System for conditioning a cooling lubricant emulsion

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (100) for conditioning a cooling lubricant emulsion for machine tools (10) comprising: a measuring unit (300) comprising at least one sensor for determining at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion, a providing unit (200) for providing fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, which is configured to mix a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water, and to provide the mixture as fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, and a filling level sensor (500) configured to measure the filling level in a tank (60), characterized in that the providing unit (200) is spatially separated from the measuring unit (300) and does not directly exchange liquid with the measuring unit (300), the system (100) furthermore comprising a distributor unit (400) configured to be connected to the measuring unit (300), the providing unit (200) and a tank (60), and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them, the system (100) additionally comprising a control unit (600) configured to control the providing unit (200), the measuring unit (300), the distributor unit (400) and the filling level sensor (500) and to exchange data with them.

Description

[0001] System for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion

[0002] The invention relates to a system for use in a method for determining at least one parameter and / or for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools, as well as the corresponding method.

[0003] State of the art

[0004] During machining, workpieces are given a specific shape by mechanically removing excess material in the form of chips using a tool. Machining processes include turning, milling, drilling, and grinding. Due to friction, the mechanical energy applied is almost entirely converted into heat.

[0005] Cooling lubricant emulsions, or CSF emulsions for short, are widely used in the metalworking industry for metal cutting. CSF emulsions are often made from CSF concentrates by stirring them into water. CSF concentrates typically consist of an oil component, buffer components, emulsifiers, and various additives. CSF concentrates are homogeneous liquid products with an oily consistency.

[0006] Cutting and lubrication emulsions (CLUs) are used to cool and lubricate the machined workpiece and / or tool. For this purpose, the cutting and lubrication emulsions are typically pumped from a tank and applied to the tool or workpiece. The cutting and lubrication emulsion is then collected and returned.

[0007] During use, the coolant emulsion is collected and discharged along with chips removed from the machining process. The coolant emulsion adheres to the discharged chips. Therefore, before the coolant emulsion can be reused, it must be freed of chips and other contaminants. Furthermore, the fine spraying of the coolant emulsion at the high pressures used in the machines causes water evaporation. This results in an enrichment of the active components, such as oils, additives, and the like, in the coolant emulsion.

[0008] To compensate for the discharged coolant emulsion and water evaporation, low-concentration coolant emulsion must be regularly refilled, which is referred to as "refilling." The refill quantity and concentration can be calculated from the current actual and target concentrations and the fill level difference in the tank.

[0009] GB 2547056 A discloses a system for determining the condition of a liquid in a tank. The system comprises one or more sensors, each of which can determine a property of the liquid. Depending on the measured properties, the amount of concentrate and / or water needed to achieve the desired condition of the liquid is determined.

[0010] US 5,389,546 describes a continuous titration method for determining the alkali content of a fluid used in metalworking. The method involves continuously taking a sample of the fluid used in metalworking, mixing it with a continuously increasing flow of a standard solution, and continuously determining the pH. The alkali content can be calculated from the ratio of the two volume flows. The fluid flow is continuously discarded during the measurement. Alternatively, a sample with a known pH value can be added to check the performance of a sensor used.

[0011] WO 2020 / 126257 discloses a method for determining at least one parameter and / or for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools, wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a tank, wherein cooling-lubricating emulsion is withdrawn from the tank, and at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion is detected using at least one sensor. A device for carrying out the method is also disclosed. Disclosure of the Invention

[0012] A system for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools is proposed. The system comprises a measuring unit comprising at least one sensor for determining at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion, a supply unit for supplying fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which is configured to mix a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water, and a fill level sensor configured to measure the fill level in a tank.

[0013] Unlike previously known devices, the supply unit is spatially separated from the measuring unit and does not have any direct fluid exchange with it. Instead, the system comprises a distribution unit that is designed to be connected to the measuring unit, the supply unit, and a tank containing the cooling-lubricating emulsion intended for conditioning, and to regulate the exchange of cooling-lubricating emulsion between them. Furthermore, the system according to the invention comprises a control unit that is designed to control the individual components of the system. The expression "no direct fluid exchange" means that there is no fluid exchange between the measuring unit and the supply unit that does not occur via the distribution unit.Preferably, the supply unit is configured to be connected to the distribution unit via a single line and to be in fluid exchange with the latter.

[0014] The control unit is preferably configured to carry out at least the following steps: a) controlling the supply unit so that it mixes a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and provides the mixture as fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion; b) controlling the distribution unit so that it supplies fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the supply unit to the measuring unit or to the tank, or supplies cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank to the measuring unit, and / or optionally supplies at least part of the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the measuring unit to the tank; c) receiving measurement data from the at least one sensor of the measuring unit and the fill level sensor; d) calculating the follow-up quantity required to transfer the fill level in the tank from a measured actual fill level to a defined target fill level;e) Calculating the refill concentration of a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion required for a calculated refill quantity in order to convert the measured actual concentration in the tank into a defined target concentration;

[0015] During operation of the system according to the invention, the components of the system are interconnected, with the supply unit being connected to the distribution unit and in fluid communication, the measuring unit being connected to the distribution unit and in fluid communication, the distribution unit being in fluid communication with a tank, and the control unit having a data connection to the supply unit, the measuring unit, and the distribution unit. While the components of the system according to the invention are interconnected, the system according to the invention can also be referred to as a "device according to the invention." As long as the components of the system according to the invention are not interconnected, the system according to the invention can also be referred to as a "component kit."

[0016] According to the invention, the spatial separation of two components means that the two components (e.g. the measuring unit and the provision unit) do not have a common housing, preferably each have a housing.

[0017] While the supply unit and the measuring unit are spatially separated from one another, the remaining components of the system can have a common housing with the supply unit, the measuring unit, or with one another. For example, the measuring unit can be combined with the distribution unit in one housing. The control unit can also be combined with the supply unit, the measuring unit, or the distribution unit in one housing. Alternatively, the measuring unit, supply unit, and distribution unit, preferably the measuring unit, supply unit, distribution unit, and control unit, are spatially separated from one another. The supply unit of the system according to the invention for providing fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is designed to mix a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and to provide the mixture as fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion.

[0018] The fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion can be obtained in particular by pumping water and / or concentrate using a volumetric pump and / or by measuring a pumped quantity of water and / or concentrate and regulating a feed pump depending on the measured pumped quantity.

[0019] The supply unit therefore preferably comprises at least one volumetric pump to pump the water and / or the concentrate. Alternatively or additionally, the supply unit comprises at least one controllable pump and a flow meter associated with the pump, which determines the volume pumped by the pump. The supply unit is configured to control the pump depending on the pumped volume. Various combinations are conceivable. For example, water can be pumped using a controlled pump, and the concentrate can be pumped using a volumetric pump. Suitable volumetric pumps include, for example, peristaltic pumps, gear pumps, and piston pumps.

[0020] Furthermore, it is possible to use an adjustable valve in conjunction with a flow meter, particularly to regulate the water supply, whereby the valve is regulated depending on the measured flow rate. The water is preferably obtained from a pressurised line (e.g. tap water). In this case, the water does not have to be pumped. In this case, the water flow rate can also be measured without additional regulation. The concentrate is then adjusted to the water flow by means of a volumetric pump or with an adjustable pump and a flow meter. This enables a simple design of the valve through which the water flows, since only the opening and closing of the valve is required. Suitable valves can be, for example, motor-operated valves, solenoid valves, pneumatic valves or hydraulic valves. Solenoid valves are preferred.

[0021] Furthermore, it is provided that the supply unit comprises a water inlet through which fresh water can be pumped into the supply unit as described above. The water inlet can, for example, be a connection for a pressurized water pipe through which tap water or treated water, e.g. demineralized water or deionized water, can enter the supply unit. Alternatively, the water can be pumped into the supply unit from a water tank. This can be done using a volumetric pump (water pump), with the water inlet being connected to a water suction line that is immersed in the water tank. In this case, it can be provided that the system according to the invention comprises a fill level sensor for determining the water level in the water tank.

[0022] The supply unit can include at least one check valve to allow water flow only in one direction. This can prevent damage to certain sensitive components and avoid contamination of the fresh water in the water line or water tank.

[0023] Furthermore, the supply unit is provided with a concentrate inlet through which the concentrate of the cooling lubricant emulsion can be conveyed into the supply unit. The concentrate is conveyed into the supply unit from a concentrate container.

[0024] This can be achieved using a volumetric pump (concentrate pump), with the concentrate inlet connected to a concentrate suction line that extends into the concentrate tank. Furthermore, the supply unit can additionally comprise a means for measuring the flow rate or the amount of concentrate delivered. Furthermore, the supply unit can have one or more check valves to allow the concentrate flow in only one direction. This can prevent damage to certain sensitive components and avoid dilution of the concentrate in the concentrate tank by the fresh water present in the supply unit. This is particularly preferred because the system requires a constant concentration of the concentrate in the concentrate tank, and dilution should therefore be avoided wherever possible.

[0025] The supply unit preferably comprises at least one non-return valve to allow water flow in only one direction, and at least one non-return valve to allow concentrate flow in only one direction. If the supply unit is configured to be connected to a pressurized line, a non-return valve is preferably arranged between the water inlet and a flow meter. If the supply unit is configured to deliver water and / or concentrate by means of a volumetric pump, a non-return valve is preferably arranged downstream of the volumetric pump and a flow meter, but upstream of the point where the water and concentrate mix.

[0026] Preferably, to provide fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, the concentrate is conveyed from the concentrate container via a concentrate suction line with a riser pipe, wherein a fill level of the concentrate in the concentrate container is determined by introducing compressed air into the concentrate suction line, wherein an air pressure in the concentrate suction line is measured with a pressure sensor, a limit pressure for a pressure increase is determined and the fill level in the concentrate storage container is calculated using the limit pressure.

[0027] Other suitable level sensors that can be used to determine the fill level include floats or ultrasound-based sensors. Sensors based on TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) technology can also be used.

[0028] The supply unit can further comprise a mixer. Preferably, the supply unit comprises a static mixer for mixing water and concentrate. The mixer ensures thorough mixing of the pumped concentrate with the water, thus providing a homogeneous emulsion. Optionally, the supply unit can be additionally configured to add additives to the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion in order to change its properties as required. For this purpose, the additives can, for example, be pumped from an additive container in a similar way to how the concentrate is pumped from the concentrate container. In this case, the additive is preferably added to the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion in the mixer for mixing water and concentrate.

[0029] Furthermore, the supply unit comprises an outlet through which the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is conveyed from the supply unit. The outlet can be designed, for example, as a connection to a line, e.g., a pipe or hose.

[0030] The outlet is designed to be connected to the distribution unit to enable fluid exchange with it.

[0031] The supply unit can also comprise additional components. For example, it is provided that the supply unit can be controlled by the control unit to determine and / or change the delivered quantity of water and concentrate. For this purpose, the supply unit can have at least one interface that enables communication with the control unit. This interface is typically connected to the components of the supply unit via an electronic circuit to enable their control. Furthermore, firmware for controlling the components is typically installed.

[0032] Such an interface can be any interface that enables data transmission, for example an interface for a data cable via which the provisioning unit can be connected to the control unit, or a wireless interface that enables a wireless data connection (i.e. via electromagnetic waves) with the control unit. Preferably, the provisioning unit comprises a wireless interface. Suitable wireless interfaces can be, for example, interfaces for communication via a Bluetooth® connection, a wireless local area network (WLAN), a wireless personal area network (WPAN), optical radio linkage, mobile radio, infrared technology, radio technology or the like. Preferably, the wireless interface is, for example, a Bluetooth® interface, a WLAN interface or a mobile radio interface.Furthermore, the measuring unit can have additional interfaces in order to be able to establish a direct connection to other components of the system, for example to the fill level sensor for determining the fill level in the concentrate container.

[0033] The supply unit can also be supplied with power in any desired manner. For example, the supply unit can comprise an AC connection, a DC connection, a battery compartment, and / or a permanently installed rechargeable battery. An AC connection or a DC connection is preferred, as these enable continuous and automated operation without the need for regular battery replacement or regular recharging of the permanently installed battery. In the case of an AC connection, the supply unit can further comprise an AC / DC converter to supply DC-operated parts of the supply unit.

[0034] The measuring unit of the system according to the invention comprises at least one sensor for determining at least one parameter of a cooling-lubricating emulsion. Cooling-lubricating emulsion can be passed past the at least one sensor in the measuring unit.

[0035] The at least one sensor is preferably selected from the group comprising pH sensors, conductivity sensors, photometers, light barriers and refractometers.

[0036] A refractometer and other sensors used in connection with the device are described, for example, in WO 2020 / 126257.

[0037] Furthermore, it is provided that the measuring unit has an inlet through which liquids such as cooling-lubricating emulsion can enter the measuring unit, and an outlet through which the liquids can exit the measuring unit again. At least the inlet is designed to be connected to the distribution unit of the system in order to enable a liquid exchange between the distribution unit and the measuring unit. Preferably, the outlet is also designed to be connected to the distribution unit for this purpose. The measuring unit can additionally comprise further components. For example, it is provided that the measuring unit can be controlled by the control unit in order to carry out the measurement of at least one parameter of a cooling-lubricating emulsion and to transmit the measured data to the control unit.For this purpose, the measuring unit can have at least one interface that enables communication with the control unit. This interface is typically connected to the components of the measuring unit via an electronic circuit to enable their control. Furthermore, firmware for controlling the components is typically installed.

[0038] Suitable and preferred interfaces have already been described for the provisioning unit and are also suitable or preferred for the measuring unit. The measuring unit preferably includes a wireless interface for communication with the control unit.

[0039] Furthermore, the measuring unit can have additional interfaces in order to be able to establish a direct connection to other components of the system, for example to the distribution unit.

[0040] The measuring unit can also be supplied with power in any way. Suitable and preferred power supply types have already been described for the supply unit and are also suitable or preferred for the measuring unit.

[0041] The measuring unit is typically configured to receive cooling lubricant emulsion from the distribution unit, measure at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion using at least one sensor, transmit the measurement data to the control unit, and return the cooling lubricant emulsion to the distribution unit or directly to a tank. Preferably, the measuring unit is configured to return the cooling lubricant emulsion to the distribution unit after a measurement.

[0042] The distribution unit of the system according to the invention is configured to be connected to the measuring unit, the supply unit, and a tank, and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them. For this purpose, the distribution unit may comprise several inlets and outlets for cooling lubricant emulsion, which may be configured, for example, as connections to lines such as pipes or hoses.

[0043] In particular, the distribution unit may include the following types of connections:

[0044] A) a connector adapted to be connected to the outlet of the supply unit;

[0045] B) at least one connection adapted to be connected to a tank for cooling lubricant emulsion;

[0046] C) a connector adapted to be connected to the inlet of the measuring unit;

[0047] D) optionally, a connector adapted to be connected to the outlet of the measuring unit;

[0048] E) optionally one or more additional connections, for example to enable partial disposal of cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0049] Some of these connections can function as unidirectional inlets or outlets, and some can function as bidirectional inlets and outlets. The connection of the distribution unit that is configured to be connected to the inlet of the measuring unit preferably functions as a unidirectional outlet. The connections of the distribution unit that are configured to be connected to the outlets of the supply unit or the measuring unit preferably function as unidirectional inlets. The connections of the distribution unit that are configured to be connected to a tank can, depending on the design of the distribution unit, preferably function as unidirectional inlets or outlets, or as bidirectional inlets and outlets.

[0050] Furthermore, it can be provided that the distribution unit comprises at least one volumetric pump configured to pump cooling lubricant emulsion from a tank into the distribution unit. Alternatively or additionally, the distribution unit can comprise at least one controllable pump and a flow meter associated with the pump, with which a volume pumped by the pump is determined. Alternatively, it can be provided that a volumetric pump or a controllable pump with a flow meter associated with the pump are present as external components and are connected to the distribution unit.Furthermore, it can be provided that the distribution unit comprises further flow meters which, for example, measure the volume of cooling lubricant emulsion which enters the distribution unit from the supply unit and / or the measuring unit, and / or is conveyed from the distribution unit into the measuring unit or a tank, and / or is led out of the distribution unit to be disposed of.

[0051] The distribution unit of the system according to the invention is preferably configured to be connected to a tank via at least one intake line. The intake line preferably comprises a solids filter, for example a chip filter, which prevents solids from the tank from entering the intake line and the distribution unit.

[0052] The characteristics of suitable pumps and flow meters have already been described for the supply unit and are also applicable to the distribution unit.

[0053] It is preferably provided that the distribution unit comprises further valves with which the flow of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion or of cooling-lubricating emulsion taken from a tank between the supply unit, the measuring unit and a tank is regulated.

[0054] The distribution unit can have at least one check valve to allow the flow of cooling lubricant emulsion in only one direction. For example, a check valve can be used to define the function of a connection of the distribution unit as a unidirectional inlet or outlet. In this case, check valves are preferably located directly behind the respective inlet or outlet in the distribution unit. Furthermore, this can prevent damage to certain sensitive components and, for example, avoid contamination of the fresh cooling lubricant emulsion with the cooling lubricant emulsion taken from a tank.

[0055] The distribution unit can also comprise other components. For example, it is provided that the distribution unit can be controlled by the control unit to regulate the fluid exchange between the supply unit, the measuring unit, and a tank. For this purpose, the distribution unit can have at least one interface via which communication with the control unit is enabled. This interface is typically connected to the components of the distribution unit via an electronic circuit to enable their control. Furthermore, firmware for controlling the components is typically installed. Suitable interfaces have already been described for the supply unit and are also suitable for the distribution unit.

[0056] Preferably, the distribution unit comprises an interface for a data cable, which is configured to be connected to an interface of the measuring unit via a data cable. In this case, communication with the control unit takes place via the connection to the measuring unit and via the interface of the measuring unit, which is configured to be connected to the control unit. Alternatively, the distribution unit can be connected directly to the control unit, for example, via a dedicated wireless interface or via a cable.

[0057] The distribution unit can also be supplied with power in any desired manner. Suitable types of power supply have already been described for the provision unit and are also suitable for the distribution unit. Preferably, the distribution unit is supplied via a power connector configured to be connected to the power supply of the measuring unit. More preferably, the power connector is incorporated into the interface of the distribution unit for a data cable, which is configured to be connected to an interface of the measuring unit, and this interface of the measuring unit and the data cable are configured to supply the distribution unit with power, preferably direct current.

[0058] The fill level sensor of the system according to the invention, which is configured to measure the fill level in a tank, can be designed, for example, as a float or as an ultrasound-based sensor. Furthermore, sensors based on TDR (Time Domain Reflectometry) technology can be used. Fill level sensors can also be used in which the fill level is measured by introducing compressed air into a line leading to the tank, wherein an air pressure in the line is measured with a pressure sensor, a limit pressure for a pressure increase is determined, and the fill level in the tank is calculated using the limit pressure. Preferably, the fill level sensor is an ultrasound-based sensor. It is preferably provided that the fill level sensor is built into the distribution unit, and the distribution unit is configured to be attached to a tank in order to be able to measure the fill level in the tank.

[0059] The system may also include a sensor for detecting foam formation. This is preferably also built into the distribution unit.

[0060] The control unit of the system according to the invention can be any type of control unit that can be connected to the provision unit, the measuring unit, and the distribution unit and can control these or the components installed therein. The control unit is preferably a computer. The control unit can also comprise several interconnected devices, for example, one or more computers that can be connected to one another via a network (e.g., a local area network, a wireless local area network, a mobile network).

[0061] It is intended that the control unit comprises interfaces via which it can be connected to and communicate with the interfaces of the provisioning unit, the measuring unit, and the distribution unit. For example, the control unit comprises at least one wireless interface if at least one selected from the provisioning unit, the measuring unit, and the distribution unit has a wireless interface, and at least one interface for a data cable if at least one selected from the provisioning unit, the measuring unit, and the distribution unit has a corresponding interface.

[0062] The control unit can also be supplied with power in any way. Suitable and preferred power supply types have already been described for the supply unit and are also suitable or preferred for the control unit.

[0063] Preferably, the provision unit, the measuring unit and the control unit each have a wireless interface, wherein the measuring unit and the distribution unit each have an interface for a data cable, wherein the provision unit and the measuring unit are configured to be connected to the control unit via the wireless interfaces, and wherein the distribution unit is configured to be connected to the measuring unit via the interfaces for a data cable, and wherein the control unit is configured to communicate with the provision unit and the measuring unit via the wireless interfaces, and to communicate with the distribution unit via the wireless interface of the measuring unit and the data cable.

[0064] It is intended that the fluid exchange between the supply unit and the distribution unit, between the distribution unit and the measuring unit and between the distribution unit and a tank takes place via external lines such as pipes or hoses.

[0065] The term "line" refers to devices intended for the passive transport of flowable materials, e.g., liquids, gases, dispersions, and free-flowing solids, in particular hose lines and pipelines. Unless explicitly stated in the respective context, "line" does not refer to power lines or data lines.

[0066] The term "internal line" refers to a line used to transport flowable materials within a system component (e.g., supply unit, distribution unit, metering unit). The term "external line" refers to a line used to transport flowable materials outside a system component (e.g., between system components).

[0067] External lines can, for example, be designed to be reversibly or irreversibly connected to the supply unit, the distribution unit and / or the measuring unit.

[0068] In this context, "reversible" means that repeated non-destructive (except for wear damage) separation and re-establishment of the connection is possible. "Irreversible" means that non-destructive separation and re-establishment of the connection is not possible.

[0069] Irreversible connections can have the advantage of being more fluid-tight and subject to less wear than reversible connections. However, they also have the disadvantage that separating the connections, e.g., to replace individual components, is more difficult. Irreversible connections can be achieved, for example, by welding lines to connections or inlets and outlets of the supply unit, the distribution unit, and / or the measuring unit.

[0070] Reversible connections, on the other hand, have the advantage that they can be repeatedly disconnected and reconnected, allowing individual components to be quickly replaced as needed (e.g., for maintenance). Suitable means for creating reversible connections include quick-release fasteners, threaded connections, magnetic connections, adhesive connections, clamps, clamps, sleeves, and band clamps.

[0071] Quick-release fasteners are preferred here, as they can often withstand high pressures yet can be quickly disconnected if necessary. At the same time, quick-release fasteners are often designed so that if the connection is broken, a valve in the fastener closes, preventing fluid from escaping from the line.

[0072] It is preferably provided that the system according to the invention comprises at least one line for fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, which enables a reversible connection between the supply unit and the distribution unit.

[0073] In these cases, it is preferred that the respective line has at least one free end, wherein the at least one free end has an identification feature uniquely assigned to the line, and wherein the at least one free end is configured to be reversibly connected to the supply unit, the distribution unit or both, preferably via a quick-release fastener, and wherein the distribution unit, the supply unit or both are configured to recognize the identification feature when establishing a connection to the at least one free end.

[0074] The identification feature can be any identification feature that can be uniquely assigned and recognized by electronic means. For example, the identification feature can be a near-field or radio frequency identification transponder (NFC or RFID transponder), a printed code (barcode, QR code, serial number, and the like), or a coded contact field. Accordingly, the provisioning unit and / or the distribution unit can have a means for reading the corresponding identification feature, such as an NFC or RFID reader for reading the NFC or RFID transponder, a scanner for reading the printed code, or a reader for the coded contact field. Preferably, the identification feature is an NFC or RFID transponder, preferably an RFID transponder, and the reader is an NFC or RFID transponder.RFID reader, preferably an RFID reader, as these have the advantage that no prescribed alignment of the transponder and the reader is required to enable recognition of the identification feature, and the spatial proximity of the identification feature to the reader can be sufficient.

[0075] In this case, one end of the cable can be irreversibly connected to the supply unit and the other end can be the free end and can be configured to be reversibly connected to the distribution unit, wherein the distribution unit is configured to recognize the identification feature. In this case, the identification feature is also uniquely assigned to the supply unit. The distribution unit is configured to detect the establishment of a connection (e.g., quick-release connection) between the free end of the cable and the connection provided for this purpose on the distribution unit (e.g., by closing an electrical contact in the connection), to recognize the identification feature at the free end, and to transmit the recognized data to the control unit. The control unit is configured to assign the identification feature to the cable and the supply unit (e.g.,based on a stored database) and to establish a data connection to the identified provisioning unit and to the distribution unit.

[0076] Alternatively, one end of the line can be irreversibly connected to the distribution unit and the other end can be the free end and configured to be reversibly connected to the provision unit, wherein the provision unit is configured to recognize the identification feature. In this case, the identification feature is also uniquely assigned to the distribution unit. The provision unit is configured to detect the establishment of a connection (e.g., quick-release connection) between the free end of the line and the connection provided for this purpose on the provision unit (e.g., by closing an electrical contact in the connection), to detect the identification feature at the free end, and to transmit the detected data to the control unit.

[0077] The control unit is configured to assign the identification feature to the line and the distribution unit (e.g. based on a stored database) and to establish a data connection to the identified distribution unit and to the provisioning unit.

[0078] Alternatively, both ends of the line may be free ends, wherein one free end is configured to be reversibly connected to the distribution unit and the other free end is configured to be reversibly connected to the provision unit, and wherein the provision unit and the distribution unit are configured to recognize the identification features at the free ends.

[0079] The provision unit and the distribution unit are configured to detect the establishment of a connection (e.g., a quick-release connection) between the free end of the line and the designated connection of the provision unit or distribution unit (e.g., by closing an electrical contact in the connection), to detect the identification feature at the free end, and to transmit the detected data to the control unit. The control unit is configured to assign the identification feature detected by the provision unit and the identification feature detected by the distribution unit to a line (e.g., based on a stored database), to compare the identified lines, and, if there is a match, to establish a data connection to the provision unit and to the distribution unit.

[0080] With these configurations, the control unit is able to clearly detect whether a connection exists between the supply unit and the distribution unit through which a fluid exchange can take place. Likewise, the control unit is able to clearly detect which distribution unit is connected to which supply unit when multiple distribution units and / or supply units are available for selection, and to control these accordingly so that the method according to the invention can be carried out with them. In addition, the system according to the invention can comprise lines for cooling lubricant emulsion, which enable reversible connections between the measuring unit and the distribution unit and / or between the distribution unit and a tank.In these cases, the reversible connections can be set up in the same way as described above for the reversible connection between the provision unit and the distribution unit.

[0081] The system according to the invention can also be designed for conditioning cooling lubricant emulsion in several tanks for several machine tools.For this purpose, it is provided that the system comprises at least one second measuring unit, at least one second distribution unit and at least one second fill level sensor, wherein the second fill level sensor is designed to measure the fill level in a second tank, wherein the supply unit is also spatially separated from the second measuring unit and is not in direct fluid exchange with it, and wherein the second distribution unit is designed to be connected to the second measuring unit, the supply unit and the second tank and to regulate the exchange of cooling-lubricating emulsion between them, and the system is designed to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsions in at least two tanks, and wherein the control unit is designed to determine through which distribution unit the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is fed from the supply unit.

[0082] This has the advantage that, in the method according to the invention, the cooling lubricant emulsion can be conditioned in several tanks with one supply unit, which can be done in an automated process. For this purpose, each tank is connected to a separate distribution unit, and each distribution unit is connected to a separate measuring unit, but several distribution units are connected to the same supply unit.

[0083] The description of the distribution unit, the measuring unit, the fill level sensor and their connections to the supply unit and the control unit as well as to one another applies accordingly to the second distribution unit, the second measuring unit, the second fill level sensor and their connections to the supply unit and the control unit as well as to one another. The system according to the invention can be set up to condition a cooling and lubricant emulsion in a single tank for a machine tool. In this case, the supply unit is connected via a line to a single distribution unit, which is in fluid exchange with a single tank. This can be useful, for example, in companies that only have a single machine tool with a single tank and that do not plan to expand to include additional machine tools, for example because there is no spatial capacity for additional machine tools.

[0084] Alternatively, the system according to the invention is configured to condition a cooling-lubricating emulsion in at least two tanks for machine tools, wherein the supply unit is connected to all distribution units simultaneously via a branched line and is in fluid communication with them. In this case, the control unit is configured to carry out the following steps: a1) controlling the supply unit so that it mixes a quantity of a concentrate defined for a selected one of the at least two tanks with a quantity of water defined for the selected one of the at least two tanks and provides the mixture as a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion;b1) controlling the distribution unit connected to a selected tank so that it supplies fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the supply unit to the measuring unit connected to this distribution unit or to the selected tank, or supplies cooling-lubricating emulsion from the selected tank to the measuring unit connected to this distribution unit, and / or optionally supplies at least part of the cooling-lubricating emulsion from this measuring unit to the selected tank; c1) receiving measurement data from the sensors of all measuring units and from all fill level sensors; d1) calculating the follow-up quantity required to transfer the fill level in a selected tank from a measured actual fill level to a defined target fill level;e1) Calculating the follow-up concentration of a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion required for a calculated follow-up quantity in order to convert the measured actual concentration in a selected tank to a defined target concentration. f1) Selecting a tank in which the cooling-lubricating emulsion is to be conditioned. The tank can be selected automatically; for example, the control unit can check, based on received measurement data, whether the fill level or concentration in all tanks is within a specified range and select a tank if the fill level or concentration is not within the specified range.

[0085] The flow of fresh cooling lubricant emulsion only into the distribution unit connected to the selected tank can be achieved, for example, by opening valves in the selected distribution unit and closing them in all other distribution units. Alternatively, the system can further comprise a distribution block with valves installed in the branched line between the supply unit and the distribution units. The valves determine the branch of the line through which the cooling lubricant emulsion is delivered by opening and closing the valves.

[0086] In this case, the distribution block is controlled by the control unit, whereby the data connection between the distribution block and the control unit can be established via a direct (e.g. wireless) interface, or via the interface of the provision unit, whereby the distribution block is connected to the provision unit via a data cable.

[0087] This can be useful, for example, in companies where there are several machine tools with several tanks and these are located in close proximity to one another.

[0088] Alternatively, the system according to the invention is designed to condition a cooling and lubricant emulsion in at least two tanks for machine tools, wherein it is provided that the supply unit can be connected to a plurality of distribution units via a reversible line, wherein the line has at least one free end, wherein the at least one free end has an identification feature uniquely assigned to the line. The at least one free end is designed to be reversibly connected to the supply unit, the distribution unit, or both, preferably via a quick-release fastener, and the distribution unit, the supply unit, or both are designed to recognize the identification feature upon establishment of a connection to the at least one free end.

[0089] In this case, the control unit is configured to carry out the following steps: a2) controlling the supply unit so that it mixes a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and provides the mixture as fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, wherein the amount of concentrate and the amount of water are defined for the tank connected to an identified distribution unit; b2) controlling the identified distribution unit so that it supplies fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the supply unit to the measuring unit connected to the distribution unit or to the tank connected to the distribution unit, or supplies cooling-lubricating emulsion from this tank to this measuring unit, and / or optionally supplies at least part of the cooling-lubricating emulsion from this measuring unit to this tank; c2) receiving measurement data from the sensors of all measuring units and from all fill level sensors;d2) Calculate the refill quantity required to raise the fill level in the tank connected to the identified distribution unit from a measured actual level to a defined target level; e2) Calculate the refill concentration of a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion required for a calculated refill quantity to raise the measured actual concentration in the tank connected to the identified distribution unit to a defined target concentration. f2) Identify the distribution unit to which the supply unit is connected.

[0090] The tank in which the cooling lubricant emulsion is to be conditioned is selected manually by the user. For example, the control unit can use received measurement data to check whether the fill level or concentration in all tanks is within a specified range and issue a warning to the user if this is not the case for a tank. The user can then be prompted to connect the supply unit to the distribution unit connected to that tank.

[0091] It is preferred that the reversible line between the supply unit and the distribution unit is a hose made of a flexible but corrosion-resistant material, as this facilitates the connection and disconnection of the supply unit to various distribution units. This can be useful, for example, in companies that have multiple machine tools with multiple tanks, but these are not located in close proximity to one another. The supply unit, together with a concentrate container and, if applicable, a water container, can be placed on a mobile means of transport (e.g., a trolley), for example, and can be moved between the various tanks using the transport means in order to be connected to the corresponding distribution units.

[0092] Preferably, the supply unit is therefore configured to be reversibly connected to the distribution unit and, at least in the separated state, to be moved independently of the measuring unit, the distribution unit and the tank.

[0093] In particular, it is advantageous if the communication between the control unit and the provision unit, the measuring units and the distribution units takes place via wireless interfaces, since in this case the control often takes place over a large distance.

[0094] Alternatively, a group of distribution units, each connected to a measuring unit and a tank, may also have a common line having a free end with an identification feature configured to be reversibly connected to the supply unit. In this case, the control unit may be configured to execute steps a1) to f1) as described above upon establishing a connection to this group of distribution units.

[0095] This can be useful, for example, in companies where there are several groups of machine tools with several tanks located in close proximity, with the individual groups and, if necessary, individual additional machine tools with tanks located in different rooms.

[0096] Particularly in embodiments of the system that are designed to be connected to multiple tanks, it is preferable to take measures to prevent mixing of different cooling-lubricating emulsions. Therefore, a compressed air line is preferably provided, which is connected via a compressed air valve to the lines between the supply unit and the distribution units, or to the supply unit, so that any cooling-lubricating emulsion present in the lines can be blown out. The compressed air introduced via the compressed air line forces any cooling-lubricating emulsion present through the respective distribution unit into the respective tank. This is particularly advantageous because it also blows out and thus cleans chip filters located in the connection between a distribution unit and a tank, which prevent chips and particles from entering the measuring circuit.As an alternative to cleaning with compressed air, or in addition to this, pipes can also be cleaned using pigs.

[0097] In addition to blowing out for cleaning purposes, the compressed air line can also be used to ventilate the tanks for longer periods.

[0098] In this way, the formation of bad odors can be prevented, especially during long periods of inactivity, by preventing an anaerobic state of the emulsion through the introduction of oxygen.

[0099] Furthermore, in embodiments with multiple tanks, it is provided that the system is configured to monitor the at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion and the fill level also in the tanks that are not in fluid exchange with the supply unit.

[0100] A further subject of the invention is a method for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools, wherein a cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a tank and wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion is removed from the tank, at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion is detected using at least one sensor, from which at least one parameter the concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank (60) is determined, and the cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially returned to the tank, and with the aid of a fill level sensor the fill level in the tank is measured, a required replenishment concentration and replenishment quantity is calculated and the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided with the calculated replenishment concentration in the calculated replenishment quantity, further comprising the step of: calibrating the at least one sensor,by rinsing the at least one sensor and performing a measurement with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion having a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, wherein the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided by a supply unit, the sensor is part of a measuring unit, the supply unit is spatially separated from the measuring unit and is not in direct fluid exchange with the measuring unit, and the supply unit, the measuring unit and the tank are connected to a distribution unit which regulates the exchange of cooling-lubricating emulsion between them, and wherein the method is controlled by a control unit.

[0101] Preferably, the method according to the invention is carried out using the system according to the invention as described above.

[0102] Preferably, in the method, a cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a respective tank for at least two machine tools, wherein each of the tanks is connected to a respective distribution unit, which is connected to a respective measuring unit, wherein the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a common provision unit and wherein the exchange of the cooling-lubricating emulsion between the provision unit and the distribution units is controlled manually by changing the distribution unit connected to the provision unit or automatically by the control unit.

[0103] Except in cases where the exchange is controlled manually by changing the distribution unit connected to the provisioning unit, the process is preferably fully automated.

[0104] In this context, “fully automated” means that a user only defines the start and end of the process, as well as, if applicable, target values ​​and tolerance ranges for the fill levels, the concentrations and / or at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion in the tank, and only needs to intervene in the process if an error is detected.

[0105] The at least one parameter can be, for example, a refractive index, a pH value, an electrical conductivity, a light transmittance, or a reflectance of the cooling lubricant. Furthermore, combinations of at least two of these parameters can be measured within the scope of the method. Further properties can be determined from the at least one parameter determined during a measurement, which may use one or more measuring reagents. Derived properties of the cooling lubricant emulsion can, in particular, be selected from a concentration of the cooling lubricant emulsion, a total amine / total acid value (TA / TS value), a buffer capacity, a metal content, an oil content, and a nitrite content. For example, to determine the derived properties, the method can additionally comprise the following step:

[0106] Carrying out a measurement in which a sample is taken from the tank, the sample is continuously circulated past the at least one sensor to record at least one parameter of the sample, at least one measuring reagent is added continuously or stepwise, and the at least one parameter is continuously measured until the at least one parameter reaches a predetermined threshold value, and then at least a portion of the sample is pumped back into the tank. For this purpose, the distribution unit can, for example, comprise additional connections through which a measuring reagent can be added.

[0107] A reliable measurement of the coolant emulsion concentration in the tank is essential, especially for calculating the follow-up concentration. Typically, the refractive index of the coolant emulsion is measured with a refractometer to determine the coolant emulsion concentration. A refractometer determines the refractive index at the interface between a transparent surface and the coolant emulsion. A major problem is the formation of oily deposits (oil films) from the oil-containing coolant emulsion on the measuring window.

[0108] These deposits cause a gradual increase in the measured value, suggesting an excessively high concentration of the coolant emulsion in the tank. This, in turn, leads to an incorrect calculation of the concentration of the fresh coolant emulsion provided for refilling, which is often too low.

[0109] This, in turn, leads to the concentration of the cooling lubricant emulsion in the tank being lower than intended, causing problems such as reduced cutting performance, increased tool wear, corrosion, and susceptibility to microbiological contamination. Since the refractometer's measurement error occurs gradually, it is difficult to detect. Typically, a control measurement is performed using a second refractometer. Alternatively, a calibration solution can be added to the measuring system to verify the refractometer's measurement accuracy. The used calibration solutions usually have to be removed from the system and disposed of. A simple, waste-free process with which the refractometer's contamination level can be determined at any time would be desirable.

[0110] According to the invention, the method therefore provides for flushing the at least one sensor with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion and subsequently measuring the at least one parameter of this fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion using this sensor. Since the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion has a defined ratio of concentrate to water, its properties are known, so that the measured value obtained for the at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion can be compared with a predetermined target value.

[0111] Preferably, the cooling-lubricating emulsion used for calibration can be used to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsion stored in the tank instead of discarding it. Accordingly, it is preferably provided that the cooling-lubricating emulsion used for calibration is fed into the tank after the measurement.

[0112] By comparing the measured value for at least one parameter of the fresh coolant emulsion with the predetermined target value, calibration of at least one sensor can be performed. For this purpose, for example, a correction factor can be determined to correct the measured values ​​of at least one sensor. If calibration is not possible or if the deviation between the measured value and the target value exceeds a specified limit, a warning message can be issued to indicate that the sensor requires maintenance or replacement.

[0113] For example, the refractive index of a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion with a precisely defined water-to-concentrate ratio is known, so this emulsion can be used to calibrate a refractometer. Unlike a calibration fluid different from the cooling lubricant emulsion, the cooling lubricant emulsion can then be fed into the tank, thus eliminating waste. There is also no need to keep a separate calibration fluid and / or cleaning fluid on hand.

[0114] The fresh coolant emulsion provided for calibration has a known concentrate-to-water ratio. However, this ratio depends on the currently measured concentration of the coolant emulsion. The suggested calibration is preferably performed whenever coolant emulsion needs to be added to the tank.

[0115] Accordingly, a fresh coolant emulsion is always used for calibration. Its concentration is known, but typically varies with each calibration procedure. This allows the sensor to be calibrated using different coolant emulsions as test fluids, with the properties of each of these different coolant emulsions known. This makes it possible, in particular, to distinguish between reduced sensor sensitivity and a shift in the sensor's zero point.

[0116] Typically, the fresh coolant emulsion provided for calibration and for refilling the tank contains an oil content in the range of 0% to 10%. Due to the dependence on the concentration measured in the tank, a different concentration in the fresh coolant emulsion is usually set for each refill. An oil content in the range of 0% to 10% is optimal for calibration, as at these concentrations no permanent oil film remains on the sensor.

[0117] In addition to the refractive index, other parameters are preferably determined to describe the proper condition of the cooling lubricant emulsion. Particularly important in this regard are the pH value, buffer capacity, and conductivity. Measuring electrodes are preferably used to measure the pH value and conductivity. Like the previously described refractometer, these measuring electrodes also tend to become oily. This causes the measured values ​​to change gradually, leading to undesirable and difficult-to-detect measurement errors. Therefore, flushing and / or calibration using a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion with a defined concentration is also preferred here.

[0118] The fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with the defined concentration or the defined ratio of concentrate to water is preferably obtained by pumping water and / or concentrate using a volumetric pump. Alternatively or additionally, the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion can be obtained by pumping concentrate and / or water with a controllable feed pump, wherein the pumped amount of water and / or concentrate is measured and the feed pump is controlled depending on the measured pumped amount.

[0119] The preparation of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with a defined concentration is preferably used not only for flushing and / or calibrating the at least one sensor, but also whenever fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is required for recalibration. Conversely, flushing and calibration of the at least one sensor is preferably carried out with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with a defined concentration during each recalibration.

[0120] The defined concentration is preferably determined as a function of the measured concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion stored in the tank in such a way that when the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is added with the amount required to fill the tank, a concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion is established in the tank that corresponds to a specified value.

[0121] The concentration can be determined by the control unit, which first calculates the required refill quantity to fill the tank from the difference between a specified target fill level and the measured actual fill level in a tank, and then determines the required refill concentration from the difference between a specified target concentration and the measured actual concentration of the cooling lubricant emulsion and from the calculated required refill quantity.

[0122] Certain ingredients such as oils, surface-active additives, amines, fatty acids, corrosion inhibitors, performance additives, stabilizers, and / or biocides are disproportionately removed from the coolant emulsion during the separation of chips from the coolant emulsion. This leads to the coolant emulsion becoming depleted of these ingredients. This depletion of ingredients leads to quality losses such as a reduction in cutting performance or an increased susceptibility to corrosion or microbial attack.

[0123] The selective depletion of the cooling-lubricating emulsion cannot be compensated for by adding fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion. Preferably, the depletion of a component can be determined from the at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion. If such depletion is detected, it is preferred to selectively replace the discharged components by adding additives.

[0124] In this case, conditioning of the cooling lubricant emulsion stored in the tank can be achieved by removing the cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank, adding at least one additive to the cooling lubricant emulsion depending on the at least one parameter, and returning the conditioned cooling lubricant emulsion to the tank. Furthermore, it is possible to thoroughly mix the cooling lubricant emulsion using a mixer before returning it to the tank.

[0125] For this purpose, the distribution unit can, for example, include additional connections through which an additive can be added. Alternatively, the supply unit can mix the additives into the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion to modify its properties as needed. For this purpose, the additives can be pumped from one or more additive containers in a similar way to how the concentrate is pumped from the concentrate container. In this case, the additive is preferably added to the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion in the mixer used to mix water and concentrate.

[0126] The additive is in particular selected from a component of the cooling lubricant emulsion such as a defoamer component such as polysiloxanes commonly used for defoaming, triisobutyl phosphate, wax defoamers or mineral oil-based defoamers, a hardness-forming component such as a calcium and / or magnesium salt such as calcium acetate, magnesium acetate, calcium sulfonate, magnesium sisulfonate and their solutions, a corrosion-inhibiting component such as phosphoric or phosphonic acid esters and their salts, triazine derivatives and their salts, carboxylic acids, fatty acids, di- or multivalent carboxylic acids and their neutralization products, a non-ferrous metal inhibiting component such as triazole derivatives and their salts, an aluminum-inhibiting component such as silane derivatives such as tetraethyl orthosilicate or metasilicate solutions, a biocide component such as butylbenzothiazolinone, sodium omadine solution, an oil component, an amine component,a buffer component or an emulsifier.

[0127] For the additives mentioned, their solutions in water, oil or other suitable solvents can also be used.

[0128] In addition, the supply unit can add undiluted concentrate of the cooling-lubricating emulsion if it is determined that the concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank is too low and the fill level in the tank is high.

[0129] For reliable operation, it is desirable to be able to detect emptying of a concentrate tank, and possibly a water tank and / or an additive tank, at an early stage. It is therefore preferably provided that the method involves measuring the fill level of the concentrate in the concentrate tank and possibly the water in the water tank and / or the additive in the additive tank. If the fill level falls below a predetermined minimum level, a message can be issued, for example, requesting that the respective tank be changed or refilled. Furthermore, it can be provided, for example, that when an empty tank is detected, the system is shut down, or that a switch is made to another tank, or that the respective tank is refilled.

[0130] The method according to the invention preferably comprises the following steps: aa) Providing a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which has a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, in the provision unit; bb) Introducing the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the provision unit into the measuring unit with the aid of the distribution unit; cc) Calibrating the at least one sensor of the measuring unit with the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion fed into the measuring unit by carrying out a measurement with the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which has a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, wherein optionally the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially fed into the tank after the measurement; dd) Removing cooling-lubricating emulsion from a tank and introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion into the measuring unit with the aid of the distribution unit;ee) measuring the at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion with the at least one sensor of the measuring unit in order to determine the actual concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank based on the at least one parameter, wherein optionally the cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially returned to the tank; ff) measuring the fill level in the tank with the fill level sensor; gg) calculating the refill quantity required to reach a predetermined fill level in the tank; hh) calculating the refill concentration which is calculated;

[0131] A refill quantity is required to condition the concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank to a specified target value; ii) Providing a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion having the calculated required refill concentration in the calculated refill quantity using the provision unit; jj) Introducing the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion into the tank using the distribution unit to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank.

[0132] If the cooling-lubricating emulsion is to be conditioned in several tanks, the method may additionally comprise the step; kk) changing the distribution unit, the measuring unit and the tank into which fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is fed from the supply unit, and repeating steps aa) to jj).

[0133] Furthermore, steps dd) to jj) can be repeated for each tank so that the cooling-lubricating emulsion is conditioned continuously or at regular intervals. Likewise, steps aa) to cc) can be repeated for each measuring unit so that the sensors are calibrated at regular intervals. Since the method according to the invention is controlled by the control unit and preferably runs automatically, it can be provided in particular that a target concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in a tank, a tolerance range for the concentration around the target concentration, a target fill level in the tank and a tolerance range for the fill level around the target fill level are defined in the method, and the method is carried out automatically by the control unit using these defined values.

[0134] The target concentration is the desired concentration of the coolant and lubricant emulsion in a tank. This can be obtained, for example, from a machine tool's operating manual or from data sheets for the concentrates, which may specify the optimal concentrations.

[0135] The target fill level is the desired fill level in the coolant emulsion tank. This is generally the fill level at which the tank is considered full, without any risk of coolant emulsion leakage due to minor fluctuations in the fill level. This level may be specified, for example, in the tank's operating instructions or may be marked on the tank.

[0136] The tolerance ranges are the concentration and fill level ranges within which the machine tool can be operated without concern, or recommended ranges. These can be found, for example, in the operating instructions for the machine tool or tank, or in the data sheets for the concentrates.

[0137] The target values ​​and tolerance ranges can be defined by user input, for example, by entering the values ​​into designated fields on the control unit's user interface using an input device (e.g., a keyboard). Alternatively, the definition can be automated, with the control unit reading the values ​​from a database.

[0138] For automated operation, the control unit preferably carries out the following steps in the specified order: i) sending a request to the supply unit to start providing fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with a ratio of concentrate to water defined for calibration, and sending a request to the distribution unit connected to the tank to start introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit into the measuring unit connected to the distribution unit, wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the measuring unit is optionally at least partially fed into the tank; ii) sending a request to the measuring unit to carry out a measurement of at least one parameter with the at least one sensor and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit in order to calibrate the at least one sensor;iii) sending a request to the supply unit to stop providing fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion and sending a request to the distribution unit to stop introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit into the measuring unit; iv) sending a request to the distribution unit to start withdrawing cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank and introducing it into the measuring unit, wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the measuring unit is at least partially returned to the tank; v) sending a request to the measuring unit to measure at least one parameter using the at least one sensor and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit in order to determine the actual concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion;vi) Sending a request to the distribution unit to stop withdrawing the cooling and lubricant emulsion from the tank and feeding it into the measuring unit; vii) Sending a request to the fill level sensor to measure the fill level in the tank and transmit the measurement data to the control unit in order to determine the actual fill level in the tank; viii) Checking whether the determined actual fill level and the determined actual concentration are within the specified tolerance ranges; if yes: repeat steps v) to viii); if no: continue with step ix); ix) Calculating the required replenishment quantity from the difference between the specified target fill level and the determined actual fill level, and calculating the replenishment concentration required to achieve the target concentration with the calculated replenishment quantity based on the actual concentration;x) Sending a request to the supply unit to start supplying fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with the calculated refill concentration, and sending a request to the distribution unit to start introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit into the tank in order to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank; xi) When the target fill level is reached or the calculated refill quantity has been provided, sending a request to the supply unit to stop supplying fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, and sending a request to the distribution unit to stop introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit into the tank.

[0139] Steps iv) to xi) are preferably repeated continuously or at intervals to check whether the actual concentration and the actual fill level are within the respective tolerance ranges and to correct them if necessary. Furthermore, steps i) to iii) are preferably repeated at intervals to check the calibration of the at least one sensor and to correct it if necessary. Preferably, the steps are repeated until a user input is given to terminate the process.

[0140] Furthermore, the control unit can preferably additionally carry out the following steps, which can be carried out independently of the order specified above: xii) Checking whether the sent requests are carried out correctly and issuing a warning if at least one request is not carried out; xiii) Checking whether the fill level in the concentrate tank and, if applicable, the water tank and / or an additive tank is sufficient and issuing a warning if the respective tank has a low fill level and needs to be replaced, or switching the supply unit to another tank; xiv) Checking whether a foam sensor detects significant foam formation and, if necessary, issuing a warning signal that foam should be skimmed off or controlling the supply unit or the distribution unit so that they dose a defoamer into the tank.xv) Storing and documenting concentrations, temperatures, fill levels, foam formation, water consumption, concentrate consumption, refill rates, control history and / or other data.

[0141] In embodiments where the connection between the supply unit and the distribution unit is reversible, the control unit may, inter alia, perform the following additional steps: xvi) Checking whether the reversible connection is established and issuing a warning if the reversible connection is broken; xvii) When connecting to a line having a free end with an identification feature, sending a request to the supply unit, distribution unit or measuring unit connected to the line to read the identification feature and identify the line, and associating multiple units connected to a line as part of the same system; xviii) In the case of multiple tanks, checking whether all levels and concentrations are within the respective tolerance range and issuing a warning if a value is outside the tolerance range.

[0142] In embodiments in which several distribution units are connected to a supply unit, the control unit can, among other things, perform the following additional steps: xix) Check whether the valves of the non-controlled distribution units are closed and, if necessary, send a request to these distribution units to close the corresponding valves; xx) When changing the controlled distribution unit, actuate a compressed air valve so that cooling-lubricating emulsion from a previous operation is blown out of the line.

[0143] Advantages of the invention

[0144] Typically, in systems for monitoring cooling and lubricant emulsions, the sensors must be removed for calibration, or a calibration fluid different from the cooling and lubricant emulsion must be added to the system to check the measuring accuracy of the sensors. Such a calibration fluid must generally be removed from the system and disposed of, as it can adversely affect the properties of the cooling and lubricant emulsion. The calibration proposed for the method according to the invention, using a fresh cooling and lubricant emulsion, represents a simple, waste-free process with which the contamination level of the sensors can be determined at any time. Furthermore, a fresh cooling and lubricant emulsion with defined properties is provided, which can be used for calibrating at least one sensor.Here, too, the use of reference emulsions or calibration liquids is advantageously avoided, so that no waste is generated.

[0145] The proposed system enables simple and safe handling of cooling lubricant emulsions. The condition of a cooling lubricant emulsion stored in a tank can be monitored and conditioning can be performed as needed by adding additives. In particular, calibration and conditioning can be automated. This can lead to significant time and cost savings, and the consumption of the cooling lubricant emulsion can be significantly reduced.

[0146] The spatial separation of the supply unit and the measuring unit, and the use of a distribution unit to regulate the fluid exchange between them and with a tank, as well as a control unit to control the components, enable significantly greater flexibility in the design of the system and in the implementation of the method than is the case with known methods. In particular, the use of the system according to the invention enables operation in which several machine tools with several tanks can be operated using one supply unit, even if the tanks are not located in close proximity to one another. Furthermore, in the event of maintenance, the individual units of the system according to the invention can be replaced with other units of the same type without the operation of a machine tool having to be interrupted for a long period of time during the maintenance.

[0147] In addition, the automated process allows for a significantly higher follow-up frequency, which means that the concentration in the tank can be kept essentially constant.

[0148] Brief description of the figures. Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show:

[0149] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a provision unit of the system according to the invention,

[0150] FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of a provision unit of the system according to the invention,

[0151] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a

[0152] Measuring unit of the system according to the invention,

[0153] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a

[0154] Distribution unit of the system according to the invention,

[0155] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a distribution unit of the system according to the invention,

[0156] FIG.6 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the system according to the invention with a tank and a concentrate container, wherein the components of the system are connected to each other by lines,

[0157] FIG. 7 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the system according to the invention for operating a single machine tool,

[0158] FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the system according to the invention for operating several machine tools, and

[0159] FIG. 9 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of the system according to the invention for operating several machine tools using reversible connections,

[0160] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a combination of distribution unit and measuring unit of the system according to the invention, FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a further embodiment of the system according to the invention with a tank and a concentrate container using a combination of distribution unit and measuring unit.

[0161] In the following description of the exemplary embodiments of the invention, identical or similar components are designated by the same reference numerals, whereby a repeated description of these is omitted in individual cases. The figures only schematically illustrate the subject matter of the invention.

[0162] FIG. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a supply unit 200 for providing fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which is configured to mix a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and to provide the mixture as a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion.

[0163] The supply unit 200 comprises a housing 201, an AC connection 202 configured to supply the supply unit with power, an AC-DC converter 203 configured to supply the DC-operated components of the supply unit with DC power, and an interface 204 configured as a wireless interface for data transmission between the supply unit 200 and a control unit. The interface 204 is connected to the electrically operated components of the supply unit via an electronic circuit (not shown) to enable their control. Furthermore, the supply unit 200 comprises a fresh water connection 205 as a water inlet, which can be connected to a fresh water line 216, and a concentrate connection 206 as a concentrate inlet, which can be connected to a concentrate container via a line 217.

[0164] The supply unit 200 further comprises an outlet 207 for fresh cooling-lubricant emulsion, to which an external line 218 for fresh cooling-lubricant emulsion can be connected. An internal line leads from the fresh water connection 205 and the concentrate connection 206 to a static mixer 208, in which the fresh water can be mixed with the concentrate to form fresh cooling-lubricant emulsion. An internal line leads from the static mixer 208 to the outlet 207 for fresh cooling-lubricant emulsion.

[0165] The internal line leading from the fresh water connection 205 contains a check valve 209, which is connected downstream of the fresh water connection 205 and only allows the flow of fresh water in the direction of the outlet 207 in order to avoid contamination of the fresh water by cooling-lubricating emulsion as far as possible. This internal line also contains a flow meter, which in this embodiment is designed as a turbine 210. When fresh water flows through, the turbine generates a measurable electrical current, which can be converted by a control unit into a flow rate of the water flowing through the turbine. Downstream of the turbine 210, this internal line contains an electronically controllable valve 211, e.g. a solenoid valve, with which the flow rate of the fresh water can be regulated.Such a design of the line is particularly useful if the fresh water comes from a pressurized fresh water line, since in this case no active pumping of the fresh water is required, but the flow rate can be regulated by throttling via the adjustable valve 211.

[0166] The internal line extending from the concentrate connection 206 contains a volumetric feed pump, which in this embodiment is configured as a gear pump 212, and a flow meter downstream of the volumetric pump, which in this embodiment is configured as an oval gear flow meter 213. To prevent contamination and / or dilution of the concentrate in a concentrate container by fresh water, a check valve 214 is connected downstream of the flow meter, which only allows flow toward the mixer 208. Furthermore, the supply unit 200 includes a fill level sensor 215 for determining the fill level in a concentrate container.The fill level in the concentrate container can be determined by introducing compressed air into the concentrate line 217, wherein an air pressure in the concentrate line 217 is measured with a pressure sensor 219, a limit pressure for a pressure increase is determined, and the fill level in the concentrate container is calculated using the limit pressure. In this embodiment, the fill level sensor 215 comprises, in addition to the pressure sensor 219, a volumetric air pump 220 for generating the compressed air for introduction into the concentrate line 217. Alternatively, the supply unit 200 can comprise a compressed air connection for this purpose. The method for determining the fill level in the concentrate container is described in more detail, for example, in WO 2020 / 126257.

[0167] To provide the fresh cooling and lubricant emulsion with this embodiment of the supply unit 200, the concentrate connection 206 and the fill level sensor 215 are connected to a concentrate tank via the concentrate line 217, and the fresh water connection 205 is connected to a pressurized fresh water line. The controllable valve 211 is opened so that a defined amount of fresh water can flow through. The turbine 210 measures the actual amount of fresh water delivered. If necessary, the controllable valve 211 can be used to readjust the amount of fresh water delivered until the defined amount of water flows through. Depending on the water flow rate, which is measured by the turbine 210, the gear pump 212 is controlled to deliver a defined amount of concentrate from the concentrate tank.

[0168] The actual amount of concentrate delivered is measured by the flow meter 213, and in case of deviations the gear pump 212 is controlled accordingly in order to adjust the amount of concentrate delivered to the defined amount.

[0169] The fill level sensor 215 measures the fill level in the concentrate tank. If the fill level is low, a signal can be sent via the wireless interface 204 to a control unit so that it can issue a warning that the concentrate tank should be replaced. When the concentrate tank is empty, the valve 211 can be closed, and the gear pump 212 can be activated to stop the concentrate delivery. At the same time, a signal can be sent via the wireless interface 204 to a control unit so that it can issue an error message and, if necessary, terminate affected processes to prevent damage.

[0170] The outlet 207 for fresh cooling lubricant emulsion can be designed such that if it is not connected to a line 218, the outlet 207 is blocked, preventing any cooling lubricant emulsion from escaping into the environment. In this case, the flow meters 210 and 213 detect no flow, even if the valve 211 is open and / or the gear pump 212 is running. In this case, a signal can be sent to a control unit so that it issues an error message.

[0171] FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of a further embodiment of a supply unit 200. This differs from the embodiment according to FIG. 1 in that the supply unit 200 is configured to convey fresh water from a fresh water tank instead of being connected to a pressurized fresh water line. In this embodiment, the internal line leading from the fresh water connection 205 to the static mixer 208 is designed in the same way as the internal line leading from the concentrate connection 206 to the mixer, and thus comprises a volumetric pump, e.g. in the form of a gear pump 212, a flow meter, e.g. in the form of an oval gear flow meter 213, and a check valve 214 to prevent contamination of the water in the fresh water tank.

[0172] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the supply unit 200 comprises one or more additive connections 221, which can be connected to an additive container via an additive line 222. An internal line leads from the additive connection 221 to the static mixer 208 and is configured in the same way as the internal lines leading from the concentrate connection and from the fresh water connection to the mixer 208. It thus comprises a volumetric pump, e.g., in the form of a gear pump 212, a flow meter, e.g., in the form of an oval gear flow meter 213, and a check valve 214 to prevent contamination of the additive in the additive container.

[0173] In this embodiment, the supply unit 200 also includes fill level sensors 215 for the concentrate container, the fresh water container, and one or more additive containers, which can be configured in the same way as the fill level sensor 215 in FIG. 1 and are set up to measure the fill levels in the concentrate container, the fresh water container, and the additive container. Furthermore, the supply unit includes a compressed air connection 223 that can be connected to a compressed air line 224. An internal line leads from the compressed air connection 223 to the static mixer 208 and includes a controllable valve 211 with which the flow of compressed air can be regulated. The internal line can additionally be connected to the fill level sensors 215 to provide the required compressed air. In this case, a pump 220, as shown in FIG. 1, is unnecessary.As an alternative to the compressed air connection, the supply unit 200 can comprise a pump for generating compressed air, which is connected to the mixer 208 via an internal line. In this case, a check valve is provided instead of the controllable valve 211 to prevent damage to the pump for generating compressed air from cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0174] To provide the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with this embodiment of the supply unit 200, the concentrate connection 206 and a fill level sensor 215 are connected to a concentrate container via the concentrate line 217, the fresh water connection 205 and a fill level sensor 215 are connected to a fresh water container via the fresh water line 216, and the one or more additive connections 221 and a fill level sensor 215 are each connected to an additive container.

[0175] The gear pumps 212 are controlled to pump a defined amount of fresh water, concentrate, or additives from the corresponding containers. The actual pumped quantities are measured by the flow meters 213, and in the event of deviations, the gear pumps 212 are controlled accordingly to adjust the pumped quantities to the respectively defined amount. The separate delivery of additives is advantageous when individual additives from the cooling-lubricating emulsion in a machine tool are disproportionately consumed, which cannot be compensated for by pumping concentrate alone.

[0176] The supply of fresh water and additives from corresponding containers can be particularly useful in embodiments of the system according to the invention in which the supply unit is regularly moved between different machine tools and fresh water connections are not available everywhere.

[0177] The compressed air connection 223 can be connected to a compressed air line 224. This serves, in particular, to blow the cooling lubricant emulsion out of the internal line, the mixer 208, and the cooling lubricant emulsion line 218 in the event that a cooling lubricant emulsion with a different concentration is to be provided, for example, when changing the machine tool for which the cooling lubricant emulsion is provided.

[0178] FIG. 3 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a measuring unit 300 comprising sensors 311, 312, and 313 for determining at least one parameter of a cooling-lubricating emulsion. The measuring unit 300 comprises a housing 301, an AC connection 302 configured to supply the measuring unit 300 with power, an AC-DC converter 303 for supplying the DC-operated components of the measuring unit with DC power, and an interface 304 configured as a wireless interface for data transmission between the measuring unit 300 and a control unit. Furthermore, the measuring unit 300 comprises an interface 305 configured for connection to a data cable, via which communication with a distribution unit is enabled.

[0179] At the same time, the interface 305 is configured to function as a direct current source for a distribution unit connected via a data cable, with the power also being supplied via the data cable. The interface 304 is connected to the electrically operated components of the measuring unit via an electronic circuit (not shown) to enable their control. Furthermore, the measuring unit 300 comprises a connection 306 as an inlet for the cooling-lubricating emulsion, which can be connected to a line 308 for the cooling-lubricating emulsion, and a connection 307 as an outlet for the cooling-lubricating emulsion, which can be connected to a line 309 for the cooling-lubricating emulsion.

[0180] The connections 306 and 307 are connected to each other via an internal line. The internal line is connected to the sensors 311, 312, and 313 for determining at least one parameter of a cooling-lubricating emulsion, and is configured to conduct cooling-lubricating emulsion past the sensors 311, 312, and 313 so that they can determine the at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion. For example, the sensors can be a refractometer, a pH sensor, and a conductivity sensor. Additionally, the measuring unit can also comprise other sensors, e.g., photometers and light barriers. Alternatively, the measuring unit can also comprise only a single sensor, e.g., only a refractometer, or two sensors.

[0181] In this embodiment, a check valve 310 is connected downstream of the at least one sensor 311, 312, 313, which allows the flow of the cooling lubricant emulsion only in the direction of the outlet connection 307. This prevents measurements from being distorted due to backflow of the cooling lubricant emulsion and reduces the risk of damage to the sensors 311, 312, 313.

[0182] During operation of the measuring unit 300, the inlet port 306 is connected to a distribution unit via a line 308, and is supplied with the cooling lubricant emulsion to be measured. The outlet port 307 can also be connected to the same distribution unit via a line 309 to return the cooling lubricant emulsion to it. Alternatively, the line 309 can lead to a disposal container or directly to a tank from which the cooling lubricant emulsion being measured originates.

[0183] Furthermore, during operation, the interface 305 is connected to the

[0184] distribution unit to supply it with power and a

[0185] To enable communication of the distribution unit with a control unit via the wireless interface 304. During operation, the cooling

[0186] Lubricant emulsion is passed past at least one sensor 311, 312, 313, and at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion is determined by the sensors 311, 312, 313. The measurement data is sent via the interface 304 to a control unit, where it is further processed.

[0187] FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a distribution unit 400, which is configured to be connected to a measuring unit, a supply unit and a tank and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them.

[0188] The distribution unit 400 comprises a housing 401 and an interface 402 configured to be connected to a measuring unit via a data cable and to communicate with a control unit via the data cable and an interface of the measuring unit. At the same time, the interface 402 is configured to supply power to the distribution unit via the data cable and the power connection of the measuring unit. The interface 402 is connected to the electrically operated components of the distribution unit via an electronic circuit (not shown) to enable their control.

[0189] Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 comprises a connection 403 as an inlet for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which can be connected to a line 218 for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion. The line 218 for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion can correspond to the line 218 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 shown here comprises a bidirectional connection 404, which can be connected to a tank via a line 411 and can function both as an inlet for cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank and as an outlet for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion into the tank. In addition, the distribution unit 400 comprises a connection 405 as a further outlet for cooling-lubricating emulsion, which can be connected to a measuring unit via a line 308. The line 308 can correspond to the line 308 as shown in FIG. 3.

[0190] Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 includes a port 406 as an inlet for the cooling-lubricating emulsion that has been subjected to measurement, which port can be connected to a measuring unit via a line 309, and a port 407 as an outlet for this cooling-lubricating emulsion, which port can be connected to a tank via a line 412. The line 309 can correspond to the line 309 shown in FIG. 3.

[0191] An internal line leads from the inlet port 403 for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion to the bidirectional port 404 with a branch to the outlet port 405. Between the inlet port 403 and the branch, the line comprises a flow meter, which in this embodiment is designed as a turbine 414, and a valve 409, e.g. a solenoid valve, which is normally closed and can be opened when needed to allow the flow of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion. In the branch leading to the outlet port 405, the internal line contains a further valve 408, e.g. a solenoid valve, which is normally open and can be closed when needed. In addition, the internal line can comprise a further valve 410 between the branch and the bidirectional outlet 404, which is normally open.Another internal line leads from the inlet port 406 for the measured cooling lubricant emulsion to the outlet port 407, through which the measured cooling lubricant emulsion can be directed into a tank. This internal line is connected to a pressure sensor 413.

[0192] Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 comprises the fill level sensor 500, which is configured, for example, as an ultrasonic sensor and can measure the fill level in a tank. Accordingly, the distribution unit 400 is configured to be attached to such a tank in order to be able to determine the fill level therein.

[0193] In operation, the inlet connection 403 for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is connected via a line 218 to a supply unit, the bidirectional connection 404 is connected via a line 411 to a tank for cooling-lubricating emulsion, the outlet connection 405 is connected via a line 308 to the inlet connection of a measuring unit, the inlet connection 406 is connected via a line 309 to an outlet connection of the measuring unit, and the outlet connection 407 is connected via a line 412 to the tank for cooling-lubricating emulsion. Furthermore, the distributor unit is attached to the tank in order to be able to measure the fill level therein. Since in this embodiment there is no feed pump for the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank, the line 411 is additionally connected to a feed pump that feeds the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank into the

[0194] distribution unit 400. Alternatively, a feed pump can be connected to the

[0195] distribution unit 400, or be installed in a measuring unit connected to it, which then draws the cooling-lubricating emulsion through the distribution unit via line 411 and line 308.

[0196] In the normal state, the distribution unit 400 is configured to direct cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank into the measuring unit for measurement, since the other states (calibration and conditioning) only occur when necessary. Therefore, valve 409, which regulates the flow of fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, is normally closed, and valves 408 and 410, which regulate the flow from the tank into the distribution unit and from the distribution unit into the measuring unit, are open. This ensures that only the cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank is measured, without the measurement being distorted by fresh cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0197] During sensor calibration, valve 410, which regulates the flow from the tank to the distribution unit 400, is closed, and valve 409, which regulates the flow of fresh coolant-lubricant emulsion, is opened. If valve 410 is not present, the flow from the tank to the distribution unit 400 is prevented by controlling a corresponding feed pump.

[0198] In the conditioning state, the valve 408, which regulates the flow from the distribution unit 400 into the measuring unit, is closed, and the valve 409, which regulates the flow of fresh cooling lubricant emulsion, is opened.

[0199] The cooling lubricant emulsion, which is returned from the measuring unit to the distribution unit 400, is in this embodiment led into the tank through the outlet 407 and a line 412 connected thereto.

[0200] The pressure sensor 413 is configured to monitor the pressure in the internal line between ports 406 and 407. In the event of a sharp pressure increase (e.g., if line 412 is clogged, or port 407 is blocked because no line is connected) or pressure drop (e.g., if a line is severed, or line 309 is not connected to port 406 or is clogged), a signal can be sent via interface 402 to the control unit so that it issues a corresponding warning.

[0201] The level sensor 500 continuously measures the level in the tank and sends the measurement data via the interface 402 and an interface of the measuring unit to a control unit, where the data is further processed.

[0202] FIG. 5 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of a distribution unit 400, which is configured to be connected to a measuring unit, a supply unit and a tank and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them.

[0203] This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 in that, instead of a bidirectional connection 404, a unidirectional inlet connection 416 is provided, which can be connected to a tank via a line 419, and a unidirectional outlet 417 for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided, which can be connected to the tank via a further line 420. Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 in this embodiment comprises a further outlet 418 for cooling-lubricating emulsion that has been subjected to a measurement, which can be connected to a line 421, via which the cooling-lubricating emulsion is discarded or disposed of.

[0204] In this embodiment, an internal line leads from the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion inlet 403 to the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion outlet 417, with a branch leading to the outlet port 405. The internal line includes a check valve 424 to prevent the flow of the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion in the wrong direction, and a turbine-shaped flow meter 414 to determine the flow rate of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, both located between the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion inlet 403 and the branch. Furthermore, the internal line includes a three-way valve that regulates the flow direction of the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion toward the outlet port 417 or the outlet port 405. In the normal state, the three-way valve is open toward the outlet port 417 and closed toward the outlet port 405.

[0205] Between the inlet port 416 for cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank and the outlet port 405, the distributor unit 400 in this embodiment also includes an internal line, which may partially coincide with the branch of the internal line extending from the inlet 403. This internal line includes a volumetric pump 422, which is designed as a gear pump and is configured to pump cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank through the distributor unit into the measuring unit, as well as a flow meter 423 in the form of an oval gear flow meter (optional), which is configured to monitor the pumped amount of cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0206] The internal line between the inlet connection 406 for the cooling lubricant emulsion that has been measured and the outlet 407 for the same, which can be connected to the tank via a line 412, additionally comprises a branch that leads to the outlet 418, via which the cooling lubricant emulsion can be disposed of. This internal line, between the connection 406 and the branch, comprises a check valve 424 that prevents the cooling lubricant emulsion that has already been tested from flowing into the measuring unit. This check valve can replace the check valve shown in FIG. 3 in the measuring unit if required. Furthermore, this internal line comprises a valve 425, e.g., a solenoid valve, which is normally open and located between the branch and the outlet 407, as well as a valve 426, e.g.,a solenoid valve which is normally closed and is located between the branch and the outlet 418.

[0207] In this embodiment, the outlets 407 and 417, which direct the cooling lubricant emulsion into the tank, can be the same outlet, which saves a connection and a line.

[0208] The operation of this embodiment differs from the operation of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 in that instead of the bidirectional port 404, the unidirectional ports 416 and 417 are connected to the tank via lines 419 and 420, respectively, and the outlet port 418 is connected to a line 421 through which the cooling lubricant emulsion can be disposed of.

[0209] In the normal state, the distribution unit 400 is configured to direct cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank into the measuring unit for measurement, since the other states (calibration, disposal) only occur when necessary. Therefore, valve 426, which controls disposal, is normally closed, and valve 425, which controls the flow from the measuring unit into the tank, is open. Furthermore, the three-way valve 415 is normally closed toward connection 405, which leads to the measuring unit, and open toward outlet 417, which leads to the tank. This ensures that only the cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank is measured, without the measurement being distorted by fresh cooling lubricant emulsion.At the same time, the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank is measured in the measuring unit, while the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank is conditioned by refilling with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion. In the normal state, the cooling-lubricating emulsion is continuously pumped by the volumetric pump 422 from the tank into the distribution unit 400 and from the distribution unit 400 into the measuring unit, with the flow being monitored by the flow meter 423. If no flow is detected, a signal can be sent to the control unit, for example, to issue a warning.

[0210] For conditioning, the distribution unit 400 remains in the normal state, and the flow of the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion can be controlled solely by the supply unit.

[0211] In the sensor calibration state, the three-way valve 415 is opened towards the outlet 405 and closed towards the outlet 417, and the feed pump 422 is stopped so that the calibration is not corrupted by cooling lubricant emulsion from the tank.

[0212] A closure of the three-way valve 415 is provided in the event that the supply unit is separated from the distribution unit 400 or several distribution units 400 are connected to the supply unit.

[0213] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the system 100 according to the invention (bounded by a dashed frame), comprising a supply unit 200, a measuring unit 300, a distribution unit 400, a level sensor 500 and a control unit 600, wherein these components of the system 100 are connected for operation.

[0214] The supply unit 200, the measuring unit 300, and the distribution unit 500 in FIG. 6 correspond to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, although these are depicted in a significantly simplified manner. The connections therefore correspond to the connections shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, but are not provided with reference numerals for the sake of clarity.

[0215] The supply unit 200 is connected to an AC power source (not shown) via a power cable 80 and to a fresh water source (not shown) via a fresh water line 216. Furthermore, the supply unit is connected to a concentrate container 70 via a concentrate line 217. The supply unit 200 is connected to the distribution unit 400 via a line 218 for fresh cooling lubricant emulsion. Furthermore, a wireless data connection is established between the supply unit 200 and the control unit 600, via which the supply unit 200 and the components contained therein are controlled.

[0216] The distribution unit 400 is attached to a tank 60 above the surface of the cooling lubricant emulsion and contains the fill level sensor 500, which is used to measure the fill level in the tank. Furthermore, the distribution unit is connected to a tank 60 via a suction line 411, the end of the suction line 411 that is connected to the tank being immersed in the cooling lubricant emulsion and surrounded by a filter basket 40. Furthermore, the end of the suction line 411 is equipped with a fluid pump 50, which conveys the cooling lubricant emulsion, after being filtered through the filter basket 40, into the distribution unit 400. Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 is connected to the tank 60 via a return line 412, through which the cooling lubricant emulsion that has been measured is fed into the tank.The end of the return line 412 is also surrounded by a filter basket 40 to prevent accidental entry of particles into the distribution unit 400 or the measuring unit 300.

[0217] The distribution unit 400 is further connected to the measuring unit 300 via a line 308, via which the cooling-lubricating emulsion is fed into the measuring unit, and via another line 309 to the measuring unit 300, via which the cooling-lubricating emulsion is fed into the distribution unit 400 and the tank 60 after the measurement. Furthermore, the distribution unit 400 is connected to the measuring unit 300 via a data cable 90, which simultaneously functions as a power cable, thereby ensuring a power supply to the distribution unit 400 via the power connection of the measuring unit 300 and enabling data exchange between the distribution unit 400 and the control unit 600 via the wireless interface of the measuring unit.

[0218] The measuring unit 300 is connected to a power source (not shown) via a power cable 80. The power from the power source is used to supply both the measuring unit 300 and the distribution unit 400 (via the data cable 90). Furthermore, a wireless data connection is established between the measuring unit 300 and the control unit 600, via which the measuring unit 300 and the components contained therein, as well as the distribution unit 400 (via the data cable 90) and the components contained therein, are controlled, and measurement data is transmitted.

[0219] The control unit 600 is, for example, a computer that can communicate via a wireless interface with the provisioning unit 200, the measuring unit 300, and the distribution unit 400 (via the interface of the measuring unit 300 and the data cable 90) and can control them or receive information from them. Alternatively, the distribution unit 400 can have its own power connection and communicate with the control unit 600 via its own (e.g., wireless) interface.

[0220] FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the system 100 according to the invention (enclosed by a dashed frame), comprising a supply unit 200, a measuring unit 300, a distribution unit 400, a fill level sensor 500, and a control unit 600, wherein these components of the system 100 are connected for operation. Only the housings of the supply unit 200, the measuring unit 300, and the distribution unit 400 are shown here. The connections essentially correspond to those shown in FIG. 6, although for clarity, they are not provided with reference numerals. Some of the connections are located at different locations.

[0221] The supply unit 200 and the distribution unit 300 are mounted on a machine tool 10. The distribution unit 400 is attached to a tank 60, as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, and includes the fill level sensor 500 for measuring the fill level in the tank 60. The tank 60 is connected to the machine tool 10 to supply it with cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0222] The supply unit 200 and the measuring unit 300 can be powered by the machine tool or connected to separate power sources via power cables.

[0223] In this embodiment, the system according to the invention is configured to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsion for a single machine tool 10. FIG. 8 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the system 100 according to the invention (enclosed by a dashed frame). This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 in that the system 100 additionally comprises further measuring units 300', further distribution units 400', and further fill level sensors 500', all of which are supplied with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the same supply unit 200. The system is further configured to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsions in further tanks 60' for further machine tools 10'.

[0224] Furthermore, the supply unit 200 is not mounted on a machine tool and is connected to a separate power source.

[0225] The control unit controls the supply unit 200, as well as all measuring units 300, 300', all distribution units 400, 400' and all level sensors 500, 500'.

[0226] FIG. 9 shows a schematic representation of another embodiment of the system 100 according to the invention. This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 in that the system 100 comprises a line 700, which is a form of the line 218 for fresh coolant and lubricant emulsion. The line 700 is designed as a flexible hose and includes a free end 701, which includes an identification feature 702 in the form of an RF ID transponder that is uniquely assigned to the line 700 and the supply unit 200.

[0227] The free end 701 and the connection 403 or 403' for fresh coolant and lubricant emulsion of the distribution unit 400 or 400' can be connected to each other via a quick-release fastener. The connections 403 and 403' are further configured to recognize the identification feature 702 by connecting it to an RFID reader. Upon establishing a connection to the free end 701, the distribution unit 400 or 400' can read the identification feature 702 and transmit the data to the control unit 600.

[0228] The control unit 600 determines which of the distribution units 400 or 400' has recognized the identification feature 702 and has been connected to the supply unit 200 to which the identification feature 702 belongs, and controls the supply unit 200, the corresponding distribution unit 400 or 400', the corresponding fill level sensor 500 or 500' and the corresponding measuring unit 300 or 300' as an interconnected system for conditioning the lubricant emulsion in the tank 60 or 60' for the machine tool 10 or 10'.

[0229] The other distribution unit, the other measuring unit, and the other fill level sensor continuously measure at least one parameter of the cooling lubricant emulsion and the fill level in the other tank of the machine tool, and send a signal to the control unit 600 when conditioning of the cooling lubricant emulsion in this tank or calibration of at least one sensor of this measuring unit is required. The control unit 600 then issues a corresponding warning.

[0230] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the supply unit 200 is mounted on a concentrate container 70, which is placed on a mobile transport trolley 71, whereby the supply unit becomes movable.

[0231] FIG. 10 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a combination of distribution unit 400 and measuring unit 300 of the system 100 according to the invention. This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 in that the distribution unit 400 and the measuring unit 300 have a common housing 301 / 401, and thus the components of the measuring unit 300 (enclosed by a dashed frame), as shown in FIG. 3, and the components of the distribution unit 400, as shown in FIG. 4, are contained in this housing.

[0232] In this embodiment according to FIG. 10, the interface 305 contained in the measuring unit 300 according to FIG. 3 and the interface 402 contained in the distribution unit 400 according to FIG. 4 are unnecessary, since the power supply to both units can be provided via the common AC connection 302 and the AC-to-DC converter 303, and the data transmission between both units and a control unit, as well as the control of the electrically operated components of both units, can be carried out via the common interface 304 without the use of an additional data or power cable between the two units. Likewise, the connections 306, 307, 405, 406 for the fluid exchange between the measuring unit 300 and the distribution unit 400 are unnecessary, since the fluid exchange takes place via internal lines.

[0233] The use of a combination of distribution unit 400 and measuring unit 300 in a housing 301 / 401 enables easier handling for the end user of the system according to the invention. A corresponding combination can also be achieved by integrating any other embodiments of the measuring unit 300 and distribution unit 400 in a single housing.

[0234] FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the inventive system 100, as shown in FIG. 6, but using the combination of distribution unit 400 and measuring unit 300 shown in FIG. 10 instead of the separate units. The lines 308 and 309 as well as the data cable 90 are not required due to the use of this combination, which allows for easier handling for the end user of the inventive system. The combination of measuring unit 300 and distribution unit (400) in a common housing (301, 401) can be used in any embodiment of the inventive system instead of the separate units.

[0235] The invention is further illustrated by the following examples and claims.

[0236] Examples

[0237] The following examples use a KSS1 cooling lubricant emulsion, which is obtained by diluting a concentrate available from Blaser Swisslube under the name Blasocut 4000 Strong. Blasocut 4000 Strong is a water-miscible, mineral oil-based cooling lubricant.

[0238] Example 1

[0239] The system 100 according to the invention uses a structure as shown in FIG. 7, wherein the supply unit 200 is one as shown in FIG. 1, the measuring unit 300 is one as shown in FIG. 3, and the distribution unit 400 is one as shown in FIG. 4. The power connections are all connected to a power source; the supply unit 200 is further connected to a concentrate tank and to a pressurized fresh water line.

[0240] In this example, tank 60 has a capacity of 1000 kg (= 100%)

[0241] A combination of a laptop and a WLAN router is used as the control unit 600. Drivers for the supply unit 200, the measuring unit 300, and the distribution unit 400 (including the level sensor 500) are installed on the laptop, and the wireless interfaces are WLAN interfaces. All WLAN interfaces are connected to the WLAN router. A digital user interface is also installed on the laptop, which prompts for the input of a target concentration for the tank, a target fill level for the tank, a tolerance range for the target concentration, and a tolerance range for the target fill level, and provides the option of selecting the corresponding values ​​from a database. Furthermore, an emergency stop button (PIN-protected) and a start button are shown.

[0242] The following settings are selected, assuming a concentration of 100% for the pure concentrate (data in wt.%; tolerances in absolute values), and the process is started. SK60 is the target concentration in tank 60, TK60 is the tolerance range around SK60, SF60 is the target fill level in tank 60, TF60 is the tolerance range around SF60, IK60 is the measured or calculated actual concentration in tank 60, IF60 is the measured actual fill level in tank 60; AF60 is the difference between SF60 and IF60; EK60 is the concentration of the fresh cooling lubricant emulsion required to achieve the target concentration SK60 when adding the AF60 quantity.

[0243] The control unit 600 is programmed to control the system 100 such that a cascade of the following steps is executed, wherein the reference numerals correspond to those in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 7, and 8. Other cascades of steps are also conceivable. In particular, the flow rates can be varied to control the speed and accuracy of the tracking. Initial calibration of sensors 311 (refractometer), 312 (pH sensor), and 313 (conductivity sensor):

[0244] 1 ) Close valve 410 to the tank; open valve 408 to the measuring unit 300; open valve 409;

[0245] 2) Open valve 211 so that fresh water flows at a rate of 9 kg / min (checked by turbine 210; if no flow is detected, stop the process and issue an error message); start pump 212 so that concentrate flows at a rate of 1 kg / min (checked by flow meter 213; if no flow is detected, stop the process and issue an error message); continue pumping water and concentrate for 15 seconds (flushing the sensors with fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with a concentration of SK60 = 10%); save the measured values ​​transmitted by sensors 311, 312 and 313 to the control unit for 5 seconds; assign a concentration of SK60 = 10% to the received measured values ​​using control unit 600;

[0246] 3) repeat the steps listed under 2) for at least the following flow rate ratios of water to concentrate: 9.2 kg / min water and 0.8 kg / min concentrate, with assignment of the measured parameters to a concentration of SK60-TK60 = 8%; 8.8 kg / min water and 1.2 kg / min concentrate with assignment of the measured parameters to a concentration of SK60+TK60 = 12%;

[0247] 4) calculate a calibration curve, based on which measured parameters of the cooling lubricant emulsion can be assigned to a concentration.

[0248] First filling of tank 60:

[0249] 5) Calculate the concentration of the cooling lubricant emulsion (IK60) in tank 60 based on the amount of concentrate and water already flowing through (in this case, IK60 = 10%, as the average of 8%, 10%, and 12%); measure the fill level with the fill level sensor 500 and transmit the value to the control unit 600 (in this case, IF60 = 1%, as a total of 1 minute was pumped at 10 kg / min); calculate the difference AF60 from SF60 and IF60 (AF60 = SF60-IF60 = 89%); Calculate the required concentration EK60 of the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which is necessary to achieve the target concentration when reaching SF60 at the calculated level difference (EK60 = (SF60 x SK60 - IF60 x IK60) / AF60 = 10%) 6) Open valve 410 to tank 60; close valve 408 to measuring unit 300; open valve 211 so that fresh water flows at a rate of 90 kg / min (control by turbine 210);Start pump 212 so that concentrate flows at a rate of 10 kg / min (monitored by flow meter 213); continue pumping until level sensor 500 indicates that the target level of SF60 = 90% has been reached (in this case, after approximately 8.9 minutes).

[0250] 7) Close valve 409; close valve 211; stop pump 212.

[0251] Measurement of at least one parameter and conditioning:

[0252] 8) Open valve 408 to measuring unit 300; start pump 50 (feeding cooling lubricant emulsion from tank 60 into measuring unit 300); continuously measure at least one parameter with sensors 311, 312 and 313 and transmit the measured values ​​to the control unit; continuously measure the fill level in tank 60 with level sensor 500 and transmit the measured value to control unit 600; if IF60 falls below SF60-TF60 = 85%, or IK60 falls below SK60-TK60 = 8% or rises above SK60+TK60 = 12%, continue with step 9);

[0253] 9) Calculate the difference AF60 = SF60-IF60; calculate the required concentration EK60 = (SF60 x SK60 - IF60 x IK60) / AF60, which is required to achieve the target concentration SK60 when refilling with the required amount of AF60 of fresh cooling lubricant emulsion.

[0254] 10) Stop pump 50; close valve 408 to measuring unit 300; open valve 409; open valve 211 so that fresh water flows at a rate of (100% - EK60) x 100 kg / min (monitored by turbine 210); start pump 212 so that concentrate flows at a rate of EK60 x 100 kg / min (monitored by flow meter 213); pump the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion until the fill level sensor 500 signals that the target fill level of SF60 = 90% has been reached (time is approximately (AF60 / 100 kg) min);

[0255] 11) Close valve 409; close valve 211; stop pump 212; continue with step 8). Recalibration:

[0256] 12) If SK60 is not reached when repeating step 8) after performing step 11): Stop pump 50; close valve 410 to the tank; open valve 409; repeat step 2) of the initial calibration; adjust the calibration curve based on the new measured values ​​for SK60; continue with step 8).

[0257] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described here and the aspects highlighted therein. Rather, numerous modifications are possible within the scope of the claims, which are within the scope of one skilled in the art.

[0258] List of reference symbols

[0259] 10, 10' machine tool

[0260] 40 filter basket

[0261] 50 pump

[0262] 60, 60' tank

[0263] 70 concentrate containers

[0264] 80 power cables

[0265] 90 data cables (with power supply)

[0266] 100 System according to the invention

[0267] 200 provisioning units

[0268] 201 , 301 , 401 housing

[0269] 202, 302 AC power connection

[0270] 203, 303 AC-DC converters

[0271] 204, 304 Wireless interface

[0272] 205-207, 221 , 223, 306, 307, 403-407, 403', 416-418 fluid connection

[0273] 208 static mixer

[0274] 209, 214, 310, 424 check valve

[0275] 210, 414 Turbine

[0276] 211, 408, 409, 410, 425, 426 valve

[0277] 212, 422 volumetric gear pump

[0278] 213, 423 Oval gear flowmeter

[0279] 215 Level sensor for concentrate, fresh water or additive tank;

[0280] 216-218, 222, 308, 309, 411, 412, 419-421 liquid line

[0281] 219, 413 pressure sensor

[0282] 220 compressed air pump

[0283] 224 compressed air line

[0284] 300, 300' measuring unit

[0285] 305, 402 interface for data cable

[0286] 311-313 Sensor

[0287] 400, 400' distribution unit

[0288] 415 three-way valve

[0289] 500 level sensor

[0290] 600 control unit

[0291] 700 cable with free end

[0292] 701 Free End

[0293] 702 Identification feature

Claims

Patent claims System (100) for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools (10, 10'), comprising: a measuring unit (300) comprising at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) for determining at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion, a supply unit (200) for supplying fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which is configured to mix a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and to supply the mixture as fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, and a fill level sensor (500) configured to measure the fill level in a tank (60, 60'), characterized in that the supply unit (200) is spatially separated from the measuring unit (300) and is not in direct fluid exchange with the measuring unit (300), wherein the system (100) further comprises a distribution unit (400) configured to communicate with the measuring unit (300),the supply unit (200) and a tank (60, 60'), and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them, wherein the system (100) further comprises a control unit (600) configured to control the supply unit (200), the measuring unit (300), the distribution unit (400), and the fill level sensor (500) and to exchange data with them. System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the supply unit (200) has a housing (201), and the measuring unit (300) and the distribution unit (400) have a common housing (301, 401). System (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit (600) is configured to carry out at least the following steps: a) controlling the supply unit (200) so that it mixes a defined amount of a concentrate with a defined amount of water and provides the mixture as a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion;, b) Controlling the distribution unit (400) so that it supplies fresh cooling Lubricant emulsion from the supply unit (200) into the measuring unit (300) or into the tank (60, 60'), or coolant-lubricant emulsion from the tank (60, 60') into the measuring unit (300), and / or optionally at least part of the coolant Lubricant emulsion from the measuring unit (300) into the tank (60, 60'); c) receiving measurement data from the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) of the measuring unit (300) and the fill level sensor (500); d) calculating the refill quantity required to convert the fill level in the tank (60, 60') from a measured actual fill level to a defined target fill level; e) calculating the refill concentration of a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion that is required for a calculated refill quantity in order to convert the measured actual concentration in the tank (60, 60') to a defined target concentration; f) calibrating the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) of the measuring unit (300).

4. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fill level sensor (500) is built into the distribution unit (400), and the distribution unit is configured to be attached to a tank (60, 60') in order to be able to measure the fill level in the tank (60, 60').

5. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a line (700) for fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which enables a reversible connection between the supply unit (200) and the distribution unit (400), wherein the line (700) has at least one free end (701), wherein the at least one free end (701) has an identification feature (702) uniquely assigned to the line (700), preferably an RFID transponder, and wherein the at least one free end (701) is configured to be reversibly connected to the supply unit (200), the distribution unit (400) or both, preferably via a quick-release fastener, and wherein the distribution unit (400), the supply unit (200) or both are configured to recognize the identification feature (702) when a connection is established with the at least one free end (701).

6. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system comprises at least one further measuring unit (300'), at least one further distribution unit (400') and at least one further fill level sensor (500'), wherein the further fill level sensor (500') is configured to measure the fill level in a tank (60, 60'), wherein the supply unit (200) is spatially separated from the further measuring unit (300') and is not in direct fluid exchange with the further measuring unit (300'), and the further distribution unit (400') is configured to be connected to the further measuring unit (300'), the supply unit (200) and a tank (60, 60') and to regulate the exchange of cooling lubricant emulsion between them, and the system (100) is configured to condition the cooling lubricant emulsions in at least two tanks (60, 60'), and wherein the Control unit (600) is arranged to determine by which distribution unit (400,400') the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is fed from the supply unit (200).

7. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the provisioning unit (200) has a wireless interface (204), and the control unit (600) is configured to communicate with the provisioning unit (200) via the wireless interface (204), and preferably wherein the measuring unit (300) has a wireless interface (304), and the control unit (600) is configured to communicate with the measuring unit (300) via the wireless interface (304).

8. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the distribution unit (400) is configured to be connected to the measuring unit (300) via a data cable interface (402), and the control unit (600) is configured to communicate with the distribution unit (400) via the measuring unit (300) and the data cable interface (402).

9. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the at least one parameter is selected from the refractive index, the pH value, the light transmittance, the reflectance, the oil content and the conductivity of the cooling Lubricant emulsion. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the supply unit (200) is configured to be reversibly connected to the distribution unit (400) and to be moved independently of the measuring unit (300), the distribution unit (400) and the tank (60, 60'), at least in the separated state. System (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the supply unit (200) is connected to the distribution unit (400) via a line (218) and is in fluid exchange, the measuring unit (300) is connected to the distribution unit (400) via at least one line (308, 309) and is in fluid exchange, the distribution unit (400) is in fluid exchange with a tank (60, 60') via at least one line (411, 412, 419, 420), and the control unit (600) has a data connection with the supply unit (200), the measuring unit (300) and the distribution unit (400).Method for conditioning a cooling-lubricating emulsion for machine tools (10), wherein a cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a tank (60) and wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion is removed from the tank (60), at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion is detected using at least one sensor (311, 312, 313), the concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank (60) is determined from the at least one parameter, and the cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially returned to the tank (60), and the fill level in the tank (60) is measured with the aid of a fill level sensor (500), a required replenishment concentration and replenishment quantity is calculated, and the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided with the calculated replenishment concentration in the calculated replenishment quantity, further comprising the step:. Calibrating the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) by rinsing the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) and carrying out a measurement with fresh cooling lubricant emulsion which has a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, characterized in that the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided by a supply unit (200), the sensor (311, 312, 313) is part of a measuring unit (300), the supply unit (200) is spatially separated from the measuring unit (300) and is not in direct fluid exchange with the measuring unit (300), and the supply unit (200), the measuring unit (300), and the tank (60) are connected to a distribution unit (400) which regulates the exchange of cooling-lubricating emulsion between them, and wherein the method is controlled by a control unit (600). Method according to claim 12, wherein the method is carried out with the system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.Method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein for at least two machine tools (10, 10') a cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a respective tank (60, 60'), and wherein each of the tanks (60, 60') is connected to a respective distribution unit (400, 400'), which is connected to a respective measuring unit (300, 300'), wherein the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is provided in a common provision unit (200), and wherein the exchange of the cooling-lubricating emulsion between the provision unit (200) and the distribution units (400, 400') is controlled manually by changing the distribution unit (400, 400') connected to the provision unit (200) or automatically by the control unit (600).Method according to one of claims 12 to 14, comprising the following steps: aa) providing a fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which has a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, in the provision unit (200); bb) introducing the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion from the provision unit (200) into the measuring unit (300) with the distribution unit (400); cc) calibrating the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) with the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion fed into the measuring unit (300). Carrying out a measurement with the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, which has a defined ratio of a concentrate to water, wherein optionally the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially fed into the tank (60) after the measurement; dd) Taking cooling-lubricating emulsion from a tank (60) and introducing the cooling-lubricating emulsion into the measuring unit (300); ee) Measuring the at least one parameter of the cooling-lubricating emulsion with the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) in order to determine the actual concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank (60) based on the at least one parameter, wherein optionally the cooling-lubricating emulsion is at least partially returned to the tank (60); ff) Measuring the fill level in the tank (60) with the fill level sensor (500); gg) Calculating the refill quantity required to reach a predetermined fill level in the tank (60);hh) Calculating the refill concentration required for the calculated refill quantity to condition the concentration of the cooling lubricant emulsion in the tank (60) to a specified target value; ii) Providing a fresh cooling lubricant emulsion having the calculated required refill concentration in the calculated refill quantity in the supply unit (200);jj) Introducing the fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion into the tank (60) using the distribution unit (400) to condition the cooling-lubricating emulsion in the tank (60). Method according to one of claims 12 to 15, wherein a target concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion in a tank (60), a tolerance range for the concentration around the target concentration, a target fill level in the tank (60), and a tolerance range for the fill level around the target fill level are defined, wherein the control unit (600) carries out at least the following steps: i) sending a request to the supply unit (200) to begin providing fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion with a ratio of concentrate to water defined for calibration, and sending a request to the distribution unit (400) to begin the conditioning of the cooling-lubricating emulsion supplied by the supply unit (200); provided cooling-lubricating emulsion to the measuring unit (300), wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the measuring unit is optionally at least partially guided into the tank (60); ii) sending a request to the measuring unit (300) to carry out a measurement of at least one parameter with the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (600) in order to calibrate the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313); iii) sending a request to the supply unit (200) to stop the supply of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion and sending a request to the distribution unit (400) to stop the introduction of the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit (200) into the measuring unit (300);iv) Sending a request to the distribution unit (400) to begin withdrawing cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank (60) and introducing it into the measuring unit (300), wherein the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the measuring unit (300) is at least partially returned to the tank (60); v) Sending a request to the measuring unit (300) to measure at least one parameter using the at least one sensor (311, 312, 313) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (600) in order to determine the actual concentration of the cooling-lubricating emulsion; vi) Sending a request to the distribution unit (400) to stop withdrawing the cooling-lubricating emulsion from the tank (60) and introducing it into the measuring unit (300); vii) sending a request to the level sensor (500) to measure the level in the tank (60) and to transmit the measurement data to the control unit (600) in order to determine the actual level in the tank (60);viii) Check whether the determined actual fill level and the determined actual concentration are within the specified tolerance ranges; if yes: repeat steps v) to viii); if no: continue with step ix); ix) Calculate the required replenishment quantity from the difference between the specified target fill level and the determined actual fill level, and calculate the replenishment concentration required to; calculated follow-up quantity based on the actual concentration to reach the target concentration; x) sending a request to the supply unit (200) to start providing fresh cooling lubricant emulsion with the calculated follow-up concentration, and sending a Requesting the distribution unit (400) to start introducing the cooling lubricant emulsion provided by the supply unit (200) into the tank (60) in order to condition the cooling lubricant emulsion in the tank (60); xi) When the target fill level is reached or the calculated follow-up quantity has been provided, sending a request to the supply unit (200) to stop the provision of fresh cooling-lubricating emulsion, and sending a request to the distribution unit (400) to stop the introduction of the cooling-lubricating emulsion provided by the supply unit (200) into the tank (60).

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