Method and device for determining data associated with a process valve shut-off body

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (100) for providing data associated with a process valve shut-off body. The device (100) comprises at least one display unit (108) for displaying (1010) a digital image (P) of the shut-off body.

Description

[0001] Title: Method and apparatus for determining data associated with a process valve shut-off body

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a method and a device for determining data associated with a process valve shut-off body.

[0004] Process valve shut-off bodies are subject to wear. When recording wear conditions of a process valve shut-off body, photographs are taken manually, which - often retrospectively - do not provide the necessary detail for evaluation with regard to the condition of the shut-off body's surface. The reason for this is different

[0005] Environmental parameters such as light incidence and recording position. Comparisons with other batches or test specimens are therefore difficult or even impossible.

[0006] The problems underlying the invention are solved by a method according to claim 1 and by a device according to a subordinate claim. Advantageous examples can be found in the subclaims, the following description, and also in the drawing.

[0007] One aspect of the description relates to the following subject matter: A method for operating a device for providing data associated with an exchangeable process valve shut-off body, in particular with a valve membrane, comprising: illuminating, by means of at least one illumination, the process valve shut-off body arranged in a chamber; generating, by means of at least one image sensor, a digital image of the process valve shut-off body arranged in the chamber and illuminated by the illumination; displaying, by means of at least one display unit, the digital image; determining, by means of at least one data processing unit, the data associated with the process valve shut-off body, wherein the data comprises the at least one digital image; and sending, by means of at least one communication interface, in particular by means of a mobile radio interface, the data associated with the process valve shut-off body.

[0008] By arranging the process valve shut-off body in the chamber and maintaining consistent recording conditions, digital images are created that always have virtually the same recording angle, the same digital image resolution, virtually the same exposure conditions, virtually the same alignment, and the same camera color profile. By arranging the process valve shut-off body in the chamber, the incidence of extraneous light is reduced. By uniforming the recording conditions, the digital images of different process valve shut-off bodies are also easier to compare mechanically. In particular, defect patterns can be better recognized across many process valve shut-off bodies.

[0009] Advantageously, a self-contained solution is provided that requires no further setup by service personnel. This eliminates the need for configurations in the local company network if a mobile radio interface is available. Furthermore, the device is configured only for detecting process valve shut-off devices, eliminating the need for further configuration steps.

[0010] Alternatively or additionally, the communication interface is designed as a WLAN interface (WLAN: Wireless Local Area Network).

[0011] In one example, the method comprises: determining, by means of at least one input unit, at least one manually entered assessment of a state of the process valve shut-off body and / or a property of the process valve shut-off body; wherein the data associated with the process valve shut-off body comprises the at least one digital image and the at least one assessment and / or the property.

[0012] It is advantageous to record the subjective evaluation of the

[0013] Membrane by the person who inserts the process valve shut-off body into the device and enables the linking of the evaluation with the image taken.

[0014] On the one hand, documentation requirements can be fulfilled and, on the other hand, training data can be generated for training artificial models.

[0015] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: detecting, by means of at least one digital reading device, an identifier associated with the process valve shut-off body, which identifier is stored on a data carrier connected to the process valve shut-off body; wherein the data comprise the at least one evaluation, the digital image and the identifier.

[0016] The recording of the identification of the process valve shut-off body advantageously enables tracking of the process valve shut-off body throughout its life cycle, i.e. from production, through active use, to the disposal of the diaphragm.

[0017] In one example, the method comprises: displaying, by means of at least one display unit, the detected identifier associated with the process valve shut-off body; wherein the displayed identifier is also detected when generating the digital image of the shut-off body.

[0018] This advantageously simplifies both the design of the device and the communication requirements of the device.

[0019] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: sending, by means of the at least one communication interface, the identifier; receiving, by means of the at least one communication interface, at least one piece of information associated with the process valve shut-off body in response to the sent identifier; and displaying, by means of the at least one display unit, the at least one piece of information associated with the process valve shut-off body.

[0020] Advantageously, centrally stored information associated with the respective process valve shut-off body can be retrieved and displayed. This information includes at least one of the following: article number, article description, customer order number, order confirmation, delivery note number, batch number, delivery date, serial number. This advantageously ensures that this information is immediately available to the user and can be compared with other available information, for example, with the information printed on the shut-off body or with delivery documents.

[0021] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: detecting, by means of the at least one input unit, at least one manually entered property of the process valve shut-off body, the property being part of the data associated with the process valve shut-off body.

[0022] The properties of the process valve shut-off body include at least one of the following: name of the test order, material of the process valve shut-off body, test sample number, type code, number of load cycles, process medium. This advantageously allows tests to be documented quickly and easily. The shut-off body can then be reinstalled in the process valve for further load cycles, and its condition can then be recorded again using the device. This allows reliable information on the service life of a specific diaphragm type to be recorded quickly and easily.

[0023] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: receiving, by means of the at least one communication interface, a plurality of evaluation options for the process valve shut-off body, in particular depending on the identifier associated with the process valve shut-off body; and wherein in particular the manually entered evaluation of the state of the process valve shut-off body is a selection from the received evaluation options.

[0024] This advantageously allows users to be offered type-specific and centrally stored evaluation options. Centrally stored evaluation options can be advantageously adapted and refined as needed.

[0025] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: determining, by means of the at least one data processing unit, at least one area within the at least one digital image which includes potential damage; and displaying, by means of the at least one display unit, a marking of the at least one area within the digital image; and wherein the assessment represents a subjective classification of damage to the process valve shut-off body in the at least one area.

[0026] This advantageously alerts the user to potential damage, which they can then evaluate or classify. The user can remove the diaphragm from the chamber and inspect the damage independently of the visual representation, but with the aid of the marked area in the displayed image. The probability that visually detectable damage will not be recognized is reduced. This improves the overall quality of damage assessment for process valve shut-off bodies.

[0027] An advantageous example is characterized in that the method comprises: sending, by means of the at least one communication interface, the at least one digital image and the at least one area; receiving, by means of the at least one communication interface, at least one suggestion for the classification of the damage of the process valve shut-off body associated with the area; and displaying, by means of the at least one display unit, the at least one suggestion.

[0028] Advantageously, a remote central unit, particularly with the support of an artificial neural network, can provide a suggestion and display it to the user for confirmation. This not only simplifies but also speeds up the classification of damage for the user. Furthermore, the centralized determination of the suggestion ensures that all damage to be classified can be determined based on a common, trained model. These centrally determined suggestions also enable trained specialists to better identify damage and classify it more independently.

[0029] In one example, the method comprises: comparing optical features of the shut-off body in the digital image with predetermined target optical features; and displaying, by means of a display unit, an indication to the user if said comparison results in deviations of the optical features from the target optical features; and regenerating the digital image.

[0030] This advantageously gives the user the opportunity to correct a machine error detection by an improved arrangement of the membrane.

[0031] In one example, the method comprises: comparing brightness values ​​of a plurality of spaced-apart brightness features in the digital image; and regenerating the digital image with a changed illumination of the obstructing body if said comparison indicates a brightness deviation.

[0032] This advantageously ensures uniform illumination of the entire scene, from which the entire data collection benefits through better comparability of defect images.

[0033] In one example, the method comprises: tilting, by means of a tilting device, the process valve shut-off body from a first position relative to the image sensor into a second position relative to the image sensor; and wherein the at least one digital image of the process valve shut-off body is recorded in the second position.

[0034] By simply changing the way the image sensor looks at the surface of the barrier, misinterpretations of reflections can be reduced.

[0035] In one example, the method comprises: deforming, by means of a deformation device, the process valve shut-off body from a relaxed state into a deformed state; and wherein the at least one digital image of the process valve shut-off body is recorded in the deformed state.

[0036] For example, cracks can be more easily detected which would not be reproduced or would only be poorly reproduced in the digital image without the deformation.

[0037] One aspect of the description relates to the following subject matter: A device for providing data associated with a process valve shut-off body, comprising at least one illumination for illuminating the process valve shut-off body arranged in a chamber; at least one image sensor for generating at least one digital image of the process valve shut-off body arranged in the chamber and illuminated by the illumination; at least one display unit for displaying the at least one digital image; at least one data processing unit for determining the data associated with the process valve shut-off body, the data comprising: at least the at least one digital image; and at least one communication interface, in particular a mobile radio interface, for sending the data associated with the process valve shut-off body.

[0038] An advantageous example is characterized in that a receptacle, in particular a drawer that can be opened and moved into the chamber, has a counter contour in which a contour of the process valve shut-off body can be arranged.

[0039] This advantageously ensures that the membrane is always arranged in the same way within the holder, which has a beneficial effect on the digital image of the process valve shut-off body.

[0040] An advantageous example is characterized in that the at least one illumination emits a dif fuse light in the direction of the process valve shut-off body.

[0041] The drawing shows:

[0042] Figure 1 shows an apparatus for determining data associated with a process valve shut-off body;

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic sequence diagram;

[0044] Figure 3 shows an example structure of the data;

[0045] Figure 4 shows the device in a perspective view;

[0046] Figure 5 shows a screen image for assessing damage;

[0047] Figure 6 a screen content for displaying with the

[0048] Information associated with the shut-off device; Figure 7 shows a screen image for assessing the condition of the shut-off device;

[0049] Figure 8 shows a screen content for recording properties of the shut-off body;

[0050] Figure 9 shows an example of the device for determining the data associated with the process valve shut-off body;

[0051] Figure 10 is a schematic flow diagram;

[0052] Figure 11 shows an example of the device from Figure 9 in perspective view;

[0053] Figure 12 shows the device from Figure 11 in the open state;

[0054] Figure 13 is a schematic flow diagram for tilting the shut-off body; and

[0055] Figure 14 is a schematic flow diagram for deforming the shut-off body.

[0056] A method for operating a device 100 for providing data D associated with an interchangeable process valve shut-off body 200 is explained below with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 3. In the following description, the shut-off body 200 is a valve diaphragm, but in other examples may also refer to a different type of shut-off body, for example a plug diaphragm. Of course, the term shut-off body also includes control bodies that do not completely close the process valve, but rather regulate the flow of the process valve in a constantly open state.

[0057] In a step 1002, the user H arranges the process valve shut-off body 200 in a receptacle 120, for example, a drawer. In the example of the drawer, the drawer is inserted into the device 100 with the shut-off body 200 arranged thereon. The receptacle 120, which is designed in particular as a drawer that can be opened and inserted into the chamber 104, comprises a counter-contour 122 in which a contour 222 of the process valve shut-off body 200 can be arranged.

[0058] For example, the process valve shut-off body 200 comprises a lateral clamping section 204 and a movable functional section 206 arranged within the clamping section 204 for adjusting the process fluid in the process valve. A central fastening pin 208 protruding from the shut-off body is part of the contour 222, which projects into the counter-contour 122 of the receptacle 120 in the form of an opening.

[0059] A sensor 130 arranged within the device 100 detects in a step 1004 the closed position C of the chamber 104, in the example of the drawer, based on the closed sliding position of the drawer. After step 1004, the device 100 begins to record the data D. In an alternative example, the recording of the data D is started manually by the user. In an alternative example, the recording is started as soon as the identifier of the

[0060] Shut-off device 200 was successfully read.

[0061] In a step 1006, the process valve shut-off body 200 temporarily arranged in a chamber 104 is illuminated by means of a lighting unit 102. In a step 1008, a digital image P of the process valve shut-off body 200 arranged in the chamber 104 and illuminated by the lighting unit 102 is created by means of an image sensor 106. In a step 1010, the digital image P is displayed by means of a display unit 108.

[0062] The image sensor 106 can comprise a plurality of spaced-apart individual sensors. For example, the image sensor 106 can generate a 3D image or stereo image of the surface of the wet side of the shut-off body 200. The digital image P thus generated then includes detailed information about the surface structures.

[0063] In a further development, the illumination 102 is designed such that it projects at least one pattern onto the surface of the shut-off body 200 in order to generate the digital image P with increased details from different individual images.

[0064] After displaying the digital image P, the user H evaluates the appearance of the barrier 200 in step 1032 and enters his evaluation R via the input unit 110. Since the acquisition of the digital image P has already been completed, the user H can optionally open the recording 120 in a step 1034 and examine the barrier while holding it in his hand and with the aid of the displayed digital image.

[0065] In a step 1012, a manually entered assessment R of a state of the process valve shut-off body 200 is recorded by means of an input unit 110. An integrated device 112, such as a touch panel, integrates the display unit 108 and the input unit 110. In a step 1014, the data D associated with the process valve shut-off body 200 are determined by means of a data processing unit 114, wherein the data D comprise the assessment R and the digital image P. In a step 1016, the data D associated with the process valve shut-off body 200 are sent by means of a communication interface 116, in particular by means of a mobile radio interface. Alternatively or in addition to step 1016, the data D can also be stored locally on a storage medium.

[0066] The data D is received, for example, by a remote unit 300, which is operated, for example, by a cloud service provider 302. In a first example, the remote unit 300 comprises a data memory 310 for storing the received data D.

[0067] In a second example, the remote unit 300 comprises a training unit 320 which trains a model 330 based on the received fabled data D, i.e. comprising a respective evaluation R.

[0068] In a third example, the remote unit 300 comprises the trained model 330. When the data D is supplied, it is fed to an input layer of the trained model 330. The data is then propagated through further layers of the trained model 330. At an output layer of the trained model 330, a suggestion V for a classification of damage to the process valve shut-off body is output. The suggestion V is transmitted to the device 100, received by it, and displayed for the user H.

[0069] In a step 1018, an identifier ID associated with the process valve shut-off body 200 is detected by means of a digital reader 118, which identifier ID is stored on a data carrier 202 connected to the process valve shut-off body 200, wherein the data D comprises the subjective evaluation R, the digital image B and the identifier ID.

[0070] In a step 1020, the identifier ID is sent via the communication interface 116. Information associated with the process valve shut-off body 200 is received 1022 via the communication interface 116 in response to the sent identifier ID. In a step 1024, the information associated with the process valve shut-off body 200 is output to the user H via the display unit 108.

[0071] In addition to the evaluation R, the user H can enter a property E, which is part of the data D, via the input unit 110 in a step 1050. For this purpose, in a step 1052, a manually entered property E of the process valve shut-off body 200 is recorded by means of the input unit 110, wherein the property E is part of the data D associated with the process valve shut-off body 200. The illumination 102 radiates a diffuse light in the direction of the

[0072] Process valve shut-off body 200. In one example, the illumination 102 radiates light from different directions onto the process valve shut-off body 200. In one example, the illumination 102 radiates light onto the process valve shut-off body for multiple digital images with different light spectra.

[0073] In an example not shown, several image sensors are present that generate digital images for the process valve shut-off body from different perspectives.

[0074] In an example not shown, the position of the camera is changed to capture digital images of the process valve shut-off body 200 from different perspectives.

[0075] In an example not shown, a device changes the position of the process valve shut-off body in the chamber in order to generate digital images of the process valve shut-off body from different perspectives.

[0076] In one example, the image sensor 106 is part of a ToF camera (ToF: Time of Flight) or a laser scanner, wherein the generated digital image includes distance information.

[0077] In an example not shown, a device for overstretching the process valve shut-off body is provided. The shut-off body 200 is clamped between two points, and the device 100 places the shut-off body 200 under tension, in which state the digital image is generated. This allows cracks in the shut-off body 200 to be visualized.

[0078] Figure 4 shows the device 100 in a perspective view. The device 100 comprises a housing 101, within which the components are arranged. The receptacle 120 is displaced into the chamber 104 in a drawer-like and translational manner. In the open state, the shut-off body 200 can be inserted into the receptacle 120. In the closed state of the receptacle 120, the chamber 104 is essentially shielded from outside light. A handle 121 is arranged on the outer surface of the receptacle 120 for opening and closing.

[0079] In the following, reference is made to Figures 5 as well as 1 and 2. In a further example for the improved assessment of the condition of the shut-off body 200, in a step 1026, a plurality of assessment options for the process valve shut-off body 200 are received by means of the communication interface 116, in particular depending on the identifier ID associated with the process valve shut-off body 200. These assessment options are displayed to the user in a step 1028 by means of the display unit 108. These assessment options can be seen, for example, on the right-hand side in Figure 5. In particular, the manually entered assessment R of the condition of the process valve shut-off body 200 is a selection made by the user from the received assessment options.

[0080] In another example, in a step 1040, an area B1, B2 within the digital image P that includes potential damage is determined by means of the data processing unit 114. During the determination 1040, the unprocessed original image from the image sensor is first used to identify the valve membrane and its outline in the image and to crop the image accordingly.

[0081] The cropped image therefore contains the valve diaphragm in a top view of the wet side. In the middle of the four white dots, a circular section is cut out, which only encompasses the functional area of ​​the valve diaphragm and leaves out the clamping area. Damage is searched for within the functional area using the respective detection functions. For example, cracks in the diaphragm can be detected using dark, connected areas and marked as the area B1, B2 in the digital image P. In a step 1042, a marking of the area B1, B2 is displayed within the digital image P using the display unit 108. The rating R represents a subjective classification of damage to the process valve shut-off body 200 in the area B1, B2 by the user. In one example, the rating options on the right are received from the unit 300.

[0082] In a further example of the interaction between the device 100 and the remotely arranged unit 300, in a step 1044, the digital image P and the area B1 and / or B2 are sent to the unit 300 by means of the communication interface 116. The unit 300 determines a suggestion V for the classification of the damage, for example by means of a trained neural network, i.e. by means of a trained model. In a step 1046, the suggestion V for the classification of the damage of the process valve shut-off body 200 associated with the area B1, B2 is received by means of the communication interface 116 and displayed in step 1048, for example the assessment option according to the suggestion V is visually framed. The user can accept this suggestion or make a different assessment. The suggestion V is therefore offered to the user in an example for confirmation or rejection.In another example, an entry is selected or preselected from a list of classification options according to the received suggestion.

[0083] In the example shown in Figure 5, the entry of property E of the shut-off device 200 is omitted. This example therefore primarily serves to document a shut-off device removed from a process plant and subsequently disposed of.

[0084] The screen display shown in Figure 6 shows the digital image P and, on the right, the data associated with the barrier, which was received from the remote unit. The evaluation can be initiated by selecting the 'Evaluate' button.

[0085] The screen shown in Figure 7 shows evaluation options that affect the entire shut-off body. Manual selection of the evaluation options represents the evaluation of the process valve shut-off body.

[0086] In the screen display shown in Figure 8, the properties of the shut-off body are recorded. In this example, tests with test specimens are documented. To do this, the user first enters the properties of the test specimen and can then create the digital image by selecting a button. In this case, the main focus is on setting up a database that can also be used, for example, to train a model. If only data is to be created without evaluating the membrane condition, an evaluation can be omitted and only the properties according to the screen display are recorded. An evaluation can be added manually later.

[0087] Figure 9 shows a further example of the device 100 in a schematic block diagram. In contrast to Figure 1, a mobile terminal 900 is part of the device 100. The mobile terminal 900 comprises at least the following components from Figure 1: the data processing unit 114, the image sensor 106, the integrated device 112 comprising the input unit 110 and the display unit 108, and the communication interface 116. In addition, the lighting 102 of the mobile terminal 900 can also be used in the device 100. For further details, reference is made to the explanations relating to Figure 1.

[0088] The mobile terminal 900 is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet with a WLAN interface and / or a cellular network interface in the sense of the communication interface 116.

[0089] The digital reader 118 reads the identifier ID from the data carrier 202 of the shut-off body 200 and forwards it to a further display unit 140. The display unit 140 provides the identifier ID as a photographically captureable, pictorial representation. The identifier ID is then captured by the image sensor 106 and stored in the recorded digital image P together with the reproduction of the shut-off body 200. Consequently, the method comprises displaying, by means of at least the display unit 140, the identifier ID associated with and captured by the process valve shut-off body 200, wherein the displayed identifier ID is also captured when the digital image P of the shut-off body 200 is generated.

[0090] The housing 101, which is separate from the terminal 900, comprises an opening 103 through which the image sensor 106 looks, and through which the illumination 104 shines into the chamber and illuminates the shut-off body 200.

[0091] As an alternative to the evaluation shown in the area of ​​the device 300 and explained in more detail in relation to Figure 1, the terminal device 900 can independently evaluate the data D and the digital image P. Accordingly, a suggestion V for classifying the damage to the process valve shut-off body 200 is determined by the data processing unit 114 of the terminal device 900 and output to the user via the display unit 108.

[0092] Figure 10 shows a schematic flow diagram for operating the device 100 from one of the previous figures. After a start 1060, in an optional step 1062, the identifier ID of the shut-off body 200 is read from an RFID chip inserted into the shut-off body 200 and recorded as property E of the data D. Alternatively or additionally, an identifier of the process valve into which the shut-off body 200 was previously installed is recorded as property E of the data D.

[0093] In step 1008, the digital image P of the illuminated

[0094] Shut-off body 200 is generated. The exemplary image P displayed includes additional image features which are explained below. A device identifier 150 is visibly arranged on a surface 152 surrounding the shut-off body 200 and identifies, for example, the device 100 or the housing 101. The features Y1 to Y4 are used to check the brightness and are, for example, white. Color fields XI to X3 are used for calibration and are, for example, designed in different colors.

[0095] The shut-off body 200 itself has typical geometric features. For example, the optical features A1 to A4 represent through openings for stud bolts. The optical feature B represents a sealing edge introduced into the wet-side surface of the shut-off body 200 to separate the inner functional area from the clamping area surrounding the inner functional area. The optical feature C represents a tab protruding from the narrow side, into which an electronic data carrier bearing the identifier ID is inserted.

[0096] The display unit 140 displays the identifier ID previously read from the electronic data carrier in the area of ​​the surface 152.

[0097] The recorded digital image P thus contains optically recognizable features of the shut-off body 200 and additional calibration features and identification features.

[0098] In a step 1064, the membrane position is checked based on the geometric features. In addition, the membrane type can also be determined based on the geometric features. In an example of step 1064, the membrane type is determined using the identifier ID, which can be read from the digital image P. The optical features present and recognizable in the image P, such as A1 to A4, B, C, are compared with previously determined and stored comparison features associated with the membrane type.

[0099] In step 1064, the device 100 can additionally be identified via the device identifier 150. The measurement configuration can also be recognized via the device identifier 150. For example, it is easily possible to determine the scale of the digital image using the measurement configuration in order to determine, for example, distances resulting from geometric features.

[0100] If the comparison in step 1064 shows that the optical features recognized in the recorded digital image P do not match the stored optical features of the recognized membrane type, the process moves from a comparison step 1066 to a step 1068. In step 1068 the user is informed that the comparison has failed. If necessary the user can be given additional information, for example about incorrect positioning or about unrecognized optical features of the membrane type. Starting from step 1068 the process moves to step 1008 to start a new recording. Alternatively a membrane type can also be specified or confirmed manually.

[0101] However, if the comparison in step 1064 shows that the optical features recognized in the recorded digital image P match the stored optical features of the membrane type, the process switches to step 1070.

[0102] The method comprises comparing 1064, 1066 optical features A1-A4, B, C of the shut-off body 200 in the digital image P with predetermined optical target features associated with the membrane type; displaying 1068, by means of the display unit 1008, an indication to the user if said comparison results in deviations of the optical features A1-A4, B, C from the optical target features; and regenerating 1008 the digital image P.

[0103] In step 1070, a check is made as to whether or not there is sufficient illumination of the shut-off body 200 in the image P. For example, based on image values ​​at the locations of the optical features Y1 to Y4, it is evaluated whether the illumination prevailing at the time the image P was taken, i.e., the illuminance, was sufficient and whether the illumination was sufficiently homogeneous.

[0104] If it is determined in step 1072 that the illumination values ​​are not sufficiently equal or are below a minimum threshold, the user is notified in step 1074 that the illumination is insufficient. Accordingly, the user can manually improve the illumination situation and generate another image P by repeating step 1008.

[0105] If it is determined in step 1072 that the illumination of the recording situation and the barrier is sufficient , the system switches to step 1012 , in which the user can make comments or the evaluation R of the state of the

[0106] Shut-off body 200 can be made.

[0107] Additionally or alternatively, in steps 1070 and 1072, the color fields XI to X3 are used to determine whether sufficient differentiation between the color values ​​is possible. If the image quality is insufficient, the user can be prompted to retake image P. Alternatively or additionally, the color fields XI to X3 are used to compensate for camera-specific differences in color representation.

[0108] The method thus comprises comparing 1070, 1072 brightness values ​​of a plurality of spaced-apart brightness features Y1-Y4 in the digital image; and regenerating 1008 the digital image P with a changed illumination of the blocking body 200 if said comparison indicates a brightness deviation or inhomogeneous illumination. The brightness deviation can comprise an absolute comparison with a minimum threshold value and can comprise a relative comparison of the determined brightness values ​​of the image P with one another.

[0109] If the image quality is sufficiently good, the program switches to step 1012, in which the user can evaluate the condition R of the shut-off body 200. In addition, in step 1012 the user can, for example, enter an identifier for the maintenance, so that a clear assignment to a specific maintenance interval is possible afterwards. Furthermore, the user can also enter his or her name or identifier here. Furthermore, a technical location at which the recording was carried out can be entered. The aforementioned data is then saved as property E of the data D.

[0110] After completion of step 1012, the data D are at least temporarily stored in a storage unit 170 of the device 100 in order to then be stored on at least one storage unit 310, 311 of a remotely arranged unit 300. The storage units 310 and 311 are, for example, different databases which are used either to document the maintenance of a process plant or, for example, to collect training data for machine-trainable functions. From one of the storage units 310 and 311, a maintenance report which is directed at a specific maintenance of a process plant or of a part of the process plant can then be generated for documentation purposes, for example according to a predetermined generation scheme.

[0111] The surface 152 is part of the receptacle 120 onto which the membrane or the shut-off body 200 is placed. The receptacle 120 is designed to be interchangeable, for example, in order to be able to detect several sizes and different types of shut-off bodies using a device or a housing. The orientation of the receptacle 120 is unambiguous and secure against confusion, for example, via appropriate coding and a corresponding positive fit, so that the image sensor and the receptacle 120 are always in an expected position relative to one another.

[0112] As an alternative to the user-triggered recording of the digital image P in step 1008, this can also be done independently by the device 100. For example, the lighting of the scene in the chamber can be automatically adjusted and changed to achieve optimal illumination and perform feature recognition. Then, for example, one of the instructions to the user from steps 1068 and 1074 can be omitted, and the device 100 independently determines the digital image P in order to offer it to the user for evaluation in step 1012.

[0113] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an example of the device 100 comprising the terminal 900 and the housing 101. The chamber into which the camera or image sensor of the mobile terminal 900 looks is arranged within the housing 101. The closed chamber within the housing 101 makes it possible to define standardized illumination scenarios. Likewise, the lighting unit or the illumination of the mobile terminal 900 is directed into the chamber and illuminates the shut-off body arranged there.

[0114] A light transparent portion 180 of the housing 101 allows light from outside to enter the chamber and results in a more uniform illumination of the scene inside the chamber.

[0115] Between the terminal 900 and the housing 101, an interchangeable holder 182 for terminal devices 900 is arranged. The holder 182 is specifically adapted to the model of the terminal 900 used, wherein the holder 182 particularly includes the openings for the camera sensor and the illumination of the terminal 900. The housing 101 is closed by a cover 184. The cover 184 or the holder 182 includes a lens hood. This prevents glare.

[0116] As an alternative to the interchangeable static holder 182, sliders are provided on the cover 184, which form a receiving space for the terminal 900 that can be adapted to the type of terminal 900. A cover opening with a variable cross-section is provided on the cover 184. Thus, different types of terminals 900 can be arranged on the housing 101.

[0117] In a further example, the cover 184 or the receptacle 182 comprises a light guide into which the light from the illumination of the terminal device 900 is coupled, and from which the coupled light is coupled out into the chamber with a scattering effect.

[0118] The receptacle 182 for the terminal 900 projects beyond a main body of the housing 101 and is supported by a support strut 186 which is connected to a base plate 190.

[0119] Figure 12 shows the device 100 from Figure 11 in an open state. The receptacle 120 serves to position the removed shut-off body 200. A stylized tab 194 of the receptacle 120 indicates the correct position of the shut-off body 200 with its tab in the same alignment with the stylized tab. After inserting the shut-off body 200, the housing 101 of the device 100 is closed and the digital image can be generated. Figure 13 shows a schematic flow diagram. In a

[0120] In step 1302, the shut-off body 200 is positioned on the receptacle 120. A drive 1310 leaves the receptacle 120 in a normal position.

[0121] Starting from step 1302, the drive 1310 is operated to tilt the receptacle 120, for example, about a tilt axis (not shown) perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Accordingly, the drive 1310 moves the receptacle 120 with the shut-off body 200 arranged thereon into a tilted position in which the image sensor views a surface of the shut-off body 200 that is tilted relative to the normal position.

[0122] The method comprises tilting 1304, by means of a tilting device 1300 consisting of the drive 1302 and the receptacle 120, the process valve shut-off body 200 from a first position relative to the image sensor 106 into a second position relative to the image sensor 106, wherein the at least one digital image P of the process valve shut-off body 200 is recorded in the second position.

[0123] Figure 14 shows a schematic flow diagram. In a step 1402, the shut-off body 200 is in a relaxed position on the holder. The shut-off body 200 therefore has an inherent stress which holds it in the shape shown in step 1402. A drive 1410 leaves the shut-off body 200 in this relaxed position. The holder 120 provides a counter-contour directed in the direction of the shut-off body 200. Starting from step 1402, the drive 1410 introduces a force into a pressure contour 1408 which presses annularly or alternatively punctually onto a part of the shut-off body 200 and transfers this into a tensioned state. In the example, the shut-off body 200 rests against the convex counter-contour of the holder 120. The wet side of the shut-off body 200 is directed towards the camera and is convexly curved.For example, cracks or other signs of wear can be more visually evident on the convexly stretched wet side. Accordingly, at least one digital image P is generated in the stretched state.

[0124] Alternatively, the shut-off body 200, which is clamped at at least two points, can also be subjected to pressure or tension in order to better represent cracks or other artifacts in the digital image P.

[0125] The method therefore comprises deforming 1404, by means of a deformation device 1400, for example comprising the drive 1410, the pressure contour 1408 and the receptacle 120 with counter contour, the process valve shut-off body 200 from a relaxed state into a deformed state, wherein the at least one digital image P of the process valve shut-off body 200 is recorded in the deformed state.

Claims

Claims A method for operating a device (100) for providing data (D) associated with an interchangeable process valve shut-off element (200), in particular with a valve diaphragm, comprising: Illuminate (1006) , by means of at least one light (102) , the process valve shut-off body (200) arranged in a chamber (104) ; Generating (1008) , by means of at least one image sensor (106) , at least one digital image (P) of the process valve shut-off body (200) arranged in the chamber (104) and illuminated by the illumination (102) ; Display (1010) , by means of at least one display unit (108) , of the at least one digital image (P) ; Determine (1014) , by means of at least one data processing unit (114) , the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off element (200) , wherein the data (D) comprise the at least one digital image (P); and Sending (1016) the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off element (200) by means of at least one communication interface (116), in particular by means of a mobile communication interface. The method according to claim 1 further comprises: Determine (1012) , by means of at least one Input unit (110), at least one manually entered rating (R) of a state of the process valve shut-off body (200) and / or a property (E) of the process valve shut-off body (200); wherein the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off body (200) comprise the at least one digital image (P) as well as the at least one rating (R) and / or the property (E). The method according to claim 1 or 2 further comprising: Acquisition (1018) by means of at least one digital reader (118) of an identifier (ID) associated with the process valve shut-off element (200), which is stored on a data carrier (202) connected to the process valve shut-off element (200); wherein the data (D) comprise the at least one evaluation (R), the digital image (B) and the identifier (ID). The method according to claim 3, further comprising: Displays, by means of at least one display unit (140), the identifier (ID) associated with and recorded by the process valve shut-off body (200); wherein the displayed identifier (ID) is also recorded when generating the digital image (P) of the shut-off body (200). The method according to one of the preceding claims further comprises: Send (1020) ), by means of which at least one Communication interface (116) , the identifier (ID) ; Received (1022) , by means of the at least one communication interface (116) , at least one piece of information associated with the process valve shut-off element (200) as a response to the transmitted identifier (ID) ; and Displays (1024) by means of at least one display unit (108) which displays at least one piece of information associated with the process valve shut-off element (200). The method according to one of the preceding claims further comprising: Received (1026) , by means of the at least one communication interface (116) , a plurality of evaluation options for the process valve shut-off body (200) in particular depending on the identifier (ID) associated with the process valve shut-off body (200); and Displays (1028) by means of the at least one display unit (108) of the received evaluation options; wherein, in particular, the manually entered evaluation (R) of the state of the process valve shut-off element (200) is a selection from the received evaluation options. The method according to one of the preceding claims comprising: Determine (1040) , by means of the at least one data processing unit (114) , at least one area (Bl; B2) within the at least one digital image (P) which comprises a potential damage; and Displays (1042) by means of the at least one display unit (108) marking the at least one area (Bl; B2) within the digital image (P); and wherein the rating (R) represents a subjective classification of damage to the process valve shut-off element (200) in the at least one area (Bl; B2). The method according to the preceding claim further comprising: Sending (1044) , by means of the at least one communication interface (116) , the at least one digital image (P) and the at least one area (Bl; B2) ; Received (1046) , by means of the at least one communication interface (116) at least one proposal (V) for the classification of the damage associated with the area (Bl; B2) of the process valve shut-off body (200) ; and Displays (1048) by means of the at least one display unit (108) of the at least one proposal (V). The method according to one of the preceding claims comprising: Comparing (1064, 1066) optical features (A1-A4, B, C) of the barrier body (200) in the digital image (P) with specified optical target characteristics; and Displaying (1068) a notification to the user by means of a display unit (1008) when the comparison reveals deviations of the optical features (Al-A4, B, C) from the target optical features; and regenerating (1008) the digital image (P). The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: Comparing (1070, 1072) brightness values ​​of a plurality of spaced-apart brightness features (Y1-Y4) in the digital image; and regenerating (1008) the digital image (P) with a modified illumination of the barrier body (200) if said comparison indicates a brightness deviation. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: Tilting (1304) , by means of a tilting device (1300) , of the process valve shut-off body (200) from a first position relative to the image sensor (106) to a second position relative to the image sensor (106) ; and wherein the at least one digital image (P) of the process valve shut-off body (200) is recorded in the second position. The method according to one of the preceding claims, comprising: Deforming (1404) the process valve shut-off body (200) from a relaxed state into a deformed state by means of a deformation device (1400); and wherein the at least one digital image (P) of the process valve shut-off body (200) in the deformed state is recorded.A device (100) for providing data (D) associated with a process valve shut-off element (200) comprising: at least one illumination (102) for illuminating (1006) the process valve shut-off element (200) arranged in a chamber (104); at least one image sensor (106) for generating (1008) at least one digital image (P) of the process valve shut-off element (200) arranged in the chamber (104) and illuminated by the illumination (102); at least one display unit (108) for displaying (1010) the at least one digital image (P); at least one data processing unit (114) for determining (1014) the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off element (200), wherein the data (D) comprise the at least one digital image (P); and at least one communication interface (116), in particular a mobile communication interface, for sending. (1016) the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off body (200). The device (100) according to claim 13 comprising: at least one input unit (110) for determining (1012) at least one manually entered evaluation (R) of a state of the process valve shut-off body (200) and / or a property (E) of the process valve Shut-off body (200); wherein the data (D) associated with the process valve shut-off body (200) comprise the at least one digital image (P) as well as the at least one rating (R) and / or the property (E). The device (100) according to claim 13 or 14 further comprises: a receptacle (120), in particular an openable drawer that can be inserted into the chamber (104), with a counter contour (122) in which a contour (222) of the process valve shut-off body (200) can be arranged. The device (100) according to one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the at least one illumination (102) emits diffuse light in the direction of the process valve shut-off element (200). The device (100) according to one of claims 13 to 16, which is designed to carry out the method according to one of claims 2 to 12.

18. A use of the method according to one of the claims 1 to 12 or the device (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 17.

Images