Device and method for producing a rolled metal strip

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) and method for producing a rolled metal strip (B), preferably a hot-rolled metal strip (B), wherein the device (1) comprises: a rolling line (10) which is designed to plastically form the metal strip (B) during transportation along a conveying direction (F) by means of rolling; a cooling unit (30) with variable cooling power, which is arranged downstream of the rolling line (10) in the conveying direction (F) and is designed for cooling the metal strip (B); a straightening machine (50) which is arranged downstream of the cooling unit (30) in the conveying direction (F) and designed for bending the metal strip (B) into a desired shape, preferably straightening same to improve the flatness; a first measuring point (60) arranged between the rolling line (10) and the cooling unit (30), with a flatness measuring unit (61) for measuring topological properties of the metal strip (B); a second measuring point (70), arranged between the cooling unit (30) and the straightening machine (50), with a further flatness measuring unit (71) for measuring topological properties of the metal strip (B); and a controller (100) which is in communication with the rolling line (10), the cooling unit (30), the straightening machine (50) and with the first and second measuring point (60, 70) and which is designed to receive topological information from the first and second measuring point (60, 70) and to control the rolling line (10) and / or the cooling unit (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) according to the topological information received from the first and second measuring point (60, 70). Drawing_references_to_be_translated:

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device and a method for producing a rolled metal strip, preferably a hot-rolled metal strip. Background of the invention

[0002] A general optimization goal for rolling metal strip in a rolling mill, especially a hot rolling mill, is to maximize the flatness of the strip to ensure trouble-free further processing and the desired product quality. To this end, the cooling of the rolled products after a hot rolling mill can be specifically controlled, thereby influencing, for example, the tendency of the metal strip to curl and / or warp. If the metal strip curls or warps excessively, it may not be correctable in a subsequent roller mill or straightening machine while maintaining quality. The consequences are strip defects and a corresponding increase in scrap.

[0003] Conventional hot strip mill layouts include an in-line cooling system and a straightening machine downstream of the rolling stands. If no flatness measurement is provided within this process section, the straightening process is carried out outside the process section, essentially manually by an operator.

[0004] Measuring the flatness of strip / sheets is usually a separate process step, in which the sheet is positioned and measured on a special table, making the measurement very time-consuming. Such flatness measurement prior to any straightening process hinders the productivity of the rolling mill.

[0005] For this reason, technologies for increasing automation in the cooling and straightening process of hot-rolled metal strips are the subject of current research and development. For example, DE 10 2013 214 344 A1 describes a cooling section for cooling hot-rolled metal strips. To improve the flatness of the metal strip after it leaves the cooling section, it is proposed to install a flatness measuring device to measure the actual flatness of the metal strip between a first and a second cooling section. A straightening system with flatness measurement following the cooling of hot-rolled metal strips is described in US 10,994,316 B2.

[0006] Despite flatness measurement in the hot strip mill, manual interventions may still be necessary, which hinder further improvements in productivity and result in fluctuating product quality, for example depending on the operator's experience.

[0007] KR 2013 0068709 A, which forms the basis for the preambles of claims 1 and 11, and KR 10-1482460 B1 describe devices and methods for producing a rolled metal strip, comprising a rolling mill, a cooling device, a straightening machine and measuring points for flatness measurement of the metal strip. Description of the invention

[0008] One object of the invention is to provide an improved device and an improved method for producing a rolled metal strip, in particular to improve product quality and / or productivity.

[0009] The problem is solved by a device having the features of claim 1 and a method having the features of the dependent method claim. Advantageous embodiments follow from the dependent claims, the following description of the invention, and the description of preferred embodiments.

[0010] The device according to the invention is used for the production of rolled, in particular hot-rolled, metal strips, wherein all (hot)-rolled flat products, including intermediate products such as slabs, heavy plates, finished sheets, and the like, are collectively referred to as "metal strip". Products made of a metal, in particular a metal alloy, preferably steel, are processed.

[0011] The device comprises a rolling mill configured to plastically deform the metal strip by rolling during transport along a conveying direction. The device is preferably part of a hot strip mill. The rolling mill preferably functions as a roughing mill configured to roll a workpiece, for example, a slab from a continuous casting plant, into a heavy plate.

[0012] The rolling mill can, in the usual way, comprise one or more rolling stands, each preferably designed as a four-roll stand (quarto rolling stand), comprising two parallel, opposing work rolls forming a roll gap, and two associated backup rolls that are in contact with the work rolls to support them.

[0013] The device further includes a cooling unit with variable cooling capacity, which is arranged and configured downstream of the rolling mill in the conveying direction to cool the metal strip.

[0014] The cooling capacity of the cooling device is variable; preferably, the cooling capacity can be regulated section by section along the cooling path defined by the cooling device. This can be achieved by the cooling device having one or more nozzle assemblies, each with several nozzles. The nozzle assemblies define a continuous cooling path in which the metal strip is selectively cooled by applying a cooling medium, preferably water or a water mixture. The nozzles are preferably configured to spray the cooling medium onto the metal strip, particularly onto the two strip surfaces. For this purpose, the nozzles are suitably positioned and aligned to apply a variable amount of cooling medium to the metal strip.Alternatively or in addition to varying the amount of coolant that can be discharged through the nozzles, the cooling characteristics can be influenced by adjusting the height of the nozzle arrangement(s) or by other technical means of manipulating the amount of coolant and / or coolant distribution.

[0015] The device further includes a straightening machine which is arranged in the conveying direction behind (i.e. downstream of) the cooling device and is set up to straighten the metal strip, i.e. bend it into a desired shape, preferably to straighten it to improve flatness.

[0016] The straightening machine is preferably used to eliminate topological distortions, internal stresses, or deformations in the metal strip, which may arise, for example, from rolling processes, thermal and / or other stresses. For this purpose, the metal strip passes through the straightening machine in the conveying direction, where the material is preferably guided through a group of upper and lower straightening rollers and plastically deformed by appropriately adjusting the straightening rollers.

[0017] The device further comprises a first measuring point, arranged between the rolling mill and the cooling unit, with a flatness measuring device for measuring the topological properties of the metal strip. The measurement of the topological properties, in particular the profile or flatness of the metal strip, is preferably carried out without contact.

[0018] The device further comprises a second measuring point, arranged between the cooling unit and the straightening machine, with an additional flatness measuring device for measuring the topological properties of the metal strip. The measurement of the topological properties, in particular the profile or flatness of the metal strip, is also carried out at the second measuring point, preferably without contact.

[0019] The device further comprises a control system which communicates with the rolling mill, the cooling device, the straightening machine and the first and second measuring points and is set up to receive topological information from the first and second measuring points and to control the cooling device depending on the topological information received from the first and second measuring points.

[0020] Preferably, the control system is further configured to control the rolling mill and / or the straightening machine depending on the topological information received from the first and second measuring points.

[0021] The term "information" here includes both analog or digital data that has already been pre-processed by the measuring points and represents a measured quantity, as well as pure measurement signals whose evaluation takes place completely or partially only in the control system.

[0022] The control system communicates with the relevant components of the device and with the measuring points, i.e., the corresponding probes / sensors. This communication can be wireless or wired, digital or analog. Furthermore, the term "communication" encompasses data or signal exchange in only one direction. The control system does not necessarily have to be implemented by a central computer; it includes decentralized and / or multi-stage and hierarchical systems, control networks, cloud systems, and the like. The control system can also be an integral part of a higher-level plant control system or communicate with one.

[0023] It should be noted that terms describing spatial relations such as "in front", "behind", "first", "last", "upstream", "downstream", "between", "across", etc. generally refer to the conveying direction of the metal belt; they are clearly defined by the intended use of the device.

[0024] The device allows for the verification of any deviations from the desired topology of the metal strip, particularly its flatness, and its automatic correction within an in-line cooling and straightening process. Manual flatness assessment by an operator is no longer necessary. This reduces the workload for operating personnel and standardizes the process, thus requiring less on-site expertise for the device's operation. Furthermore, the automation of the cooling and straightening process described herein contributes to an improvement in the quality of the rolled material, especially with regard to flatness. Improving the flatness of the metal strip during the cooling process results in improved homogeneity of material properties across the entire rolled sheet. Overall, the device enables a significant increase in the degree of automation.

[0025] Preferably, the control system implements a closed-loop control system for the rolling mill and / or the cooling unit and / or the straightening machine, whereby the control loop uses the topological information received from the first and / or second measuring point as a reference input. Such an integrated measurement and control structure allows the application of machine learning methods in the manufacturing process by processing the flatness measurements. Furthermore, optimal setting values ​​for the straightening machine can be automatically derived, and straightening passes can be saved, which is important for the production of steel sheets from certain materials (e.g., TRIP steels or other steels with retained austenite) in order to minimize the excitation of the work hardening process after cooling in the cooling section.

[0026] Preferably, the first measuring point has a temperature measuring device for measuring the surface temperature of the metal strip and / or the second measuring point has a temperature measuring device for measuring the surface temperature of the metal strip. In this case, the control system is further configured to receive temperature information from the first and / or second measuring point and to control the rolling mill and / or the cooling device and / or the straightening machine depending on the temperature information received from the first and / or second measuring point, thereby further promoting the degree of automation and autonomous, independent optimization of the device.

[0027] The temperature measuring device(s) each include at least one temperature sensor. The temperature measuring device(s) are preferably configured to detect the temperature at the center of the metal strip, viewed in the width direction, and / or the temperature distribution across the width of the metal strip. The temperature distribution in the width direction of the metal strip typically has a steeper gradient than the strip profile, particularly at the strip edges before cooling or in central areas of the metal strip shortly after it leaves the cooling section. Therefore, a temperature measuring device is preferably installed at both the first and second measuring points.

[0028] The temperature sensors preferably operate without contact, for example using an infrared line scanner. If the surface temperature of the metal strip is known at one or more points in the processing line, for example through other measurements or model calculations, temperature measuring devices may be unnecessary.

[0029] Preferably, the control loop, if present, uses the temperature information received from the first and / or second measuring point as a reference variable.

[0030] Preferably, a straightening machine is arranged and configured between the rolling mill and the first measuring device to straighten the metal strip, i.e., to bend it into a desired shape, preferably to straighten it to improve flatness. In this case, the control system is further configured to control the straightening machine based on the topological information and, if applicable, temperature information received from the first and second measuring points. Furthermore, the control of the straightening machine can be integrated into the control loop, if present. Such an integrated straightening machine contributes to the gentle straightening of the metal strip, particularly in the case of sensitive strip materials, by optimally distributing the mechanical load over the cooling process.Automatic adjustment of the process to a stable state and automatic optimization with regard to product quality and / or productivity is promoted.

[0031] Preferably, a third measuring point is arranged downstream of the straightening machine, wherein the third measuring point comprises a further flatness measuring device for measuring topological properties of the metal strip and may also include a further temperature measuring device. In this case, the control system also communicates with the third measuring point and is configured to receive topological information and, if applicable, temperature information from the third measuring point and to control the rolling mill and / or the cooling device and / or the straightening machine and / or the straightening machine, if present, depending on the information received from the third measuring point.Furthermore, the topological information and, if applicable, temperature information from the third measuring point can be included as a reference variable in the control loop, if available, thereby incorporating the result after final straightening by the straightening machine into the control system and thus improving the entire control loop.

[0032] Preferably, the flatness measuring device of the first measuring point and / or the flatness measuring device of the second measuring point and / or the flatness measuring device of the third measuring point, if present, each has several laser-based distance sensors mounted along the width of the metal strip. This allows the corresponding flatness measuring device to provide the controller with distance values ​​at multiple measuring points as topological information. The use of laser-based distance sensors enables particularly precise and flexible measurement. The measurement grid can be adapted to different conditions, such as changes in the materials or dimensions of the metal strip, without significant mechanical engineering effort. A number of tasks / optimizations can be performed via software without requiring a redesign of the measuring point.

[0033] The distance sensors and, optionally, temperature sensors at the measuring points are preferably mounted in a spatially adjustable manner, for example, slidably on a rail and / or rotatably, tiltably, and the like. Particularly preferably, the distance sensors and, optionally, temperature sensors are manually or automatically adjustable or repositionable, at least in the lateral direction of the metal strip. Preferably, the control system is configured to convert the received distance values ​​from the multiple measuring points into relative height differences between the measuring points, to synchronize these with the positions of the measuring points in a local coordinate system of the rolled strip to determine measurement tracks, and to interpolate these measurement tracks using a predefined function to determine a topological image of the metal strip.The fundamental idea behind this type of topological data processing is based on the assumption that the shape of the metal strip can be described by a continuous and smooth function, preferably a polynomial or spline function. In this way, the measurement points from the distance sensors can be further processed to create a visualizable and otherwise usable topological representation of the metal strip.

[0034] Preferably, the control system is further configured to evaluate the topological image of the metal strip using self-learning algorithms and / or neural networks, thereby enabling fully automatic qualitative statements to be made in addition to quantitative measurement results and used for the automated optimization of the overall process.

[0035] For the same reason, the control system is preferably designed to detect and correct topological defects, preferably flatness defects, from the topological information of the first and / or second and / or third measuring point, in particular by using self-learning algorithms and / or neural networks.

[0036] The aforementioned problem is further solved by a method for producing a rolled metal strip, preferably a hot-rolled metal strip, wherein the method comprises: forming the metal strip by rolling in a rolling mill during transport of the metal strip along a conveying direction; detecting topological properties of the metal strip formed by the rolling mill using a flatness measuring device at a first measuring point; subsequently cooling the metal strip using a cooling device with variable cooling capacity; detecting topological properties of the metal strip cooled by the cooling device using a flatness measuring device at a second measuring point; subsequently straightening the metal strip, preferably improving the flatness of the metal strip, using a straightening machine; receiving topological information from the first and second measuring points by a control system;and controlling the cooling device depending on the topological information received from the first and second measuring points.

[0037] The features, technical effects, advantages and embodiments described in relation to the device apply analogously to the method.

[0038] Preferably, the rolling mill and / or the straightening machine are controlled depending on the topological information received from the first and second measuring points.

[0039] For the reasons mentioned above, the control system preferably implements a control loop, wherein the control includes a control of the rolling mill and / or the cooling device and / or the straightening machine and / or straightening machine, if any, using the topological information received from the first and / or second measuring point and / or third measuring point, if any, as a reference variable.

[0040] Preferably, the first measuring point comprises a temperature measuring device that detects the surface temperature of the metal strip before cooling by the cooling device, and / or the second measuring point comprises a temperature measuring device that detects the surface temperature of the metal strip after cooling by the cooling device. In this case, the control system receives temperature information from the first and / or second measuring point and controls the rolling mill and / or the cooling device and / or the straightening machine and / or the straightening machine, if present, based on the temperature information received from the first and / or second measuring point. Similarly, measurements from any third measuring point downstream of the straightening machine can be included. Furthermore, the temperature information from one or more of the measuring points can serve as a reference input in a control loop.

[0041] Preferably, the flatness measuring device of the first measuring point and / or the flatness measuring device of the second measuring point each comprise several laser-based distance sensors mounted along the width of the metal strip, whereby the corresponding flatness measuring device provides the controller with distance values ​​at multiple measuring points as topological information. In this case, for the reasons stated above, the controller preferably performs the following data processing: converting the received distance values ​​of the multiple measuring points into relative height differences between the measuring points; synchronizing the measurement with the positions of the measuring points in a local coordinate system of the rolled strip to determine measurement traces; and interpolating the measurement traces with a predefined function to determine a topological image of the metal strip.

[0042] Preferably, the control system also evaluates the topological image using self-learning algorithms and / or neural networks.

[0043] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. The features described therein can be implemented individually or in combination with one or more of the features set out above, provided that the features do not contradict each other. The following description of preferred embodiments is given with reference to the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the characters

[0044] Preferred further embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail by the following description of the figures. These show: Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a device for producing a rolled metal strip; and Figure 2 is a schematic view of a measuring point with flatness and temperature measuring equipment. Detailed description of preferred embodiments

[0045] Preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the figures. Identical, similar, or equivalent elements in the figures are designated with identical reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of these elements are sometimes omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0046] The Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a device 1 for producing a rolled metal strip B. The device 1 comprises a rolling mill 10 with one or more rolling stands 11 and a cooling / straightening device 20 connected to the rolling mill 10 for cooling and straightening the metal strip B. The device 1 is preferably part of a hot strip mill.

[0047] During processing, the metal strip B is transported along a conveying direction F through the rolling mill 10 and the cooling / straightening device 20. Here, terms describing spatial relationships such as "in front of", "behind", "first", "last", "upstream", "downstream", "between", "across", etc., refer to the conveying direction F. The metal strip B is conveyed in the usual manner over a roller conveyor 90 (see Figure 1). Figure 2 ) transported and guided along the conveying direction F.

[0048] For the purposes of this discussion, the rolled product is defined as metal strip B, whereby all intermediate products such as slabs, heavy plates, finished sheets, and the like are collectively referred to as "metal strip." Furthermore, the term "metal strip" encompasses all metals and alloys suitable for rolling in sheet form, in particular steel and non-ferrous metals such as aluminum or nickel alloys.

[0049] Device 1 is particularly well-suited for the production of steel sheets; that is, it is primarily applicable to all steel sheets whose material properties are adjusted in an in-line continuous cooling process after the rolling process. However, device 1 is also applicable to metal strips B that are not subject to an in-line continuous cooling process; in this case, it serves to improve profile and flatness control during the rolling process.

[0050] The rolling stands 11 are preferably each designed as a four-roll stand (quarto rolling stand), comprising two parallel, opposing work rolls 11a which form a roll gap, and two associated backup rolls 11b which are in contact with the work rolls 11a in order to support the work rolls 11a.

[0051] The rolling mill 10 preferably functions as a roughing mill, which is set up to roll a material, for example a slab coming from a continuous casting plant, into a heavy plate. The heavy plate then passes through the cooling / straightening unit 20, in which it is cooled and straightened to achieve the desired flatness, and can subsequently be finished-rolled to a desired final thickness in a finishing mill (not shown).

[0052] The cooling / straightening device 20 comprises a cooling unit 30, which has one or more nozzle arrangements 31, each with several nozzles 31a. The nozzle arrangements 31 define a continuous cooling section in which the metal strip B is cooled in a controlled manner and which, apart from any measuring points / sensors, is preferably located directly behind the rolling mill 10 or behind a straightening machine 40, as in the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 1The depicted process begins. However, it should be noted that other components, such as a descaler, a heat insulation hood, shears, and the like, may also be installed.

[0053] The nozzle arrangements 31 comprise a fluid system with pump(s), distribution line(s), valve(s) and the like, in which Figure 1The nozzles 31a are not shown in detail, and are designed to supply them with a fluid cooling medium, preferably water or a water mixture. The nozzles 31a are configured to spray the cooling medium onto the metal strip B, particularly onto the two strip surfaces. For this purpose, the nozzles 31a are suitably positioned and aligned to apply a variable quantity of cooling medium to the metal strip B, preferably section by section along the cooling section and / or across the width of the cooling section. Alternatively or additionally, the cooling characteristics can be influenced by adjusting the height of the nozzle arrangement(s) 31 or by other technical means of manipulating the coolant quantity and / or coolant distribution.

[0054] Preferably, the cooling capacity can be regulated by width masking and / or divided cooling units with adjustable water flows for inner and outer zones along the cooling section and / or across the width of the cooling section. This allows for highly flexible responses to any measured unevenness in the cooling section.

[0055] Behind the cooling device 30 is a straightening machine 50, which is set up to straighten the metal strip B, in particular its profile in the width direction b (see Figure 2), i.e., perpendicular to the conveying direction F, into a desired shape, in particular to straighten it to optimize flatness. This applies equally to the optional straightening machine 40. The straightening machine 50 and the optional straightening machine 40, for example, eliminate distortions, internal stresses, or deformations in the metal strip B that may result from rolling processes, thermal, and / or other stresses. For this purpose, the metal strip B passes through the straightening machine(s) 40, 50, in which the material is guided through a group of upper and lower straightening rollers 41, 51 and plastically deformed by appropriate adjustment of the straightening rollers 41, 51.

[0056] In order to selectively control or regulate the cooling capacity in the cooling section and the straightening machine(s) 40, 50, as explained in detail below, the cooling / straightening device 20 has at least two measuring points 60, 70. A first measuring point 60 is arranged upstream of the cooling unit 30, preferably between the straightening machine 40 and the cooling unit 30, and a second measuring point 70 is arranged downstream of the cooling unit 30. The measuring points 60, 70 each comprise at least one flatness measuring device 61, 71, which is described further below in relation to the Figure 2 This will be explained. Preferably, the measuring points 60, 70 each also have at least one temperature measuring device 62, 72 (see Figure 1). Figure 2) where the temperature measurement can also be performed by separate devices. However, combining several sensors for detecting different parameters, in particular flatness and temperature, at corresponding measuring points 60, 70 is preferred for mechanical engineering reasons, for example, for modularizing the system. According to a further embodiment, a third measuring point 80 of analogous design can be installed behind the straightening machine 50.

[0057] The device 1 further comprises a control unit 100, which is set up to control and / or regulate the processing of the metal strip B, in particular the rolling, cooling and straightening process.

[0058] The controller 100 communicates with the components of device 1 to be controlled and / or regulated, as well as with measuring points 60, 70, 80 and any other probes / sensors. This communication can be wireless or wired, digital or analog. Furthermore, data or signal exchange in only one direction is included under the term "communication." The controller 100 does not necessarily have to be implemented by a central computer; rather, it includes decentralized and / or multi-stage and hierarchical systems, control networks, cloud systems, and the like. The controller 100 can also be an integral part of a higher-level plant control system or communicate with one.

[0059] For the integration of flatness measurements into the in-line cooling and straightening process, and optionally retrospectively into the profile and flatness control of the rolling mill 10, a flatness measurement of the metal strip B takes place at least before and after the cooling section, defined by the cooling unit 30, using the first and second measuring points 60, 70. A third measuring point 80 can be installed after the straightening machine 50.

[0060] An embodiment of a measuring point 60, 70, 80 is shown in the Figure 2 shown. The first and second measuring points 60, 70, as well as the optional third measuring point 80, are essentially identical in construction, so that for the description of the Figure 2 The distinction between first, second, and third measuring points 60, 70, and 80 is omitted. However, measuring points 60, 70, and 80 may differ structurally as needed.

[0061] The measuring point 60, 70, 80 has a flatness measuring device 61, 71, 81 which is configured to measure the profile of the metal strip B in the width direction b. The flatness measuring device 61, 71, 81 preferably operates without contact, in particular using laser-based distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a. In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 2 Seven distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a are installed above the metal strip B. More or fewer distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a can be installed as needed.

[0062] The distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a are mounted across the width of the roller conveyor 90, preferably symmetrically to the center of the roller conveyor. The statistical distribution of the rolled product widths can be used to optimally position the distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a, ensuring that the largest possible number of metal strips B with multiple measuring tracks are detected.

[0063] The distance sensors 61a, 71a, and 81a, for example, have an absolute accuracy of approximately 1 mm at a maximum measuring frequency of, for example, 200 Hz. The distance to the surface of the metal strip B is determined by evaluating the phase shift of the reflected laser beam.

[0064] The measuring point 60, 70, 80 further comprises a temperature measuring device 62, 72, 82, each with at least one temperature sensor 62a, 72a, 82a. The temperature measuring device 62, 72, 82 is preferably configured to detect the temperature in the center of the metal strip B, viewed in the lateral direction b, and / or the temperature distribution across the width of the metal strip B. For this purpose, the temperature sensor 62a, 72a, 82a is preferably installed centrally with respect to the roller conveyor 90.

[0065] The temperature distribution in the lateral direction b of the metal strip B generally has a higher gradient than the strip profile, particularly at the strip edges before cooling or also in central areas of the metal strip B shortly after leaving the cooling section. Therefore, a temperature measuring device 62, 72, 82 is preferably installed at all measuring points 60, 70, 80.

[0066] The temperature sensor 62a, 72a, 82a preferably operates without contact, for example by means of an infrared line scanner, and is generally designed to essentially determine the surface temperature of the metal strip B. The temperature range of the temperature sensor 62a, 72a, 82a is, for example, from 200 °C to 1500 °C, and it measures, for example, at a frequency of up to 150 Hz for 1000 points across the scanned area. If the surface temperature of the metal strip B is known at one or more points in the processing line, for example by means of other measurements or model calculations, temperature measuring devices 62, 72, 82 at the measuring points 60, 70, 80 may be omitted.

[0067] The distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a and temperature sensors 62a, 72a, 82a are preferably spatially adjustable, for example, mounted on a rail 63, 73, 83 so that they can be moved. This installation allows the distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a and temperature sensors 62a, 72a, 82a to be moved manually or automatically, at least in the lateral direction of the roller conveyor 90.

[0068] The distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a and temperature sensors 62a, 72a, 82a are mounted (optionally via the rail 63, 73, 83) on a frame 64, 74, 84 that extends like a bridge over the roller conveyor 90. The frame 64, 74, 84 is installed at a certain distance from the cooling section, defined by the cooling unit 30, to prevent measurement errors caused by any escaping coolant. The frame 64, 74, 84 has, for example, a width of approximately 9 meters and a height of approximately 6 meters above the roller conveyor level.

[0069] The evaluation and further processing of the measurement signals from the distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a and temperature sensors 62a, 72a, 82a is handled by the control unit 100.

[0070] Returning to the Figure 1 The first measuring point 60 is installed upstream of the cooling unit 30, preferably downstream of the jigging machine 40, if present. For structural integration, the flatness measuring device 61 and / or temperature measuring device 62 can be mounted on a support on the jigging machine 40 on the side of the cooling section.

[0071] The first and second measuring points 60, 70, as well as the optional third measuring point 80 and a correspondingly designed control unit 100, enable the integration of flatness measurement into the in-line cooling and straightening process, and also into the profile and flatness control of the device 1. Any flatness defects can be automatically detected, including a classification of flatness defects, and corrected, preferably using machine learning or AI algorithms. The optional third measuring point 80 allows for an additional flatness measurement after final straightening to verify the straightening result and improve the entire control loop.

[0072] For the evaluation of the measurement data, the measured temperature and profile traces are stored, for example, in a database with a metal strip number, a timestamp, conveying speed and any other process parameters.

[0073] Unlike temperature measurement, flatness measurement requires further data preprocessing, which is described in more detail below: Flat products are evaluated and qualified not only according to quality parameters such as mechanical properties, surface defects, and cross-sectional geometry, but also according to their flatness. Edge and center waves are the most frequently recorded defects. These are caused by excessively high residual internal stresses in the cross-section, which can arise from uneven expansion during the forming process and also from uneven cooling.

[0074] During the process, the flatness of the metal strip B can be influenced by changing the residual stress distribution. For example, straightening after the cooling process can eliminate any flatness defects; however, this can lead to a deterioration of the mechanical properties due to work hardening of the material. Avoiding or reducing residual stresses during cooling also presents a significant challenge for cooling technology. The in-line measurement of the topology of the metal strip B described herein offers the possibility of controlling and optimizing the forming processes in the rolling mill 10, the cooling in the cooling unit 30, the straightening in the straightening machines 40 and 50, and any heat treatment with regard to flatness quality.

[0075] For this purpose, a method for determining the topology of the metal strip B between the process steps is required. As described above, a measuring point 60, 70, 80 comprises several distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a, which are preferably mounted symmetrically to the center of the roller conveyor 90 according to the statistical distribution of the product widths across the roller conveyor 90. The statistical distribution serves to optimally position the distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a, enabling the detection of as many different metal strips B as possible with as many measuring tracks as possible across the width b. The measurement preferably runs continuously, with the metal strip B to be measured moving under the flatness measuring device 61, 71, 81.

[0076] The basic idea behind such a setup is based on the assumption that the shape of the metal strip B can be described by a continuous and smooth function. The strengths and thicknesses of the rolled products mean that the curvature function across the strip width b typically appears as a polynomial function or a spline function of a smaller degree.

[0077] A preferred method for measuring the flatness or topology of the metal strip B and processing the measurement data by the controller 100 comprises the following steps: a) Measuring distances to the surface of the metal strip B at discrete positions across the width b using the distance sensors 61a, 71a, 81a; b) Converting the distances into relative height differences of the measuring points; c) Synchronizing the measurement with the positions of the measuring points in a local coordinate system of the rolled strip B via the position of the rolled strip B relative to the position of the flatness measuring device 61, 71, 81 to determine measurement marks; d) Interpolating the measurement marks with a predefined function to determine a topological image or another measure of flatness and, if necessary, visualizing the image or other measure.of the flatness; e) Optional storage of the topological image in the form of an image for classification using self-learning algorithms, preferably using neural networks with multiple intermediate layers ("Deep Learning" algorithms), in order to be able to make qualitative statements fully automatically in addition to quantitative measurement results.

[0078] The data processing of the measured distances can be fully automated and optimized by applying statistical methods, such as the so-called "Gaussian Mixture Model" (GMM method). The statistical processing of the measurement data can be used to assess the quality of the measurements, for example, by considering the variance of the distribution, and thus synergistically serve as an indicator of the condition of the measuring point(s) 60, 70, 80, indicating, for example, the need for cleaning and / or repair of the distance sensors 61a, 71, 81a and temperature sensors 62a, 72a, 82a.

[0079] The control unit 100 preferably implements a control loop that uses the temperature and profile data thus obtained as a reference variable(s) for automated straightening and / or cooling.

[0080] The device 1 described herein, as well as the method for producing a rolled metal strip B, allows for the verification of any deviations in the flatness of the metal strip B that may occur during the in-line cooling and straightening process. This enables the optimization of cooling strategies to reduce flatness deviations in the metal strip B based on statistical analysis and correlations between process settings and determined flatness values. The flatness measurements thus performed can be fed into the plant automation of the cooling unit 30, straightening machine(s) 40, 50, rolling mill 10, and any profile and flatness control system of a finishing rolling stand.

[0081] The integrated measurement and control structure allows the application of machine learning methods in the manufacturing process by processing the flatness measurements. Furthermore, for example, setting values ​​for the straightening machine(s) 40, 50 can be automatically derived, and straightening passes can be saved. This is important for the production of steel sheets from certain materials (e.g., TRIP steels or other steels with retained austenite) in order to minimize the excitation of the work hardening process after cooling in the cooling section. This also applies, for example, to pipe steels with specific yield strength / tensile strength ratios.

[0082] Manual flatness assessment by an operator is no longer necessary. This reduces the workload for the operating personnel and standardizes the process, thus requiring less expertise to operate and use device 1. Furthermore, the automation of the cooling and straightening process described herein contributes to an improvement in the quality of the rolled material, particularly with regard to flatness. The improved flatness of the metal strip B during the cooling process results in improved homogeneity of the material properties across the entire rolled sheet.

[0083] The automation of the cooling and straightening process, in particular by using the control loop, further contributes to improving the reliability and durability of the device 1, for example by reducing the risk of damage to the straightening rollers 41, 51 by correctly adjusting the front rollers 41, 51 of the straightening machine(s) 40, 50 based on information about the shape of the metal strip head.

[0084] Where applicable, all individual features shown in the exemplary embodiments can be combined and / or exchanged without leaving the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Reference symbol list

[0085] 1 Device for producing a rolled metal strip 10 Rolling mill 11 Rolling stand 11a Work roll 11b Support roll 20 Cooling / straightening device 30 Cooling device 31 Nozzle arrangement 31a Nozzle 40 Straightening machine 41 Straightening roll 50 Straightening machine 51 Straightening roll 60 First measuring point 61 Flatness measuring device 61a Distance sensor 62 Temperature measuring device 62a Temperature sensor 63 Rail 64 Frame 70 Second measuring point 71 Flatness measuring device 71a Distance sensor 72 Temperature measuring device 72a Temperature sensor 73 Rail 74 Frame 80 Third measuring point 81 Flatness measuring device 81a Distance sensor 82 Temperature measuring device 82a Temperature sensor 83 Rail 84 Frame 90 Roller conveyor 100 Control B Metal band b Broad direction of the metal band F Conveying direction

Claims

1. Device (1) for producing a rolled metal strip (B), preferably a hot-rolled metal strip (B), wherein the device (1) comprises: a rolling train (10), which is arranged to plastically reshape the metal strip by rolling (B) during transport along a conveying direction (F); a cooling device (30) with variable cooling output, which is arranged behind the rolling train (10) in conveying direction (F) and equipped to cool the metal strip (B); a straightening machine (50) which is arranged behind the cooling device (30) in conveying direction (F) and equipped to bend the metal strip (B) into a desired shape, preferably to straighten for improvement of planarity; a first measuring point (60), which is arranged between the rolling train (10) and the cooling device (30), with a planarity measuring device (61) for measuring topological characteristics of the metal strip (B); a second measuring point (70), which is arranged between the cooling device (30) and the straightening machine (50), with a further planarity measuring device (71) for measuring topological characteristics of the metal strip (B); and a control (100) which is in communication with the rolling train (10), the cooling device (30), the straightening machine (50) and the first and second measuring points (60, 70); characterised in that the control (100) is equipped to receive topological data from the first and second measuring points (60, 70) and to control the cooling device (30) in dependence on the topological data received from the first and second measuring points (60, 70).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterised in that the control (100) is equipped to control apart from the cooling device (36) also the rolling train (10) and / or the straightening machine (50) in dependence on the topological data received from the first and second measuring points (60, 70).

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the control (100) implements a regulating circuit for regulating the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50), wherein the regulating circuit uses the topological data, which are received from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70), as guide variable.

4. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first measuring point (60) comprises a temperature measuring device (62) for measuring a surface temperature of the metal strip (B) and / or the second measuring point (70) comprises a temperature measuring device (72) for measuring a surface temperature of the metal strip (B), wherein the control (100) is equipped to receive temperature data from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70) and to control the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) in dependence on the temperature data received the first and / second measuring point (60, 70).

5. Device (1) according to claim 3 and 4, characterised in that the regulating circuit of the control (100) uses the temperature data, which are received from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70), as guide variable.

6. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that in addition a preliminary straightening machine (40) is arranged between the rolling train (10) and the first measuring device (60) and is equipped to bend the metal strip (B) into a desired shape, preferably to straighten it for improvement of planarity, wherein the control (100) is equipped to control the preliminary straightening machine (40) in dependence on the topological data received from the first and second measuring points (60, 70).

7. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a third measuring point (80) is arranged behind the straightening machine (50), wherein the third measuring point (80) comprises a further planarity measuring device (81) for measurement of topological characteristics of the metal strip (B), and the control (100) is in communication with the third measuring point (80) and is equipped to receive topological data from the third measuring point (80) and to control the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) in dependence on the topological data received from the third measuring point (80).

8. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the planarity measuring device (61) of the first measuring point (60) and / or the planarity measuring device (71) of the second measuring point (70) respectively comprises or comprise a plurality of laser-based distance sensors (61a, 71a) mounted over a width direction (b) of the metal strip (B), whereby the corresponding planarity measuring device (61, 71) provides the control (100) with distance values at a plurality of measuring points as topological data.

9. Device (1) according to claim 8, characterised in that the control (100) is equipped to convert the received distance values of the plurality of measuring points into relative height differences of the measuring points, to synchronise with positions of the measuring points in a local co-ordinate system of the rolled strip (B) for determination of measurement tracks and to interpolate the measurement tracks with a pre-defined function for determination of a topological image of the metal strip (B), wherein the control (100) is preferably further equipped to evaluate the topological image by self-learning algorithms and / or neuronal networks.

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control (100) is equipped to detect topological defects, preferably planarity defects, from the topological data of the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70) and to correct the defects, preferably with use of self-learning algorithms and / or neuronal networks.

11. Method of producing a rolled metal strip (B), preferably a hot-rolled metal strip (B), wherein the method comprises: reshaping the metal strip (B) by rolling in a rolling train (10) during transport of the metal strip (B) along a conveying direction (F); detecting topological characteristics of the metal strip (B), which is reshaped by the rolling train (10), by means of a planarity measuring device (61) of a first measuring point (60); subsequently cooling the metal strip (B) by means of a cooling device (30) with variable cooling output; detecting topological characteristics of the metal strip (B), which is cooled by the cooling device (30), by means of a planarity measuring device (71) of a second measuring point (70); subsequently straightening the metal strip (B), preferably improving the planarity of the metal strip (B), by means of a straightening machine (50); receiving topological data from the first and second measuring points (60, 70) by a control (100); characterised by controlling the cooling device (30) in dependence on the topological data received from the first and second measuring points (60, 70); preferably additionally controlling the rolling train (10) and / or the straightening machine (50) in dependence on the topological data received from the first and second measuring points (60, 70).

12. Method according to claim 11, characterised in that the control (100) implements a regulating circuit and the control comprises regulation of the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) by the topological data, which are received from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70), as guide variable.

13. Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterised in that the first measuring point (60) comprises a temperature measuring device (62) and detects a surface temperature of the metal strip (B) prior to cooling by the cooling device (30) and / or the second measuring point (70) comprises a temperature measuring device (72) and detects a surface temperature of the metal strip (B) after cooling by the cooling device (30), wherein the control (100) receives temperature data from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70) and controls the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) in dependence on the temperature data received from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70), wherein the control (100) preferably implements a regulating circuit and the control comprises regulation of the rolling train (10) and / or the cooling device (30) and / or the straightening machine (50) by the temperature data, which are received from the first and / or second measuring point (60, 70), as guide variable.

14. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the planarity measuring device (61) of the first measuring point (60) and / or the planarity measuring device (71) of the second measuring point (70) respectively comprises or comprise a plurality of laser-based distance sensors (61a, 71a), which are mounted over a width direction (b) of the metal strip (B), whereby the corresponding planarity measuring device (61, 71) provides the control (100) with distance values at a plurality of measuring points as topological data, and the control (100) converts the received distance values of the plurality of measuring points into relative height differences of the measuring points, synchronises with positions of the measuring points in a local co-ordinate system of the rolled strip (B) for determination of measurement tracks and interpolates the measurement tracks with a pre-defined function for determination of a topological image of the metal strip (B), wherein the control (100) preferably further evaluates the topological image by self-learning algorithms and / or neuronal networks.

15. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterised in that this is performed by a device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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