Housing device for a pneumatic field device, pneumatic field device with the housing device and method for manufacturing the housing device

Abstract

The invention relates to a housing device for a pneumatic field device (10), in particular a position controller, comprising a connecting carrier element (28), a housing part (29), which is in particular designed as part of a housing body (12) of the pneumatic field device (10), and a cover element (30), wherein the connecting carrier element (28) is at least partially made of a metallic material, and wherein the cover element (30) is at least partially transparent. It is proposed that the cover element (30) is positively connected to the connecting support element (28) via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, which is provided for at least partial production of the cover element (30) in a mold arranged on the connecting support element (28), wherein a connection area (34) of the connecting support element (28) and the cover element (30) is essentially fluid-tight, and that the connecting support element (28) is materially connected to the housing part (29) in an assembled state, in particular via a welded connection, wherein a connection area (32) of the connecting support element (28) and the housing part (29) is essentially fluid-tight.

Description

State of the art

[0001] Pneumatic field devices, such as positioners, actuators, pumps, and the like, are known to have housings that include a transparent segment, preferably made of plastic, to allow the user to inspect the interior of the device. These segments are typically connected to a metallic base body of the housing via force-fit and / or form-fit connections, such as a groove, a bayonet fitting, or similar. A problem with this design is that the interior space enclosed by the housing and the segment can be subject to pressure changes during certain operating conditions of the pneumatic field device. For example, liquids may be drawn in when the device cools down. Furthermore, residues or dirt can accumulate at the connection point between the base body and the transparent segment, potentially damaging the field device.Furthermore, cleaning the field device from the outside via the partially permeable connection point between the base body and the transparent segment is not entirely possible. Advantages of the invention

[0002] The invention relates to a housing device for a pneumatic field device, in particular a position controller, comprising a connecting carrier element, a housing part which is in particular designed as part of a housing body of the field device, and a cover element, wherein the connecting carrier element is at least partially made of a metallic material, and wherein the cover element is partially transparent.

[0003] It is proposed that the cover element is positively connected to the connecting support element via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, which is provided for at least partial production of the cover element in a mold arranged on the connecting support element, wherein a connection area of ​​the connecting support element and the cover element is essentially fluid-tight, and that the connecting support element is materially connected to the housing part in an assembled state, in particular via a welded connection, wherein a connection area of ​​the connecting support element and the housing part is essentially fluid-tight.The term "essentially fluid-tight" means, in particular, that under typical pressure and temperature conditions in pneumatic field devices, especially positioners, no gas and / or liquid commonly used in pneumatic field devices, such as air or water, can penetrate through. Preferably, the connection area(s) are designed to be fluid-tight, especially up to an internal pressure of at least 7 bar. Particularly in typical positioners, the connection area(s) are preferably designed to be fluid-tight, at least with respect to air and / or water, up to an internal pressure of at least 7 bar. However, designs with higher tightness are also conceivable, especially for higher internal and / or external pressures. In particular, a higher tightness with respect to external pressures is also possible.

[0004] The phrase "the cover element is positively connected to the connecting carrier element via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process" is to be understood in particular as meaning that the cover element is produced by the primary forming process from a raw material, in particular a liquid, wherein the cover element is arranged directly on the connecting carrier element during the fixed forming phase of the primary forming process, and the positive connection with the connecting carrier element is achieved during the fixed forming phase of the cover element during the primary forming process. In a preferred embodiment, the cover element is produced by an injection molding process, wherein the cover element is directly injection-molded onto the connecting carrier element.Preferably, the cover element is manufactured in such a way that the positive fit between the connecting carrier element and the cover element is created during a primary forming process, in particular by demolding or injection molding, of the cover element.

[0005] Preferably, the connecting element rests flat against the housing part via a connecting edge. In particular, the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part is arranged on an outer surface. In a preferred embodiment, the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part is formed as a weld. As an alternative to a welded connection, a material-bonded adhesive connection between the connecting element and the housing part is also conceivable, wherein, in particular, the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part is formed as an adhesive surface or adhesive edge.Preferably, an outer surface of the connecting support element and an outer surface of the housing part in the connection area of ​​the connecting support element and the housing part, particularly in the assembled state of the connecting support element on the housing part, wherein in particular the connecting support element is materially bonded to the housing part, are formed essentially flush with the surface.

[0006] Preferably, the cover element is at least partially made of a plastic or glass. More preferably, the cover element is made entirely of a plastic or glass. Preferably, the plastic is a polymer, for example, especially for a transparent design, PPSU (polyphenylsulfone) or a polycarbonate. However, other designs of the cover element and / or the plastic are also conceivable. Preferably, the cover element is formed in one piece, wherein, in particular, the entire cover element is produced by a primary forming process, especially an injection molding process, particularly in a single process step. Preferably, the cover element, especially in a transparent area, is transparent over its entire wall thickness.Preferably, the cover element is essentially completely transparent. It is conceivable that the cover element is manufactured using an additive manufacturing process, wherein, in particular, the cover element is manufactured such that it is additively attached to the connecting carrier element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the one-piece cover element is composed of a plurality of parts, which are, in particular, materially bonded to one another. The phrase "at least partially" transparent means, in particular, that the cover element is transparent in at least a partial area of ​​its entire surface. Preferably, the cover element is made entirely of a transparent plastic.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cover element is formed from a transparent plastic only in one section and from a different, particularly non-transparent, plastic in another section. Preferably, the cover element is designed such that a volume bounded by the cover element, particularly by the entire wall thickness of the cover element within this area, is visible from the outside in a transparent section. Preferably, the cover element is designed to enclose a volume that is at least partially enclosed. In particular, the cover element is open on at least one side, with the connecting element being arranged, in particular, on the open side.In particular, the cover element is cup- or bowl-shaped, with the connecting support element being arranged at an edge of the cover element. It is conceivable that the cover element has more than one opening, with the housing device comprising more than one connecting support element, each arranged at an opening of the cover element. It is also conceivable that the cover element is sleeve-shaped. Preferably, the connecting support element is formed essentially entirely from the metallic material. The metallic material is, in particular, a metal or a metal compound. For example, the metallic material is steel or stainless steel. However, other configurations of the connecting support element and / or the metallic material are also conceivable.

[0007] A "pneumatic" field device is understood to be, in particular, a field device that stores and / or guides a fluid, especially a gas or liquid, at a pressure different from ambient pressure in at least one area of ​​the field device, for example, in an interior space and / or in a component. The connecting element is preferably designed to connect the cover element to the housing part. In particular, the housing device, especially the connecting element and the cover element, and the housing part are configured to define an interior space of the pneumatic field device, wherein, preferably, the connecting element, the cover element, and the housing part, in an assembled state of the housing device, define the interior space of the pneumatic field device at least partially, and preferably to a large extent.

[0008] An inventive design of the housing device enables a completely fluid-tight housing for the pneumatic field device with a transparent cover element. This advantageously prevents the ingress of gases and liquids into the pneumatic field device. Furthermore, it allows for unrestricted cleaning of the pneumatic field device from the outside with the transparent cover element. In particular, it advantageously facilitates a simple explosion-proof design for the housing of the pneumatic field device. Additional components for sealing the connection points, such as sealing rings or the like, can be advantageously omitted. This results in advantageously low manufacturing costs and advantageously high robustness and tightness.

[0009] Furthermore, it is proposed that the connecting carrier element forms at least one undercut, wherein the cover element, in an assembled state, in particular after a positive-locking connection with the connecting carrier element by the primary forming process, in particular the injection molding process, encloses the undercut.

[0010] An advantageously large area for a positive fit between the connecting element and the attached cover element can be provided. An advantageously strong and fluid-tight connection between the cover element and the connecting element can be achieved. Preferably, the undercut is spaced apart from the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part. In particular, the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part is spaced apart from the connection area of ​​the cover element and the connecting element, with an outer surface of the connecting element being arranged between the connection areas. Preferably, the undercut is at least partially, and in particular completely, enclosed by the cover element in an assembled state.Preferably, the cover element is designed such that, during demolding during the primary forming process, particularly the injection molding process, it at least partially, and in particular completely, encloses the undercut. The connecting element preferably has a substantially closed basic shape, with the undercut extending at least largely, and in particular substantially completely, along the closed basic shape. Preferably, the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the cover element extends substantially completely along the closed basic shape of the connecting element. Particularly preferably, the basic shape of the connecting element forms an opening in the volume bounded by the cover element.

[0011] Furthermore, it is proposed that the connecting element form a plurality of recesses, wherein the cover element, in an assembled state, particularly after a positive-locking connection with the connecting element by primary forming, especially injection molding, engages at least partially in the recesses. An advantageously large area for a positive lock between the connecting element and the attached cover element can be provided, particularly extending beyond an undercut limited by a maximum circumference of the connecting element. An advantageously strong and fluid-tight connection between the cover element and the connecting element can be achieved. Preferably, the recesses are spaced apart from the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part.Preferably, the recesses are at least partially, and in particular completely, enclosed by the cover element in an assembled state. The cover element is preferably designed such that, during the forming process, particularly the injection molding process, it at least partially, and in particular completely, encloses the recesses. In particular, the recesses are at least partially, and in particular at least largely, and especially preferably substantially completely, filled by the cover element in an assembled state. The recesses are preferably arranged along the closed base shape of the connecting element, in particular at uniform intervals.In particular, the recesses extend from an outer edge surface of the connecting support element to an inner edge surface of the connecting support element, wherein, in particular, the inner edge surface and the outer edge surface of the connecting support element are at least partially, and in particular largely, enclosed by the cover element in the assembled state.Preferably, the inner edge surface(s) and the outer edge surface(s) of the connecting element, each defining at least one opening of one of the recesses, are offset from an outer surface of the connecting element bordering the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part. In particular, in the assembled state, an outer surface of the cover element covering the outer edge surface(s) of the connecting element, each defining at least one opening of one of the recesses, is flush with the outer surface of the connecting element bordering the connection area of ​​the connecting element and the housing part. Preferably, the connecting element is configured such that an inner edge surface and an outer edge surface each define openings of all recesses.The recesses preferably each have a round, in particular circular or oblong, or rectangular cross-sectional area. In particular, the recesses all have a substantially identical cross-sectional area. Preferably, the connecting element forms interfaces that each at least partially define one of the recesses, wherein the interfaces are formed at an angle of at least 45°, in particular at least 60°, preferably at least 75°, and most preferably at substantially 90°, to the outer and / or inner edge surface of the connecting element that defines an opening of the respective recess. This allows, in particular, a particularly strong positive fit to the cover element, which is arranged on the connecting element via the recesses.Preferably, the recesses are arranged essentially uniformly over the circumference of the closed basic shape of the connecting carrier element.

[0012] Furthermore, it is proposed that the connecting element, along a connecting edge for connection with the housing part, has a substantially closed basic shape, particularly the aforementioned one, wherein a component formed from the cover element and the connecting element is arranged on the housing part exclusively via the connecting element. This allows for an advantageously closed design of a fluid-tight interior of the pneumatic field device, whereby the cover element can preferably form an advantageously large area of ​​the interior. In particular, the component consisting of the cover element and the connecting element is formed by the primary forming process.In particular, the assembly consisting of the cover element and the connecting element is formed by forming the cover element onto the connecting element during the primary forming process, especially by injection molding. Preferably, the assembly consists exclusively of the connecting element and the cover element, and more preferably also of an interface element, an operating element, and / or at least one optical output element of the housing device or the pneumatic field device, which is / are preferably positively engaged with the cover element. Preferably, the cover element is arranged at a distance from the housing part.In particular, the cover element and the connecting support element, as well as the connecting support element and the housing part, are each connected to one another in such a way that the volume bounded by the cover element is essentially fluid-tight to the outside with a volume bounded by the housing part. Preferably, the cover element and the connecting support element are permanently connected to one another, particularly by forming the cover element onto the connecting support element. Preferably, the housing part and the connecting support element are permanently connected to one another, particularly by a welding process, an adhesive bond, or the like. A "permanent" connection is understood to mean, in particular, a connection between two components, especially the cover element and the connecting support element and / or the housing part and the connecting support element, which is not subject to normal operation of the housing device or the connecting support element.the pneumatic field device cannot be separated from each other non-destructively or reversibly.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the connecting element and / or the housing part have a substantially edge-free basic shape, particularly along the connection area between the housing part and the connecting element. This allows for a conveniently simple, uniform, and defect-free connection of the connecting element to the housing part, especially when joining by means of a welding process. Moreover, the costly and time-consuming subsequent machining of edges and / or burrs of the cover element after forming it on the connecting element can be advantageously avoided. For example, the connecting element and / or the housing part each have a round, particularly circular, elliptical, or oblong, basic shape, or a substantially angular basic shape with rounded corner areas.Preferably, the connecting element is materially bonded to the housing part over the entire extent of the connection area between the housing part and the connecting element, and in particular without any recesses. Preferably, the connection area between the connecting element and the cover element is also free of recesses.

[0014] Furthermore, it is proposed that the housing device comprises at least one interface element designed to receive a connecting element, in particular a plug or connector, of the pneumatic field device and to enable a fluidic or electrical connection to an interior of the cover element, wherein the cover element is positively connected to the interface element by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, and wherein a connection area of ​​the interface element and the cover element is essentially fluid-tight. A connection to a component of the pneumatic field device arranged within the cover element, for example a circuit board or an amplifier, can be made through the cover element, while simultaneously ensuring that the interior of the pneumatic field device bounded by the cover element is fluid-tight.Preferably, the cover element is designed such that it is formed on the interface element during the primary forming process. Preferably, the interface element is completely enclosed by the cover element in a hypothetical plane, particularly one that is essentially perpendicular to a connection direction for the connection of the connecting element to the interface element. Preferably, the interface element forms an outer edge, particularly in this hypothetical plane that is essentially perpendicular to a connection direction for the connection of the connecting element to the interface element, on which the cover element is arranged.It is conceivable that the interface element forms at least one undercut and / or at least one recess for a positive fit with the cover element, particularly an improved one, which are preferably located on the outer edge of the interface element. Preferably, the interface element is made of a metallic material, particularly in at least one region of the outer edge. Alternative embodiments of the interface element are also conceivable, for example, where the interface element is made partially or completely of a plastic. Preferably, the interface element has at least one connection point, such as a standardized connector, a male or female plug, or the like, for connection with the connecting element, particularly in an inner part of the interface element bounded by the outer edge.Preferably, the connection point is located on an outer surface of the housing device outside the volume defined by the cover element. Preferably, the interface element has a further connection point on an inner surface of the housing device, located within the volume defined by the cover element, for a connection to another component, such as an amplifier or a printed circuit board, of the pneumatic field device. Preferably, the interface element is positively connected to the cover element by forming or molding it during the primary forming process. In particular, the connection area of ​​the interface element and the cover element extends completely and, in particular, without exception, along the outer edge of the interface element.

[0015] Furthermore, it is proposed that the housing device includes at least one control element for operating the pneumatic field device, wherein the cover element is formed at least partially, and in particular at least largely, around the at least one control element by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element defines an interior space, and the at least one control element is arranged within the interior space on an inner wall of the cover element. Integration of an operating function of the pneumatic field device into the housing device is possible, and preferably the interior space of the pneumatic field device defined by the cover element can be designed to be fluid-tight. An advantageously fluid-tight design of the housing device with an operating function is possible. Preferably, the control element is for controlling a computing unit or...A control and / or regulating unit of the pneumatic field device is provided, in particular to control and / or regulate at least one function of the pneumatic field device. The control element is preferably designed and / or arranged such that a user can detect movement and / or contact on an outer wall of the cover element facing away from the inner wall via the control element, particularly through the inner wall. In a preferred embodiment, the control element is designed as a capacitive sensor, wherein, in particular, the maximum wall thickness of the inner wall of the cover element is designed such that the user can detect movement and / or contact on the outer wall of the cover element via the control element. Preferably, the control element is positively engaged with or in the cover element by forming or molding it during the primary forming process.Preferably, the operating element is arranged at a distance from the connection area of ​​the connecting carrier element and the cover element. Preferably, the operating element is arranged at a distance from the connection area of ​​the interface element and the cover element. Preferably, the operating element enclosed in the cover element advantageously allows for trouble-free operation of the pneumatic field device despite a fluid-tight interior.

[0016] Furthermore, it is proposed that the housing device comprises at least one additional cover element, wherein the at least one additional cover element is materially bonded to the cover element in an assembled state, in particular via a welded connection, and wherein a connection area of ​​the cover element and the additional cover element is essentially fluid-tight. This allows for advantageously simple assembly of components of the pneumatic field device that are to be arranged within the housing device. Preferably, the at least one additional cover element is transparent at least partially, preferably largely, and particularly preferably essentially completely. However, it is also conceivable that the additional cover element is opaque.In particular, the additional cover element is at least partially, preferably at least in the immediate vicinity of the connection area of ​​the cover element and the additional cover element, made of a plastic, in particular the same plastic as the cover element, or of glass. In a preferred embodiment, the additional cover element is made essentially entirely of the plastic. Preferably, the cover element defines a further opening in an area spaced apart from the connecting support element. In particular, the further opening defined by the cover element is, in the assembled state, essentially completely concealed by the at least one additional cover element.It is conceivable that the interface element, the optical output element, and / or the control element are positively engaged with the further cover element, particularly via the primary forming process, wherein the further cover element is formed around the interface element, the optical output element, and / or the control element, or via a retaining extension formed by the further cover element. For example, the further cover element is materially bonded to the cover element via a weld, particularly via an ultrasonic welding process.

[0017] Furthermore, a pneumatic field device, in particular a position controller, is proposed, comprising a housing body, a housing device according to the invention, wherein the housing part is formed as part of the housing body, and an interior formed by the housing body and the housing device, wherein the interior is essentially fluid-tight from an environment surrounding the pneumatic field device, at least in a region of the housing device and in a connection region between the housing body and the housing device. Preferably, the housing body comprises one or more pneumatic connections for supplying a pneumatic medium or for outputting a pneumatic signal, for example to a pneumatic actuator or the like.Particularly preferably, the housing body together with the housing device, in particular the cover element made of plastic, the connecting carrier element and the housing part, form an interior space of the pneumatic field device that is essentially fluid-tight to the outside.

[0018] An inventive design of the pneumatic field device enables a completely fluid-tight housing consisting of the housing body and housing assembly. This advantageously prevents the ingress of gases and liquids during operation of the pneumatic field device. Furthermore, it allows for advantageously unrestricted external cleaning. In particular, an explosion-proof design of the housing consisting of the housing body and housing assembly can be advantageously implemented. Additional components for sealing the connection points, such as sealing rings or the like, can be advantageously omitted. This results in advantageously low manufacturing costs and advantageously high robustness and tightness.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the pneumatic field device comprise an optical output unit, which is arranged at least partially within a portion of the interior bounded by the cover element. The optical output unit and the cover element are designed and / or arranged such that the optical output unit is visible from outside the pneumatic field device through the transparent cover element. Unrestricted functionality of the pneumatic field device with a transparent cover element can be achieved. Preferably, despite the fluid-tight interior, unrestricted interaction between the pneumatic field device and a user can be enabled. The optical output unit is preferably designed to output at least one operating information from the pneumatic field device, in particular by means of an optical signal.For example, the operating information is configured as an operating state, a position indicator of an actuator, an error message, a value of a measurement parameter, or the like. Preferably, the optical output unit comprises at least one optical output element, such as an LED, a display, or the like, which is arranged, in particular, at least partially within the volume enclosed by the cover element and / or within the interior and visible from the outside through the cover element. It is conceivable that the optical output unit is arranged, and in particular attached, at least partially to the cover element and / or the connecting element.

[0020] Furthermore, a method for manufacturing a housing device according to the invention is proposed, wherein in one process step the connecting carrier element is provided, wherein in one process step the cover element is provided, in particular shaped, on the connecting carrier element via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element is at least partially produced in a mold arranged on the connecting carrier element during the primary forming process, wherein the cover element is formed on the connecting carrier element with a positive-locking connection to the connecting carrier element, and wherein in one process step a component consisting of the cover element and the connecting carrier element is joined to the housing part via a material-locking joining process, in particular a welding process.In particular, when the cover element is provided to the connecting carrier element via the primary forming process, especially the injection molding process, wherein the cover element is at least partially manufactured in a mold arranged on the connecting carrier element during the primary forming process, the assembly is formed from the connecting carrier element and the cover element. Preferably, when connecting the assembly consisting of the cover element and the connecting carrier element to the housing part, the connecting carrier element is materially bonded to the housing part, wherein, in particular, the cover element is arranged at a distance from the housing part. Preferably, in one process step, especially during the primary forming process or during the joining process, the cover element is attached to the connecting carrier element, the interface element and / or the operating element to the cover element.a blank forming the cover element and preferably positively connected to the cover element. Preferably, in a process step, particularly before connecting the assembly consisting of the cover element and the connecting carrier element to the housing part, at least one component of the pneumatic field device, for example a conductor element such as a cable or the like, a circuit board, an actuator or the like, is arranged within the housing device, in particular the cover element or the volume bounded by the cover element. It is conceivable that when arranging the at least one component of the pneumatic field device within the housing device, in particular the cover element or the volume bounded by the cover element, the component is attached to the connecting carrier element and / or the cover element, for example by force-fit and / or positive fit and / or by material bonding, such as via an adhesive bond or similar.Similarly, in a design of the housing device with an additional cover element, it is conceivable that in a process step, particularly after connecting the assembly consisting of the cover element and the connecting carrier element with the housing part, the additional cover element is connected to the cover element via a material-bonded joining process, in particular a welding process, such as an ultrasonic welding process, or via an adhesive bonding process, wherein the connection area of ​​the cover element and the additional cover element is essentially fluid-tight.

[0021] By means of an embodiment of the method according to the invention, a housing device with a transparent cover element can be advantageously produced simply and cost-effectively for a fluid-tight demarcation of an interior space of a pneumatic field device.

[0022] The housing device, pneumatic field device, and / or storage device according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the housing device, pneumatic field device, and / or storage device according to the invention may, to achieve a functionality described herein, comprise a different number of individual elements, components, units, and process steps than those specified herein. Furthermore, values ​​within the specified limits of the value ranges stated in this disclosure shall also be considered disclosed and freely usable. Drawings

[0023] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate an embodiment of the invention. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations.

[0024] They show: Fig. 1.: a schematic view of a pneumatic field device according to the invention with a housing device according to the invention, which is produced by a method according to the invention, Fig. 2.: a schematic sectional view of a component consisting of a cover device and a connecting carrier element of the housing device of the pneumatic field device according to the invention along a maximum height of the component, Fig. 3.: a schematic sectional view of the connecting carrier element of the housing device according to the invention, and Fig. 4.: a schematic representation of an exemplary course of the inventive method for manufacturing the housing device according to the invention. Description of the exemplary embodiment

[0025] In Fig. Figure 1 shows a pneumatic field device 10. The pneumatic field device 10 is configured as a position controller. In particular, the pneumatic field device 10, configured as a position controller, is intended for controlling a valve position via a pneumatic actuator (not shown). However, other configurations of the pneumatic field device 10 are also conceivable, for example, as part of a pump, an actuator, or the like. The pneumatic field device 10 comprises a housing body 12, a housing assembly 14, and an interior space 16 formed by the housing body 12 and the housing assembly 14, which is essentially fluid-tight from the environment 18 of the pneumatic field device 10. Furthermore, the pneumatic field device 10 comprises an optical output unit 20, an operating unit 22, a pneumatic module 24, and a computing unit 26.The optical output unit 20, the operating unit 22, the pneumatic module 24, and the computing unit 26 are each arranged essentially entirely within the interior space 16. The interior space 16 is essentially fluid-tight from the environment 18 surrounding the pneumatic field device 10, at least in a region of the housing device 14 and in a connection area between the housing body 12 and the housing device 14. The housing body 12 also includes pneumatic connections for a supply and output of compressed air, which are not shown in the figures (arranged on the opposite side).

[0026] The housing device 14 comprises a connecting support element 28, a housing part 29, which is formed as part of the housing body 12, and a cover element 30. The connecting support element 28 is essentially made entirely of a metallic material, in particular stainless steel. The connecting support element 28 is essentially formed as a one-piece metal frame. The cover element 30 is essentially made entirely of plastic, in particular polyphenylsulfone. The cover element 30 is essentially completely transparent over its entire wall thickness. Preferably, the cover element 30 and the connecting support element 28 are each formed in one piece. Alternatively, other embodiments of the cover element 30 and / or the connecting support element 28 are also conceivable, wherein, for example, the cover element 30 is only partially made of the plastic or the connecting support element 28.is transparent and / or the connecting carrier element 28 is only partially made of the metallic material. For example, it is conceivable that the connecting carrier element 28 is made of the metallic material only in the immediate vicinity of a connection area 32 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the housing part 29, in particular to form a material-fit connection with the housing part 29, and is made of a non-metallic material, for example a plastic, in a connection area 34 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the cover element 30.

[0027] The cover element 30 is positively connected to the connecting carrier element 28 by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein a connection area 34 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the cover element 30 is essentially fluid-tight. In an assembled state, the connecting carrier element 28 is materially bonded to the housing part 29, in particular by a welded joint, wherein a connection area 32 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the housing part 29 is essentially fluid-tight. The cover element 30 is manufactured by the primary forming process such that, during the fixed forming phase of the primary forming process, the cover element 30 is arranged directly on the connecting carrier element 28.The cover element 30 is manufactured by primary forming such that the positive-locking connection with the connecting carrier element 28 occurs during the fixed formation of the cover element 30 during the primary forming process. The cover element 30 is manufactured by injection molding such that the cover element 30 is directly injection-molded onto the connecting carrier element 28. The cover element 30 is manufactured such that the positive-locking connection between the connecting carrier element 28 and the cover element 30 is created during the demolding or injection molding of the cover element 30.

[0028] The connecting element 28 rests against the housing part 29 over a connecting edge 36 or a contact surface 38 of the connecting element 28. The connection area 32 of the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 is arranged on an outer surface of the housing device 14 or the pneumatic field device 10. The connection area 32 of the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 is designed as a weld. Alternatively, a material-bonded adhesive connection between the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 is also conceivable, wherein, in particular, the connection area 32 of the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 is designed as an adhesive surface or adhesive edge.An outer surface 40 of the connecting carrier element 28 and an outer surface 42 of the housing part 29 in the connection area 32 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the housing part 29 are, in particular in the mounted state of the connecting carrier element 28 on the housing part 29, wherein in particular the connecting carrier element 28 is materially bonded to the housing part 29, essentially flush with the surface.

[0029] The cover element 30 is essentially made entirely of a transparent plastic. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cover element 30 is made of a transparent plastic only in one section and of a different, in particular non-transparent, plastic in another section. The cover element 30 is designed such that in a transparent section of the cover element 30, a volume bounded by the cover element 30, in particular by the entire wall thickness of the cover element 30 within this section, is visible from the outside. The cover element 30 is designed such that it bounds an at least partially enclosed volume 44. The cover element 30 is open on one side, with the connecting support element 28 being arranged, in particular, on the open side. The cover element 30 is, in particular, cup-shaped.The connecting element 28 is arranged on an edge of the cover element 30 that defines an opening of the cover element 30. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the cover element 30 has more than one opening, wherein the housing device comprises more than one connecting element 28, each of which is arranged on an opening of the cover element 30.

[0030] The optical output unit 20 is arranged at least partially within a portion of the interior 16 bounded by the cover element 30, wherein the optical output unit 20 and the cover element 30 are designed and / or arranged such that the optical output unit 20 is visible through the transparent cover element 30 from outside the pneumatic field device 10. The optical output unit 20 is preferably designed to output at least one operating information from the pneumatic field device 10, in particular by means of an optical signal. For example, the operating information may be configured as an operating state, as a position indicator of an actuator, as an error message, as a value of a measurement parameter, or the like.The optical output unit 20 comprises a plurality of optical output elements 46, in particular LEDs, for indicating an open position and a further optical output element 48, in particular an LED, for indicating the operating status of the pneumatic field device 10. Alternatively, other configurations of the optical output unit 20, in particular of one or more optical output elements 46, 48, are conceivable. The optical output elements 46, 48 of the optical output unit 20 are each arranged within the volume 44 enclosed by the cover element 30. The optical output elements 46, 48 of the optical output unit 20 are arranged within the interior space 16 and are visible from the outside through the cover element 30. The optical output unit 20 is arranged on a circuit board 50 of the computing unit 26.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the optical output unit 20 is at least partially arranged, in particular attached, to the cover element 30 and / or the connecting carrier element 28.

[0031] In Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic sectional view of a component consisting of the connecting support element 28 and the cover element 30, with the housing part 29 being shown only as an indication. The connecting support element 28 has a substantially closed basic shape along the connecting edge 36 for connection with the housing part 29 and along the contact surface 38, wherein the component formed from the cover element 30 and the connecting support element 28 is arranged on the housing part 29 exclusively via the connecting support element 28. The cover element 30 is spaced apart from the housing part 29. The cover element 30 and the connecting support element 28, as well as the connecting support element 28 and the housing part 29, are each connected to one another in such a way that the volume 44 bounded by the cover element 30 is connected to the outside in a substantially fluid-tight manner with a volume bounded by the housing part 29.The cover element 30 and the connecting support element 28 are permanently joined to one another, in particular by forming the cover element 30 onto the connecting support element 28. The housing part 29 and the connecting support element 28 are permanently joined to one another, in particular by welding.

[0032] The connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 each have a substantially edgeless basic shape along the connection area 32 of the housing part 29 and the connecting element 28. The connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 each have a substantially angular, in particular square, basic shape with rounded corner areas along the connection area 32 of the housing part 29 and the connecting element 28. The connecting element 28 is materially bonded and, in particular, without recesses, connected to the housing part 29 over the entire extent of the connection area 32 of the housing part 29 and the connecting element 28. The connection area 34 of the connecting element 28 and the cover element 30 is designed without recesses.

[0033] The housing device 14 comprises an interface element 52, which is designed to receive a connecting element, in particular a plug, of the pneumatic field device 10 (not shown in the figures) and to enable a fluidic or electrical connection to an interior of the cover element 30 or the volume 44, wherein the cover element 30 is positively connected to the interface element 52 by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein a connection area 54 of the interface element 52 and the cover element 30 is essentially fluid-tight. The cover element 30 is designed such that the cover element 30 is formed on the interface element 52 during the primary forming process.The interface element 52 is completely enclosed by the cover element 30 in a fictitious plane, which is formed in particular essentially perpendicular to a connection direction 56 for connecting the connecting element to the interface element 52. The interface element 52 forms an outer edge 58, on which the cover element 30 is arranged, particularly in this fictitious plane which is formed essentially perpendicular to a connection direction 56 for connecting the connecting element to the interface element 52. The interface element 52 has an undercut and several recesses (indicated in the figures; analogous to the connecting carrier element 28) for a positive fit with the cover element 30, which are arranged in particular on the outer edge 58 of the interface element 52.The interface element 52 is made of a metallic material, particularly at least in a region of its outer edge 58. Alternative embodiments of the interface element 52 are also conceivable, for example, in which the interface element 52 is made partially or completely of a plastic. The interface element 52 has a connection point 60 for connection with the connecting element, particularly in an inner part of the interface element 52 bounded by its outer edge 58. This connection point 60 is designed, in particular, as a plug receptacle. The connection point 60 is located on an outer surface of the housing device 14, outside the volume 44 bounded by the cover element 30.The interface element 52 has a further connection point 62 on an inner surface of the housing device 14, located within the volume 44 bounded by the cover element 30, for a connection with another component of the pneumatic field device 10, in particular with the circuit board 50 of the computing unit 26. The interface element 52 is positively connected to the cover element 30 by forming or molding the cover element 30 during the primary forming process. The connection area 54 of the interface element 52 and the cover element 30 extends completely and, in particular, without exception, along the outer edge 58 of the interface element 52.

[0034] The housing device 14 comprises two operating elements 64 for operating the pneumatic field device 10, wherein the cover element 30 is formed at least partially, and in particular at least largely, around the operating elements 64 by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element 30 defines an interior space 66, and wherein the operating elements 64 are arranged within the interior space 66 on an inner wall 68 of the cover element 30. The operating elements 64 are preferably designed as part of the operating unit 22. Preferably, the operating elements 64 are connected via one or more line elements (not shown in the figure) to a control module of the operating unit 22 or the computing unit 26. In particular, the cover element 30 defines a passage (not shown in the figures) from the interior space 66 into the volume 44 for connecting the operating elements 64.Alternatively, a different number of controls (64) is also conceivable.

[0035] It is conceivable that the housing device 14 comprises at least one further cover element 82 (in Fig. 2 schematically shown), wherein the further cover element 82 is at least partially transparent. In such a configuration, the further cover element 82 is materially bonded, in particular via a welded connection, to the cover element 30, wherein a connection area 84 of the cover element 30 and the further cover element 82 is essentially fluid-tight. The further cover element 82 can be configured as a cover for an opening of the cover element 30 (see Figure 2). Fig. 2).

[0036] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the connecting carrier element 28, in particular without the cover element 30. The connecting carrier element 28 forms an undercut 70, wherein the cover element 30, in an assembled state, in particular after a positive-locking connection with the connecting carrier element 28 by the primary forming process, in particular the injection molding process, encloses the undercut 70 (see Figure 3). Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) The undercut 70 is spaced apart from the connection area 32 of the connecting support element 28 and the housing part 29, or from a contact surface 38 of the connecting support element 28 for connection with the housing part 29. The connection area 32 of the connecting support element 28 and the housing part 29, or the contact surface 38 of the connecting support element 28 for connection with the housing part 29, is spaced apart from the connection area 34 of the cover element 30 and the connecting support element 28, and spaced apart from the undercut 70. The connecting support element 28 has the outer surface 40, which is arranged between the two connection areas 32, 34, in particular the connection area 32 of the connecting support element 28 and the housing part 29 and the connection area 34 of the connecting support element 28 and the cover element 30.The undercut 70 is at least partially, and in particular completely, enclosed by the cover element 30. The cover element 30 is designed such that, during demolding in the primary forming process, in particular the injection molding process, it substantially completely encloses the undercut 70. The connecting carrier element 28 has a substantially closed basic shape, with the undercut 70 extending substantially completely along the closed basic shape. The connection area 34 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the cover element 30 extends substantially completely along the closed basic shape of the connecting carrier element 28. The basic shape of the connecting carrier element 28 spans an opening of the volume 44 bounded by the cover element 30.

[0037] The connecting element 28 forms a plurality of recesses 72, wherein the cover element 30, in an assembled state, particularly after a positive-locking connection with the connecting element 28 by the primary forming process, especially the injection molding process, engages at least partially in the recesses 72. The recesses 72 are spaced apart from the connection area 32 of the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29 or the contact surface 38. The recesses 72 are substantially completely enclosed by the cover element 30. The cover element 30 is designed such that, during demolding during the primary forming process, especially the injection molding process, the cover element 30 substantially completely encloses the recesses 72. The recesses 72 are each substantially completely filled by the cover element 30.The recesses 72 are arranged at regular intervals along the closed base shape of the connecting element 28. Each recess 72 extends from an outer edge surface 74 of the connecting element 28 to an inner edge surface 76 of the connecting element 28, wherein, in particular, the inner surface 76 and the outer surface 74 of the connecting element 28 are at least partially, and in particular largely, enclosed by the cover element 30 in the assembled state. The inner edge surface 76 and the outer edge surface 74 of the connecting element 28, which each define openings of the recesses 72, are offset from an outer surface 40 of the connecting element 28 that borders the connection area 32 of the connecting element 28 and the housing part 29.An outer surface 43 of the cover element 30, which covers the outer edge surface 74 of the connecting carrier element 28, which in particular limits at least one opening of one of the recesses 72, is flush with the outer surface 40 of the connecting carrier element 28 which borders the connection area 32 of the connecting carrier element 28 and the housing part 29 (see . Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) The connecting element 28 is designed such that the inner edge surface 76 and the outer edge surface 74 of the connecting element 28 each define an opening of the recesses 72. The recesses 72 each have a circular cross-sectional area. However, other configurations of the recesses 72 are also conceivable, for example, with an oblong or rectangular cross-sectional area. The recesses 72 all have a substantially identical cross-sectional area. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the recesses 72 differ from one another. The connecting element 28 forms boundary surfaces 78, each of which at least partially defines one of the recesses 72, wherein the boundary surfaces 78 are each formed at an angle 80 of substantially 90° to the outer edge surface 74 and to the inner edge surface 76 of the connecting element 28.

[0038] In particular, the ones in the Fig. The recesses 72 shown in Figures 1 to 3 are each designed as circular through-holes. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the recesses 72 are each designed as elongated holes, in particular with an elongated or racetrack-shaped cross-sectional area. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the boundary surfaces 78 of the recesses 72 all or groups of them have an identical angle to a reference plane, wherein the recesses 72 are produced in particular by a milling and / or drilling process by machining at an identical angle to the tool, in particular in a single process step. This enables advantageously fast, simple and cost-effective production of the connecting carrier element 28.

[0039] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary sequence of a method 100 for manufacturing the housing device 14 of the pneumatic field device 10. In a process step 102 of the method 100, the connecting carrier element 28 is provided. In a further process step 104 of the method 100, the cover element 30 is provided to the connecting carrier element 28 by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element 30 is formed with a positive-locking connection to the connecting carrier element 28. Preferably, during the primary forming process or during the joining process, the cover element 30 with the connecting carrier element 28, the interface element 52, and the operating elements 64 are arranged on the cover element 30 or a blank forming the cover element 30 and positively connected to the cover element 30.In a further process step 106 of method 100, at least one component of the pneumatic field device 10, in particular the line element and / or further line elements, such as cables or the like, the circuit board 50, an actuator or the like, is arranged within the housing device 14, in particular the cover element 30 or the volume 44 bounded by the cover element 30. In a further process step 108 of method 100, a unit consisting of the cover element 30 and the connecting carrier element 28 is connected to the housing part 29 by a material-bonded joining process, in particular a welding process. Preferably, when connecting the unit consisting of the cover element 30 and the connecting carrier element 28 to the housing part 29, the connecting carrier element 28 is material-bonded to the housing part 29, wherein in particular the cover element 30 is arranged at a distance from the housing part 29.It is conceivable that in a further procedural step 110 of procedure 100 (in . Fig. 4 (optionally shown), in particular after connecting the assembly consisting of the cover element 30 and the connecting carrier element 28 with the housing part 29, a further cover element 82 is connected to the cover element 30 via a welded connection, for example an ultrasonic welding process, wherein the connection area 84 of the cover element 30 and the further cover element 82 is essentially fluid-tight. Reference sign 10 Pneumatic field device 12 Housing bodies 14 Housing device 16 Interior 18 surroundings 20 Optical output unit 22 Control unit 24 Pneumatic module 26 computing units 28 Connecting beam element 29 Housing part 30 Cover element 32 Connection area 34 Connection area 36 Connecting edge 38 berths 40 outdoor area 42 outdoor area 43 outdoor area 44 volumes 46 Optical output element 48 Optical output element 50 circuit boards 52 Interface element 54 Connection area 56 Connection direction 58 outer edge 60 liaison point 62 liaison point 64 Control element 66 Interior 68 Interior wall 70 Undercut 72 Exclusion 74 Outer edge area 76 Inner edge area 78 Interface 80 angle 82 Additional cover element 84 Connection area 100 procedures 102 Procedure step 104 Procedure step 106 Procedure step 108 Procedure step 110 Procedure step

Claims

[1] Housing device for a pneumatic field device (10), in particular a position controller, comprising a connecting carrier element (28), a housing part (29), which is in particular designed as part of a housing body (12) of the pneumatic field device (10), and a cover element (30), wherein the connecting carrier element (28) is at least partially made of a metallic material, and wherein the cover element (30) is at least partially transparent. characterized by, that the cover element (30) is positively connected to the connecting support element (28) via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, which is provided for at least partial production of the cover element (30) in a mold arranged on the connecting support element (28), wherein a connection area (34) of the connecting support element (28) and the cover element (30) is essentially fluid-tight, and that the connecting support element (28) is materially connected to the housing part (29) in an assembled state, in particular via a welded connection, wherein a connection area (32) of the connecting support element (28) and the housing part (29) is essentially fluid-tight. [2] Housing device according to claim 1, characterized by, that the connecting carrier element (28) forms at least one undercut (70), wherein the cover element (30) in an assembled state, in particular after a positive-locking connection with the connecting carrier element (28) by the primary forming process, in particular the injection molding process, encloses the undercut (70). [3] Housing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the connecting carrier element (28) forms a plurality of recesses (72), wherein the cover element (30) in an assembled state, in particular after a positive-locking connection with the connecting carrier element (28) by the primary forming process, in particular the injection molding process, engages at least partially in the recesses (72). [4] Housing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the connecting support element (28) has a substantially closed basic shape along a connecting edge (36) and / or a contact surface (38) for connection with the housing part (29), wherein a structural unit formed from the cover element (30) and the connecting support element (28) is arranged on the housing part (29) exclusively via the connecting support element (28). [5] Housing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the connecting support element (28) and / or the housing part (29) in particular each along the connection area (32) of the housing part (29) and the connecting support element (28) have / have a substantially edge-free basic shape. [6] Housing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one interface element (52) which is provided to accommodate a connecting element of the pneumatic field device (10) and to enable a fluid-technical or electrical connection into an interior of the cover element (30), wherein the cover element (30) is positively connected to the interface element (52) by a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein a connection area (34) of the interface element (52) and the cover element (30) is essentially fluid-tight. [7] Housing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one control element (64) which is provided for operating the pneumatic field device (10), wherein the cover element (30) is formed at least partially, in particular at least largely, around the at least one control element (64) by means of a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element (30) defines an interior space (66), wherein the at least one control element (64) is arranged within the interior space (66) on an inner wall (68) of the cover element (30). [8] Housing device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byat least one further cover element (82), which is at least partially transparent, wherein the at least one further cover element (82) is materially connected to the cover element (30) in an assembled state, in particular via a welded connection, wherein a connection area (84) of the cover element (30) and the further cover element (82) is essentially fluid-tight. [9] Pneumatic field device, in particular position controller, comprising a housing body (12), a housing device (14) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing part (29) is formed as part of the housing body (12), and an interior space (16) formed by the housing body (12) and the housing device (14), wherein the interior space (16) is essentially fluid-tight from an environment (18) surrounding the pneumatic field device (10) at least in a region of the housing device (14) and in a connection region between the housing body (12) and the housing device (14). [10] Pneumatic field device, in particular position controller, according to claim 9, characterized byan optical output unit (20) which is arranged at least partially within a part of the interior (16) bounded by the cover element (30), wherein the optical output unit (20) and the cover element (30) are designed and / or arranged such that the optical output unit (20) is visible from outside the pneumatic field device (10) through the transparent cover element (30). [11] A method for manufacturing a housing device (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 comprises the following method steps: - Providing the connecting element (28), - Providing the cover element (30) on the connecting carrier element (28) via a primary forming process, in particular an injection molding process, wherein the cover element (30) is at least partially produced in a mold arranged on the connecting carrier element (28) during the primary forming process, wherein the cover element (30) is formed on the connecting carrier element (28) with a positive-locking connection to the connecting carrier element (28), - Connecting a component unit consisting of the cover element (30) and the connecting carrier element (28) to the housing part (29) via a material-bonded joining process, in particular a welding process.

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