configured to perform cyclically or acyclically recurring read access to the memory module or to perform cyclically or acyclically recurring read / write access to the memory module, in particular for storing usage information of the valve unit. The cyclically or acyclically recurring read access to the memory module is intended to ensure that the valve unit connected to the communication interface is actually authorized to use the control provided by the controller. This function is particularly interesting if the valve units and the valve arrangement are also configured for replacement of the valve units during ongoing operation of the valve arrangement (hot swap function).A cyclic read access can, for example, be performed repeatedly after a predetermined number of bus cycles of the typically clocked bus communication between the central processing unit and the communication processors. An acyclic read access can, for example, be performed when the communication load between the central processing unit and the connected communication processors is below a predetermined threshold.

[0026] The object of the invention is achieved according to a second aspect of the invention by a valve unit which is designed for use in a valve arrangement and which has a valve housing in which a fluid channel is formed which extends from an inlet connection to an outlet connection and which has a valve seat, wherein a valve member which is movable between a blocking position sealingly adjacent to the valve seat and a release position arranged at a distance from the valve seat is arranged in the fluid channel, wherein an electrical actuator is arranged in the valve housing which is designed to provide a movement for the valve member, wherein at least two control contacts which are fixed to the valve housing and are electrically connected to the actuator are formed on an outer surface of the valve housing, and wherein a storage module is arranged on the outer surface of the valve housing, which,in particular on an end face facing away from the valve housing, has a memory interface which is connected, in particular exclusively, to an electronic memory accommodated in the memory module, wherein the control contacts and the memory interface are designed for coupling to a communication interface of a valve arrangement.

[0027] The valve unit can have a single fluid channel which extends in a valve housing from an inlet port to an outlet port and which is provided with a valve seat. In a valve unit designed in this way, an axial sealing effect is typically provided between the valve member and the valve seat, so that the valve unit is also referred to as a seat valve. However, a design as a slide valve is also possible, in which a radial sealing effect is provided between the valve member and valve seat. Furthermore, a design as a diaphragm valve can also be provided, in which a sealing diaphragm is provided between the fluid channel and the valve seat formed therein and the valve member, which diaphragm is also designed to close the valve seat upon a corresponding movement of the valve member.

[0028] Alternatively, the valve unit can be provided with a plurality of fluid channels formed separately in the valve housing, each with a separate valve seat, which opens into individual inlet and outlet ports. For this purpose, the valve member is preferably designed as a valve slide, whose preferably linear movement between a first functional position and a second functional position enables a synchronized influence on a plurality of valve seats.

[0029] The valve unit can be implemented, for example, as a 2 / 2-way valve, as a 3 / 2-way valve, as a 5 / 2-way valve or in another combination of valve positions and connections.

[0030] In order to enable the movement of the valve member between the first functional position and the second functional position and, if appropriate, a further intermediate position arranged between these two functional positions, an electrical actuator is provided which, purely by way of example, can be a piezo bender or a linearly acting piezo actuator or a magnetic drive with at least one magnetic coil. Depending on the technical design of the electrical actuator, a specific electrical control of the respective valve unit is required, which is provided by a controller of a valve arrangement to which the valve unit can be coupled. To couple electrical energy into the valve unit, at least two control contacts are formed on a valve housing of the valve unit, via which control contacts, for example, a coil current for a magnetic drive of the valve unit can be provided.These control contacts are arranged on the outer surface of the valve housing and can be designed, for example, as electrically conductive contact surfaces, as electrically conductive contact springs or as electrically conductive contact pins.

[0031] Furthermore, a memory module is arranged on the outer surface of the valve housing, preferably on exactly the same outer surface on which the control contacts are formed. This memory module is provided with an electrically controllable memory interface. This memory interface is electrically connected to an electronic memory formed in the memory module and is designed for electrical coupling to a communication interface of a valve slot of a valve assembly.

[0032] It is preferably provided that the at least two control contacts and the memory interface are arranged on the valve housing in such a way that all electrical connections between a communication interface of the valve arrangement, the control contacts and the memory interface are established by a plugging process, which is preferably carried out in exactly one, in particular linear, spatial direction relative to a valve arrangement.

[0033] In an advantageous development of the valve unit, the storage module is designed as a separate assembly and, in particular, is mechanically connected exclusively to the valve housing. This allows the storage module to be retrofitted to a valve unit that may already be in use at any time. Furthermore, the design of the storage module as a separate assembly avoids the need for design effort that goes beyond providing a purely mechanical coupling between the valve housing and the storage module for valve units that are to be delivered with or without the storage module.It is particularly preferred that the storage module is connected exclusively mechanically, but not electrically or electronically, to other components of the valve unit, whereby technically complex plug connections or other electrical contacting measures can be avoided.

[0034] In a further embodiment of the valve unit, the memory interface comprises at least two memory contacts designed for electrical connection to the communication interface of the valve arrangement in order to enable read access or read / write access from the valve arrangement to the electronic memory. The memory contacts are preferably resilient contact tongues or contact springs, made, for example, from metallized plastic or metal. With such a configuration of the memory contacts, it may be sufficient for the communication interface of the valve arrangement to comprise only electrically conductive contact surfaces assigned to the memory contacts, which can be implemented, for example, on a printed circuit.

[0035] The memory interface of the valve unit preferably has an optical interface configured for contactless optical energy coupling and contactless optical signal output between an optical readout device of the communication interface of the valve assembly and the electronic memory accommodated in the memory module, in order to enable read access or read / write access to the electronic memory. In this variant of the memory interface, the memory interface and the communication interface of the valve assembly form an optocoupler, via which both contactless energy transmission and contactless signal transmission can be carried out.In a first embodiment of the memory module, a unidirectional power coupling from the communication interface into the memory module and a unidirectional signal transmission from the memory module to the communication interface can be provided for read-only access. In a second embodiment of the memory module, a bidirectional signal transmission between the communication interface and the memory module can be provided in combination with a unidirectional power coupling from the communication interface into the memory module for read / write access from the communication interface to the memory module.

[0036] It is expedient if the valve housing of the valve unit comprises a fluid module and an actuator module, wherein the fluid module comprises the fluid channel, the inlet connection, the outlet connection, the valve seat, and the valve member, wherein the actuator module comprises the electrical actuator and the control contacts and is designed to secure the storage module, and wherein the fluid module and the actuator module are designed as separate assemblies that are mechanically connected to one another. In this embodiment of the valve unit, a structural separation is provided between the fluid-conducting fluid module and the electrically operable actuator module, whereby each of these two assemblies can be ideally adapted to the specific requirements.A coupling between the two assemblies is preferably provided exclusively in mechanical terms, wherein this coupling comprises, on the one hand, the mutual fixing of the two assemblies to one another and, on the other hand, the transmission of the movement of the electrical actuator in the actuator module to the valve member in the fluid module.

[0037] In an advantageous development of the valve unit, the storage module has at least one locking means, in particular from the group consisting of a locking lug and a locking undercut, on a second end face facing away from the first end face, which locking means is designed for a positive mechanical coupling with the valve housing. The at least one locking means can be used to mechanically secure the storage module to the valve housing, in particular to the actuator module of the valve housing. This locking connection is preferably designed such that, once attached to the valve housing, the storage module can no longer be removed without risking destruction of the storage module.This is intended to prevent memory modules from being exchanged between different valve units, which may have different electrical properties and could lead to malfunctions or faults due to incorrect control based on the information stored in the memory module.

[0038] The object of the invention is achieved according to a third aspect of the invention by a method for controlling a valve unit in a valve arrangement, which method comprises the following steps: carrying out a read access from a controller of a valve arrangement to an electronic memory of a memory module which is attached to a valve unit coupled to the valve arrangement, processing a data record stored in the electronic memory in the controller of the valve arrangement in order to identify at least one release code contained in the data record, releasing a program module which is determined by the release code and which is stored in a control memory of the controller, and carrying out a control of the valve with the released program module.

[0039] Using this approach, differently configured valve units can be controlled, which differ from one another in the absence or presence of a memory module, and if a memory module is present, in the different data sets contained in the memory module. If the valve unit does not have a memory module, this is detected during read access, and the control of the valve arrangement does not release any program modules. In this case, the valve is controlled exclusively using control routines stored as standard in the control system. If, however, it is determined during read access that the valve unit is equipped with a memory module, the data set stored in the electronic memory of the memory module is read out and transferred to the control system.The controller processes, in particular evaluates, the read-out data set in order to identify one or more release codes contained in the data set, which can then be used by the controller to enable one or more program modules in order to be able to carry out targeted control of the valve unit with the aid of the one or more program modules.

[0040] An advantageous embodiment of the invention is illustrated in the drawing. Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a valve arrangement comprising several valve units, Fig. 2 a front view of a memory module, Fig. 3 an exploded view of the memory module according to the Fig. 2, Fig. 4 a strictly schematic block diagram of a valve arrangement with valve units attached to it, and Fig. 5 a flowchart for the detection and processing of release codes in the valve assembly.

[0041] One in the Fig. The valve arrangement 1 shown in Figure 1 is designed as a modular and scalable system and serves to supply compressed air to a plurality of compressed air consumers (not shown), such as pneumatic cylinders. For this purpose, the valve arrangement 1 comprises a connection module 2, a controller 3, a base plate 4, and an end plate 5, which are mechanically coupled to form a composite and between which electrical connections (not shown in detail) for transmitting electrical signals and electrical power and / or fluidic connections for forwarding compressed air can exist. For reasons of space, a silencer module 18 is mounted on the controller 3, via which exhaust air from the valve arrangement 1 can be released into the environment in a sound-damped manner.

[0042] The relationships between the actuator module 2, the controller 3, the base plate 4 and the end plate 5 are shown in the strictly schematic representation of the Fig. 4 shown.

[0043] By way of example, it is provided that the connection module 2 has a communication port 21, which is designed for communication between the controller 3 and a higher-level controller (not shown), in particular a machine controller. Communication with the higher-level controller preferably takes place via a fieldbus system. Furthermore, the connection module 2 has a power port 22, which is designed for supplying electrical energy to the valve arrangement 1. The electrical energy is preferably provided independently of the existence of the communication connection with the higher-level controller.Purely by way of example, a bus coupler 23 is incorporated in the connection module 2, which has the task of converting the bus protocol used for communication with the higher-level control (not shown) into an internal bus protocol, which is made available via a bus line 24 to the components of the valve arrangement 1 described in more detail below.

[0044] The controller 3 is connected to the connection module 2 via the bus line 24 and via a supply line 25 connected to the power connection 22. Purely by way of example, both the bus line 24 and the supply line 25 are provided with several individual wires (not shown in detail) to enable signal transmission and supply voltage transmission to the other components of the valve assembly 1.

[0045] As the schematic representation of the Fig. 4, the controller 3 comprises a central processing device 32, which is designed, for example, as a microprocessor and which is designed to execute a computer program stored in a memory device 33. For example, the central processing device 33 is connected to the bus line 24 via a communication module 34. The task of the communication module 34 is to extract information directed to the central processing device from the bus protocol transmitted via the bus line 24, and to couple information from the central processing device 32 to the bus line 24 for forwarding to other bus participants.

[0046] The computer program running in the central processing device 32 is configured to process information from valve units 51, which are connected to the central processing device 32 via communication interfaces 8 in the base plate 4 and the bus line 24, and / or to provide control signals to the valve units 51. In particular, the computer program is configured to manage authorizations for the use of program modules 36, 37, 38 stored in the memory device 33. Provision is made for each of the valve units 51, which are arranged at one of the valve slots 6 of the base plate 4, to have an individual authorization profile stored in a memory module 71 of the respective valve unit 51.

[0047] Alternatively, it can also be provided that the storage device is designed independently of the valve unit 51 and is connected to a storage interface 17, which in the schematic representation of the Fig. 4 is shown in dashed lines. In this case, the storage device can be designed, for example, in the form of a miniature memory card such as a mini SD card or a mini SIM card, which contains the electronic memory. Deviating from the schematic representation of the Fig. 4, this memory interface 18 can also be an integral part of the respective communication interface.

[0048] If the valve unit 51 is not provided with a memory module 71, there is no authorization to use program modules 36, 37, 38, as is only the case for the two middle valve units 51 of the valve arrangement 1 according to the Fig. 4 is the case. For these two valve units 51, the central processing device 32 will control them exclusively with a standard control program that is part of the computer program running in the central processing device 32.

[0049] If, however, the valve unit 51 is provided with a memory module 71, a query initiated by the central processing device 32 can be carried out via a communication processor 41 of the respectively assigned communication interface 8 to determine whether the respective memory module 71 contains an authorization code that represents an authorization to use one or more of the program modules 36, 37, 38. For this purpose, during the query via the communication interface 8, information is read from the respective memory module 71 of the corresponding valve unit 51, processed by the communication processor 41 and fed into the internal bus protocol and then made available to the central processing device 32 via the bus line 24.

[0050] According to the presentation of the Fig. 4, it is provided, by way of example, that a communication processor 41 is assigned to each of the valve slots 6. In an embodiment of the valve arrangement 1 not shown in detail, a communication processor can also be connected to several valve slots 6.

[0051] Purely by way of example, only a single release code, symbolically designated by the letter "A," is stored in the memory module 71 of the valve unit 51 located directly adjacent to the controller 3. After this release code is transmitted to the central processing unit 32, the program module 36 is activated there for this valve unit 51. The additional functions of the program module 36 can then be used for subsequent control processes for this valve unit 51. However, these additional functions are only used for the valve unit 51 that has the activation code "A" stored in its memory module 71.

[0052] Purely as an example, the memory module 71 contains the Fig. 4 The release code "ABC" is stored in the valve unit located on the far right, so that after this release code is transferred to the central processing device 32, all three program modules 36, 37, 38 stored in the memory device 33 of the central processing device 32 can be activated for this valve unit 51. The additional functions of the program modules 36, 37, 38 can then be used for subsequent control processes for this valve unit 51.

[0053] The respective control of the valve unit 51 is carried out via control signals that are generated individually by the central processing device 32 and, if necessary, using one or more of the program modules 36 to 38 for the respective valve units 51 and are transmitted via the bus line 24 to the respective communication interface 8. In the communication interface 8, the control signals are converted in the respective communication processor 41, which, via an associated electrical output stage 42, makes the electrical energy provided via the supply line 25 available to the respective valve unit 51.

[0054] The valve unit 51 comprises, as shown in the Fig. 4 an electrical actuator 58, which comprises a magnetic coil 59, a magnetic return 60, an armature 61 movably received in the magnetic coil 59 and a return spring 62 arranged between the armature 61 and the magnetic return 60. The electrical actuator 58 is configured such that when a coil current is supplied to the magnetic coil 59, a magnetic force is exerted on the armature 61 so that it can compress the return spring 62 and, according to the illustration of Fig. 4 can be moved linearly downwards and thereby approaches the iron return 60. In this case, a displacement of the fluid valve 63, shown purely schematically as a 3 / 2-way valve, from the rest position into a functional position not shown takes place. Purely as an example, the fluid valve 63 of the valve unit 51 is designed as normally open, so that in the rest state according to the Fig. 4 a fluidically communicating connection is provided between the ventilation line 11 in the base plate 4 and a ventilation channel 64 in the valve unit 51 as well as a working channel 66 in the valve unit 51, which in turn is connected to a working connection 67. In the rest position, not shown, the fluid valve 63 interrupts the fluidically communicating connection between the ventilation channel 64 and the working channel 66 and establishes a fluidically communicating connection between the working channel 66 and the venting channel 65. The fluid valve 63, which is designed purely as an example as a slide valve, comprises in a known manner a valve slide (not shown in detail), which is moved by the actuator 58 and opens or closes valve seats (not shown in detail) assigned to the ventilation channel 64 and the venting channel 65 depending on its position.

[0055] Purely as an example, it is intended that the query of the release codes stored in the memory module 71 is carried out repeatedly in order to ensure that the respective valve unit 51 has the corresponding authorization even when the respective program modules 36 or 36 to 38 are used again.

[0056] Again Fig. 4, each of the valve slots 6 is assigned a fluid interface 7 in addition to the communication interface 8, which comprises, purely as an example, a ventilation connection 9 and a venting connection 10. Due to the schematic representation of the Fig. 4 is one of the Fig. 1, a different arrangement of the fluid interface 7 and the communication interface 8 is provided. The ventilation connection 9 is connected via a ventilation line 11 to a ventilation inlet 14, which is assigned purely by way of example to the end plate 5. The ventilation connection 10 is connected via a ventilation line 12 to a ventilation outlet 15, which is assigned purely by way of example to the end plate 5.

[0057] As the representation of the Fig. 1, each of the valve slots 6 includes the already mentioned valve slots in connection with the Fig. 4 described fluid interface 7 and communication interface 8 and is designed for plug-in mounting of the valve unit 51 in a spatial direction which, according to the illustration of the Fig. 1 essentially corresponds to the vertical. This spatial direction is also symbolized by a dashed connecting line between the valve unit 51, which is arranged above the valve arrangement 1, and the communication interface 8.

[0058] The valve unit 51 has a valve housing 57, which is divided into an actuator module 52 and a fluid module 53. An electrical actuator (not shown in detail), for example, a solenoid coil arrangement, is accommodated in the actuator module. This electrical actuator is supplied with power via control contacts 54, which protrude vertically from an underside 55 of the actuator module 52 and, when the valve unit 51 is coupled to the valve socket 6, are received in control sockets (not shown in detail) of the communication interface 8. The communication interface 8 thus comprises both the control function for the valve unit 51 and the communication function for the valve unit 51.By way of example, it is provided that electrical output stages (not shown) are assigned to the communication interface 8, with which an electrical connection between the control contacts 54 and the supply line 25 can be blocked or released in order to enable targeted deactivation and activation of the actuator. Several fluid channels (not shown) are formed in the fluid module 53. These channels open out in a manner not shown in detail at an underside 56 of the fluid module 53 and are connected to an associated ventilation line 11 or vent line 12 of the base plate 4 for fluid communication.

[0059] Furthermore, a memory module 71 is attached to the underside 55 of the actuator module 52, which is also designed for electrical contact with electrically conductive contact surfaces (not shown in detail) of the communication interface 8 in the base plate 4. The Fig. 2 and Fig. The electrical contact tongues 77 shown in more detail in Figure 3 are designed to be brought into electrical connection with the communication interface 8 when the valve unit 51 is plugged into the respective valve slot 6 of the base plate 4.

[0060] As the representations of the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the storage module 71 comprises a module housing 72 which is provided with a recess 78 in which a compression spring 73 and a pressure plunger 74 are received. The recess 78 and the pressure plunger 74 are coordinated with one another in such a way that the pressure plunger 74 is guided along a Fig. 2 can be moved linearly relative to the module housing 72. To limit this movement path 79, projections 80 protrude laterally from the pressure stamp 74 and are received in openings (not shown in detail) in the module housing 72. On an end face 82 of the pressure stamp 74 facing away from the compression spring 73, a recess (not shown in detail) is provided, into which the memory module 75, which is purely exemplary and has a cuboid shape, can be received in order to protect it as comprehensively as possible from mechanical influences. Extending from the memory module 75 at the ends are arc-shaped contact tongues 77 which penetrate a contact carrier 76, made for example from electrically insulating material, which is designed to guide the contact tongues 77.

[0061] Due to the internal preload of the compression spring 73, the pressure piston 74 is in a neutral position, as shown in the Fig. 2, is pressed with the projections 80 against non-illustrated end surfaces of the openings and can, upon occurrence of an assembly force 81, which, according to the illustration of the Fig. 2 is directed vertically downwards, in the direction of the mounting force 81. This ensures that the contact tongues 77, which serve to engage contact surfaces (not shown) of the communication interface 8, are always subjected to a sufficiently large mechanical preload and thus have the lowest possible electrical contact resistance to the communication interface 8.

[0062] On a bottom side 83 facing away from the recess 78 of the module housing 72, the module housing 72 is provided, purely by way of example, with a plurality of locking hooks 84 designed for a positive coupling with the actuator module 52. Purely by way of example, the locking hooks 84 are designed such that, after the memory module 71 has been mounted on the actuator module 52, they can no longer be removed without having to accept the destruction of the memory module 71.

[0063] For the intended use of the valve assembly 1, the following procedure can be provided: First, the valve assembly 1 is assembled as an assembly consisting of the connection module 2, control unit 3, base plate 4 and end plate 5 according to a configuration defined by the end user. In this case, deviating from the illustration of the Fig. 1, it may be provided that the base plate 4 has fewer or more than the purely exemplary four in the Fig. 1. When assembling the components: connection module 2, control unit 3, base plate 4 and end plate 5, all electrical and fluid connections required for the operation of the valve arrangement 1 are created. For this purpose, corresponding electrical plug connections, fluid channels and fluid seals can be provided in the above-mentioned components. In a subsequent step, valve units 51 are plugged onto the valve slots 6 of the base plate 4, wherein these valve units 51 are arranged according to the schematic representation of the Fig. 4 can be partially equipped with memory module 71 or can be plugged into the respective valve slot 6 without such memory module 71.

[0064] During electrical commissioning of the valve arrangement 1, for which initially only the provision of electrical energy at the energy connection 22 is required, an exchange of information takes place via the internal bus connection of the bus line 24 between the central processing device 32 and the communication interfaces 8. During this exchange of information, request signals are also output from the central processing device 32 to the individual communication interfaces 8, whereby the individual communication interfaces 8 carry out a reading process for the memory modules 71 of the valve units 51.For those valve units 51 equipped with a memory module 71, a feedback signal can be sent from the respective communication interface 8 via the bus line 24 to the central processing device 32, containing the information read from the respective memory module 71 for further processing in the central processing device. For those valve units not equipped with a memory module 71, the feedback from the respective communication interface merely contains the information that no reading operation could be performed. In the central processing device 32, the information read from the memory module 71 is evaluated to determine whether the respective valve unit 51 has authorization to use program modules 36 to 38 in the form of a corresponding release code.If this is the case, the respective valve unit 51 can be controlled using the respective program modules 36 to 38. If the communication interface 8 of the valve unit 51 was unable to retrieve any information during the read attempt, because either no memory module 71 is assigned or the memory module 71 contains no usable information, the subsequent control of this valve unit will only use a standard valve control stored by default in the central processing device 32. For example, it can be provided to repeat the readout process cyclically or acyclically to ensure that permission to use the respective program modules 36 to 38 for the corresponding valve unit 51 continues to exist, which could be questioned particularly after a valve unit has been replaced.

[0065] Depending on the configuration of the communication interface 8 and the memory module 71, individual information can also be written from the central processing device 32 to the respective memory module 71. This individual information is, in particular, information with which conclusions can be drawn about a usage state, in particular a wear state, of the respective valve unit. For example, it can be provided to store a switching cycle number for the respective valve unit in the memory module 71. Additionally or alternatively, it can be provided to store a temperature profile or at least a maximum temperature that occurred during use of the valve arrangement 1 in the respective memory module.Storage of other wear information, such as a maximum working pressure to which the respective valve unit 51 was subjected or a maximum switching frequency to which the respective valve unit 51 was subjected, can also be provided. Alternatively or additionally, information such as the valve type of the valve unit 51, a manufacturer-specific product code of the valve unit 51, and service life parameters, such as a maximum number of switching cycles for the valve unit 51, can also be written to the respective memory module 71.Furthermore, it can be provided that a user-specific switching cycle limit is written into the respective memory module 71 and that the assigned communication processor 41 stores each switching operation of the valve unit and generates a warning message when the switching cycle limit is exceeded, for example to inform the central processing device 32 or a higher-level machine control system that the valve unit 51 should be replaced as a precaution. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the communication processor 41 is configured such that a valve unit 51 attached to the valve slot 6 is checked to determine whether it is intended for this valve slot 6 or whether it is possibly unable to fulfill the function intended for this valve slot 6 due to incorrect assembly.This configuration of the communication processor 41 can be provided to the valve arrangement 1 by a higher-level controller and, in the event of deviations, can lead to the output of an error message by the communication processor 41. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the communication processor 41 recognizes that a valve unit 51 has been replaced and, in a first step after the replacement of the valve unit 51, checks whether the newly installed valve unit 51 has at least the same range of functions as the valve unit previously attached to this valve slot 6 and can output an error message in the event of a deviation.

[0066] From the Fig. The flow chart shown in Figure 5 shows the essential steps required for the use of program modules by the controller 3 in a strictly schematic manner. For the steps described below in connection with the flow chart of the Fig. 5 mentioned components that are in the Fig. 5 are not shown, the reference numerals introduced in the above description of the figures are used.

[0067] In step 100, the controller 3 of the valve arrangement 1 performs a read access to the electronic memory 75 of the memory module 71, which is assigned to the valve unit 51 coupled to the valve arrangement 1.

[0068] In step 110, a data set stored in the electronic memory 75 is processed in the controller 3 of the valve assembly 1 to identify at least one release code contained in the data set. This involves, for example, comparing the data set, also referred to as information, with a release table stored in the controller 3.

[0069] In step 120, the condition is checked whether the data set contains at least one release code. If this is the case, the process continues with step 130. If this is not the case, the process continues with step 160.

[0070] In step 130, those program modules for which there is a match between the read-out information and the release table are loaded from a program module memory of the controller into a working memory of the controller and can then be used for the subsequent control of the respective valve unit 51.

[0071] In step 140, control signals for the valve unit 51 are calculated using the program modules released and loaded into the working memory of the controller.

[0072] In step 150, the control signals calculated by the controller 3 using at least one program module are provided to the valve unit 51.

[0073] In step 160, which is carried out in the event that there is no match between the read information and the release table, control signals for the valve unit 51 are calculated without accessing program modules stored in the program module memory of the controller.

[0074] In step 170, the control signals calculated by the controller 3 without using at least one program module are provided to the valve unit 51.

Claims

[1] Valve arrangement (1) for supplying compressed air consumers, comprising a base plate (4) on which a plurality of valve sockets (6) are formed, each having a fluid interface (7) and a communication interface (8), wherein the communication interfaces (8) are connected to a controller (3) which is designed to provide electrical signals to the communication interfaces (7) and to receive electrical signals from the communication interfaces (7), and at least one valve unit (51) which is arranged on one of the valve sockets (6) and which is connected to the fluid interface (7) and the communication interface (8), characterized byin that the controller (3) is designed to read out a memory module (71) which is assigned to the respective valve unit (51) and, depending on a result of the readout process (100), to block or release program modules (36, 37, 38) which are stored in a control memory (33) of the controller (3) and, in particular, to use exclusively released program modules (36, 37, 38) for the control (150, 170) of the respective valve unit (51). [2] Valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the memory module (71) has an electronic memory (75), in particular an EPROM, EEPROM or flash memory. [3] Valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the controller (3) comprises a central processing device (32) which is designed for external communication with a higher-level controller and for internal communication with the communication interfaces (8). [4] Valve arrangement (1) according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized by that the controller (3) comprises a plurality of communication processors (41) which are assigned to the respective communication interfaces (8) and which are designed for internal bus communication with the central processing device (32) and for reading out the respectively assigned memory module (71) via the respective communication interface (8), which is designed in particular as a serial peripheral interface. [5] Valve arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the controller (3) is designed to carry out a cyclically or acyclically recurring read access to the memory module (71) or to carry out a cyclically or acyclically recurring write / read access, in particular for storing usage information of the valve unit (51), to the memory module (71). [6] Valve unit (51) for use in a valve arrangement (1), comprising a valve housing (57) in which a fluid channel (64, 65, 66) is formed, which extends from an inlet connection to an outlet connection and which has a valve seat, wherein a valve member is arranged in the fluid channel and is movable between a blocking position sealingly adjacent to the valve seat and a release position arranged at a distance from the valve seat, wherein an electrical actuator (58) is arranged in the valve housing (57) and is designed to provide a movement for the valve member, wherein at least two control contacts (54) are formed on an outer surface (55) of the valve housing (57) and are electrically connected to the actuator, and wherein a storage module (71) is arranged on the outer surface of the valve housing (55), which, in particular on an end face facing away from the valve housing (57),a memory interface (77) which is connected, in particular exclusively, to an electronic memory (75) accommodated in the memory module (71), wherein the control contacts (54) and the memory interface (77) are designed for coupling to a communication interface (8) of a valve arrangement (1). [7] Valve unit (51) according to claim 6, characterized by that the storage module (71) is designed as a separate assembly and is, in particular exclusively, mechanically connected to the valve housing (57). [8] Valve unit (51) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by that the memory interface (77) has at least two memory contacts which are designed for electrical connection to the communication interface (8) of the valve arrangement (1) in order to enable read access or read / write access from the valve arrangement to the electronic memory (75). [9] Valve unit (51) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by in that the memory interface (77) has an optical interface which is designed for contactless optical energy coupling and for contactless optical signal output between an optical readout device of the communication interface (8) of the valve arrangement (51) and the electronic memory (75) accommodated in the memory module (71), in order to enable read access or read / write access to the electronic memory (75). [10] Valve unit (51) according to claim 6, 7, 8 or 9, characterized byin that the valve housing (57) comprises a fluid module (53) and an actuator module (52), wherein the fluid module (53) comprises the fluid channel, the input connection, the output connection, the valve seat and the valve member, wherein the actuator module (52) comprises the electrical actuator and the control contacts and is designed for fixing the storage module (71), and wherein the fluid module (53) and the actuator module (52) are designed as separate assemblies which are mechanically connected to one another. [11] Valve unit (51) according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized by that the storage module (71) has at least one locking means (84), in particular from the group: locking lug, locking undercut, on a second end face facing away from the first end face, which is designed for a positive mechanical coupling with the valve housing (57). [12] Method for controlling a valve unit (51) in a valve arrangement (1), comprising the steps of: carrying out a read access (100) from a controller (3) of a valve arrangement (1) to an electronic memory (75) of a memory module (71) which is assigned to a valve unit (51) coupled to the valve arrangement (1), processing (110) a data record stored in the electronic memory (75) in the controller (3) of the valve arrangement (1) in order to identify at least one release code contained in the data record, releasing (130) a program module (36, 37, 38) which is determined by the release code and which is stored in a control memory (33) of the controller (3), and carrying out a control (150) of the valve unit (51) with the released program module (36, 37, 38).

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