Set consisting of at least one centrifugal pump unit and an hmi module

Abstract

The invention relates to a set (30, 40) comprising at least a first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) and an HMI, wherein the centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) is formed from an electric motor (3), a centrifugal pump (2) drivable by the latter, and pump electronics (4) for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor (3) according to normal operation, and the HMI has a display (22) and at least one operating element (23a, 23b) for making an operating setting for normal operation, wherein the pump electronics (4) is arranged in a first housing (5), has an electrical interface (12), and has no capability of its own, or only a limited capability, for changing the operating setting.According to the invention, the HMI is a module (20) which has its own second housing (21) which is closed on all sides and an electrical interface (26) in order to be temporarily placed directly onto the first housing (5) for the purpose of setting the operation in such a way that, in the placed state, the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) are electrically connected to one another, wherein the HMI module (20) is removable from the first housing (5) and the centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) is set up to run in normal operation for an indefinite period of time without the HMI module (20).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a set comprising at least a first centrifugal pump unit and an HMI, wherein the centrifugal pump unit is formed from an electric motor, a centrifugal pump drivable by the latter and pump electronics for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor according to normal operation, and the HMI has a display and at least one operating element for making an operating setting for normal operation, wherein the pump electronics is arranged in a first housing, has an electrical interface and has no or only a limited ability to change the operating setting.

[0002] Centrifugal pump units have various setting options. A simple setting option for a centrifugal pump unit is disclosed, for example, in European patent EP 1 199 530 B1. Modern centrifugal pump units have a variety of different control and regulation methods implemented in the operating software as well as special activatable functions in order to optimally adapt the centrifugal pump unit to the intended application in which the centrifugal pump unit is to be operated as intended. It goes without saying that for this adaptation, a corresponding operating setting of the centrifugal pump unit, also called configuration, is necessary. In order to make all possible operating settings, for example the selection of a specific control or regulation method, the activation or deactivation of an additional or special function or the specification of values ​​for operating parameters, such asof setpoints for the delivery head, the speed, the volume flow or the temperature or PID values ​​for the PID controller, can be set conveniently, user-friendly, clearly and reliably, centrifugal pump units often have an HMI (Human Machine Interface) with a display for showing the current operating setting and, if applicable, operating or measured values ​​and at least one control element, for example in the form of a rotary and / or push-button, for selecting and changing a specific operating setting. For this purpose, the various operating settings are visualized on the display in a graphical user interface (GUI) using a menu. An example of corresponding adjustability of a centrifugal pump unit is disclosed, for example, in European patent EP 3376315 B1. The software required for this is part of the operating software of the centrifugal pump unit.The HMI is typically an integral part of the pump electronics, meaning it is integrated into the pump electronics housing for external access. It is often part of a housing cover that encloses the electrical and electronic components of the pump electronics inside the housing.

[0003] An HMI is a user interface that allows a user to interact with a machine—in this case, a centrifugal pump unit—to operate it, make appropriate settings, or retrieve operating information. An HMI comprises at least one display element and at least one control element. Both of these components have evolved over the past decades, reflecting the needs of centrifugal pumps and technological advances. In the simplest case, a display element can be a discrete illuminated dot, for example, realized with a light-emitting diode (LED), a 7-segment display, or even a graphic color display.Furthermore, in the simplest case, the control element can be a push button, toggle or rotary switch, or alternatively a potentiometer or pulse generator. Combinations of several of these individual control elements into a larger, functionally integrated control element are also possible, such as a navigation button. Today, simple and complex HMIs coexist in centrifugal pump units.

[0004] Although the HMI simplifies the operation of the centrifugal pump unit and at least partially enables it, its existence is not without its disadvantages. The development and production of an HMI increases the cost, complicates, and lengthens the manufacturing process for the centrifugal pump unit. In the case of an HMI with a TFT-LCD display, the centrifugal pump unit is also subject to certain temperature restrictions, which limits its application area. At temperatures above 60°C, the display's polarizer no longer functions. Furthermore, openings in the pump electronics housing are required for the display and control elements. This increases the risk of foreign substances, particularly moisture and dust particles, penetrating the interior of the pump electronics and causing damage. To prevent this, the openings must be sealed, which further complicates the manufacture of the centrifugal pump unit.A further disadvantage of the HMI is the risk of tampering, as the operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit can be changed at any time by anyone, i.e., even by someone who is not authorized or qualified to do so. Considering these disadvantages, it makes sense to omit the HMI in a centrifugal pump unit rather than include it. The absence of an HMI also enables better EMC shielding of the pump electronics. However, omitting it is not an option, as the centrifugal pump unit can then no longer be configured or its operating settings adjusted directly, i.e., on the pump electronics.

[0005] One way to circumvent this disadvantage is to use radio-based remote configuration, for example using a software application (app) on a smartphone that is communicatively connected to the centrifugal pump unit via radio communication such as Bluetooth or NFC. In this case, when the software application is open, the smartphone essentially acts as the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit and enables its operating settings as well as the reading of operating information, operating values, and measured values ​​from the centrifugal pump unit. However, radio-based centrifugal pump configuration using a smartphone also has disadvantages because, firstly, it is not data-technically secure; secondly, in some countries, radio approval of the centrifugal pump unit is required for each radio standard used; and thirdly, some countries prohibit radio-based remote configuration.

[0006] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to offer an alternative solution for carrying out the operational adjustment of a centrifugal pump unit.

[0007] This object is achieved by the set in claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the subclaims and are explained below.

[0008] According to the invention, the generic prior art is further developed in such a way that the HMI is a module, i.e., an HMI module, which has its own, completely enclosed second housing and an electrical interface, in order to be temporarily mounted directly onto the first housing for the purpose of operational adjustment. In this way, the HMI module and the pump electronics are electrically connected to one another when mounted. The HMI module is removable from the first housing, and the centrifugal pump unit is configured to run in normal operation for an indefinite period without the HMI module. Normal operation is the operation of the centrifugal pump unit that is set after the operational adjustment has been made.

[0009] The core idea of ​​the invention thus provides for the structural separation of the HMI from the pump electronics by having them in independent housings that are only joined together when necessary. The HMI is a module, a standalone component, closed except for the interface, which functionally complements the centrifugal pump unit when required, namely through the display and the control element and the associated option for making operating settings. In addition, the display also allows the retrieval and display of operating settings, operating values, and measured values. This eliminates the need for radio communication with the centrifugal pump unit, thus eliminating the associated disadvantages.

[0010] Thanks to the separate housings of the pump electronics and HMI module, the pump electronics are not opened by removing the HMI module from the first housing, so that no live components that are dangerous to humans are accessible.

[0011] Furthermore, in connection with the use of the HMI module according to the invention, the invention provides a centrifugal pump unit which has no inherent or even only a limited ability to change the operating setting. This means that, starting from a factory default setting, the centrifugal pump unit has at least one setting parameter in the operating software or at least one activatable function in the operating software which cannot be set or activated on the pump electronics itself, i.e. without the HMI module. In other words, the HMI module provides or supplements the ability to change the operating setting which is missing or limited on the pump electronics. The centrifugal pump unit can thus be configured via the attachable HMI module with an operating setting which is not possible using the setting options on the centrifugal pump unit itself.

[0012] The ability to change the operating settings is lacking, at least if the centrifugal pump unit does not have its own HMI. Furthermore, the ability to change the operating settings is at least limited if the centrifugal pump unit does have an HMI, but its technical design is so simple that only a few settings can be made with it. Such an HMI, referred to below as a "rudimentary" HMI, does not have a display. For example, it may consist of only one or a few discrete illuminated dots and a rotary knob or push button.

[0013] The invention therefore preferably relates to centrifugal pump units without an HMI or, at most, to centrifugal pump units with a rudimentary (not fully functional) HMI, i.e., without a display. Thus, at least the first centrifugal pump unit, and preferably both centrifugal pump units, may not have its own HMI or, at most, a rudimentary HMI without a display. In one embodiment, the operating settings that can be made on the pump electronics with a rudimentary HMI may, if necessary, only be the selection of one of two or three operating modes and / or the setting of the speed or discharge head of the centrifugal pump unit.

[0014] Thanks to the invention, the centrifugal pump unit no longer requires its own HMI. The centrifugal pump unit can be operated without the HMI module or can be operated without it in normal operation. This simplifies the design of the pump electronics, reduces its manufacturing costs, increases operational reliability by eliminating components, and expands the application range of the centrifugal pump unit to include applications where temperatures exceed 60°C are present at the pump electronics.

[0015] From an environmental perspective, the invention contributes to sustainability by eliminating or at least simplifying the centrifugal pump unit's HMI, as fewer electronic components need to be disposed of. The invention conserves resources and reduces CO2 emissions during the production of the centrifugal pump unit.

[0016] Finally, the centrifugal pump unit is protected against intentional misadjustment (tampering) and accidental misadjustment by an inexperienced user, because only the HMI module according to the invention provides access to all possible settings of the centrifugal pump unit. Since the HMI module is not a mandatory component of the centrifugal pump unit, meaning it can also operate without the HMI module, the HMI module can be stored separately, especially by an experienced specialist authorized to configure and change the operating settings.

[0017] The particular strength of the invention becomes apparent when one considers that the HMI module according to the invention can be used not only for the operational setting (configuration) of a single centrifugal pump unit, but is preferably intended for any, in particular large, number of centrifugal pump units, and none of these centrifugal pump units requires its own HMI, or at least not an HMI with a display. Thus, a multitude of displays, or at best a multitude of HMIs, can be eliminated for the centrifugal pumps, which once again emphasizes the sustainability of the technical solution according to the invention. This is also particularly advantageous because the HMI is often only used during initial commissioning to adjust the centrifugal pump unit to the specific installation situation.After the initial configuration, no further adjustments to the centrifugal pump unit are generally required, as the requirements of the hydraulic system do not change regularly.

[0018] It is therefore proposed that the set comprise at least one second centrifugal pump unit in addition to the first centrifugal pump unit. Like the first centrifugal pump unit, this second centrifugal pump unit can be formed from an electric motor, a centrifugal pump driven by the latter, and pump electronics for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor in accordance with normal operation. The pump electronics are arranged in a first housing, have an electrical interface, and have no or only a limited ability to change the operating settings of the second centrifugal pump unit. Alternatively, the HMI module can also be attached to the first housing of the second centrifugal pump unit to adjust its operating settings, so that when attached, the HMI module and the pump electronics of the second centrifugal pump unit are electrically connected to one another.The HMI module is also removable from the first housing of the second centrifugal pump unit, and the second centrifugal pump unit is configured to run indefinitely in normal operation without the HMI module. Thus, the HMI module can be connected either to the first centrifugal pump unit or to at least one second centrifugal pump unit.

[0019] A further strength of the invention is that the HMI module can be used across pump series, ideally even universally on all centrifugal pump units with a corresponding interface. It is therefore neutral with respect to the pump series to which the centrifugal pump unit belongs. Thus, the first centrifugal pump unit can belong to a first pump series and the second centrifugal pump unit to a second pump series, whereby the first and second pump series differ structurally from each other.

[0020] For example, the first and second centrifugal pump units may differ in at least one of the following properties: in the design of the first housing, in the structural size of the first housing, in the electrical rated power of the electric motor, in the functional scope of the pump electronics, and / or in the structural design of the pump electronics, because the HMI module is independent of these properties thanks to the separate housing.

[0021] In one embodiment, the electrical interface of the pump electronics can be a socket, and the electrical interface of the HMI module can be a plug protruding from the second housing. The socket and plug are connected to each other when the HMI module and the pump electronics are connected. Therefore, attaching the HMI module simultaneously represents plugging in.

[0022] Unless a distinction is made below between the first and second centrifugal pump units, the first centrifugal pump unit is meant, since the two centrifugal pump units are interchangeable.

[0023] Preferably, the electrical interface formed by the HMI module's plug and the second centrifugal pump's socket is proprietary. It is therefore not a standardized interface used by different manufacturers. Thus, the centrifugal pump can only be configured using the HMI module or another device specified by the centrifugal pump manufacturer. This increases security against tampering.

[0024] The pump electronics socket is preferably accessible through an opening in the first housing. The HMI module's connector is intended to pass through this opening to make contact with the socket. However, when the socket is not in use, the opening can be closed with a plug. Ideally, this plug should be elastic to also act as a seal.

[0025] Furthermore, a removable cover can be provided for the connector, which is placed over the connector when the HMI module is not in use and completely encloses it.

[0026] The housing of the HMI module can have a smaller installation space than the pump electronics, which simplifies the handling of the HMI module.

[0027] Furthermore, the housing of the HMI module can have dimensions less than 8 cm, in particular less than 5 cm. In other words, no dimension (length, height, width) is larger than 8 cm, in particular 5 cm. This even allows the HMI module to be carried in a trouser pocket.

[0028] It is advantageous if the HMI module can be removed and / or plugged into the first housing, i.e., the housing of the centrifugal pump unit, while the centrifugal pump unit is running. This eliminates the need to shut down the centrifugal pump unit to remove and plug in the HMI module.

[0029] The HMI module's housing houses electronics that control the display and detect and evaluate the operation of the control element. In one design variant, this may be the sole functionality of the HMI module. It does not participate in the control or regulation of the electric motor or the centrifugal pump. Instead, these tasks are performed by the pump electronics, which, for this purpose, suitably includes a frequency converter to variably adjust the speed of the electric motor either according to a specified setpoint or according to a control method defined and selectable in the operating software. The operating software of the centrifugal pump unit is also only part of the pump electronics.

[0030] The electronics of the HMI module can thus be designed to be comparatively simple and small in size, which favors a small structural volume of the HMI module, or more precisely, its housing.

[0031] Conveniently, the data and program code required for visualizing the operating settings on the display are not stored on the HMI module, but are part of the pump electronics' operating software. This enables universal applicability of the HMI module. The HMI module can be used with different centrifugal pump units, i.e., with two or more centrifugal pump units that differ in the visible or adjustable operating parameters, the activatable functions, the operating values, or the measured values.

[0032] In one design variant, a bus-based communication connection can be used between the pump electronics and the HMI module, whereby the HMI module acts as a bus participant that is connected to a communication bus used within the pump electronics by being placed or plugged in. This type of communication system architecture between the pump electronics and the HMI module makes it possible to remove the HMI module while the centrifugal pump unit is in operation. The communication bus can be a conventional, particularly standardized bus, such as the CAN (Controller Area Network) bus. In one design variant, the communication bus can exist only between a processor of the pump electronics and the HMI module, or according to another design variant, it can also network other components of the pump electronics with each other via communication technology.

[0033] To increase data security, the communication between the pump electronics and the HMI module can be encrypted.

[0034] According to a further development, the HMI module can have a non-volatile memory for storing a data set defining a complete or partial operating setting, in particular the current operating setting, of the first centrifugal pump unit. Furthermore, the HMI module can be configured to make the memory accessible to the pump electronics so that the pump electronics can transfer the data set to this memory, or conversely, read it from the memory and set it. Consequently, the corresponding pump electronics can access the memory. This enables, on the one hand, a rapid configuration of several centrifugal pump units with identical operating settings. On the other hand, it also makes it possible to transfer an operating setting from a first centrifugal pump unit to a second centrifugal pump unit, for example if the first centrifugal pump unit needs to be replaced.This allows a specific operating setting to be configured on a first centrifugal pump unit, saved in the HMI module (as a data set), and then, after the HMI module is attached to a second centrifugal pump unit, "loaded" directly from the HMI module's memory to the second centrifugal pump unit. This can be implemented as a push-button configuration.

[0035] According to an alternative or additional development, the HMI module can have a non-volatile memory in which at least one release identifier is stored. This non-volatile memory can be the same memory in which the aforementioned data set is stored, or it can be a second memory. The release identifier is loaded onto the HMI module before it is used, e.g., at the factory or by a technical customer service department.

[0036] Furthermore, an identifier for the centrifugal pump unit can be stored in the pump electronics of the first centrifugal pump unit. The HMI module and the pump electronics are then configured to compare the identifier with the at least one release identifier after the HMI module has been connected to the pump electronics and to only permit a change to and / or access to the operating settings if the identifier of the centrifugal pump unit corresponds to the release identifier or can at least be derived from it. This provides additional protection for the centrifugal pump unit, since its operating settings can only be changed or viewed using the HMI module if the HMI module is authorized or enabled to do so. This authorization / enabling of the HMI module is effected by storing the release identifier in the memory.

[0037] The release identifier can, for example, be a serial number of the centrifugal pump unit. Alternatively, the release identifier can identify a group of centrifugal pump unit identifiers. In this case, it is more general than a serial number and covers, for example, an entire pool of serial numbers. Thus, the HMI module is not only authorized for a single centrifugal pump unit, but for a defined group, for example, a specific pump series. The HMI module will not work with a different pump series.

[0038] In one embodiment, the pump electronics and the HMI module can be configured to transmit an identifier of the first centrifugal pump unit from the pump electronics to the HMI module when connected to each other and store it there as an enable identifier. This pairs the HMI module with the centrifugal pump unit. This ensures that only this single HMI module is authorized to configure the centrifugal pump unit.

[0039] As already mentioned, it is advantageous if the HMI module does not participate in the control or regulation of the electric motor or the centrifugal pump, but only controls the display and records and evaluates an actuation of the control element, and furthermore the data required for the visualization of the operating setting on the display and the program code required for this are not stored on the HMI module, but are part of the operating software of the pump electronics, since then the electronics of the HMI module and its programming can be simple and, in addition, a universal, i.e. not pump-specific, use of the HMI module is possible.

[0040] In addition, the operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit can be specified not in the electronics of the HMI module, but by the HMI module changing at least one operating parameter directly in the operating software of the centrifugal pump unit, which is part of the pump electronics. This has the advantage that the entire operating settings do not have to be transferred to the HMI module and then transferred back again after the change. Thus, no storage space is required in the HMI module to make the operating settings, and the data traffic required between the pump electronics and the HMI module is kept to a minimum.

[0041] The feature that the HMI module changes at least one operating parameter directly in the operating software of the centrifugal pump unit can also apply to the design variant in which a data set defining an operating setting is stored in the HMI module, because this storage serves a different purpose, namely copying the operating setting of a first centrifugal pump unit to a second centrifugal pump unit or identically configuring the first and second centrifugal pump units. Nevertheless, in one design variant, it may well be provided that the operating setting of the centrifugal pump unit is first transferred in its entirety from the pump electronics to the HMI module, changed there, and then transferred back to the pump electronics.

[0042] From the above explanations, it is clear that, in addition to the set, the invention also relates to the use of an HMI with a display and at least one control element for setting the operating mode of a centrifugal pump unit, which is formed from an electric motor, a centrifugal pump driven by the latter, and pump electronics for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor, which is arranged in a first housing, has an electrical interface in the form of a socket, and has no or only a limited ability to change the operating mode, wherein the HMI is a module and has its own, all-round enclosed second housing and an electrical interface in the form of a plug protruding therefrom, in order to be temporarily removably mounted on the first housing for the purpose of setting the operating mode in such a way that, in the mounted state, the plug and the socket are electrically connected.to adjust the operation.,

[0043] The HMI module and the centrifugal pump unit according to this use may have the characteristics already explained above and to which reference is made to avoid repetition.

[0044] As already mentioned, the added value of the HMI module lies in the fact that it is not only used to configure or set the operating parameters of the centrifugal pump unit, but can also be used to read operating values ​​from the current operating settings and / or measured values ​​from the pump electronics and display them on the screen. Neither the HMI module nor the pump electronics need to be specifically configured for this. Rather, the same data and process steps apply as for setting the operating settings, with the only difference being the time at which the HMI module is connected to the pump electronics—namely, the time at which a user wants to know the value of an operating parameter of the current operating settings and / or a measured value.

[0045] The first and / or second centrifugal pump unit is preferably a compact unit, i.e. a structural combination of centrifugal pump, electric motor and pump electronics.

[0046] For example, the first and / or second centrifugal pump unit is a wet rotor pump.

[0047] It should be noted that a centrifugal pump unit not only has limited setting options. The setting options themselves are also limited by the physical limitations of the centrifugal pump unit. For example, centrifugal pump units have different maximum discharge heads or speeds. In an advantageous embodiment, the HMI module can retrieve a data set containing limit values ​​for the adjustable operating values ​​of the connected centrifugal pump unit from a memory in its pump electronics and take these limit values ​​into account when setting the operating parameters on the HMI module. This increases the security that no incorrect settings can be made.

[0048] Further features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention are explained below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying figures. In the figures, reference symbols always designate the same or equivalent components, areas, directions, or locations.

[0049] It should be noted that, in the context of this description, the terms "have," "comprise," or "include" in no way exclude the presence of other features. Furthermore, the use of the indefinite article for an object does not preclude its plural.

[0050] They show: Fig. 1: a centrifugal pump unit with a full-fledged HMI with display according to the state of the art; Fig. 2: a centrifugal pump unit with a display-less HMI according to the state of the art; Fig. 3: a perspective front view of an HMI module with display; Fig. 4: a perspective rear view of the HMI module according to Figure 3; Fig. 5: an exploded view of the HMI module according to Figure 3 ; Fig. 6a: a set of an HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and a first centrifugal pump unit in non-assembled state Fig. 6b: a set from the HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and the first centrifugal pump unit in assembled condition Fig. 7a: a set of an HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and a second centrifugal pump unit in non-assembled condition Fig. 7b: a set from the HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and the second centrifugal pump unit in assembled condition Fig. 8a: a set of an HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and a third centrifugal pump unit in non-assembled condition Fig. 8b: a set from the HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and the third centrifugal pump unit in assembled condition Fig. 9a: a set of an HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 and two centrifugal pump units in non-assembled condition Fig. 9b: a set from the HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5and the two centrifugal pump units in the mounted state of the HMI module at one of the centrifugal pump units Fig. 10: Illustration of the universal usability of the HMI module according to the Figures 3 to 5 for various centrifugal pump units

[0051] In Figure 1 A centrifugal pump unit 1a according to the prior art is shown. It consists of an electric motor 3, a centrifugal pump 2 driven by the latter, and pump electronics 4 for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor during normal operation. The electric motor 3, the centrifugal pump 2, and the pump electronics 4 form a structural unit. Thus, the electric motor 3 is attached to a corresponding mounting flange of the pump housing by means of a mounting flange of the motor housing, and the pump electronics 4 are mounted on the electric motor 3, more precisely on its axial end face. However, the pump electronics 4 could also be arranged laterally on the electric motor 3.

[0052] The centrifugal pump unit 1a is a wet-running pump. It is intended for use in heating or cooling systems, for example, or in drinking water circulation.

[0053] The pump electronics 4 comprises a housing 5 and control and regulation electronics arranged in the housing 5. The housing 5 is closed on all sides to the outside, although it can be open towards the electric motor 3, since the electric motor 3 then closes the housing 5. The housing 5 is formed here from a lower housing part 5a and an upper housing part 5b. While the lower housing part 5a is mounted on the electric motor 3, the upper housing part 5b forms a cover for the lower housing part 5b and covers the control and regulation electronics. The control and regulation electronics comprise a frequency converter for setting any desired speed on the electric motor 3 and operating software that carries out the control and / or regulation and performs other functions such as process monitoring, communication with external devices or measured value acquisition or evaluation.The centrifugal pump unit 1a is supplied with a supply voltage via a mains connection plug 11 plugged into the side of the housing 5, more precisely into the lower part of the housing 5a.

[0054] The pump electronics 4 also includes a fully functional HMI 6a (Human Machine Interface), which is located in the upper housing section 5b. The HMI 6a represents the operating interface of the centrifugal pump unit 1a for a user and, in particular, enables the centrifugal pump unit 1a to be configured, i.e., operating settings can be made. For this purpose, the HMI 6a comprises a display 7, a rotary and push-button control knob 8 based on a pulse generator, an operating button 9, and display elements 10 in the form of LEDs. The HMI 6a enables all operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1a to be made on the display 7. For this purpose, a graphical user interface (GUI) is programmed into the operating software, which visualizes the various operating settings, for example, in a menu-based structure, and thus enables read and / or write access to the operating settings.In addition, operating values ​​and, if applicable, measured values ​​from the operating software can be queried and viewed on display 7. Such an HMI 6a can be considered a full-featured HMI. It goes without saying that such an HMI 6a is technically complex and expensive.

[0055] Figure 2 shows another centrifugal pump unit 1b, which is separated from the first centrifugal pump unit 1a in Figure 1differs essentially in the HMI used. The HMI 6b of the further centrifugal pump unit 1b does not have a display, but does have a double 7-segment LED display 13 to show numerical values ​​between 99 and 0.1 for the volume flow, the delivery head or the electrical power consumption. Furthermore, the HMI 6b comprises an operating knob 8 based on a potentiometer that can be rotated within a limited angular range of 270°, an operating button 9 and display elements 10 in the form of light-emitting diodes. The HMI 6b only allows a limited operating setting for normal operation, namely a purely qualitative setpoint specification (low / medium / high) in one of three operating modes (constant speed, constant pressure control, proportional pressure control), each of which is assigned to an approximately 90° angular range of the operating knob 8. Thus, the operating mode and the power orSpeed ​​or delivery head is set, which is immediately shown on the LED display 13. Two functions can be activated using the operating button 9: a deblocking function and a venting function. These two functions are differentiated by the number of times the operating button 9 is pressed (1x, 2x). The display elements 10 indicate whether one of the two functions is active. Such an HMI 6b can be described as a more rudimentary HMI. It goes without saying that such an HMI 6a is technically simpler and less expensive. However, it does not allow the centrifugal pump unit 1b to be adapted to the multitude of possible applications because all possible operating settings are not accessible or changeable. This limits the range of applications of the centrifugal pump unit 1b.

[0056] Figures 3 to 5show an HMI according to the invention in the form of a module 20, which is intended to expand a simple HMI 6b of a centrifugal pump unit 1b or to form the HMI for a centrifugal pump unit 1d without a separate HMI, in order to enable access to all possible operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit and thus to be able to configure it. The HMI module 20 only needs to be temporarily connected to the centrifugal pump unit for this purpose. However, the basic idea of ​​the invention is not to compensate for a technical deficit in an existing centrifugal pump unit with the HMI module 20. Rather, the use of a standalone HMI in modular form that is independent of the pump electronics 4 is intended to omit or even completely forgo fully-fledged HMIs in centrifugal pump units, in order to save components that would later have to be disposed of at the end of the centrifugal pump unit's service life.This idea contributes to sustainability and also saves CO2.

[0057] The Figures 3 to 5 show the HMI module 20 in different views, a front view of the front in Figure 3 , a rear view of the back in Figure 4 and an exploded view in Figure 5The HMI module 20 has its own, fully enclosed housing 21, from which an electrical interface 26 in the form of a connector protrudes for connecting the HMI module 20 to a centrifugal pump unit. The housing 21 is formed from an upper part 21a and a lower part 21b. It houses an HMI electronics unit 24, which also includes a display 22 and two control elements 23a, 23b in the form of buttons. The electronics unit controls the display 22 and detects actuations of the control elements 23a, 23b. The housing 21 has dimensions that are less than 8 cm, in particular less than 5 cm, so that no dimension (length, height, width) is greater than 8 cm, in particular 5 cm.

[0058] While the electrical interface is located on the rear side, which is intended to face the centrifugal pump unit, more precisely, protrudes from the lower part 21b, the display 22 is located on the front side facing away from the centrifugal pump unit, more precisely on the upper part 21a, which has a window cutout 22a for this purpose, allowing a view of the display 22. The two control elements 23a, 23b are arranged on the opposite side walls to the right and left of the display 22 and the interface 26 and thus form a right button 23a and a left button 23b. The side walls here form part of the upper part 21a; alternatively, they could also be part of the lower part 21b.More specifically, the operating elements 23a, 23b each comprise an electrical button arranged on the electronics 24 and an actuating surface mechanically connected to the corresponding button, which forms a portion of the wall surface of the corresponding side wall.

[0059] The housing 21 of the HMI module 20 includes two through-holes 28 for screws to attach the HMI module 20 to the centrifugal pump unit if necessary. For this purpose, the through-holes 28 are open in both the upper part 21a and the lower part 21b. The inlets of the through-holes 28 formed in the upper part 21a have a larger diameter than the outlets of the through-holes 28 formed in the lower part 21a in order to accommodate the head of the screws, which is thereby countersunk in the upper part, i.e., does not protrude from the housing 21. The through-holes 28 are arranged symmetrically on both sides of the electrical interface 26 and approximately in line with it, and are located below the display 22.

[0060] The electrical interface 26 protrudes like a tongue, for example between 3 mm and 10 mm, from a base 25. It is formed by a narrow printed circuit board, with the electrical contacts of the interface 26 being conductor tracks on both sides of the exposed end of the printed circuit board, so that the interface 26 has a total of 2 x 5 = 10 contacts. However, there can also be more or fewer contacts. The base 25 has a trapezoidal cross-section so that the HMI module 20 is plugged onto the centrifugal pump unit in the correct orientation, i.e., incorrectly oriented plugging is prevented. The base 25 is formed integrally with the housing 21, more precisely with the lower part 21b. A sleeve-like seal 27 is arranged, in particular molded, at the transition area between the base 25 and the underside of the housing 21. It has two annular, parallel sealing lips, which are intended to form a seal against the housing 5 of the pump electronics 4.A cover 31 is provided to protect the electrical interface 26 when the HMI module 20 is not in use. For this purpose, the cover 31 is simply placed over the electrical interface. It can be held to the housing 21 of the HMI module 20 via a force fit, a form fit, or even magnetically.

[0061] Four block-like mounting feet 29 protrude from the underside of the housing 21 of the HMI module 20. They are formed integrally with the housing 21, more precisely with the lower part 21a, and extend parallel to the electrical interface 26. The mounting feet 29 are positioned next to each other in pairs on opposite sides, with two mounting feet 29 approximately aligned with the electrical interface 26. These two mounting feet 29 are higher than the other two. The mounting feet 29 guide the HMI module 20 when contacting the electrical interface 26 on the centrifugal pump unit. In addition, the mounting feet 29 can interact with a locking mechanism on the centrifugal pump unit to lock the HMI module 20 in position. For this purpose, the mounting feet 29 have outwardly open transverse recesses into which one or more locking elements can be inserted.

[0062] As already explained, the HMI module 20 is intended to be used with a centrifugal pump unit such as the centrifugal pump unit 1b in Figure 2 to be connected in order to configure it, view and / or change operating settings, or even simply display operating and / or measurement data. The connection thus exists only temporarily, namely for the execution of the corresponding measure. The rest of the time, the HMI module 20 is not connected to the centrifugal pump unit 1b or, if necessary, is connected to another centrifugal pump unit 1c ... 1g, for example, to configure it.

[0063] Figure 6a therefore illustrates a first set 30 according to the invention comprising a centrifugal pump unit 1b and an HMI module 20. The HMI module 20 corresponds to the one previously described with respect to Figures 3 to 5explained HMI module 20. It is clear that the housing 21 of the HMI module 20 has a smaller installation space than the pump electronics 4. The centrifugal pump unit 1b essentially corresponds to the one in Figure 2 , however, it differs from this in that it has been modified in terms of hardware and software for use according to the invention with the HMI module 20. A characteristic of the centrifugal pump unit 1b is that, due to the lack of its own display for visualizing all operating settings, it only has a limited ability to change the operating settings, since the control knob 8 only sets one of three operating modes and simultaneously a setpoint, and the control button 9 only activates a special function that is active for a short time.

[0064] From a hardware perspective, the centrifugal pump unit 1b is expanded by a receiving area 18, which serves to mount the HMI module 20. The receiving area 18 has an opening 14 in the housing 5, more precisely in the upper housing section 5a, for the electrical interface 26, two threaded holes 16 for screw fastening of the HMI module, and four recessed openings 15 for receiving the mounting feet 29. The opening 14 is in the form of an elongated hole and corresponds in shape and size to the base of the base 25, or rather, the seal 27, which, during installation of the HMI module 20, comes into sealing contact with the housing 5 inside the opening 14. The threaded holes 16 are located on both sides of the opening 14, so that they are aligned with the screw feedthrough openings 28 of the HMI module 20. The four openings 15 correspond in shape, size and arrangement to the fastening feet 29.Furthermore, the centrifugal pump unit 1b comprises two elongated locking elements (not shown) which can be inserted into the transverse recesses of the fastening feet 29 transversely to the extension of the fastening feet 29, ie parallel to the underside of the housing 5.

[0065] It should be emphasized that the HMI module 20 is removable from the housing 5 of the centrifugal pump unit 1b. With regard to the short-term use of the HMI module 20 on the centrifugal pump unit 1b, in one design variant no exception openings 15 may be present on the centrifugal pump unit if the HMI module 20 also has no mounting feet 29, or only the screw feedthrough openings 28 are provided for screw fastening. Accordingly, in another design variant no threaded holes 15 may be present on the centrifugal pump unit if the HMI module 20 has no screw feedthrough openings 28, or only the mounting feet 29 are provided. In a further design variant, the centrifugal pump unit may only have the opening 14 in the mounting area 18, i.e., have neither threaded holes 16 nor exception openings 15. In this design variant, the HMI module 20 then has no mounting feet 29.

[0066] Furthermore, from a hardware perspective, the pump electronics 4 of the centrifugal pump unit 1b is expanded by an electrical interface 12 in the form of a socket, which is accessible through the opening 14. Thus, the housing 5 of the pump electronics 4 does not need to be opened to connect the HMI module 20 to the centrifugal pump unit. When the HMI module 20 is in place, the plug of the electrical interface 26 of the HMI module 20 and the socket of the electrical interface 12 of the pump electronics 4 are electrically connected. The housing 21 of the HM module 20 then rests against the housing 5 of the pump electronics 4.

[0067] The electrical interface 12 of the pump electronics 4 provides a connection to a communication bus used within the pump electronics 4 for data exchange between various electronic components. Thus, the HMI module 20 is connected to the communication bus via the electrical interface 12 of the pump electronics 4 and can communicate with other electronic components, in particular with a processor (microprocessor, microcontroller). In this system architecture, the HMI module 20 is configured as a bus node that is connected to the communication bus used within the pump electronics 4 by being placed or plugged in. This allows the HMI module 20 to be plugged in or removed during operation of the centrifugal pump unit 1b. In one embodiment, the communication between the pump electronics 4 and the HMI module 20 can be encrypted.

[0068] From a software perspective, the centrifugal pump unit 1b is configured such that its operating software, despite the lack of a display, includes program code and data for visualizing the operating settings in a graphical user interface (GUI). The graphical user interface can be menu-based. This program code is executed when the HMI module 20 is connected to the centrifugal pump unit 1b in order to display the operating settings on the display 22 and, if necessary, change them using the control elements 23a, 23b. The operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1b are therefore not specified in the electronics 24 of the HMI module 20, but rather by the HMI module changing at least one operating parameter directly in the operating software of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, which is part of the pump electronics 4. The centrifugal pump unit 1b is configured to run indefinitely in normal operation without the HMI module 20.

[0069] Figure 6b shows the combination of the HMI module 20 with the centrifugal pump unit 1b from Figure 6a . Simply put, the HMI module 20 is plugged into the receiving area 18 of the pump electronics 4, so that the plug of the electrical interface 26 of the HMI module 20 and the socket of the electrical interface 12 of the pump electronics 4 are electrically connected. Furthermore, in this plugged-in state, the mounting feet 29 are inserted into the receiving openings 15. In this state, the HMI module 20, with the aid of its display 22 and its control elements 23a, 23b, enables access to all operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, as well as operating values ​​and / or measured values, which are visualized on the display 22 using the aforementioned graphical user interface by executing the program code of the operating software.

[0070] Figure 7aillustrates a second set 30 according to the invention comprising a centrifugal pump unit 1c and an HMI module 20, wherein the HMI module 20 again corresponds to the one previously described with reference to Figures 3 to 5 explained HMI module 20, so reference is made to the explanations therein. The centrifugal pump unit 1c differs from the previous centrifugal pump unit 1b in that, although it also has a rudimentary HMI 6c, this is even less functional than the rudimentary HMI 6b of the centrifugal pump unit 1b in the first set 30. Thus, the HMI 6c of the centrifugal pump unit 1c in the second set 30 has no control button and no display element, but merely a control head 8, which enables the setting of one of two controlled operating modes and, at the same time, enables the qualitative specification of the power (or delivery head) in each case, namely between 20% and 100%.

[0071] Furthermore, the centrifugal pump unit 1c is in Figure 7aagain a wet rotor pump comprising the structural combination of a centrifugal pump 2, an electric motor 3 and a pump electronics 4 in an outwardly closed housing 5. The centrifugal pump unit 1c also has a receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20 on the housing 5, which in relation to the Figure 6afor the centrifugal pump unit 1b, which is why reference is made to the explanations therein. Furthermore, the centrifugal pump unit 1c also has an electrical interface 12 in the form of a socket, which is accessible through the opening 14 in the receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20. The electrical interface 12 of the pump electronics 4 likewise provides a connection to a communications bus, which is used within the pump electronics for data exchange between various electronic components, in particular to a processor, so that the HMI module 20 is data-technically connected to this processor when installed. Finally, the centrifugal pump unit 1c also comprises a graphical user interface for visualizing its operating settings, which forms part of the program code of the operating software, although the centrifugal pump unit 1c does not have a display.

[0072] Figure 7bshows the combination of the HMI module 20 with the centrifugal pump unit 1c from Figure 7a Here, too, the HMI module 20 has been plugged into the pump electronics 4 in the mounting area 18, so that the corresponding electrical interfaces 12 and 26 are connected. The HMI module 20, with the aid of its display 22 and its control elements 23a, 23b when mounted, enables access to all operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1c, as well as to its operating values ​​and / or measured values, which are visualized on the display 22 using the aforementioned graphical user interface.

[0073] Figure 8a illustrates a third set 30 according to the invention comprising a centrifugal pump unit 1d and an HMI module 20, wherein the HMI module 20 again corresponds to the one previously described with reference to Figures 3 to 5explained HMI module 20, so reference is made to the explanations therein. The centrifugal pump unit 1d differs from the previous centrifugal pump units 1b, 1c in that it does not have an HMI 6c. Such a centrifugal pump unit 1d cannot therefore be configured on site, i.e. on the centrifugal pump unit 1d itself, and not without aids. Remote control may be possible if the centrifugal pump unit is connected to a network. Such HMI-less centrifugal pump units 1d are often intended for applications in which only a single operating mode is planned, for example speed control operation, whereby the setpoint for the speed is specified via an external interface, e.g. PWM-based.

[0074] The centrifugal pump unit 1d in Figure 8ais also a wet rotor pump, which is formed from the structural combination of a centrifugal pump 2, an electric motor 3, and pump electronics 4 in an outwardly closed housing 5. The centrifugal pump unit 1d again has: a receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20, an electrical interface 12 in the form of a socket, which is accessible through the opening 14 in the receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20, a communication bus in the pump electronics, with which the HMI module 20 can be coupled to the system architecture of the pump electronics 4, in particular to a processor, and a graphical user interface for visualizing the operating settings on the display 22.

[0075] To avoid repetition, the characteristics of these components are explained in the Figures 6a and 7a referred to.

[0076] Figure 8bshows the combination of the HMI module 20 with the centrifugal pump unit 1d from Figure 8a The HMI module 20 has been plugged into the pump electronics 4 in the mounting area 18, connecting the corresponding electrical interfaces 12 and 26. The HMI module 20, with its display 22 and its control elements 23a, 23b when mounted, also enables access to all operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1d, as well as to its operating values ​​and / or measured values, which are visualized on the display 22 using the graphical user interface.

[0077] Figure 9a shows a fourth set 40 according to the invention, which in this case comprises two centrifugal pump units 1e, 1f and an HMI module 20, wherein the HMI module 20 can be mounted optionally on one or the other centrifugal pump unit 1e, 1f. The HMI module 20 again corresponds to the one previously described with respect to Figures 3 to 5explained HMI module 20, so reference is made to the explanations there.

[0078] The first centrifugal pump unit 1e of the fourth set 40 also has only a rudimentary HMI 6e. This HMI 6e comprises only one control button 9 and several display elements 10a, 10b, 10c. Of these display elements 10a, 10b, 10c, a first display element 10a shows the status (green = normal operation, red = error) of the centrifugal pump unit. A first group of three display elements 10b shows the selected operating mode (constant pressure control, proportional pressure control, constant speed), and a second group of three display elements 10c shows the selected characteristic curve (low, medium, high). The operating mode and the associated discrete characteristic curve are selected by repeatedly pressing the control button 9 briefly. It is displayed directly via the display elements 10b and 10c. Pressing the control button 9 for a longer time (3 seconds) activates a venting function and pressing it for an even longer time (5 seconds) triggers a restart of the operating software.The HMI 6e therefore also has only a limited ability to change the operating settings of the first centrifugal pump unit 1e of the fourth set 40.

[0079] The second centrifugal pump unit 1f of the fourth set 40 also has only a rudimentary HMI 6f. It comprises only a rotary control knob 8 and a double 7-segment LED display 13 for displaying values ​​between 0.1 and 9.9. The function of the rotary control knob 8 is the same as for the centrifugal pump unit 1c in Fig. 7a Here, too, the rudimentary HMI 6f only allows limited changes to the operating settings.

[0080] Both centrifugal pump units 1e, 1f of the fourth set 2 are configured to interact with the HMI module 20. They again have: a receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20, an electrical interface 12 in the form of a socket, which is accessible through the opening 14 in the receiving area 18 for the HMI module 20, a communication bus in the pump electronics, with which the HMI module 20 can be coupled to the system architecture of the pump electronics 4, in particular to a processor, and a graphical user interface for visualizing the operating settings on the display 22.

[0081] To avoid repetition, the characteristics of these components are explained in the Figures 6a and 7a Furthermore, both centrifugal pump units 1e, 1f are again wet-running pumps, which are formed from the structural combination of a centrifugal pump 2, an electric motor 3, and pump electronics 4 in an outwardly closed housing 5.

[0082] Figure 9bshows the combination of the HMI module 20 with the first centrifugal pump unit 1e of the fourth set. The HMI module 20 has been plugged into the mounting area 18 onto the pump electronics 4 of the first centrifugal pump unit 1e, so that the corresponding electrical interfaces 12 and 26 are connected. The HMI module 20, with the aid of its display 22 and its control elements 23a, 23b in the mounted state, also enables access to all operating settings of the first centrifugal pump unit 1e of the fourth set 40, as well as to its operating values ​​and / or measured values, which are visualized on the display 22 using the graphical user interface. Alternatively, the HMI module 20 can be plugged into the pump electronics 4 of the second centrifugal pump unit 1f of the fourth set, which is indicated by the dashed lines in Figure 9bIn this state, the same HMI module 20 therefore also allows access to all operating settings of the second centrifugal pump unit 1e of the fourth set 40, as well as to its operating values ​​and / or measured values, which are visualized on the display 22 using the graphical user interface.

[0083] Although the sets 30, 40 shown here only show one centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d or two centrifugal pump units 1e, 1f, it is self-evident that a single HMI module 20 according to the invention can be used universally with a plurality of centrifugal pump units 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f and 1g. This illustrates Figure 10. All centrifugal pump units are fundamentally operational without the HMI module 20 or can be operated in normal operation without the HMI module 20. The centrifugal pump units can belong to the same pump series, but they can also belong to different pump series, as is the case with centrifugal pump units 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, which differ in the design and / or size of the pump electronics housing, the rated electrical power of the electric motor, and / or the structure and / or functional scope of the pump electronics 4.

[0084] What all variants have in common is that the HMI is designed as module 20 and is structurally separated from the pump electronics 4 by having independent housings 5, 21 that are only joined together when necessary. The HMI module 5 is a standalone component, closed except for the interface 26, which functionally supplements the respective centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f when required, namely through the display 22 and the control elements 23a, 23b. This allows all operating settings to be made directly on the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f (configuration). In addition, the retrieval and display of operating settings, operating values, and measured values ​​is also possible on the display.

[0085] Viewed from another perspective, however, the present invention is not just about functionally supplementing a centrifugal pump unit in the sense of overcoming a technical deficit. Rather, thanks to the inventive HMI module 20, all centrifugal pump units can now be built without their own HMI. This simplifies their structural design and manufacture, increases their operational reliability, reduces manufacturing costs and CO2 emissions, and ultimately contributes to sustainability. Furthermore, by eliminating the display on the centrifugal pump units, their range of application is expanded to include applications where temperatures of more than 60°C are present at the pump electronics 4.Furthermore, radio communication with the centrifugal pump units is not required, meaning that no radio certification is required and the centrifugal pump units can be used even in countries that prohibit radio configuration. Finally, the centrifugal pump units are protected against intentional misconfiguration (tampering) and accidental misconfiguration by an inexperienced user because only the HMI module 20 according to the invention provides access to all setting options of the respective centrifugal pump unit. Since the HMI module 20 is not a mandatory component of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, and thus also operates without the HMI module 20, the HMI module 20 can be stored separately, in particular by an experienced specialist authorized to configure and change the operating settings.

[0086] In a variant embodiment not shown, the HMI module 20 can have a non-volatile memory for storing a data set defining an operating setting, in particular the current operating setting, of a centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f. Furthermore, the HMI module can be configured to make the memory accessible to the pump electronics 4 of this centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f so that it can transfer the data set to the memory or, conversely, read it from the memory and set it. The pump electronics 4 can thus access the memory. This enables, on the one hand, a rapid configuration of several centrifugal pump units 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f with identical operating settings.On the other hand, it is possible to transfer an operating setting from a first centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f to a second centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, for example if the first centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f has to be replaced.

[0087] In order to restrict the use of an HMI module 20 according to the invention to one or more specific pump units, the HMI module 20 can have a non-volatile memory in which at least one release identifier is stored. This non-volatile memory can be the same memory in which the aforementioned data set is stored, or it can be a second memory. The release identifier is loaded onto the HMI module 20 before it is used, e.g., at the factory or by a technical customer service representative. An identifier for the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f can also be stored in the pump electronics 4 of the corresponding centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f. To access the operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f via the HMI module, the release ID and the ID of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f must correspond.The HMI module 20 and the pump electronics 4 are then configured, after the HMI module 20 has been connected to the pump electronics 4, to compare the identifier with the at least one release identifier and to permit a change to and / or access to the operating settings only if the identifier of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f corresponds to the release identifier or can at least be derived therefrom. This provides additional protection for the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, since its operating settings can only be changed or viewed with the HMI module 20 if the HMI module 20 is authorized or enabled to do so. This authorization / enabling of the HMI module 20 is effected by storing the release identifier in the memory.

[0088] The release identifier can, for example, be a serial number of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f. Alternatively, the release identifier can identify a group of identifiers of centrifugal pump units 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f. In this case, it is more general than a serial number and, for example, covers an entire pool of serial numbers. Thus, the HMI module 20 is not only authorized for a single centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, but for a defined group, for example, a specific pump series. The HMI module 20 will not function with a different pump series.

[0089] In one embodiment, the pump electronics 4 and the HMI module 20 can be configured, when connected to each other, to transmit an identifier of the first centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f from the pump electronics 4 to the HMI module 20 and store it there as an enable identifier. This pairs the HMI module 20 with the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f. This ensures that only this single HMI module 20 is authorized to configure the centrifugal pump unit.

[0090] As already mentioned, the added value of the HMI module 20 lies in the fact that it not only has to be used for the configuration or operating settings of the centrifugal pump unit 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, but can also be used to read out operating values ​​of operating parameters of the current operating setting and / or measured values ​​from the pump electronics 4 and display them on the display 22, since neither the HMI module 20 nor the pump electronics 4 need to be specially configured for this purpose. Rather, the same data and process steps take place as for making the operating settings, since only the time at which the HMI module 20 is connected to the pump electronics 4 is different, namely the time at which a user wants to know the value of an operating parameter of the current operating setting and / or a measured value.

[0091] It should be understood that the foregoing description is provided merely by way of example for illustrative purposes and in no way limits the scope of the invention. Features of the invention stated as "may," "exemplary," "preferred," "optional," "ideal," "advantageous," "optionally," or "suitable" are to be considered purely optional and do not limit the scope of protection, which is defined exclusively by the claims. To the extent that the foregoing description mentions elements, components, process steps, values, or information that have known, obvious, or foreseeable equivalents, these equivalents are encompassed by the invention.Likewise, the invention includes any changes, variations or modifications of embodiments that involve the replacement, addition, change or omission of elements, components, method steps, values ​​or information, as long as the basic idea of ​​the invention is retained, regardless of whether the change, variation or modifications lead to an improvement or deterioration of an embodiment.

[0092] Although the above description of the invention mentions a multitude of physical, non-physical, or method-related features in relation to one or more specific embodiments, these features can also be used in isolation from the specific embodiment, at least as long as they do not require the mandatory presence of further features. Conversely, these features mentioned in relation to one or more specific embodiments can be combined with each other as desired, as well as with other disclosed or undisclosed features of shown or not shown embodiments, at least as long as the features do not exclude each other or lead to technical incompatibilities. List of reference symbols

[0093] 1a to 1g Centrifugal pump unit 2 Pump unit 3 Electric motor 4 Pump electronics 5 First housing 5a Upper housing section 5b Lower housing section 6a to 6f HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 7 Display of the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 8 Control knob of the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 9 Control button of the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 10a, 10b, 10c Display elements of the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 11 Mains connection plug 12 Electrical interface, socket 13 LED segment display of the HMI of the centrifugal pump unit 14 Opening to the socket 15 Receiving openings for mounting feet 16 Threaded hole for screw fastening 18 Receiving area for HMI module 22 HMI module 23 Second housing 21a Upper housing section 21b Lower housing section 24 Display 22a Window cutout 23a Control element, right button 23b Control element, left button 24 Electronics 25 Base 26 Electrical interface,Plug 27 Seal 28 Screw feedthrough holes 29 Mounting foot 30 Set of one centrifugal pump unit and HMI module 31 Protective cover 40 Set of two centrifugal pump units and HMI module,

Claims

1. Set (30, 40) comprising at least one first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) and an HMI, wherein the centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) is formed from an electric motor (3), a centrifugal pump (2) drivable by the latter, and pump electronics (4) for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor (3) according to normal operation, and the HMI has a display (22) and at least one operating element (23a, 23b) for making an operating setting for normal operation, wherein the pump electronics (4) is arranged in a first housing (5), has an electrical interface (12), and has no or only a limited ability to change the operating setting, characterized in thatthe HMI is a module (20) which has its own second housing (21) which is closed on all sides and an electrical interface (26) in order to be temporarily placed directly onto the first housing (5) for the purpose of setting up operation in such a way that, in the placed state, the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) are electrically connected to one another, wherein the HMI module (20) is removable from the first housing (5) and the centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) is set up to run in normal operation for an indefinite period of time without the HMI module (20).

2. Set (40) according to claim 1, characterized byat least one second centrifugal pump unit (1f) formed from an electric motor (3), a centrifugal pump (2) driven by the latter, and pump electronics (2) for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor (3) according to normal operation, which is arranged in a first housing (5), has an electrical interface (12), and has no or only a limited ability to change the operating setting of the second centrifugal pump unit (1f), wherein the HMI module (20) can alternatively be attached to the first housing (5) of the second centrifugal pump unit (1f) for carrying out its operating setting, so that in the attached state, the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) of the second centrifugal pump unit (1f) are electrically connected to one another, wherein the HMI module (20) can be removed again from the first housing (5) of the second centrifugal pump unit (1f), and the second centrifugal pump unit (1f) is set up,to run indefinitely without the HMI module (20) in normal operation., 3. Set (30, 40) according to claim 2, characterized in that the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) belongs to a first pump series and the second centrifugal pump unit (1f) belongs to a second pump series.

4. Set (30, 40) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first and the second centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1f) differ in at least one of the following properties: - in the design of the first housing (5), - in the structural size of the first housing (5), - in the rated electrical power of the electric motor (3), - in the functional scope of the pump electronics (4), and / or - in the structural design of the pump electronics (4).

5. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe electrical interface (12) of the pump electronics (4) is a socket and the electrical interface (26) of the HMI module (20) is a plug protruding from the second housing (21), and that the socket and the plug are plug-connected to one another when the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) are connected.

6. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the HMI module (20) can be removed and / or plugged into the first housing (5) during operation.

7. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating setting that can be made on the pump electronics (4) is merely the selection of one of two or three operating modes and / or the setting of the speed or delivery head of the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e).

8. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe housing (21) of the HMI module (20) has a smaller installation space than the housing (5) of the pump electronics (4).

9. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (21) of the HMI module (20) has dimensions that are less than 8 cm, in particular less than 5 cm.

10. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the HMI module (21) has a non-volatile memory for storing a data set defining a complete or partial operating setting of the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e), and is configured to make the memory accessible to the pump electronics (4) so ​​that the pump electronics (4) can transfer the data set to this memory, or conversely read it out from the memory and set it.

11. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe HMI module (20) has a non-volatile memory in which at least one release identifier is stored, and an identifier of the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) is stored in the pump electronics (4) of the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e), and in that the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) are set up, after the HMI module (20) has been connected to the pump electronics (4), to compare the identifier with the at least one release identifier and to permit a change to and / or access to the operating setting only if the identifier of the centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) corresponds to the release identifier or can at least be derived therefrom.

12. Set (30, 40) according to claim 11, characterized in that the release identifier identifies a group of identifiers of centrifugal pump units (1b ... 1g).

13. Set (30, 40) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in thatthe pump electronics (4) and the HMI module (20) are configured, when connected to one another, to transmit an identifier of the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) from the pump electronics (4) as a release identifier to the HMI module (20).

14. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the operating setting is specified by the HMI module (20) changing at least one operating parameter directly in the operating software of the pump electronics (4).

15. Set (30, 40) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the first centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1e) does not have its own HMI or at most a rudimentary HMI without a display.

16. Use of an HMI with a display (22) and at least one control element (23a, 23b) for setting the operating mode of a centrifugal pump unit (1b ... 1g), which is formed from an electric motor (3), a centrifugal pump (2) driven by the latter and pump electronics (4) for controlling and / or regulating the electric motor (3), which is arranged in a first housing (5), has an electrical interface (12) and has no or only a limited ability to change the operating mode, characterized in that the HMI is a module (20) and has its own second housing (21) which is closed on all sides and an electrical interface (26) in order to be temporarily removably mounted on the first housing (5) for the purpose of adjusting the operation in such a way that, in the mounted state, the HMI module (20) and the pump electronics (4) are electrically connected to one another in order to carry out the adjustment of the operation.

17. Use according to claim 16, characterized in that the HMI module (20) is used to read out operating values ​​of operating parameters of the current operating setting and / or measured values ​​from the pump electronics (4) and display them on the display (22).

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