Valve monitoring device for a valve, valve with the valve monitoring device and system consisting of a plurality of valves

Abstract

Valve monitoring device for a valve, comprising a sensor unit for detecting the presence of a medium at a sealing point of the valve, which is formed between an actuating rod and a housing part of the valve, and a holding unit for arranging the sensor unit at a distance from the housing part and at a distance from the actuating rod in a proximity to the sealing point, wherein the sensor unit and the holding unit are each configured to be arranged at least partially around the actuating rod of the valve, wherein the sensor unit is configured to detect the presence of the medium at the sealing point by a change in at least one electrical parameter, which can be determined via at least one sensor element of the sensor unit, in an intermediate area between the housing part and the at least one sensor element.

Description

State of the art

[0001] Valves are used in process plants to control a wide variety of media in pipelines. Most valves comprise a movable valve element, which closes or opens a throttle point of the control valve as required. The valve element is moved by an actuator arranged outside the medium and outside a volume of the valve through which the medium flows. The actuator is usually operatively connected to the valve element via at least one actuating rod, which transmits either a rotary or lifting movement to the valve element. The actuating rod must be guided from the outside through a valve housing into the volume through which the medium flows. This creates a sealing point between the housing and the actuating rod, where escape of the medium must be prevented. So-called packings are used for this purpose, which utilize a wide variety of materials and geometries.An unnoticed leak of medium can cause damage to the valve and other parts of the system. Furthermore, an unintentional and unnoticed leak of medium at the valve can alter the process conditions for the system's operation.

[0002] The object of the invention is to provide a valve monitoring device by means of which a leakage of medium, in particular at least electrically conductive medium, at the sealing point between the actuating rod and the housing can be advantageously easily and directly detected. Advantages of the invention

[0003] The invention is based on a valve monitoring device for a valve, comprising a sensor unit for detecting the presence of a medium at a sealing point of the valve, which is formed between an actuating rod and a housing part of the valve, and comprising a holding unit for arranging the sensor unit at a distance from the housing part and at a distance from the actuating rod in a vicinity of the sealing point, wherein the sensor unit and the holding unit are each designed to be arranged at least partially around the actuating rod of the valve, wherein the sensor unit is designed to detect the presence of the medium at the sealing point by a change in at least one electrical characteristic variable that can be determined via at least one sensor element of the sensor unit in an intermediate region between the housing part and the at least one sensor element. The valve is preferably designed as part of a process engineering system orintended for use in a process engineering plant. It is conceivable that the valve is designed as part of a test bench for examining sealing points or packings at sealing points of valves. In particular, the at least one characteristic variable is designed as a value that can be detected and / or determined by means of the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, and which changes when the medium occurs at the sealing point. The at least one characteristic variable is designed as an electrical characteristic variable, wherein the valve monitoring device, in particular the holding unit and the sensor unit, is / are preferably designed such that a change in the characteristic variable occurs when the medium occurs at the sealing point through an electrical interaction of the sensor element with the medium in the intermediate region.Preferably, the at least one characteristic variable is configured as an electrical resistance, a capacitance, an electrical current, and / or an electrical voltage between the housing part and the sensor element, which preferably changes when the medium occurs at the sealing point. Preferably, the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, is configured such that it outputs a signal or changes or adapts a signal when the at least one characteristic variable changes, in particular when the medium occurs at the sealing point.

[0004] The housing part is preferably made of an electrically conductive material, in particular a metal, in particular at least in a region of the housing part adjacent to the intermediate region. The holding unit is preferably designed as a non-conductor. The holding unit is preferably designed such that the at least one sensor element is arranged at a distance from the housing part and in particular is arranged or fastened to the housing part essentially exclusively via the holding unit. The holding unit is preferably designed such that the at least one sensor element is arranged electrically insulated from the housing part. The holding unit preferably bears against the housing part. The holding unit preferably supports the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, on the housing part. The intermediate region ora gap within the intermediate region is filled with or formed with a non-conductive substance, preferably gas. For example, it is conceivable that the intermediate region or the gap is filled with air. In particular, it is conceivable that the intermediate region or the gap is open to the outside. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the holding unit comprises an insulating element for electrically insulating the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, relative to the housing part, which insulating element is arranged between the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, and the housing part. Preferably, the at least one holding element of the holding unit is designed as an insulating element. In particular, it is conceivable that the insulating element is arranged in the intermediate region and preferably at least partially delimits the gap.

[0005] The adjusting rod preferably extends through the housing part in a region of the sealing point. The housing part preferably delimits a passage for the adjusting rod, wherein the sealing point is formed on an inner wall of the housing part delimiting the passage, in particular in a state in which the adjusting rod is partially arranged within the passage. In particular, in a region between the adjusting rod and the housing part, a sealing pack is arranged within the passage, which is provided for sealing the sealing point. The sealing point extends in particular completely around a cross-section of the adjusting rod, preferably perpendicular to a central axis of the adjusting rod. The passage preferably extends along a central axis of the housing part.

[0006] It is conceivable for the sensor unit to comprise a plurality of sensor elements. Preferably, a plurality of the sensor elements of the sensor unit are designed to be substantially identical, in particular with regard to their mode of operation and / or their dimensions. It is conceivable for the sensor unit to comprise a plurality of differently designed sensor elements. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the sensor unit to comprise a plurality of sensor elements which are designed to be substantially identical, in particular with regard to their mode of operation and / or their dimensions, and which are arranged individually or in groups at different distances from the housing part, in particular via the holding unit. As a result, different sensor elements can detect different quantities of medium in the event of a leak at the sealing point.

[0007] The holding unit preferably comprises at least one holding element, one side of which is supported on the housing part and delimits at least one receptacle for the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element. The at least one holding element preferably forms fixing means which hold the at least one holding element and in particular the at least one sensor element held thereon to the housing part in a material-locking, positive-locking and / or non-positive manner. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the holding unit to comprise fixing means which are provided for connection to the at least one holding element and which hold the at least one holding element and in particular the at least one sensor element held thereon to the housing part in a positive-locking and / or non-positive manner. The at least one holding element is preferably formed as a single piece.Preferably, the at least one retaining element is designed such that the at least one sensor element is held in the receptacle in a materially, positively, and / or force-fitting manner. Particularly preferably, the retaining unit comprises precisely one retaining element.

[0008] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, is designed such that the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, extends at least largely, preferably substantially completely, around a central axis of the feedthrough in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device. The sensor unit is preferably designed such that the at least one sensor element of the sensor unit extends at least largely, preferably substantially completely, around the central axis of the feedthrough. In an embodiment in which the sensor unit comprises more than one sensor element, the sensor elements are arranged substantially evenly distributed around the central axis of the feedthrough.

[0009] The intermediate region preferably extends from an upper side of the housing part facing the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, and / or the sensor unit, away from the latter to a surface of the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, facing the housing part. The intermediate region preferably borders an outer side of the holding unit, in particular the holding element, which has the fixing means.

[0010] The valve monitoring device preferably has a central axis, which extends in particular substantially parallel to a longitudinal extension or a central axis of the actuating rod and / or to the central axis of the housing part. In particular, the valve monitoring device, in particular the holding unit and the sensor unit, are designed or arranged in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device such that the central axis of the valve monitoring device encompasses the longitudinal extension or the central axis of the actuating rod and / or the central axis of the housing part. Particularly preferably, the valve monitoring device, in particular the holding unit and the sensor unit, extends around the central axis of the valve monitoring device.Preferably, the valve monitoring device, in particular the holding unit and the sensor unit, is arranged in the mounted state of the valve monitoring device at a distance from the central axis of the valve monitoring device and particularly preferably from the actuating rod.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the valve monitoring device comprises an evaluation unit designed to convert and / or evaluate signals from the sensor unit, preferably to determine the presence of medium at the sealing point. The evaluation unit, particularly regardless of its arrangement, is designed to evaluate at least one detected value of the characteristic variable and / or a detected temporal profile of the characteristic variable. The evaluation unit is preferably electrically and / or electronically connected to the sensor unit.Preferably, the evaluation unit is designed such that, in particular to determine an occurrence of the medium at the sealing point, at least one value of the characteristic variable detected by the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, or a plurality of values ​​of the characteristic variable detected by the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, is compared with at least one stored limit value and / or a stored value range of the characteristic variable. Preferably, the evaluation unit is designed such that, if there is a significant deviation of the at least one value of the detected characteristic variable from the limit value or if the limit value is reached, an occurrence of the medium at the sealing point is determined.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the evaluation unit is designed such that an occurrence of the medium at the sealing point is determined if at least one value or at least a certain number of values ​​are read out for the recorded characteristic variable which lie outside a stored value range or lie within a stored value range. The evaluation unit is preferably designed such that when an occurrence of medium at the sealing point is determined by means of the readout unit, at least one output signal is generated or adapted to a higher-level control of the valve or a system, for example the process engineering plant. It is conceivable that the evaluation unit is designed to receive signals from other sensor units of the valve and / or the process engineering plant.Preferably, the evaluation unit is designed to use the signals from the other sensor unit to determine a leak at the sealing point. For example, signals from vibration, pressure, and / or temperature sensors and / or optical sensors or the like can be included to determine a leak at the sealing point.

[0012] An inventive design of the valve monitoring device enables advantageously simple and direct monitoring of the sealing point for the presence of a medium, in particular a liquid medium. This allows for an advantageously cost-effective valve monitoring device to be provided. In particular, a valve monitoring device can be provided that can advantageously detect the presence of the medium independently of mechanical forces and / or deformations in the region of the sealing point caused by escaping medium. As a result, the presence of the medium at the sealing point can advantageously be detected even in the case of minor leaks at the sealing point that have not yet caused serious damage to the valve.

[0013] Furthermore, it is proposed that the holding unit is designed to hold the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, in a position spaced from a provided position of the actuating rod and spaced from the housing part. Interference signals when detecting the at least one electrical characteristic can advantageously be prevented. An advantageously firmly defined sensor zone of the sensor unit for detecting the characteristic can be achieved in the intermediate region. Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is arranged at a distance from the provided position of the actuating rod. Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is designed such that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is supported or fixed to the housing part in such a way that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is arranged at a distance from the provided position of the actuating rod.Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is designed such that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is supported on the housing part at least against a movement relative to the housing part, in particular perpendicular to the central axis of the valve monitoring device and / or obliquely to the central axis, or is fixed in a force-fitting and / or form-fitting manner.

[0014] It is also proposed that the holding unit and the sensor unit each form a substantially circular recess for the passage of the actuating rod, wherein the holding unit and the sensor unit are formed at least largely, in particular substantially entirely, around a central axis extending through the receptacle, in particular the central axis of the valve monitoring device. Advantageously reliable monitoring of the sealing point for the presence of medium can be achieved, in particular since substantially the entire opening of the sealing point can be covered by the intermediate region. Preferably, the recesses of the holding unit and the sensor unit each extend around the central axis of the valve monitoring device.In particular, the holding unit and the sensor unit are designed such that the recesses of the holding unit and the sensor unit, particularly in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device, are arranged axially one behind the other along their respective central axes. In particular, the central axis of the valve monitoring device, particularly in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device, forms a central axis of the substantially circular recesses of the holding unit and the sensor unit.

[0015] It is further proposed that the holding unit comprise at least one, in particular the at least one previously mentioned, holding element, which forms at least one intermediate space in the intermediate region between the housing part and the at least one sensor element, which intermediate space is in particular fluidically connected to the sealing point. This enables a structurally advantageously simple design. This advantageously enables low manufacturing costs. Preferably, the holding unit and / or the sensor unit are / is designed such that the intermediate space and / or the intermediate region extends substantially completely circumferentially around the central axis of the valve monitoring device.Preferably, the holding unit and / or the sensor unit are / is designed such that the intermediate region and / or the intermediate space parallel to the central axis of the valve monitoring device has, for example, an average thickness of at most 5 mm, preferably at most 3 mm, and particularly preferably at most 1 mm, wherein the thickness is in particular an average distance between the at least one sensor element and an intended position of the housing part or the housing part, in particular in the assembled state of the valve monitoring device. In particular, the average thickness of the intermediate region or of the at least one intermediate space is to be selected depending on a diameter of the actuating rod of the valve. Such a design can bring about a capillary effect for a medium occurring at the sealing point, wherein the medium is drawn in particular into the intermediate region or the at least one intermediate space.This advantageously makes it easy to detect even small amounts of escaping medium. In particular, when the sensor unit is designed with more than one sensor element, it is conceivable for the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, to form more than one intermediate space around the recess of the holding unit, each of which extends between one of the sensor elements and the intended position of the housing part or the housing part, in particular in the assembled state of the valve monitoring device. Preferably, the intermediate space(s) extend(s), in particular viewed along the central axis, between the fixing means of the holding unit. In the following, “the central axis” is to be understood as meaning the central axis of the valve monitoring device, whereby for features with a different central axis, a reference is made to the component forming the respective central axis.Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, viewed along the central axis, has a support surface for engaging the housing part in a region adjacent to the at least one intermediate space. The support surface preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the central axis. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the holding unit, in particular the holding element, to form a support surface that is oriented at an angle other than 90° to the central axis and is preferably provided for aligning the holding unit, in particular the holding element, centrally around the central axis by means of a positive fit with a surface of the housing part.Preferably, the support surface is designed such that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is guided into a holding position when the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is arranged on the housing part via interaction with the surface of the housing part, wherein the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is arranged in the holding position at a distance from the intended position of the adjusting rod or the adjusting rod and / or centrally around the central axis.

[0016] It is further proposed that the holding unit comprise at least two holding extensions, wherein the holding unit is designed to hold the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, centered in a position relative to the actuating rod and / or a central axis via the at least two holding extensions. This can enable advantageously simple and rapid assembly of the valve monitoring device, in particular without additional fastening means and / or further components. Advantageously low manufacturing and assembly costs for the valve monitoring device can be achieved. Preferably, the holding extensions each delimit the recess at least partially. For example, the holding extensions are each designed as a bead, as a pin or stud, as a groove or the like.It is conceivable for the at least one holding element to form a basic shape which at least partially delimits the recess via at least one outer shape, wherein one or more holding extensions are formed by an outer surface and / or a wall of the basic shape of the holding element. Preferably, the at least two holding extensions are arranged substantially uniformly distributed around the central axis. Preferably, the holding extensions are formed integrally with one, in particular the at least one, holding element of the holding unit. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one holding element is at least partially, in particular completely, plate-shaped, wherein one or more holding extensions are formed as, in particular, elongated walls protruding from a main extension plane of the holding element. Preferably, the at least one sensor element rests against the at least two holding extensions.Preferably, the at least two retaining extensions are arranged, viewed along the central axis, on an outer edge of the retaining unit, in particular of the at least one retaining element, particularly one facing away from the central axis. This advantageously saves installation space in the area around the actuating rod. This allows the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, to be arranged closer to the actuating rod or the sealing point, which enables earlier detection, particularly when medium is present.

[0017] It is also proposed that the at least one sensor element be designed as a one-piece sheet metal part. This enables an advantageously simple and cost-effective design of the valve monitoring device, in particular of the sensor unit. Preferably, the sensor unit comprises precisely one sensor element, which preferably extends at least largely, in particular substantially completely, preferably with the exception of a bending opening, around the central axis. In particular, the bending opening of the sensor element is designed as a recess formed by the sensor element, which extends completely through the sensor element radially to the central axis. In particular, the sensor element, in particular in a mounted state arranged on the holding unit, has two ends, viewed along a circumferential direction around the central axis, which ends are separated from one another by the bending opening or the recess.The bending opening is preferably provided to arrange the sensor element elastically around the actuating rod or the central axis on the holding unit, in particular without a cumbersome pulling over along the longitudinal extent of the actuating rod. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the sensor unit to comprise a plurality of sensor elements. Preferably, the holding unit and the sensor unit are designed such that the sensor elements, in particular in a mounted state arranged on the holding unit, are arranged substantially uniformly distributed around the central axis. Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, is designed such that the sensor elements are arranged spaced apart from one another. In particular, the holding unit, in particular the at least one holding element, delimits a plurality of recesses, each of which is provided to receive one of the sensor elements.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the at least one sensor element is designed as a flexible printed circuit board, in particular as an FPC (Flexible Circuit Board).

[0018] It is further proposed that the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, is designed such that the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, can be attached to the actuating rod by a substantially elastic deformation of the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element. This can enable advantageously simple and rapid assembly of the valve monitoring device, in particular without additional fastening means and / or further components. Advantageously low manufacturing and assembly costs for the valve monitoring device can be achieved. Particularly preferably, this enables assembly of the valve monitoring device regardless of an assembly state and / or a position of the actuating rod on the housing part.The valve monitoring device can advantageously be mounted on the valve without having to remove the actuating rod and / or other components typically connected to the actuating rod, such as a valve drive. This advantageously results in low assembly costs and short assembly times for the valve monitoring device. Preferably, the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, particularly in a configuration with precisely one sensor element, is designed such that the sensor element can be arranged on the actuating rod or around the central axis by bending the ends of the sensor element in the region of the bending opening in opposite directions, across the thereby enlarged bending opening.In particular, the sensor element is designed such that it elastically returns to its original shape, in particular after bending, during which the bending opening reaches a maximum width of at most 50% of a maximum longitudinal extent of the sensor element, wherein in particular the sensor element is arranged at least largely, in particular substantially completely, around the actuating rod or around the central axis. In particular, the sensor element is designed essentially in the shape of a circular ring segment when viewed along the central axis. Preferably, a ratio of an average thickness of the sensor element, which is designed in particular parallel to the central axis, to an average longitudinal extent of the sensor element, which is designed in particular perpendicular to the central axis, is at most 5, preferably at most 10 and particularly preferably at most 15. This allows an advantageously high elasticity of the sensor element for arrangement on the holding unit oraround the actuating rod, which in particular results in an advantageously small force required to mount the sensor unit.

[0019] Furthermore, it is proposed that the holding unit comprises one, in particular precisely one, holding element which, in an assembled state, extends at least largely around the actuating rod and / or a central axis. This allows an advantageously cost-effective design of the holding unit and, at the same time, detection of any medium occurring across the entire opening of the sealing point. Preferably, the holding element forms the fixing means. Preferably, the fixing means are formed integrally with the holding element. The fixing means are preferably designed as at least two, preferably at least three, fixing extensions. Preferably, the fixing means are provided for engagement with the housing part.The fixing means are particularly preferably designed such that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is held in a form-fitting manner on the housing part, at least with respect to rotation or movement in a plane oriented substantially perpendicular to the central axis. Alternatively, other designs of the fixing means are conceivable, for example as a screw connection to the housing part or as an adhesive connection to the housing part. The fixing means are preferably arranged or designed at a distance from the intended position of the adjusting rod or from the adjusting rod. In a preferred design, the fixing means are designed as pin-shaped extensions on the holding unit, in particular the holding element, which are each intended to be placed on an outer wall of the housing part and together hold the holding unit and the sensor unit in a position relative to the central axis or the central axis via an at least form-fitting connection to the housing part.to fix the adjusting rod to the housing part.

[0020] It is also proposed that the holding unit, in particular a holding element of the holding unit, is designed such that the holding unit, in particular a holding element of the holding unit, can be attached to the actuating rod by a substantially elastic deformation of the holding unit, in particular of the holding element. This can enable advantageously simple and rapid assembly of the valve monitoring device, in particular without additional fastening means and / or further components. Advantageously low manufacturing and assembly costs for the valve monitoring device can be achieved. Particularly preferably, this makes it possible to mount the valve monitoring device independently of an assembly state and / or a position of the actuating rod on the housing part.The valve monitoring device can advantageously be mounted on the valve without having to remove the actuating rod and / or other components usually connected to the actuating rod, for example a drive for the valve. This advantageously makes it possible to achieve low assembly costs and advantageously short assembly times for the valve monitoring device. Preferably, at least one holding element of the holding unit is at least partially designed to be essentially dimensionally elastic, so that the holding unit, in particular the holding element, can be arranged on the housing part via an elastic deformation around the actuating rod, wherein in particular the holding unit, in particular the holding element, is brought into an assembled state. In an assembled state, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, preferably encloses the central axis at least for the most part, in particular essentially completely.The holding unit preferably comprises precisely one holding element, which preferably extends at least largely, in particular substantially completely, preferably with the exception of a bending opening, around the central axis. In particular, the bending opening of the holding element is designed as a recess formed by the holding element, which extends completely through the holding element radially to the central axis. In particular, the holding element, in particular in an assembled state, has two ends viewed along a circumferential direction around the central axis, which ends are separated from one another by the bending opening or the recess. The bending opening is preferably provided to arrange the holding element elastically around the adjusting rod or the central axis on the housing part, in particular without a cumbersome pulling over along the longitudinal extent of the adjusting rod.Preferably, the holding unit, in particular the holding element, in particular in a configuration with exactly one holding element, is designed such that the holding element can be arranged on the adjusting rod or around the central axis by bending the ends of the holding element in the region of the bending opening of the holding element in opposite directions via the bending opening thus enlarged. In particular, the holding element is designed such that it elastically returns to its original shape, in particular after bending in which the bending opening reaches a maximum width of at most 50% of a maximum longitudinal extent of the holding element, wherein in particular the holding element is arranged at least largely, in particular substantially completely, around the adjusting rod or around the central axis.

[0021] It is further proposed that the monitoring device comprise an evaluation unit, in particular the one mentioned above, which is provided for converting and / or evaluating signals from the sensor unit, wherein the evaluation unit comprises at least one printed circuit board which is designed as a holding element of the holding unit, wherein the at least one printed circuit board is arranged at least partially between the at least one sensor element and the housing part. This enables an advantageously compact design which can result in a high degree of flexibility for mounting the valve monitoring device and / or other devices, particularly in an area of ​​the valve around the actuating rod which is often tightly built up. In particular, the holding unit comprises fixing means which are fastened to the evaluation unit. Preferably, the holding unit comprises holding means, in particular in the form of holding projections, adhesive points, clamps or the like., which are fastened to the evaluation unit and are provided for holding the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element or elements. The evaluation unit preferably comprises at least one contact point for each sensor element of the sensor unit. The at least one contact point is preferably provided for an electrical connection to a sensor element of the sensor unit. The evaluation unit preferably comprises at least one computing unit which is designed to receive the characteristic variable from the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element(s), or to process signals from the sensor unit to determine the characteristic variable. The printed circuit board is preferably provided to hold the sensor unit at a distance from the housing part. The printed circuit board preferably forms the intermediate space or a plurality of intermediate spaces in the intermediate region.It is conceivable that all of the features already described for the holding element are implemented analogously with the printed circuit board as the holding element. The computing unit is preferably arranged on an outer edge of the holding unit or the evaluation unit facing away from the central axis. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the computing unit is arranged separately from the printed circuit board, in particular at a distance from the holding unit and the sensor unit and / or from the housing of the valve, for example as part of another component of the valve or on the valve, such as in an actuator or a position controller. The printed circuit board preferably forms conductor tracks for connecting the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element(s), to the computing unit or other lines, such as cables or the like, to the computing unit.

[0022] It is also proposed that the monitoring device comprise at least one detection means for interacting with the medium in and / or at the sealing point, wherein the detection means is arranged and / or designed such that the detection means can be moved over the medium at the sealing point into the intermediate region, wherein the detection means is designed such that the electrical characteristic variable detectable by means of the at least one sensor element of the sensor unit changes as a result of the arrangement of the detection means within the intermediate region. By means of the detection means, the valve monitoring device can advantageously also detect the occurrence of a non-conductive medium at the sealing point. This advantageously enables the valve monitoring device to be highly flexible with regard to its possible use for different media in the valve.It is conceivable that the detection means is arranged on the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element, or the holding unit, in particular the holding element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the valve comprises the detection means, which is or can be arranged preferably on the housing part, for example on a surface facing the sensor unit within the intermediate region, or on the actuating rod or another component of the valve housing which delimits the passage above a sealing packing. The detection means is preferably designed as a substance which is soluble in the medium or which can be transported via the medium. The detection means is preferably designed as a solid substance or solid component in a state separate from the medium. The detection means is preferably designed alone or with the medium, in particular in a substance dissolved or soluble in the medium.in the state of the detection agent distributed in the medium, is designed to be electrically conductive. It is conceivable that the detection agent is designed as a coating or a component. For example, the detection agent is formed at least partially or largely from one or more chlorides, sulfates and / or carbonates and is preferably soluble in the medium. In particular, the detection agent does not have to be soluble in the medium. It is conceivable that the detection agent is transported via the medium, in particular without being dissolved, preferably in many small parts, which preferably form the detection agent and / or are formed when the medium impacts the detection agent.

[0023] Furthermore, it is proposed that the monitoring device comprise a cover unit designed to shield at least the sensor unit and the sealing point from environmental influences, in particular from weather influences, precipitation such as rain, hail, or snow, and / or condensation from the air. This advantageously allows for a weather-resistant design of the valve monitoring device. This advantageously enables high flexibility with regard to the area of ​​application of the valve monitoring device. Preferably, the cover unit is designed such that, when the valve monitoring device is in its assembled state, the cover unit essentially completely conceals at least the sensor unit, viewed along the central axis.The cover unit is preferably designed such that the cover unit essentially completely covers the sensor unit and the holding unit when the valve monitoring device is in the assembled state, when viewed along the central axis. The cover unit preferably encloses the sensor unit and the holding unit at least for the most part when the valve monitoring device is in the assembled state, in particular when viewed perpendicular to the central axis. It is conceivable that the cover unit rests against the housing part in the assembled state, in particular can be fastened to the housing part. The cover unit comprises at least one cover element which delimits a passage for the actuating rod in the region around the central axis. In a preferred embodiment, the cover unit is designed in several parts and is preferably fastened by connecting the plurality of cover elements to one another to determine the intended position of the actuating rod orThe actuating rod can be mounted on the holding unit, the sensor unit and / or the housing part.

[0024] Furthermore, a valve is proposed with a housing that encompasses the housing part, with the actuating rod, and with a valve monitoring device according to the invention. The valve is preferably designed as a lift or rotary valve, wherein the actuating rod is provided for a translational movement relative to the housing part, in particular along the central axis, or for rotation within the housing part.

[0025] A valve design according to the invention enables advantageously simple and direct monitoring of the sealing point for the presence of a medium, in particular a liquid medium. An advantageously cost-effective design can be provided. In particular, a valve can be provided in which the presence of the medium can be detected advantageously independently of mechanical forces and / or deformations in the region of the sealing point caused by escaping medium. As a result, the presence of the medium at the sealing point can advantageously be detected even in the case of minor leaks at the sealing point that have not yet caused serious damage to the valve.

[0026] It is also proposed that the valve comprise a position controller having a computing unit configured to read the sensor unit and / or an evaluation unit of the valve monitoring device and to indicate a detected leak via an electrical, electronic, in particular digital, haptic, optical and / or acoustic signal. This enables an advantageously safe valve with a valve monitoring device, in particular since signals from the valve monitoring device can be taken into account via the position controller for control and / or safety functions of the valve. Preferably, the computing unit is connected to the readout unit and / or the sensor unit in a wired or wireless manner. It is conceivable that the computing unit forms the readout unit and is provided for evaluating the detected characteristic variable, wherein the sensor unit is connected substantially directly to the computing unit.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the computing unit is designed to output the signal as a bus signal to an external system, for example the process engineering plant, in particular a plant control system and / or a process control system.

[0027] Furthermore, a system comprising a plurality of valves according to the invention, with at least one evaluation unit for reading the sensor units and / or evaluation units of the valve monitoring devices of the valves, is proposed. It is conceivable for each individual valve to comprise an evaluation unit, which are in particular connected to one another, or for the system to comprise at least one evaluation unit provided for reading more than one sensor unit, wherein in particular the recorded parameters of the sensor units are read out and assessed to determine the presence of medium. Preferably, the system is designed as part of a process engineering plant, or the valves of the system are intended for use in a process engineering plant. It is conceivable for the system to be designed as part of a test bench for examining sealing points or packings at sealing points of valves.

[0028] By designing the system according to the invention, advantageously systematic detection of the medium present at the sealing points of a plurality of valves can be achieved. This allows, for example, an advantageously simple design of a test stand for leak measurements on the plurality of valves to be realized, in which, in particular, all sealing points of the valves can be systematically monitored simultaneously via the valve monitoring devices.

[0029] The valve monitoring device according to the invention, the valve according to the invention, and / or the system according to the invention are not intended to be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, the valve monitoring device according to the invention, the valve according to the invention, and / or the system according to the invention can have a number of individual elements, components, and units that differs from the number stated herein to fulfill a function described herein. Furthermore, in the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values ​​within the stated limits are also to be considered disclosed and can be used arbitrarily. Drawings

[0030] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. Various embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings. The drawings, the description, and the claims contain numerous features in combination. Those skilled in the art will also expediently consider the features individually and combine them into useful further combinations.

[0031] They show: Fig. 1.: a schematic sectional view of a valve according to the invention with a valve monitoring device according to the invention, wherein the valve is designed as a lift valve and the valve monitoring device is only shown schematically, Fig. 2.: a schematic view of the valve monitoring device according to the invention on an actuating rod of the valve according to the invention, Fig. 3.: a schematic sectional view of the valve monitoring device according to the invention, Fig. 4: a schematic view of an alternative embodiment of a valve monitoring device according to the invention of a valve according to the invention, with a plurality of sensor elements, and Fig. 5.: a schematic view of a system according to the invention comprising a plurality of valves according to the invention, each with a valve monitoring device according to the invention. Description of the embodiments

[0032] In Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a valve 10a, in particular a control valve, of a process plant. The valve 10a is designed as a globe valve. Alternatively, other configurations of the valve 10a, for example as a rotary valve or similar, are also conceivable. The valve 10a comprises a housing 12a that defines a throttle point on the inside, an actuating rod 14a, and an actuator connected to the actuating rod 14a. The actuating rod 14a is connected on a side facing away from the actuator (not shown here) to a drive, for example a pneumatic or electric drive, which is provided for moving the actuator, in particular via the actuating rod 14a, relative to the throttle point. The housing 12a comprises a housing cover 16a that closes off an interior of the valve 10a from the environment.The actuating rod 14a is guided through the housing 12a, here in particular the housing cover 16a, and extends, in particular through the housing cover 16a, partially into the housing 12a or the interior of the housing 12a, in particular for a movement of the actuator within the housing 12a. The housing cover 16a comprises a housing part 18a. The housing part 18a is designed here in particular as a separate pressure piece which is screwed into the passage 20a. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the actuating rod 14a to protrude into the interior of the housing 12a at a distance from / independently of a housing cover 16a, wherein in particular the housing part 18a is designed as part of a base body of the housing 12a. The valve 10a comprises a support structure which is mounted on the housing cover 16a and carries the drive.A sealing packing 22a is arranged in a passage 20a connecting the interior and the top of the valve cover 16a to a receptacle for the actuating rod 14a. This sealing packing is intended to prevent the leakage of medium from the interior along the actuating rod 14a toward the housing cover 16a. The housing part 18a is arranged at least largely in the passage 20a.

[0033] The valve 10a comprises a valve monitoring device 24a for detecting the presence of medium at a sealing point 26a of the valve. 10a In particular, the valve monitoring device 24a is designed to monitor the sealing point 26a of the valve 10a for the presence of medium. The valve monitoring device 24a comprises a sensor unit 28a for detecting the presence of medium at the sealing point 26a of the valve 10a. The sealing point 26a is formed between the actuating rod 14a and the housing part 18a of the valve 10a, in particular above the sealing packing 22a. The sealing point 26a extends in particular within the passage 20a, within the housing part 18a. The valve 10a is designed as part of a process engineering system or is intended for use in a process engineering system.It is conceivable that the valve 10a is designed as part of a test stand for an examination of sealing points 26a or sealing packings 22a at sealing points 26a of valves 10a.

[0034] It is conceivable that the valve 10a comprises a computing unit, for example as part of a position controller 29a. The computing unit can be designed to control the sensor unit 28a and / or an evaluation unit 30a of the valve monitoring device 24a (in Fig. 1 not shown) and to indicate or have indicated a leak detected by the occurrence of medium via an electrical, electronic, in particular digital, haptic, optical and / or acoustic signal.

[0035] In Fig. 2 shows a perspective detailed view of the valve monitoring device 24a. The valve monitoring device 24a comprises a holding unit 32a for arranging the sensor unit 28a at a distance from the housing part 18a and at a distance from the actuating rod 14a in a vicinity of the sealing point 26a. The sensor unit 28a and the holding unit 32a are each designed to be arranged at least partially around the actuating rod 14a of the valve 10a. The sensor unit 28a is designed to detect the presence of the medium at the sealing point 26a by a change in an electrical characteristic variable that can be determined via a sensor element 34a of the sensor unit 28a in an intermediate region 36a between the housing part 18a and the sensor element 34a (see also Fig. 3). The sensor unit 28a comprises exactly one sensor element 34a, which is formed as a one-piece sheet metal part. Alternatively, other configurations of the sensor unit 28a and / or the sensor element 34a are also conceivable, for example with a sensor unit 28a that comprises more than one sensor element 34a (see Fig. 4) and / or with a more complex design of the sensor element(s) 34a.

[0036] The characteristic variable is designed as a value that can be detected by means of the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, and which changes when the medium occurs at the sealing point 26a. The characteristic variable is designed as an electrical characteristic variable. The valve monitoring device 24a, in particular the holding unit 32a and the sensor unit 28a, are / is designed such that a change in the characteristic variable occurs when the medium occurs at the sealing point 26a through an electromagnetic, in particular electrical, interaction of the sensor element 34a with the medium in the intermediate region 36a. The characteristic variable is designed in particular as an electrical voltage that exists between the housing part 18a and the sensor element 34a and which changes when the medium occurs at the sealing point 26a. In particular, the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, is designed toto detect the change in the characteristic variable, which is in the form of an electrical voltage, generated by the medium emerging from the sealing point 26a and moving into the intermediate region 36a. The sensor unit 28a is designed such that it outputs a signal at least upon a change in the characteristic variable, in particular upon the occurrence of the medium at the sealing point 26a. It is conceivable that the sensor unit 28a continuously outputs a signal depending on a currently detected value of the characteristic variable, which signal preferably changes upon the occurrence of the medium at the sealing point 26a, whereby in particular the occurrence of the medium at the sealing point 26a can be detected / determined.

[0037] The housing part 18a is formed from an electrically conductive material, in particular a metal, at least in a region of the housing part 18a adjacent to the intermediate region 36a. The holding unit 32a is designed as a non-conductor. The holding unit 32a is designed such that the sensor element 34a is arranged at a distance from the housing part 18a and is arranged or fastened to the housing part 18a essentially exclusively via the holding unit 32a. The holding unit 32a is designed such that the sensor element 34a is arranged electrically insulated from the housing part 18a. The holding unit 32a comprises precisely one holding element 38a, which rests against the housing part 18a. The holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, supports the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, on the housing part 18a. Embodiments are also conceivable in which the holding unit 32a comprises a plurality of holding elements 38a.

[0038] The actuating rod 14a extends through the housing part 18a in a region of the sealing point 26a. The housing part 18a delimits a passage for the actuating rod, wherein the sealing point 26a is formed on an inner wall of the housing part 18a delimiting the passage, in particular in a state in which the actuating rod 14a is partially arranged within the passage. The sealing point 26a extends in particular completely around a cross-section of the actuating rod 14a, preferably perpendicular to a central axis 40a of the actuating rod 14a or the valve monitoring device 24a. Viewed along the central axis 40a, the sealing point 26a extends completely around an outer surface of the actuating rod 14a. The passage 20a and the passage delimited by the housing part 18a preferably extend along the central axis 40a.

[0039] The holding element 38a rests on one side against the housing part 18a and defines a receptacle for the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a. The holding element 38a is formed in one piece. The holding element 38a is designed such that the sensor element 34a is held in the receptacle in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. The holding element 38a forms fixing means 42a, which hold the holding element 38a and the sensor element 34a held thereon in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner to the housing part 18a. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the holding unit 32a to comprise other fixing means, for example a material-to-material connection, such as an adhesive, for holding the sensor element 34a to the holding element 38a. The fixing means 42a are designed as extensions which extend on an outer edge of the holding element 38a, in particular facing away from the central axis 40a and / or the adjusting rod 14a, in particular substantially parallel to the central axis 40a.

[0040] The holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is designed such that the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, extends substantially completely around the central axis 40a in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device 24a. The sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, is designed such that the sensor element 34a of the sensor unit 28a extends substantially completely around the central axis 40a.

[0041] The intermediate region 36a extends from an upper side of the housing part 18a facing the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, and / or the sensor unit 28a away from the latter to a surface of the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, facing the housing part 18a (see also Fig. 3). The intermediate region 36a preferably borders an outer side of the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, which outer side has the fixing means 42a.

[0042] The central axis 40a of the valve monitoring device 24a extends substantially parallel to a longitudinal extension or a central axis of the actuating rod 14a and / or to the central axis of the housing part 18a, along which, in particular, the passage 20a is formed. The valve monitoring device 24a, in particular the holding unit 32a and the sensor unit 28a, is / are designed or arranged in an assembled state of the valve monitoring device 24a such that the central axis 40a of the valve monitoring device 24a encompasses the longitudinal extension or the central axis of the actuating rod 14a and / or the central axis of the housing part 18a. Particularly preferably, the valve monitoring device 24a, in particular the holding unit 32a and the sensor unit 28a, extends around the central axis 40a.The valve monitoring device 24a, in particular the holding unit 32a and the sensor unit 28a, is / are arranged in the assembled state of the valve monitoring device 24a at a distance from the central axis 40a of the valve monitoring device 24a and particularly preferably from the actuating rod 14a.

[0043] The valve monitoring device 24a comprises an evaluation unit 30a, which is provided to convert and / or evaluate signals from the sensor unit 28a, preferably to determine the presence of medium at the sealing point 26a. The evaluation unit 30a is designed, in particular regardless of its arrangement, to evaluate at least one detected value of the characteristic variable and / or a detected temporal profile of the characteristic variable. The evaluation unit 30a is electrically and / or electronically connected to the sensor unit 28a, in particular to the sensor element 34a (see Fig. 1). Preferably, the evaluation unit 30a is designed such that, in particular for determining an occurrence of the medium at the sealing point 26a, at least one value of the characteristic variable detected by the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, or a plurality of values ​​of the characteristic variable detected by the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, is compared with at least one stored limit value and / or a stored value range of the characteristic variable. Preferably, the evaluation unit 30a is designed such that, upon detection of an occurrence of medium at the sealing point 26a, at least one output signal is generated or adapted to a higher-level control of the valve 10a or a system, for example the process plant, by means of the readout unit 30a. The readout unit 30a is designed in the Fig. 1 to 3, the readout unit 30a is designed as part of the position controller 29a of the valve 10a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the readout unit 30a is arranged directly on the sensor unit 28a and / or the holding unit 32a and can, for example, output an output signal to the position controller 29a or a higher-level system. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the readout unit 30a is designed at a distance from the valve 10a as part of a higher-level system of the process plant or a test bench (see, for example, Fig. 5).

[0044] The holding unit 32a is designed to hold the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, in a position spaced from a designated position of the actuating rod 14a and spaced from the housing part 18a. The holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is arranged spaced from the designated position of the actuating rod 14a. The holding unit 38a, in particular the holding element 38a, is designed such that the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is supported or fixed to the housing part 18a such that the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is arranged spaced from the designated position of the actuating rod 14a.Preferably, the holding element 38a is designed such that the holding element 38a is supported on the housing part 18a via the fixing means 42a, or is fixed in a force-locking and / or positive-locking manner, at least against movement relative to the housing part 18a, in particular perpendicular to the central axis 40a of the valve monitoring device 24a and / or obliquely to the central axis 40a. In the embodiment shown, the holding element 38a forms, in particular, three extensions as fixing means 42a, which are arranged uniformly distributed around the central axis 40a. The fixing means 42a designed as extensions are each designed as elongated, flat walls, which are arranged, in particular, at an angle of approximately 60° to one another around the central axis 40a.The fixing means 42a, designed as extensions, are intended to be applied flatly to an outer surface of the housing part 18a, wherein, in particular, the outer surfaces of the housing part 18a are designed as part of a hexagonal screw connection piece. Other configurations of the fixing means 42a are also conceivable, for example, as pins (see ). Fig. 4), as round or curved walls or as adhesives or similar.

[0045] The holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, and the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, each form a substantially circular recess for the passage of the actuating rod 14a. The holding unit 32a and the sensor unit 28a are formed at least largely, in particular substantially completely, around the central axis 40a extending through the receptacle. In particular, the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, and the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, are designed such that the recesses are arranged coaxially one above the other relative to the central axis 40a when the valve monitoring device 34a is in the assembled state.

[0046] The holding unit 32a comprises exactly one holding element 38a, in particular the holding element 38a, which in an assembled state (see Fig. 2) extends substantially completely around the actuating rod 14a and / or the central axis 40a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the holding unit 32a comprises a plurality of holding elements 38a, which are preferably intended to be arranged next to one another around the central axis 40a. For example, it is conceivable that each holding element 38a of the holding unit 32a carries a sensor element 34a of the sensor unit 28a. The holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is designed such that the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, can be attached to the actuating rod 14a by a substantially elastic deformation. The holding element 38a is made of a plastic.The holding element 38a is essentially designed to be elastic, so that the holding element 38a can be arranged on the housing part 18a via elastic deformation around the actuating rod 14a, wherein in particular the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, is placed in an assembled state. The holding element 38a essentially completely encloses the central axis 40a or the actuating rod 14a in the assembled state, with the exception of a bending opening 46a. The bending opening 46a of the holding element 38a is designed as a recess formed by the holding element 38a, which extends completely through the holding element 38a radially to the central axis 40a (analogous to a design of the sensor element 34a in this area). The holding element 38a has, in particular in the assembled state, two ends viewed along a circumferential direction around the central axis 40a, which are separated from one another via the bending opening 46a or the recess.The bending opening 46a is provided to arrange the holding element 38a elastically around the adjusting rod 14a or the central axis 40a on the housing part 18a, in particular without a cumbersome pulling over along the longitudinal extent of the adjusting rod 14a. The holding element 38a is designed such that the holding element 38a can be arranged on the adjusting rod 14a or around the central axis 40a by bending the ends of the holding element 38a in the region of the bending opening 46a of the holding element 38a in opposite directions over the thereby enlarged bending opening 46a.

[0047] The holding unit 32a comprises a plurality of, here in particular three, holding extensions 48a, wherein the holding unit 32a is designed to hold the sensor unit 28a centered in a position relative to the actuating rod 14a and / or the central axis 40a via the holding extensions 48a. The holding extensions 48a each at least partially delimit the recess delimited by the holding element 38a. The holding extensions 48a are each designed as an elongated, flat wall that extends substantially perpendicular to the central axis 40a. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the holding extensions 48a to be designed as a bead, a pin or stud, a groove, a round or curved wall, or the like. The holding extensions 48a are arranged on a side of the holding element 38a facing the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, and in particular facing away from the housing part 18a.Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the holding element 38a to form a basic shape which at least partially delimits the recess via at least one outer shape, wherein, for example, a holding extension(s) 48a are formed by an outer surface and / or a wall of the basic shape of the holding element 38a. The holding extensions 48a are arranged substantially uniformly distributed around the central axis 40a. The holding extensions 48a are formed integrally with the holding element 38a of the holding unit 32a. The holding element 38a is substantially plate-shaped in an outer region facing away from the central axis 40a or the actuating rod 14a, wherein in particular the holding extensions 48a protrude from a main extension plane of the holding element 38a. The sensor element 34a rests against the holding extensions 48a in the assembled state. The holding extensions 48a are, viewed along the central axis 40a, on one, in particular the central axis 40a orThe holding element 38a is arranged on the outer edge of the holding element 38a, facing away from the adjusting rod 14a. The holding element 38a forms a plurality of struts 50a from the outer region or the edge in the direction of the central axis 40a (see . Fig. 3), which extend in particular within the main extension plane of the holding element 38a. The struts 50a preferably form support surfaces for the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a. The struts 50a each extend into the intermediate region 36a between the housing part 18a and the sensor element 34a.

[0048] Between the struts 50a, a gap 52a is formed in the intermediate region 36a between the housing part 18a and the sensor element 34a.

[0049] The sensor unit 28a or the sensor element 34a is designed such that the sensor unit 28a or the sensor element 34a can be attached to the actuating rod 14a by a substantially elastic deformation. The sensor element 34a extends, with the exception of a bending opening 54a, substantially completely around the central axis 40a. The bending opening 54a of the sensor element 34a is designed as a recess formed by the sensor element 34a, which extends completely through the sensor element 34a radially to the central axis 40a. The sensor element 34a, particularly in an assembled state arranged on the holding unit 32a, has two ends viewed along the circumferential direction around the central axis 40a, which ends are separated from one another by the bending opening 54a or the recess. The bending opening 54a of the sensor element 34a is provided to elastically bend the sensor element 34a around the actuating rod 14a orto arrange the central axis 40a on the holding unit 32a, in particular without a cumbersome pulling over along the longitudinal extent of the actuating rod 14a. The sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, is designed such that the sensor element 34a can be arranged on the actuating rod 14a or around the central axis 40a by bending the two ends of the sensor element 34a in the region of the bending opening 54a in opposite directions over the thereby enlarged bending opening 54a. In particular, the sensor element 34a is designed such that, in particular after bending, in which the bending opening 54a of the sensor element 34a reaches a maximum width of at most 50% of a maximum longitudinal extent of the sensor element 34a, it elastically returns to an original shape, wherein in particular the sensor element 34a is arranged at least largely, in particular substantially completely, around the actuating rod 14a or around the central axis 40a.The sensor element 34a is essentially circular ring-segment-shaped when viewed along the central axis 40a, wherein in particular the bending opening 54a extends radially outwards through the base surface of the sensor element 34a.

[0050] In Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the valve monitoring device 24a. It is particularly conceivable for the housing part 18a to be formed in one piece or in multiple parts. The holding unit 32a comprises the holding element 38a, which forms a plurality of intermediate spaces 52a in the intermediate region 36a between the housing part 18a and the sensor element 34a, which are in particular fluidically connected to the sealing point 26a. The intermediate spaces 52a, viewed in a sectional plane perpendicular to the central axis 40a, are each separated by the struts 50a, wherein the intermediate spaces 52a are in particular fluidically connected to one another toward the central axis 40a and the actuating rod 14a.However, configurations of the holding unit 32a, in particular of the holding element 38a, are conceivable, wherein the intermediate spaces 52a are each closed by struts 50a of the / a holding element 38a, viewed in a sectional plane perpendicular to the central axis 40a. The intermediate spaces 52a each extend from an outer surface of the housing part 18a delimiting the sealing point 26a to a surface of the sensor element 34a.

[0051] The valve monitoring device 24a comprises a detection means 66a for interacting with the medium in and / or at the sealing point 26a. The detection means 66a is arranged and designed such that the detection means 66a can be moved across the medium at the sealing point 26a into the intermediate region 36a. The detection means 66a is designed such that the electrical characteristic variable detectable by the sensor element 34a changes due to the arrangement of the detection means 66a within the intermediate region 36a. The detection means 66a is designed as a coating on an inner surface of the housing part 18a bordering the sealing point 26a. The detection means 66a at least partially comprises a chloride, a sulfate, and / or a carbonate. The detection means 66a is designed as a solid substance in a state separate from the medium.The detection means 66a is composed such that the detection means 66a is at least partially dissolved in the medium upon contact with the medium, wherein the electrical characteristic that can be detected by the sensor element 34a changes due to the arrangement of the part of the detection means 66a dissolved in the medium when the medium enters the intermediate region 36a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the detection means 66a is arranged on the sensor unit 28a, in particular the sensor element 34a, or the holding unit 32a, in particular the holding element 38a, or that the detection means 66a is formed as part of the valve 10a. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the detection means 66a is arranged on a surface of the housing part 18a facing the sensor unit 28a within the intermediate region 36a.Alternatively, it is conceivable that the detection means 66a is transported along the medium in many small parts, which preferably form the detection means 66a and / or are formed when the medium impacts the detection means 66a, in particular without being dissolved.

[0052] It is conceivable that the valve monitoring device 24a comprises a cover unit 56a, which is designed to shield at least the sensor unit 28a and the sealing point 26a from environmental influences, in particular from weather influences, precipitation, such as rain, hail or snow, and / or condensation from the air. An exemplary embodiment of such a cover unit 56a is shown in Fig. 3 shown.

[0053] In the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 shows further embodiments of the invention. The following descriptions and the drawings are essentially limited to the differences between the embodiments, whereby with regard to components with the same designation, in particular with regard to components with the same reference numerals, reference is also made to the drawings and / or the description of the embodiment, in particular to the Fig. 1 to 3. To distinguish the embodiments, the letter a is added to the reference numerals of the embodiment in the Fig. 1 to 3. In the examples of the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, the letter a is replaced by the letters b and c respectively.

[0054] In Fig. 4 shows an alternative embodiment of a valve monitoring device 24b for a valve 10b. Fig. The valve monitoring device 24b shown in Figure 4 is essentially identical to that shown in Figures Fig. 1 to 3. The valve monitoring device 24b comprises a sensor unit 28b for detecting the presence of a medium at a sealing point 26b of the valve 10b, which is formed between an actuating rod 14b and a housing part 18b of the valve 10b, and a holding unit 32b for arranging the sensor unit 28b at a distance from the housing part 18b and at a distance from the actuating rod 14b in a vicinity of the sealing point 26b. The sensor unit 28b and the holding unit 32b are each designed to be arranged at least partially around the actuating rod 14b of the valve 10b.The sensor unit 28b is designed to detect the presence of the medium at the sealing point 26b by changing at least one electrical parameter, which can be determined via at least one sensor element 34b of the sensor unit 28b, in an intermediate region 36b between the housing part 18b and the at least one sensor element 34b. The valve monitoring device 24b comprises an evaluation unit 30b, which is provided for converting and / or evaluating signals from the sensor unit 28b. In contrast to the embodiment shown in FIGS. Fig. 1 to 3 comprises the sensor unit 28b of the valve monitoring device 24a shown in Fig. 4, the valve monitoring device 24b has a plurality of sensor elements 34b which are arranged uniformly distributed around a central axis 40b of the valve monitoring device 24b.

[0055] The evaluation unit 30b comprises a printed circuit board 58b, which is designed as a holding element 38b of the holding unit 32b, wherein the printed circuit board 58b is arranged at least partially between the sensor element 34b and the housing part 18b. The printed circuit board 58b forms the intermediate region 36b between the sensor unit 28b, in particular the sensor elements 34b, and the housing part 18b. The printed circuit board 58b forms, in particular on a side facing away from the housing part 18b, one or more support surfaces for arranging the sensor elements 34b. Preferably, the holding element 38b / the circuit board 58b and the sensor unit 28b, in particular the sensor elements 34b, are designed such that the sensor elements 34b, in particular in an assembled state arranged on the holding unit 32b, are distributed substantially uniformly around the central axis 40b and are each arranged at an identical distance from the surface of the housing part 18b at the sealing point 26b.The holding element 38b / the circuit board 58b is designed such that the sensor elements 34b are arranged spaced apart from one another. The circuit board 58b comprises a plurality of lines 60b, each of which electrically contacts one of the sensor elements 34b of the sensor unit 28b. The circuit board 58b is designed such that all lines 60b converge outwardly to one side, thereby forming, in particular, an interface. The holding unit 32b comprises a plurality of fixing means 42b, which are designed as pins and are fastened to the circuit board 58b. The fixing means 42b are arranged on the circuit board 58b in particular such that it is held in a form-fitting manner on the housing part 18b.

[0056] The sensor elements 34b of the sensor unit 28b are designed to be substantially identical in terms of their functionality and / or dimensions. Alternatively, it is conceivable for the sensor unit 28b to comprise a plurality of differently designed sensor elements 34b. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable for the sensor unit 28b to comprise a plurality of sensor elements 34b that are designed to be substantially identical, in particular with regard to their functionality and / or dimensions, and are arranged individually or in groups at different distances from the housing part 18b, in particular via the holding unit 32b.

[0057] The circuit board 58b / the holding element 38b forms a plurality of recesses, with the sensor elements 34b each embedded in one of the recesses. The recesses are formed by depressions within the circuit board 58b, with the sensor elements 34b being arranged in the recesses and held by the surfaces of the circuit board 58b that define the depressions.

[0058] In Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a system 62c with a plurality of valves 10c, each having a valve monitoring device 24c. Fig. 5 are each substantially identical to the valve monitoring device 24c shown in the Fig. 1 to 3 or to the valve monitoring device 24a shown in Fig.4. The valve monitoring device 24b is configured. The valves 10c are each connected to a higher-level computing unit 64c of the system 62c. It is conceivable that the computing unit 64c is configured as a readout unit 30c for the valve monitoring devices 24c, wherein signals from all sensor units 28c of the valve monitoring devices 24c are collected centrally via the computing unit 64c. Alternatively, it is conceivable that the computing unit 64c is configured to collect output signals from the valve monitoring devices 24c and evaluate them centrally. The system 62c is preferably configured as part of a process plant or as part of a test bench for testing the valves 10c, preferably for leaks at the sealing point 26c. Reference symbol 10 Valve 12 housings 14 Adjusting rod 16 Housing cover 18 Housing part 20 Implementation 22 Sealing packing 24 Valve monitoring device 26 Sealing point 28 Sensor unit 29 positioners 30 Evaluation unit 32 Holding unit 34 Sensor element 36 Intermediate area 38 Holding element 40 Central axis 42 Fixatives 46 Bending opening 48 Retaining process 50 strut 52 space 54 Bending opening 56 Cover unit 58 circuit board 60 line 62 systems 64 computing unit 66 detection agents

Claims

[1] Valve monitoring device for a valve, with a sensor unit for detecting an occurrence of a medium at a sealing point of the valve, which is formed between an actuating rod and a housing part of the valve, and with a holding unit for arranging the sensor unit at a distance from the housing part and at a distance from the actuating rod in a vicinity of the sealing point, wherein the sensor unit and the holding unit are each designed to be arranged at least partially around the actuating rod of the valve, wherein the sensor unit is designed to detect an occurrence of the medium at the sealing point by a change in at least one electrical characteristic variable that can be determined via at least one sensor element of the sensor unit in an intermediate region between the housing part and the at least one sensor element. [2] Valve monitoring device according to claim 1 characterized bythat the holding unit is designed to hold the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, in a position spaced from a provided position of the actuating rod and spaced from the housing part. [3] Valve monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2 characterized by that the holding unit and the sensor unit each form a substantially circular recess for the passage of the adjusting rod, wherein the holding unit and the sensor unit are formed at least largely, in particular substantially completely, around a central axis extending through the receptacle. [4] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized bythat the holding unit comprises at least one holding element which forms at least one intermediate space in the intermediate region between the housing part and the at least one sensor element, which intermediate space is in particular fluidically connected to the sealing point. [5] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the holding unit comprises at least two holding extensions, wherein the holding unit is designed to hold the sensor unit centered in a position relative to the actuating rod and / or a central axis via the at least two holding extensions. [6] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the at least one sensor element is designed as a one-piece sheet metal part. [7] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized bythat the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, is designed such that the sensor unit, in particular the at least one sensor element, can be attached to the actuating rod by a substantially elastic deformation of the sensor unit, in particular the sensor element. [8] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the holding unit comprises a holding element which, in an assembled state, extends at least largely around the adjusting rod and / or a central axis. [9] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized by that the holding unit, in particular a holding element of the holding unit, is designed such that the holding unit, in particular a holding element of the holding unit, can be attached to the adjusting rod by a substantially elastic deformation of the holding unit, in particular of the holding element. [10] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims characterized by an evaluation unit which is provided to convert and / or evaluate signals of the sensor unit, wherein the evaluation unit comprises at least one printed circuit board which is designed as a holding element of the holding unit, wherein the at least one printed circuit board is arranged at least partially between the at least one sensor element and the housing part. [11] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one detection means for interacting with the medium in and / or at the sealing point, wherein the detection means is arranged and / or designed such that the detection means can be moved over the medium at the sealing point into the intermediate region, wherein the detection means is designed such that the electrical characteristic variable that can be detected by means of the at least one sensor element of the sensor unit changes as a result of the arrangement of the detection means within the intermediate region. [12] Valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a cover unit which is designed to shield at least the sensor unit and the sealing point from environmental influences, in particular from weather influences, precipitation such as rain, hail or snow, and / or condensation from the air. [13] Valve with a housing comprising the housing part, with the actuating rod and with a valve monitoring device according to one of the preceding claims. [14] Valve according to claim 13, characterized by a position controller comprising a computing unit designed to read the sensor unit and / or an evaluation unit of the valve monitoring device and to indicate a detected leakage via an electrical, electronic, in particular digital, haptic, optical and / or acoustic signal. [15] System comprising a plurality of valves according to one of claims 13 or 14, with at least one evaluation unit for reading the sensor units and / or evaluation units of the valve monitoring devices of the valves.

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