DEVICE AND METHOD FOR MEASURING THE INTENSITY OF UV RADIATION GENERATED BY A UV RADIATION SOURCE

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a device and a method for measuring the intensity of UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source, in particular by a UV radiation source for sewer rehabilitation work.

[0002] For the rehabilitation of pipes or lines in general, such as sewers or pipelines connected to the sewer system, various processes have been developed in recent decades. These involve lining the inside of the pipes with a UV-curable material, which is then cured using ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The goal of pipe rehabilitation is to perform preventative maintenance and repairs to prevent further damage, e.g., from fluid leakage.

[0003] In particular, lining tubes, so-called liners, which are at least partially made of a UV-curable material, can be used for rehabilitation in buried pipe systems, e.g., in the rehabilitation of sewers and / or shafts. The main advantage of using the liners in a pipeline and curing the liner is that the rehabilitation is carried out from the inside of the pipeline, thus eliminating the need for external access to the pipeline.

[0004] To rehabilitate a pipe, the liner, which can be essentially tubular, is inserted into the pipe and applied to the inner surface. One or more UV radiation sources of a curing device are then inserted into the pipe and operated to cure the liner.

[0005] To ensure that the liner cures correctly and according to regulations, it is important to ensure that sufficient energy is introduced into the liner through UV irradiation using one or more UV radiation sources. The energy input depends particularly on the intensity of the UV radiation and the duration of the radiation.

[0006] However, it has been shown that the intensity specified by a manufacturer of a UV radiation source does not always correspond to the intensity of the UV radiation source achieved in practice, i.e. during sewer rehabilitation. The intensity of the UV radiation from the UV radiation source used for sewer rehabilitation is often below the manufacturer's specification, which can lead to insufficient curing of the liner. The deviation of the intensity of the UV radiation source during sewer rehabilitation from the manufacturer's specification can have various causes. Firstly, the achievable intensity can decrease due to the aging of the UV radiation source. Secondly, a curing device on which the one or more UV radiation sources are operated to cure the liner may not provide sufficient electrical power, meaning that the intensity of the UV radiation source specified by the manufacturer is not achieved.

[0007] Furthermore, US 2005 / 0174808 A1 relates to a quick-attachment device for use in the repeated testing of diode light sources. The quick-attachment device comprises a quick-attachment module with a fixed position relative to a test position for the diode light sources and a mounting assembly on which each diode light source is mounted during testing.

[0008] US 2015 / 048257 A1 relates to a device for disinfecting an object by at least partially removing a biologically active contaminant therefrom. A housing encloses a disinfection chamber in which a portion of the object to be disinfected is to be received, and includes an inlet opening through which the object is introduced into the device. A feed device generally transports the object to the disinfection chamber and discharges it after disinfection. An ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light, which is applied to the portion of the object introduced into the disinfection chamber to deactivate at least a portion of the biologically active contaminant present on the object.A controller controls the operation of the delivery device and / or the ultraviolet light to achieve a level of disinfection of the object, making the object suitable for use in a substantially sterile application.

[0009] JP 2008 008848 A relates to a UV radiation monitoring system comprising: a power supply device that supplies electric power, an ultraviolet radiation source that emits ultraviolet radiation by receiving electric power from the power supply device, and a diamond layer as a detecting section that generates an amount of electric charge depending on the intensity of the received ultraviolet radiation and is further equipped with an ultraviolet sensor that outputs electric signals depending on the intensity of the above-mentioned ultraviolet radiation from the electric charge generated in the diamond layer, and a controller that controls the output of the ultraviolet radiation source by controlling the electric power supply of the power supply device based on the electric signals.

[0010] US 2015 / 209457 A1 describes a disinfection system comprising a housing. An ultraviolet light (UV) source is attached to the housing and configured to emit UV light to disinfect a target. A processor is attached to the housing and communicates with the UV light source. The processor is configured to activate the UV light source for a selected period of time appropriate for disinfecting the target.

[0011] CN 109 317 375 A relates to a UV LED curing lamp and a method for monitoring the curing lamp.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a device and a method which enables a reliable determination of the intensity of UV radiation from a UV radiation source intended for sewer rehabilitation work.

[0013] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims.

[0014] Preferred embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0015] One aspect relates to a device for measuring the intensity of UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source for sewer rehabilitation work, the device comprising: a recording unit with a measuring chamber for recording the UV radiation source during the intensity measurement, wherein the recording unit has a first UV sensor for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source, wherein the recording unit has a UV radiation source connection to which the UV radiation source can be connected in order to supply the UV radiation source with operating voltage or operating current, wherein in a first measuring mode the device is designed to measure the intensity of a UV radiation source by arranging the UV radiation source in the measuring space and operating it at the UV radiation source connection, and wherein in a second measuring mode the device is designed to measure the intensity of a UV radiation source by arranging the UV radiation source in the measuring space and operating it at an external curing device for curing UV-curable sewer rehabilitation agents.

[0016] Advantageously, the proposed device allows the intensity of the UV radiation source to be measured individually in the first measuring mode, i.e., the UV radiation source is not operated by the curing device. This makes it possible, in particular, to detect deviations between the measured intensity and the intensity specified by the manufacturer of the UV radiation source. In the second measuring mode, the intensity of the UV radiation source is measured when the UV radiation source is operated by the curing device. This means that in the second measuring mode, the UV radiation source is supplied with operating voltage or current by the curing device and not by the intensity measuring device itself. The sewer rehabilitation agent can preferably be a UV-curable material, e.g., the liner mentioned above.

[0017] Advantageously, it is thus possible to detect intensity deviations from the intensity measured in the first measurement mode and the second measurement mode. Furthermore, deviations from the manufacturer's specifications can be detected. Such intensity deviations can be caused, for example, by a line resistance of the cables used in the curing device or a power loss of the curing device. The curing device can in particular have one or more UV radiation sources, which are arranged (spatially) one behind the other in a string and which can be introduced into the aforementioned liner. In particular, the one or more UV radiation sources can be operated electrically in series or, preferably, in parallel on the curing device.

[0018] Consequently, the proposed device allows the intensity of the UV radiation source used to cure the sewer rehabilitation agent to be determined, as it is operated for curing. Furthermore, intensity losses caused by the curing device can be determined. This makes it possible to avoid application errors, such as insufficient energy input, during the curing of the sewer rehabilitation agent.

[0019] The UV radiation source can have an electrical power consumption of at least 50 W, preferably at least 100 W, and particularly preferably at least 250 W. For example, the power consumption of the UV radiation source can also be 1000 W or higher. Accordingly, the receiving unit can be designed to provide sufficient electrical power for the UV radiation source. The electrical power provided by the receiving unit can preferably be between 200 W and 1200 W. The receiving unit can in particular have a supply connection with which the receiving unit can be supplied with a supply voltage, e.g. 110 VAC or 230 VAC. Furthermore, the UV radiation source can be substantially tubular and designed to emit UV radiation circumferentially 360° along the longitudinal axis of the UV radiation source.

[0020] Preferably, the receiving unit has a first shutter associated with the first UV sensor, wherein in an open state of the first shutter, the first UV sensor is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source, and wherein in a closed state of the first shutter, the first UV sensor is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source.

[0021] Advantageously, the first shutter allows the first UV sensor to be protected from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source when the first UV sensor is not being used for intensity measurement. As mentioned above, the UV radiation source can have a high electrical power consumption and an associated high intensity of UV radiation. However, exposing the UV sensor to this high UV radiation from the UV radiation source leads to aging of the UV sensor, whereby the accuracy of the UV sensor decreases over time and the susceptibility of the UV sensor increases over time. Advantageously, the use of the first shutter allows the first UV sensor to be exposed to UV radiation only for the actual intensity measurement.In particular, the first shutter is opened for the intensity measurement to expose the first UV sensor to UV radiation, and following the intensity measurement, the first shutter is closed to shield the first UV sensor from UV radiation.

[0022] The device is preferably designed to control the state of the first shutter as a function of the radiation duration of the UV radiation source within the measuring chamber, wherein the first shutter is in the closed state at the beginning of the radiation duration and switches to the open state after a predeterminable period of time. Advantageously, this can prevent the first UV sensor from being exposed to UV radiation for the entire radiation duration of the UV radiation source. The UV radiation source usually requires a certain radiation duration or operating time until an intensity level of the UV radiation source is stabilized or constant. In other words, the UV radiation source must first be warmed up until a stable intensity level of the UV radiation is reached. The actual intensity measurement of the UV radiation should preferably only take place after the UV radiation source has warmed up, i.e. after the intensity level orThe intensity of the UV radiation is stable. Advantageously, while the UV radiation source is warming up, the first UV sensor is shielded from the UV radiation by the first shutter. This advantageously allows the first UV sensor to be exposed to UV radiation only when the UV radiation source has warmed up, i.e., has reached a stable intensity level. This means that the UV sensor is only briefly exposed to UV radiation, which can reduce the aging of the first UV sensor.

[0023] Preferably, the required warm-up time of the UV radiation source can be set in the device, so that the first shutter can be opened and closed depending on the set warm-up time. In particular, the first shutter is controlled such that after the warm-up time has elapsed, the shutter is opened and closed again after a predetermined measurement time, during which the actual intensity measurement is performed. The measurement time can be at least 1 s (second), preferably at least 2 s, and a maximum of 10 s, preferably a maximum of 5 s.

[0024] The recording unit preferably has an electronic supply unit designed to supply the UV radiation source with the operating voltage or current in the first measurement mode. The electronic supply unit can preferably provide an electrical power of 200 W to 1200 W to supply the UV radiation source. Furthermore, the electronic supply unit can be designed to open and / or close the first shutter depending on the radiation duration of the UV radiation source.

[0025] Preferably, in the first measuring mode, the radiation duration of the UV radiation source within the measuring space can be determined based on the duration of the supply of the UV radiation source by the electronic supply unit, wherein at the start of the supply of the UV radiation source by the electronic supply unit, the first shutter is in the closed state and switches to the open state after a first predeterminable period of time, which preferably corresponds to the warm-up period of the UV radiation source, and wherein preferably after a second predeterminable period of time, the supply of the UV radiation source by the electronic supply unit is terminated and / or the first shutter switches to the closed state.

[0026] Advantageously, the first predeterminable time period can be based on a warm-up time of the UV radiation source. In particular, the device can be designed to set the first predeterminable time period based on the UV radiation source used. Furthermore, the second predeterminable time period can be based on a time period required for the intensity measurement, which is determined by the UV sensor used. Advantageously, the device can be designed to query the first UV sensor used and to specify the second time period according to the determined UV sensor. Alternatively, a user can also specify a duration for the first predeterminable time period and / or the second predeterminable time period.

[0027] Preferably, the recording unit can have an optical sensor which is designed to detect a start of the radiation duration of the UV radiation source within the measuring space in the second measuring mode, wherein in the second measuring mode at the start of the radiation duration the first shutter is in the closed state and switches to the open state after a third predeterminable time period, and wherein preferably after a fourth predeterminable time period the first shutter switches to the closed state and / or the device outputs a signal which signals that the supply of the UV radiation source by the external curing device is to be terminated.

[0028] Advantageously, the provision of the optical sensor allows the start of the radiation period, which is not detected by a power supply via the electronic supply unit, to be detected in the second measuring mode. Rather, the start of the radiation period is determined in the second measuring mode by activating the curing device that operates the UV radiation source. The third predeterminable time period can, in particular, correspond to the first predeterminable time period and be predefined accordingly. Furthermore, the fourth predeterminable time period can correspond to the second predeterminable time period and be predefined according to the second predeterminable time period.

[0029] Preferably, the recording unit may comprise a second UV sensor for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source, wherein the recording unit preferably comprises a second shutter associated with the second UV sensor, wherein in an open state of the second shutter, the second UV sensor is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source, and wherein in a closed state of the second shutter, the second UV sensor is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source by the second shutter.

[0030] Advantageously, the second shutter is controllable like the first shutter. This means that the second shutter can be closed for a warm-up period of the UV radiation source and opened for the actual intensity measurement. In particular, the time period for which the first shutter and the second shutter are open can be the same. Alternatively, the time period for which the first shutter and the second shutter are open can be different. In particular, the first UV sensor and the second UV sensor can require different times to perform the intensity measurement of the UV radiation source. Accordingly, the opening time of the first shutter and the second shutter can be adjusted to the respective UV sensor.

[0031] Preferably, the first UV sensor can be configured to detect a first wavelength range, wherein the first UV sensor is preferably calibrated for the first wavelength range. Calibrated means that the UV sensor has been measured to ensure that the output signal of the UV sensor is correct based on the intensity measured by the UV sensor.

[0032] Preferably, the second UV sensor can be designed to detect a second wavelength range, wherein the second UV sensor is preferably calibrated for the second wavelength range. Preferably, the first wavelength range can be different from the second wavelength range. In particular, the first wavelength range of the first UV sensor can comprise a spectral range from approximately 227 nm to 360 nm and / or the second wavelength range of the second UV sensor can comprise a spectral range from approximately 240 nm to 560 nm. In particular, the second UV sensor can be a gallium phosphide (GaP)-based UV sensor.

[0033] Preferably, the device can comprise a control unit that can be communicatively connected to the recording unit for controlling the intensity measurement. In particular, the control unit can be communicatively connected to the recording unit via a data transmission interface. For example, the control unit can be connected to the recording unit via a serial or parallel wired data connection. Alternatively, the control unit can also communicate with the recording unit wirelessly, e.g., via wireless LAN and / or Bluetooth.

[0034] In particular, the control unit can specify an electrical power with which the electronic supply unit of the recording unit supplies the UV radiation source in the first measurement mode. Furthermore, the control unit can have a graphical user interface that displays the measurement results of the intensity measurement of the first UV sensor and / or the second UV sensor. Furthermore, a user can specify or enter at least one of the first to fourth predeterminable time periods using the control unit. Alternatively, the first to fourth predefined time periods can be stored in the control unit or determined by the control unit based on the UV sensors and UV radiation source used and based on data stored in the control unit.

[0035] Preferably, the control unit is designed to log the intensity measurement of the UV radiation source and store it in a data set that is preferably tamper-proof. The data set preferably contains a unique identification of the UV radiation source, e.g., a serial number, and the measured intensity. Furthermore, the date and time of the intensity measurement can be stored in the data set. The tamper-proof nature of the data set ensures that proper execution of a sewer rehabilitation project can be documented.

[0036] Preferably, the receiving unit can be designed as a lockable housing in which the measuring chamber is arranged, wherein in an open state of the housing the UV radiation source can be arranged in the measuring chamber, wherein in a closed state of the housing the measuring chamber is shielded in a substantially light-tight manner, and wherein the housing has at least one supply opening to the measuring chamber, wherein in the closed state of the housing the supply opening enables a connection of the UV radiation source located in the measuring chamber to the external curing device.

[0037] Furthermore, the receiving unit can have a limit switch designed to detect whether the housing is closed or open. Furthermore, the electronic supply unit is designed to only supply the UV radiation source with operating current or voltage when the limit switch detects that the housing is closed.

[0038] Furthermore, the at least one supply opening can be designed such that no UV radiation can escape through the supply opening when the UV radiation source is operated in the measuring chamber. In particular, the supply opening can have an arrangement of light-tight brushes through which connecting means connecting the UV radiation source to the external curing device are passed.

[0039] Preferably, the UV radiation source connection can be changeable and / or interchangeable depending on the UV radiation source to be measured. This advantageously allows different types of UV radiation sources to be measured.

[0040] The receiving unit can preferably have a positioning means designed to position the UV radiation source relative to the first UV sensor and / or second UV sensor. The first UV sensor and the second UV sensor are preferably arranged opposite one another on the receiving unit with respect to the UV radiation source. In particular, the positioning means allows the UV radiation source to be centered between the first UV sensor and the second UV sensor, thereby ensuring optimal alignment of the UV radiation source for intensity measurement. For example, the UV radiation source can be arranged on a carriage that is movable relative to the first and / or second UV sensor, whereby the UV radiation source can be positioned in different positions within the measuring space.

[0041] A second aspect, which does not fall under the claimed invention, relates to a device for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source, in particular by a UV radiation source for sewer rehabilitation work, the device comprising: a recording unit with a measuring chamber for recording the UV radiation source during the intensity measurement, wherein the recording unit has a first UV sensor for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source, wherein the recording unit has a first shutter which is assigned to the first UV sensor, wherein in an open state of the first shutter, the first UV sensor is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source, wherein in a closed state of the first shutter, the first UV sensor is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source, and wherein the device is designed to control the state of the first shutter as a function of a radiation duration of the UV radiation source within the measuring space.

[0042] Advantageously, the device of the second aspect can be developed according to the first aspect.

[0043] A third aspect relates to a method for measuring the intensity of UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source, in particular by a UV radiation source for sewer rehabilitation work, the method comprising the following steps: Connecting a UV radiation source to a UV radiation source connection of a device according to the first aspect, operating the UV radiation source at the UV radiation source connection, performing an intensity measurement of the UV radiation source, wherein the method in particular further comprises: removing the UV radiation source from the measuring space; arranging a UV radiation source connected to an external curing device in the measuring space, performing an intensity measurement of the UV radiation source operated by the external curing device.

[0044] The method according to the third aspect can be further developed by features of the first or second aspect. In particular, the method can provide for the results of the intensity measurement to be logged.

[0045] Further features, details, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and from the drawings, which show exemplary embodiments of the invention. Corresponding objects or elements are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures. They show: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an intensity measurement device. Figure 2 shows a recording unit of the intensity measurement device. Figure 3 shows the recording unit with a UV radiation source coupled to a curing device. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the closure. Figure 5A shows a closure of the recording unit in the open state. Figure 5B shows the closure of the recording unit in the closed state.

[0046] Figure 1shows an intensity measuring device 10 for measuring the UV radiation (ultraviolet radiation) emitted by a UV radiation source, in particular a UV radiation source for sewer rehabilitation work. The intensity measuring device 10 has a recording unit 12 and a control unit 14, which is communicatively connectable to the recording unit 12. Communicatively connectable means that the control unit 14 and the recording unit 12 can exchange data and / or control signals with each other. Figure 1In the example shown, communication between the control unit 14 and the recording unit 12 is wired via a data connection cable 20. Communication between the control unit 14 and the recording unit 12 can be serial or parallel. Alternatively, communication between the control unit 14 and the recording unit 12 can also be wireless, for example, via wireless LAN and / or Bluetooth.

[0047] To supply power to the device 10 or the recording unit 12, the recording unit 12 can be coupled to an external power supply source, for example, a 110 VAC or 230 VAC source, via a power supply cable 18. For this purpose, the recording unit 12 has a corresponding power supply connection 19 to which the power supply cable 18 can be connected. Alternatively or optionally, the recording unit 12 can have an integrated energy storage device that supplies the recording unit 12 with an operating voltage.

[0048] Furthermore, the intensity measurement device 10 comprises a case 16 in which the recording unit 12 can be arranged. The case 16 serves, in particular, to protect the recording unit 12 during transport of the intensity measurement device 10. In particular, the case 16 is lockable and completely encloses the recording unit 12 when the case 16 is closed. To perform the intensity measurement, the recording unit 12 can be removed from the case 16.

[0049] The control unit 14 can further comprise a graphical user interface 22, for example, to perform the intensity measurement and / or to configure the intensity measurement device 10. Furthermore, the control unit 14 can be designed as a lockable case, wherein, when the case is closed, the graphical user interface 22 is inaccessible and thus protected. However, when the case is open, the graphical user interface 22 can be accessible to a user.

[0050] To perform the intensity measurement, the recording unit 12 has a measuring chamber 24 in which a UV radiation source 26 can be arranged. The recording unit 12 is designed such that the measuring chamber 24 can be closed off in a substantially light-tight manner for performing the intensity measurement. This advantageously prevents UV radiation from escaping from the measuring chamber 24.

[0051] The intensity measuring device 10 has, in particular, two measuring modes. In a first measuring mode, as shown in the Figures 1 and 2 As shown, the intensity of UV radiation from a single UV radiation source 26 can be measured by the device 10. As shown in the Figures 1 and 2 As shown, a UV radiation source connection 28 is provided in the measuring chamber 24, to which the (single) UV radiation source 26 can be connected in order to supply the UV radiation source 26 with operating voltage or operating current via the recording unit 12. In other words, in the first measuring mode, the UV radiation source 26 is supplied with operating voltage or operating current by the recording unit 12 itself. Furthermore, the UV radiation source 26 can be detached from the UV radiation source connection 28.

[0052] In a second measurement mode, which is based on Figure 3As will be explained in more detail, the UV radiation source is not supplied by the receiving unit 12, but by an external device, in particular a curing device 27, on which the UV radiation source 26 is operated or with which the UV radiation source 26 is coupled.

[0053] The curing device 27 has one or more UV radiation sources 26, which are arranged (spatially) one behind the other. The one or more UV radiation sources 26 can be operated in series on the curing device, preferably electrically in parallel. The curing device 27 is, in particular, a curing device 27 used for sewer rehabilitation. In particular, the curing device 27 is used for curing sewer rehabilitation agents that consist at least partially of a UV-curable material and are used for sewer rehabilitation work, e.g., liners.

[0054] Supporting the two measurement modes described above advantageously allows the UV radiation source 26 to be measured in isolation in the first measurement mode, and the curing device 27 to be used later in operation in the second measurement mode. This advantageously makes it possible to detect intensity losses caused by the curing device 27. Consequently, sufficient energy input into the sewer rehabilitation agent can be ensured for the subsequent implementation of the sewer rehabilitation work, for example, by adjusting the irradiation duration. For example, if it is determined that the intensity of the UV radiation source 26 at the curing device 27 is too low, the irradiation duration of the sewer rehabilitation agent by the UV radiation source 26 can be increased.

[0055] As in Figure 1As shown, the measuring chamber 24 can be delimited by a floor surface or wall 30, which extends substantially horizontally during the intended use of the intensity measuring device 10, a first and second side surface or wall 32 and 34, which are arranged opposite one another, and a cover surface or wall 36. Furthermore, the first and second side surfaces 32 and 34 are substantially perpendicular to the floor surface 30 and cover surface 36 when the measuring chamber 24 is closed. In the closed state of the measuring chamber 24, the cover surface 36 is arranged opposite the floor surface 30. The cover surface 36 can be movable, for example as a cover, in order to open the measuring chamber 24 for the arrangement of the UV radiation source 26 in the measuring chamber 24.

[0056] Furthermore, the measuring chamber 24 has a first supply opening 35 and a second supply opening 37, which allow a UV radiation source 26 coupled or connected to the curing device 27 to be introduced into the measuring chamber 24. Furthermore, the first supply opening 35 and the second supply opening 37 can each have light-tight brushes 39 that prevent UV radiation from escaping from the measuring chamber 24. The first and second supply openings 35 and 37 can, in particular, be arranged opposite one another, with the UV radiation source 26 being arrangeable between the first and second supply openings 35 and 37.

[0057] To measure the intensity of the UV radiation, a first UV sensor 38 is arranged in the measuring chamber 24. The first UV sensor 38 can be arranged in particular in the first side surface 32 and point in the direction of a UV radiation source 26 positioned in the measuring chamber 24. Furthermore, the recording unit 12 can have a second UV sensor 40 (only indicated in the figures), which can be arranged on the second side surface 34. Advantageously, the first UV sensor 38 and the second UV sensor 40 are arranged opposite one another with respect to the UV radiation source 26.

[0058] The first UV sensor 38 is further assigned a first shutter 42. The first shutter 42 is designed to have an open state and a closed state. In the open state of the first shutter 42, the first UV sensor 38 is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source 26. In the closed state of the first shutter 42, the first UV sensor 38 is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source 26 or is not exposed to it. The second shutter 44 is designed corresponding to the first shutter 40 and, in the open state, allows the second UV sensor 40 to be exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source 26. Furthermore, in the closed state, the second shutter 44 allows the second UV sensor 44 to be shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source 26.

[0059] Advantageously, the recording unit 12 enables the opening and closing of the first and second shutters 42 and 44 to occur depending on the illumination duration of the UV radiation source 26 in the measuring chamber 24. In particular, the recording unit 12 can control the first and second shutters 42 and 44 such that at the beginning of activation of the UV radiation source 26, the first shutter 42 and the second shutter 44 are closed. In other words, at the beginning of activation of the UV radiation source 26, the first UV sensor 38 and the second UV sensor 40 are shielded from the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source 26. The opening of the first shutter 42 and the second shutter 44 only occurs after a first predeterminable period of time. The first predeterminable period of time can be based, in particular, on a required warm-up time of the UV radiation source 26.Warm-up time refers to the time required by the radiation source 26 to reach a stable or constant intensity level and is regularly specified by the manufacturer of the UV radiation source 26. The warm-up time of a UV radiation source 26 can, for example, be approximately 2 minutes.

[0060] After the UV radiation source 26 has been operated for the first predeterminable period of time, the first and second shutters 42 and 44 are opened in both the first measuring mode and the second measuring mode. The first shutter 42 and the second shutter 44 can be kept open for a second predeterminable period of time, with the first and second shutters 42 and 44 being closed again after the second predeterminable period of time has elapsed. The actual intensity measurement of the UV radiation emitted by the UV radiation source 26 can take place during the second predeterminable period of time. This second predeterminable period of time can be 3 seconds, for example, and is preferably adjustable. For example, the control unit 14 can determine which UV sensors are used as the first UV sensor 38 and the second UV sensor 40, and set the second predeterminable period of time according to the UV sensors used.Furthermore, the control unit 14 can set the first predeterminable time period according to the UV radiation source 26 to be measured. In particular, the first predeterminable time period can be greater than the second predeterminable time period.

[0061] Advantageously, opening and closing the first and second shutters 42 and 44 allows the respective UV sensors 38 and 40 to be exposed to UV radiation only briefly, thus avoiding unnecessary aging of the first and second UV sensors 38 and 40. In particular, the first UV sensor 38 and the second UV sensor 40 can be calibrated UV sensors, which have high acquisition costs.

[0062] Furthermore, the first UV sensor 38 can be used to detect a first

[0063] wavelength range, and the second UV sensor 40 can be designed to detect a second wavelength range. In particular, the first wavelength range of the first UV sensor 38 can comprise a spectral range of 227 nm to 360 nm, and / or the second wavelength range of the second UV sensor can comprise a spectral range of approximately 240 nm to 560 nm. Furthermore, the second UV sensor 40 can be a gallium phosphide (GaP)-based UV sensor.

[0064] For the first measuring mode, which is in the Figures 1 and 2As shown, the UV radiation source 26 is supplied with operating current or operating voltage via an electronic supply unit integrated into the receiving unit 12. The electronic supply unit is designed to supply the UV radiation source 26 with an appropriate electrical power. The UV radiation source 26 can have an electrical power consumption of at least 50 W, preferably at least 100 W, and particularly preferably at least 250 W. For example, the power consumption of the UV radiation source 26 can also be 1000 W or higher. Accordingly, the electronic supply unit can be designed to provide sufficient electrical power for the UV radiation source 26. The electrical power provided by the receiving unit 10 can preferably be between 200 W and 1200 W.Furthermore, the electrical power output by the electronic supply unit can be specified by the control unit 14. In particular, a user can adjust the electrical power on the control unit 14.

[0065] Furthermore, the determination of the radiation duration of the UV radiation source 26, in dependence on which the first shutter 42 and the second shutter 44 are controlled, can be carried out in particular by the electronic supply unit or the start of the supply of the UV radiation source 26 by the electronic supply unit.

[0066] To implement the second measurement mode, the recording unit 12 can have an optical sensor 48. The optical sensor 48 is designed and arranged in the measuring chamber 24 to detect whether the UV radiation source 26, which is operated by the external curing device 27, is emitting UV radiation. This means that in the second measurement mode, the start of the radiation duration can be determined by a corresponding detection of the optical sensor 48. Alternatively, the curing device 27 can be configured to be communicatively connected to the control unit 14, so that the curing device 27 communicates a start of the radiation duration of the UV radiation source 26 or an activation of the UV radiation source 26 to the control unit 14.

[0067] Advantageously, the UV radiation source connector 28, to which the UV radiation source 26 is connected, can be removed from the measuring chamber 24. Furthermore, different UV radiation source connectors 28 can be connected to the receiving unit 12 to support different types of UV radiation sources.

[0068] Furthermore, to carry out the second measuring mode, the UV radiation source connection 28 can be removed from the measuring chamber 24, and for the second measuring mode, the UV radiation source 26 can be placed on one or more support points 49 arranged in the measuring chamber 24. Furthermore, the receiving unit 12 can be designed such that the position of the UV radiation source 26 can be positioned within the measuring chamber 24 with respect to the first UV sensor 38 and / or the second UV sensor 40. This advantageously enables a favorable alignment of the UV radiation source 26 with respect to the first UV sensor 38 and the second UV sensor 44. For example, the UV radiation source connection 28 can be movable in the longitudinal direction of the measuring chamber 24.Furthermore, the support points 49 on which the UV radiation source 26 rests can be movable in the longitudinal direction of the measuring space 24 in order to position the UV radiation source 26 with respect to the first UV sensor 38 and / or second UV sensor 40.

[0069] Furthermore, the measuring chamber 24 can have a ventilation unit 47, which is arranged, for example, in the first and / or second side surface 32 / 34. The ventilation unit can be designed, in particular, as an active ventilation unit 47, for example, as a fan, to dissipate heat generated during the intensity measurement. This advantageously slows down thermally induced aging of the UV radiation source 26 and / or the UV sensors 38 and 40.

[0070] To perform the intensity measurement, a user can operate the control unit 14. The control unit 14 is particularly designed to log the results of an intensity measurement and save them in a suitable data format, which is preferably not tamper-evident. The results of the intensity measurement, stored as a data set, contain, in particular, information about the UV radiation source 26 for its unambiguous identification, as well as information about the determined intensity of the UV radiation. Furthermore, the data set can contain the date and time of the intensity measurement performed.

[0071] With reference to the Figures 4 , 5A and 5BThe structure of a closure is explained in more detail using the first and second closures 42 and 44 as examples. The closure 42 has a support plate 50, which can be arranged in the first side surface 32 and / or the second side surface 34. Furthermore, the support plate 50 has an opening through which UV radiation can strike the UV sensor 38 when the closure 42 is open. Furthermore, the closure 42 has an electromagnetic actuator 54, which actuates a closure element 56. The closure element 56 is arranged at least partially between the opening 52 and the UV sensor 38. By activating the electromagnetic actuator 54, the closure element 56 can be moved from a closed state of the closure 42 to an open state of the closure 42.When the shutter 42 is open, the shutter element 56 allows UV radiation from the UV radiation source 26, which is arranged in the measuring chamber 24, to reach the UV sensor 38 through the opening 52. When the UV sensor is closed, the shutter element 56 shields the UV sensor 38 from the UV radiation from the UV radiation source 26.

[0072] Furthermore, the receiving unit 12 can have a contact switch or limit switch 58. The contact switch 58 is designed to detect whether the measuring chamber 24 is closed, in particular whether the cover surface 36 is closed, so that the UV radiation source 26 can only be operated by the electronic supply unit when the measuring chamber 24 is closed. List of reference symbols

[0073] 10Intensity measurement device 12Recording unit 14Control unit 16Case 18Power supply cable 19Power supply connection 20Data connection cable 22Graphical user interface 24Measuring chamber 26UV radiation source 27Curing device 28UV radiation source connection 30Floor surface 32First side surface 34Second side surface 35First supply opening 36Cover surface 37Second supply opening 38First UV sensor 39Light-tight brushes 40Second UV sensor 42First closure 44Second closure 47Ventilation unit 48Optical sensor 49Support point 50Support plate 52Opening 54Electromagnetic actuator 56Closing element 58Contact switch

Claims

1. A device for intensity measurement (10) of UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source (26) for sewer rehabilitation work, the device comprising: - a receiving unit (12) with a measurement chamber (24) for receiving the UV radiation source (26) during the intensity measurement, wherein the receiving unit (12) comprises a first UV sensor (38) for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source (26), the receiving unit (12) having a UV radiation source connection (28) to which the UV radiation source (26) can be connected in order to supply the UV radiation source (26) with operating voltage or operating current, wherein, in a first measurement mode, the device is configured to measure the intensity of a UV radiation source (26) by arranging the UV radiation source (26) in the measurement chamber (24) and operating it at the UV radiation source connection (28), and wherein, in a second measurement mode, the device is configured to measure the intensity of a UV radiation source (26) in that the UV radiation source (26) is arranged in the measurement chamber (24) and is not supplied with operating voltage or operating current by the receiving unit (12), but is operated on an external device (27) for curing UV-curable sewer rehabilitation agents.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving unit (12) has a first closure (42) which is associated with the first UV sensor (38), wherein in an opened state of the first closure (42), the first UV sensor (38) is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source (26), and wherein in a closed state of the first closure (42), the first UV sensor (38) is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the device is configured to control the state of the first closure (42) as a function of a radiation period of the UV radiation source (26) within the measurement chamber (24), wherein at the beginning of the radiation period the first closure (42) is in the closed state and switches to the opened state after a preselectable duration.

4. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (12) has an electronic supply unit which is configured to supply the UV radiation source (26) with the operating voltage or the operating current in the first measurement mode.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein in the first measurement mode the radiation period of the UV radiation source (26) within the measurement chamber is determined based on the duration of the supply of the UV radiation source (26) by the electronic supply unit, wherein the first closure (42) is in the closed state at the beginning of the supply of the UV radiation source (26) by the electronic supply unit and switches to the opened state after a first preselectable duration, and wherein preferably after a second preselectable duration the supply of the UV radiation source (26) by the electronic supply unit is terminated and / or the first closure (42) switches to the closed state.

6. The device according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 5, wherein the receiving unit (12) has an optical sensor (48) which is configured to detect the beginning of the radiation period of the UV radiation source (26) within the measurement chamber (24) in the second measurement mode, wherein, in the second measurement mode, the first closure (42) is in the closed state at the beginning of the radiation period and switches to the opened state after a third preselectable duration, and wherein preferably after a fourth preselectable duration the first closure (42) switches to the closed state and / or the device outputs a signal which signals to terminate the supply of the UV radiation source (26) by the external device (27) for curing UV-curable sewer rehabilitation agents.

7. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (12) comprises a second UV sensor (40) for measuring the intensity of the UV radiation generated by the UV radiation source (26), and wherein the receiving unit (12) preferably comprises a second closure (44) associated with the second UV sensor (40), wherein in an opened state of the second closure (44), the second UV sensor (40) is exposed to the UV radiation of the UV radiation source (26), and wherein in a closed state of the second closure (44), the second UV sensor (40) is shielded from the UV radiation of the UV radiation source (26).

8. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first UV sensor (38) is configured for detecting a first wavelength range, and wherein preferably the first UV sensor (38) is calibrated for the first wavelength range.

9. The device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the second UV sensor (40) is configured for detecting a second wavelength range, and wherein preferably the second UV sensor (40) is calibrated for the second wavelength range, and wherein preferably the first wavelength range and the second wavelength range are different.

10. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control unit (14) which can be communicatively connected to the receiving unit (12) for controlling the intensity measurement.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the control unit (14) is configured to log the intensity measurement of the UV radiation source (26) and to store it in a data set which preferably cannot be manipulated, wherein the data set preferably contains an identification number of the UV radiation source (26) and the measured intensity.

12. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving unit (12) is configured as a lockable housing in which the measurement chamber (24) is arranged, wherein in an opened state of the housing the UV radiation source (26) can be arranged in the measurement chamber (24), wherein in a closed state of the housing the measurement chamber (24) is shielded substantially light-tight, and wherein the housing has at least one supply opening (35, 37) to the measurement chamber (24), wherein the supply opening (35, 37) in the closed state of the housing enables a connection of the UV radiation source (26) located in the measurement chamber to the external device (27) for curing UV-curable sewer rehabilitation agents.

13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the UV radiation source connection (28) is exchangeable and / or removable depending on the UV radiation source (26) to be measured, and / or wherein the receiving unit has positioning means which is configured to position the UV radiation source (26) relative to the first UV sensor (38).

14. A method for intensity measurement of the UV radiation generated by a UV radiation source (26) for sewer rehabilitation work, the method comprising the following steps: - connecting a UV radiation source (26) to a UV radiation source connection (18) of a device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, - operating the UV radiation source (26) at the UV radiation source connection, - performing an intensity measurement of the UV radiation source (26), wherein the method further comprises: - removing the UV radiation source (26) from the measurement chamber (24); - placing a UV radiation source (26) connected to an external device (27) for curing UV-curable sewer rehabilitation agents in the measurement chamber, - performing an intensity measurement of the UV radiation source (26) operated by the external device (27).