Method and device for obtaining machine measurement data, and tire curing press including a device for obtaining measurement data

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and a device for obtaining measurement data of the machine, and to a tire curing press comprising a device for obtaining measurement data, which are captured, digitally processed and combined with additional data from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine of the respective manufacturing process in order to obtain information about the state of the machine and to derive suggestions for actions for the maintenance, repair or overhaul of the machine and for process optimization.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for obtaining measurement data from a machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a tire curing press (tire heating press) comprising at least one device for obtaining machine measurement data.

[0003] In an embodiment, the invention includes a digital application for a machine, in particular for a tire curing press.

[0004] Known tire presses already have digital control systems that can be used to control the individual processing steps, which vary depending on the machine. Furthermore, many known tire curing presses also have evaluation units that can detect certain functions or malfunctions of the tire curing press and generate corresponding machine messages.

[0005] These machine messages must be manually read and interpreted by a user, operator or maintenance personnel for known tire curing presses.

[0006] For manufacturing machines, including tire curing presses, it is generally important to achieve the shortest possible process run times to enable high throughput.

[0007] Process run times are specified for a particular machine configuration and are maintained within certain tolerances when new machines or wear-free and defect-free machines are ordered according to that specification.

[0008] However, during operation of the machine, wear and fatigue can occur in assemblies or components that are subject to wear, resulting in defects that adversely affect the achievable process run time.

[0009] Furthermore, for manufacturing machines, including tire curing presses in general, it is important to achieve the lowest possible media consumption and to allow efficient use of the media.

[0010] The media consumption required for a process cycle, e.g. in the form of (electrical) energy, compressed air, oil or hydraulic fluid, nitrogen, steam or hot water, is specified for a particular machine and process specification and is maintained within certain tolerances when a new machine or a wear-free and defect-free machine is ordered according to that specification.

[0011] However, during operation of the machine, wear-sensitive assemblies or components can experience wear and potentially defects that adversely affect the achievable process run time.

[0012] A manufacturing process often includes several successive processing stations that may be realized by different machines or equipment. Data from process steps upstream and / or downstream of a particular processing station often makes it possible to draw conclusions about the status of the processing station. In known devices and methods, this data is not used or is not automatically used to identify the status of the machine. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is therefore an object of the present invention to create a device for obtaining measurement data from a machine and a tire curing press, which solves at least some of the problems mentioned above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] According to the invention, this object is achieved by an apparatus for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to patent claim 1 and by a tire curing press according to patent claim 11.

[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for obtaining measurement data from a machine which overcomes at least some of the problems mentioned above.

[0016] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to patent claim 12.

[0017] Advantageous aspects of the invention are claimed in the dependent claims.

[0018] The following disclosed features of a device for obtaining measurement data from a machine, a tire curing press and a method for obtaining measurement data from a machine are part of the invention in all possible combinations.

[0019] In an embodiment of the invention, a digital solution for condition monitoring of machines, in particular for example tire curing presses for rubber, tire building machines, mixers or food and / or edible oil production machines is realised.

[0020] The device for obtaining measurement data of a machine according to the invention is designed for monitoring at least one machine and comprises at least one grasping device for grasping at least one machine parameter of at least one monitored machine and at least one evaluation unit.

[0021] The at least one evaluation unit is designed to monitor the state of the at least one monitored machine on the basis of the at least one machine parameter that is ascertained.

[0022] According to the invention, additional data (additional data) can be read out by the at least one evaluation unit from at least one process step of the manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine and can be used to monitor the state of the at least one monitored machine.

[0023] Preferably, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out stored set values, tolerance values ​​and / or limit values ​​of at least one machine parameter to be monitored, to compare the determined actual values ​​with the set values, tolerance ranges and / or limit values ​​for the set values ​​and to detect deviations if at least one of the determined machine parameters falls outside the defined set value tolerance range or exceeds the respective limit value.

[0024] Particularly preferably, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to automatically detect at least one cause underlying a deviation or at least automatically narrow down possible causes by assigning the course of the at least one determined machine parameter over time to a specific process step or machine movement.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the possible causes are organized into cause lists, and at least one criterion is assigned to each cause listed in each cause list, such that by checking for the presence or absence of the at least one criterion it is possible to determine whether each cause is or may be applicable.

[0026] In an embodiment of the invention, if deviations outside the tolerance range are detected, at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out additional data (additional data), by the evaluation of which a cause can be automatically identified or at least further narrowed down in relation to the detected deviations.

[0027] In an embodiment of the invention, the additional data (additional data) can be retrieved from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the tire curing press in the tire manufacturing process.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, the readable additional data (additional data) comprises sensor data and / or machine messages and / or media consumption relating to at least one monitored tire curing press and / or the corresponding tire curing press.

[0029] In an embodiment of the invention, by evaluating additionally read-out data in the form of sensor data, machine messages, media consumption and / or data from at least one process step of the manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine, the evaluation unit can be used to automatically check criteria for the presence or absence of specific causes for detected deviations.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device for obtaining measurement data from the machine comprises at least one communication device for connecting to at least one additional data source and / or transmitting data to a higher level storage and / or evaluation unit.

[0031] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to automatically generate, based on the determined at least one cause or determined possible causes for the at least one detected deviation, suggestions for eliminating the cause and / or to perform automatic cause elimination and / or to output suggestions or instructions for further cause determination.

[0032] The cycle time required to complete a process cycle may be known as a machine parameter using at least one grasping device.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one sub-cycle time, which corresponds to the duration of a defined process step or of a defined sequence of process steps, is knowable by means of at least one grasping device.

[0034] Preferably, the cycle time and at least one sub-cycle time required to perform a process cycle are knowable using at least one knowing device.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a process cycle is divided into a number of sub-cycles, each sub-cycle corresponding to a defined machine movement or sequence of machine movements.

[0036] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, the duration of each of the defined sub-cycles is knowable by means of at least one knowing device.

[0037] To capture cycle and / or sub-cycle times, at least one capture device is designed to retrieve (read) data from the machine controller and / or monitor the respective machine using sensors.

[0038] A machine controller of at least one monitored machine identifies the start time of a cycle or sub-cycle, e.g. by a control command, and recognizes the end time of the cycle or sub-cycle based on measurements, e.g. in the form of the actuation of a switch / button when a certain position is reached at which a further control command is issued to start the next process step.

[0039] In a corresponding embodiment of reading data from the machine control device, the at least one grasping device is designed to grasp the first cycle time or sub-cycle time, for example by measuring the time between a first control command initiating a first cycle or sub-cycle and a second control command initiating a subsequent second cycle or sub-cycle, or a detection event signaling the end of the first cycle or sub-cycle.

[0040] Additionally, certain machine messages may correspond to the start or end of a cycle or sub-cycle, whereby detection of the corresponding machine message with at least one grasping device may define the start or stop of a cycle or sub-cycle.

[0041] Furthermore, in embodiments of the invention, the start and end of a cycle or sub-cycle can be detected by sensor-based monitoring of at least one monitored machine. For example, the start and end of a process step can be known using imaging monitoring of at least one machine, especially when a movement is caused.

[0042] In various embodiments of the present invention, the above mentioned methods of knowing the cycle time and / or sub-cycle time are combined with each other in all possible options.

[0043] At least one evaluation unit of the apparatus for obtaining measurement data of a machine according to the present invention is designed to monitor the state of at least one monitored machine based on the cycle time and / or sub-cycle time which are determined using at least one determination device and / or data from at least one process step of the manufacturing process which is upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, condition monitoring within the meaning of the invention is a specific condition monitoring of at least one monitored machine as a whole and at component level and / or functional level. Particularly preferably, condition monitoring is realized at component level.

[0045] For condition monitoring, the at least one evaluation unit is preferably designed to read out stored set values ​​(target values), tolerance values ​​and / or limit values ​​of at least one machine parameter to be monitored (e.g. cycle time, preferably further the cycle times of all defined subcycles).

[0046] For example, the evaluation unit is designed to read the set values ​​from a local storage device as part of the device for obtaining the measurement data and / or from an external data storage device as part of a machine-wide database at the production site or in the cloud. Preferably, relevant tolerance or limit values ​​are derived for at least one machine parameter to be monitored. In principle, according to the invention, it is also possible that only tolerance and / or limit values ​​of all monitored machine parameters are derivable.

[0047] In addition, at least one evaluation unit in a corresponding embodiment of the invention is designed to compare the ascertained actual cycle time and / or sub-cycle time with a set value and / or a tolerance range or limit value for the set value.

[0048] In a corresponding embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect a time deviation if at least one of the determined times does not fall within a tolerance range of set values ​​defined for the entire process and / or for the respective process step or falls below the respective limit value.

[0049] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to generate a deviation signal if a deviation of at least one machine parameter is detected.

[0050] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to output at least one deviation signal upon detection of a deviation.

[0051] Preferably, the deviation signals are individually identifiable according to each cycle or sub-cycle, so that the deviation signals can be used to determine which cycles / sub-cycles deviate from the set value or set values.

[0052] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is operable to generate a deviation message which identifies at least the cycles and / or sub-cycles which are deviated (show a deviation) depending on the respective deviations / deviations between the target time and the actual time.

[0053] In an embodiment of the invention the evaluation unit is designed to automatically detect at least one cause underlying the deviation or at least to automatically define possible / probable causes.

[0054] The assignment of sub-cycles, media consumption and / or data from at least one process step of the manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine to specific process steps or machine movements makes it possible to narrow down the possible causes to those affecting the respective sub-cycle based on the identification of the out-of-sync sub-cycle.

[0055] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is operable to read out a cause list which is assigned to the individual cycles or sub-cycles and which contains various likely causes / possible causes for the respective deviations.

[0056] The cause of the deviation of at least one monitored machine parameter is, for example, wear, a defect, an incorrect setting, a material defect and / or a manufacturing defect.

[0057] Preferably, at least one criterion is assigned to each cause listed in the cause list, and by checking the presence or absence of the at least one criterion it is possible to determine whether the respective cause applies or may apply.

[0058] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one evaluation unit with the deviation signal and / or deviation message is designed to output a respective cause list and / or criteria list.

[0059] By collecting additional data, it may be possible in some cases to definitively identify a cause from the list of causes or at least further narrow the list of causes.

[0060] Monitoring of cycle time and / or media consumption and / or data from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine in the manufacturing process of the machine provides the advantage of being able to respond very quickly to previously unnoticed, gradual deterioration in the machine process ("process drift"), going beyond the primary collection and analysis of warning and fault messages from the machine. Furthermore, corresponding monitoring of the machine may support the search for triggering error messages when they are not obvious.

[0061] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out additional data in the event of a detected deviation, by evaluation of which a cause in relation to the detected deviation can be automatically identified or at least further narrowed down.

[0062] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to correlate the detected deviations with additional read-out data.

[0063] In an embodiment of the invention, the readable additional data includes cycle times and / or sub-cycle times, sensor data, machine messages, media consumption and / or data from at least one process step of a manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine, respectively for at least one monitored machine and / or corresponding machine.

[0064] In a corresponding embodiment of the invention, by means of at least one evaluation unit, sensor data which may be provided by machine related measurements, machine messages, media consumption and / or data from at least one process step of the manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine, criteria for the presence or absence of specific causes for one or more deviations / deviations can be checked.

[0065] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to automatically generate, based on the determined cause or determined possible causes for the at least one detected deviation, suggestions for eliminating the cause and / or to perform automatic cause elimination and / or to output suggestions or instructions for further cause determination.

[0066] The integration of data from upstream and / or downstream processes of the value chain in tire manufacturing, e.g. rubber compounding, extrusion, tire building or quality control according to the present invention, in corresponding embodiments of the present invention for analytical, diagnostic and prognostic functions for at least one monitored machine, e.g. a tire curing press, makes it possible to draw conclusions about production efficiency, resulting product quality or machine status.

[0067] In an embodiment of the invention, the integration of upstream process steps in tire manufacturing (including mixer, extrusion, tire building) with upstream process steps (including quality control) is used for automatic diagnosis of machine condition and / or product quality of individual tires. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, feedback from quality control to the tire curing press is established, thereby providing a basis for the effect of tire curing press process parameters on product quality.

[0068] By integrating other process steps of the value chain, tire related data is made available in embodiments of the invention taking into account the entire value chain. For example, in embodiments, energy and / or material requirements for tire manufacturing are automatically identified. In embodiments of the invention, the data base can be used for maintenance management, optimizing machine operations and / or troubleshooting and / or further product development of the manufactured products.

[0069] Furthermore, in corresponding embodiments of the present invention, machine learning and / or artificial intelligence methods may be applied to process-related and machine-related data throughout the value chain to determine, for example, a prediction of product quality for tires based on the process data. Thus, in embodiments of the present invention, the need for quality assurance procedures at the end of the value chain may be reduced.

[0070] The following example serves to illustrate the integration of data from at least one process step of a manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine into the condition monitoring of a tire curing press.

[0071] In downstream quality control, (automated) visual inspection of the tire reveals a tire tread defect (e.g. one tread is missing). This can have the following causes with respect to the monitored tire curing press: Derivation A: The tire mold of the tire curing press is dirty and / or damaged, i.e. visual inspection in downstream quality control shows an uneven tire. Derivation B: The overlap (bonding) in the tire building machine (process upstream of the tire curing press) is too large.

[0072] In downstream quality control, (automated) visual inspection of the tire reveals a poorly vulcanized tire (tire deformity). Derivation A: The vulcanization process in the tire vulcanization press does not match the process. Derivation B: The vulcanization process in the tire vulcanization press matches the process, but the upstream mixing process does not match the process (different chemical composition).

[0073] In downstream quality control, x-ray inspection of the tire reveals air inclusions in the tread. In an embodiment of the invention, the reason for this can be automatically deduced from the fact that the upstream mixing process for manufacturing the tread is not in line with the process.

[0074] By evaluating corresponding data from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine in the manufacturing process, it is thus possible to derive information about the condition of the tire curing press.

[0075] As implemented in an embodiment of the present invention, sensor monitoring of at least one machine, such as a tire curing press, is achieved by at least one sensor positioned to obtain data related to the at least one monitored machine.

[0076] The at least one sensor may be an integral part of the at least one machine to be monitored or may be a sensor located in, on or in the area of ​​the at least one machine to be monitored as part of the apparatus for obtaining measurement data.

[0077] In various embodiments of the invention, such sensors may be arranged for corresponding use, for example at least one of the following sensors: pressure sensors and / or flow sensors (e.g. for steam, air, nitrogen or hydraulic oil) and / or sensors for measuring voltage, current or power and / or vibration sensors and / or temperature sensors and / or particle monitors and / or humidity sensors and / or viscosity sensors and / or image sensors and / or velocity sensors and / or acceleration sensors and / or force sensors and / or sensors for determining valve status.

[0078] In an embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is designed to read out and evaluate sensor data (measurements) of at least one sensor arranged to record data related to at least one monitored machine.

[0079] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out and evaluate the sensor data (measurements) when a deviation occurs. This event-based data readout ensures a smaller amount of data to be processed compared to a continuous readout.

[0080] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to continuously read out the sensor data, which provides a comprehensive database that can be used, for example, with artificial intelligence (AI) and / or machine learning (ML) to predict the state of the machine.

[0081] In an embodiment of the present invention, it is also possible to combine the reading of sensor data when a deviation occurs due to a first group of sensor data, which at least includes sensor data obtained by a sensor, with a continuous reading of sensor data of a second group of sensor data.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a set value can be read out for sensor data which are ascertainable in the respective configuration by means of at least one evaluation unit, and the ascertained sensor data can be compared with the set value. If the measured value lies outside any defined tolerance around the set value, a measured value deviation can be determined by means of the at least one evaluation unit.

[0083] A deviation of the measured value of one or more sensors from a set value is an indication of a specific cause, error or defect.

[0084] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a cause list can be read out for various measurement deviations or combinations of measurement deviations using the at least one evaluation unit, whereby causes, errors or defects can be automatically and unambiguously identified or the cause list can be further limited automatically using the at least one evaluation unit.

[0085] Various sensors and their arrangement within the monitored system are described below using the application example of a tire curing press, which may support the diagnosis of the described system / subsystem.

[0086] In an embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor is arranged to diagnose a hydraulic system, for example it is arranged in the pressure line of a hydraulic unit to measure the hydraulic pressure, so that the hydraulic pressure provided by the hydraulic unit can be checked.

[0087] In an embodiment of the invention, a pressure sensor is located to diagnose the pneumatic system, for example, in the central compressed air supply line of the machine to measure the pressure of the pneumatic system.

[0088] In an embodiment of the present invention, a pressure sensor is arranged to diagnose the heating medium, for example, in at least one supply line of the heating medium (steam, nitrogen, hot water, etc.) to measure the pressure. The pressure in the supply line affects, for example, the vulcanization process (product quality) and the condition of the heating medium (wear of the heating valve, etc.).

[0089] In an embodiment of the invention, a flow sensor is arranged to diagnose the hydraulic system, for example in the compression line of a hydraulic unit to measure the flow rate of hydraulic oil. With this arrangement, the condition of the hydraulic system can be checked, among other things, for leaks.

[0090] In an embodiment of the invention, a flow sensor is arranged to diagnose the pneumatic device, for example at the central compressed air supply of the machine to measure the flow rate / volume of compressed air for the pneumatic device. With this arrangement, the condition of the pneumatic device can be checked, among other things, for leaks.

[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention, a flow sensor is arranged to diagnose the heating medium, for example, in at least one supply line of the heating medium (steam, nitrogen, hot water, etc.) to measure the flow rate / volume of the heating medium. The pressure in the supply line affects, for example, the vulcanization process (product quality) and the condition of the heating medium (wear of the heating valve, etc.) and the condition of the rubber bladder.

[0092] In an embodiment of the invention, a power meter is arranged for diagnosing the hydraulic system, for example integrated in the power supply of the hydraulic unit in the control cabinet, so that the power consumption of the hydraulic unit (motor current, voltage) can be monitored, which is influenced for example by the wear of the hydraulic unit and / or the condition of the hydraulic system.

[0093] In an embodiment of the invention, a power meter is arranged for diagnosing a servo rotary drive, for example of at least one loading device (loader) and / or unloading device (unloader) of a corresponding tire curing press. For example, it is integrated into the power supply of a servo motor to measure electrical characteristics (voltage, current, power consumption). By means of this device, for example, the function and condition of the rotary mechanism (wear of bearings, gears, etc.) can be determined.

[0094] In an embodiment of the invention, a vibration sensor is arranged for diagnosing the hydraulic system, for example arranged on the motor housing of the hydraulic unit, so that the vibrations of the motor during operation can be monitored, for example wear of the hydraulic unit, particularly wear on the motor or pump, can be detected by this device.

[0095] In an embodiment of the invention, a temperature sensor is arranged to measure the ambient temperature of the machine, for example in the control cabinet. The ambient temperature can be used as a reference for other process parameters of the machine, for example oil temperature, external heating temperature, condensing steam line.

[0096] In an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature sensor is arranged to measure the temperature of the green tire, for example, at the blank stand and / or at the loading mechanism to measure the external temperature of the tire blank. The blank temperature affects the vulcanization process and the product quality.

[0097] In an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature sensor is arranged to measure the temperature of the vulcanized tire, for example, it is arranged in the unloading mechanism to measure the external temperature of the tire, which is affected by the vulcanization process and affects the product quality.

[0098] In an embodiment of the present invention, a temperature sensor is placed in the PCI (downstream tire aftertreatment device) to measure the tire temperature. For example, it is placed in each cell of the PCI to measure the tire external temperature. This device can monitor the effect of tire temperature on PCI function / product quality.

[0099] In an embodiment of the invention, a temperature sensor is placed on the conveyor belt to measure the temperature of the tire, for example at a storage location on the conveyor belt to measure the external temperature of the tire. This device allows monitoring the impact of tire temperature on product quality and / or further processes in the value chain.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention, a particle monitor is positioned to monitor a hydraulic system, for example, in a tank of a hydraulic unit to detect particles such as air inclusions and metal particles in the hydraulic oil, and the device can monitor oil quality and the condition of the hydraulic system.

[0101] In an embodiment of the invention, a moisture sensor is placed to monitor the rubber bladder, for example, in the heating device to detect bladder leakage during operation. This device allows the condition of the bladder (wear part) to be monitored during production.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present invention, a viscosity sensor is located to monitor the hydraulic system, for example in the tank of the hydraulic unit to measure the viscosity of the hydraulic oil, allowing the oil condition (including aging, etc.) and the condition of the hydraulic system to be monitored.

[0103] In an embodiment of the invention, a sensor for using an imaging method is arranged to monitor the rubber bladder, for example, it is arranged in front of a heating device with different flash angles on the bladder to monitor the geometry of the bladder during operation. By this device, the condition of the bladder (wear part) can be monitored during production.

[0104] In an embodiment of the invention, sensors for using imaging methods are arranged to monitor the wear of the mould / sliding plates, for example in front of the heating device with different flash angles on the mould segments / sliding plates to monitor the geometry of the mould segments / sliding plates.

[0105] In an embodiment of the invention, a speed sensor and / or an acceleration sensor is arranged to monitor the rotation drive of the loading and / or unloading device. For example, it is arranged on the rotating arm to monitor the movement profile (speed, acceleration) of the rotating arm. By means of this device, wear or incorrect adjustment of the rotating mechanism can be detected.

[0106] In an embodiment of the invention, a speed and / or acceleration sensor is arranged to monitor the vertical movement of the loading and / or unloading device, for example on the rotating arm to monitor the movement profile (speed, acceleration) of the lifting mechanism, so that wear or incorrect adjustment of the lifting mechanism can be detected.

[0107] In an embodiment of the invention, a speed and / or acceleration sensor is positioned to monitor the vertical movement of the PCI cell, for example on the lift cylinder to monitor the movement profile (speed, acceleration) of the lift mechanism, thereby allowing detection of wear or incorrect adjustment of the lift mechanism.

[0108] In an embodiment of the invention, a speed and / or acceleration sensor is positioned to monitor the vertical movement of the head part (upper part of the press), for example, in the head part to monitor the movement profile (speed, acceleration) of the head part, so that wear or incorrect adjustment of the lifting mechanism can be detected.

[0109] In an embodiment of the invention, a force sensor is arranged to monitor the rotation drive of the loading and / or unloading device. For example, it is arranged on the rotating arm to monitor the force curve during rotation. With this device, wear or incorrect adjustment of the lifting mechanism can be detected.

[0110] In an embodiment of the invention, a force sensor is positioned to monitor the bladder telescoping cylinder, for example, placed on the bladder telescoping cylinder to monitor the force curve of the bladder telescoping cylinder during production, allowing for wear detection or detection of incorrect setup / configuration.

[0111] In an embodiment of the invention, a force sensor is arranged to monitor the segmented actuator, for example at the stroke cylinder of the segmented actuator in order to monitor the force profile of the segmented actuator during manufacture, which allows wear detection or incorrect setting / configuration of the mould or of the segmented actuator.

[0112] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one evaluation unit is designed to read and evaluate machine messages from at least one monitored machine.

[0113] Machine messages are messages that are generated automatically by the control device of the respective machine, usually depending on the status. In particular, warning messages and / or fault messages are such machine messages, but they may also include, for example, general status messages.

[0114] Depending on the monitored machine and the machine software / PLC (Programmable Logic Control Circuit) software, there are, for example, 500-1500 different machine messages. These are currently not standardized in their type and error code, but depend on the individual customer specifications and the respective machine controller. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, these machine messages are so precise and unambiguous that the user can directly determine the cause / source of the error from them and also receive instructions for action.

[0115] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out and evaluate machine messages from the at least one monitored machine when a deviation occurs.

[0116] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to continuously read out machine messages from the at least one monitored machine, the continuous data reading providing a comprehensive database that can be used, for example, with AI and / or ML to predict the machine condition.

[0117] In an embodiment of the invention, it is also possible to combine the reading of machine messages of the first group when a deviation occurs due to the machine messages of the first group with a continuous reading of machine messages of the second group.

[0118] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to count and store the frequency of occurrence of at least one specific machine message, which, depending on the machine message and its frequency or frequency trend, is an indication of the need for a maintenance procedure in an embodiment of the invention.

[0119] In an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to determine and / or store maximum, minimum and / or average duration of occurrence of specific machine messages, assignment of machine messages to specific product IDs and / or assignment of machine messages to specific assemblies or parts of the at least one monitored machine.

[0120] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out and evaluate the consumption of at least one consumable medium of at least one monitored machine.

[0121] In an embodiment of the invention, the consumption of the following exemplary consumed media can be read out by means of the evaluation unit: electrical energy required for a cycle or sub-cycle, amount of compressed air, oil or hydraulic fluid required, nitrogen, water, steam or hot water.

[0122] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to read out and evaluate the consumption of the at least one consumption medium when deviations occur.

[0123] In a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to continuously read out the consumption of the at least one consumable medium.

[0124] In an embodiment of the invention it is also possible to combine the reading of the media consumption when a deviation occurs for a first group of media consumption with a continuous reading of the media consumption of a second group of media consumption.

[0125] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a set value for at least one media consumption can be read out in the respective configuration using at least one evaluation unit, and the recorded media consumption can be compared with the set value. If the consumption value is outside any defined tolerance range around the set value, a consumption deviation can be determined using the at least one evaluation unit.

[0126] A deviation of at least one media consumption from a set value is in some cases an indication of a specific cause, malfunction or defect.

[0127] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a cause list can be read out for various consumption deviations or combinations of consumption deviations using the at least one evaluation unit, so that causes, faults or defects can be clearly and automatically identified or the cause list can be at least further limited automatically using the at least one evaluation unit.

[0128] In an embodiment of the invention, the device for obtaining measurement data from a machine preferably comprises at least one communication device for connecting to at least one additional data source and / or for transmitting data to a higher level storage and / or evaluation unit, designed for data storage and / or evaluation for several machines.

[0129] In an embodiment of the invention, the additional data sources are, for example, other machines, preferably of the same machine type, having an identical or nearly identical structure, processes or devices located along the value chain before or after the at least one monitored machine, for example central storage and / or evaluation units having larger resources or having access to large amounts of data to perform extensive data evaluation, design data of the at least one monitored machine and / or a CAD model of the at least one monitored machine.

[0130] The central storage and / or evaluation unit may for example be realised on a local server, in particular at the installation site of the at least one monitored machine (for example at the production site) and / or on a cloud server.

[0131] The use of a central storage and / or evaluation unit saves additional processing power for data processing at each individual machine and, in embodiments of the invention, makes it possible to display the results of data evaluation via mobile data techniques regardless of location, as well as local, regional or global standards and benchmarks of various monitored machines.

[0132] In an embodiment of the invention, at least one evaluation unit is designed to perform reference / benchmark-i.e., comparisons based on data of several monitored machines (e.g., tire curing presses) locally for one plant, regionally for several plants and worldwide across many / all plants.

[0133] This offers the following advantages to the operator or manufacturer of the monitored machine:

[0134] From comparisons with identical machines (locally or globally), conclusions can be drawn about the state of the machines, taking into account the respective product configuration if necessary. In an embodiment of the invention, this is done automatically.

[0135] From comparisons (local or global) with machines of other designs, possibly taking into account the respective product configurations, conclusions can be drawn about possible design and / or process improvements. In embodiments of the invention, this is done automatically.

[0136] Conclusions about factory capabilities can be drawn from derived values ​​for productivity and availability and their local, regional or global comparison. These are made available to different user groups according to identified access authorizations and in a de-identified form. In an embodiment of the invention, this is done automatically.

[0137] In an embodiment of the invention, the integration of upstream processes in product manufacturing (e.g. mixer, extrusion and tire building in tire manufacturing) with downstream process steps (e.g. quality control) can be used to diagnose the machine condition and / or product quality of individual products (e.g. tires) using at least one evaluation unit.

[0138] In an embodiment of the invention, for example, the tire structure is specified by information about the dimensions (e.g. diameter and width) of the (green) tire, the weight, the composition of the rubber compound of the green tire and / or the (layer) structure of the green tire, which can be read out from a data source using at least one evaluation unit, which means, for example, that the specific weight of the green tire can be taken into account as an influencing factor for the duration of a certain movement with respect to a subcycle.

[0139] In an embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit and the data evaluated by the evaluation unit over time are used to perform condition monitoring using state predictions of state parameter interactions and operating behavior in certain situations using statistical methods / predictions.

[0140] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to apply artificial intelligence (AI) and / or machine learning (ML) methods to the readable data. By evaluating large amounts of data, correlations between changes and / or trends in the individual data and the occurrence of certain causes of defects can be determined, whereby in an embodiment of the invention a future state of the at least one monitored machine can be predicted.

[0141] In an embodiment of the invention, this allows for early issuance of warning messages regarding impending defects and / or required maintenance.

[0142] In an embodiment of the present invention, the status of at least one monitored machine, for example a tire curing press, may be displayed in a digital application (app).

[0143] In an embodiment of the invention, the determined indicators can be output by a digital end device as an optical display. A digital end device in this sense is, for example, a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet, a notebook, a PC or a digital display panel.

[0144] In an embodiment of the invention, current warning and / or fault messages for a machine may be displayed at a glance, including their symbolic severity / criticality, message designation (message name) and timestamp.

[0145] In an embodiment of the invention, details of individual warning and / or fault messages associated with a machine may be displayed by name, description, solution indication, references to the same message on other machines with timestamps and / or links to products manufactured under the fault condition (e.g. tire ID).

[0146] In an embodiment of the invention, a message overview of several monitored machines (e.g., tire curing presses) can be output at a glance with symbols for hazards, designations, machine locations ("trench"), machine numbers and / or time stamps.

[0147] In an embodiment of the invention, the comparison and simultaneous display of fault messages from several monitored machines (e.g. tire curing presses) in a factory provides a maintenance management with a control station for maintenance, which provides immediate visibility into currently required maintenance actions for all monitored machines (e.g. tire curing presses). This data base can be used to derive priorities for maintenance and service, and to identify related faults of several machines in the context of a common infrastructure (e.g. group hydraulics, heating media, etc.).

[0148] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the last e.g. about 10 cycle times of the monitored machine or of a group of monitored machines (i.e. a heating press or a group of heating presses, e.g. the entire trench / heating chamber), which can be flexibly adjusted as required, can be displayed as an overview during operation and can be set with respect to the specifications of the tyre to be manufactured. If the actual cycle time is more than the target cycle time, deviations and possibly optional instructions for checking and / or optimally setting the relevant assemblies or individual functions can be output as a message. Precise thresholds and tolerances for the monitored machines can be defined for the respective machine configuration. The message function can be (de)activated. In an embodiment of the invention, the operating data for the relevant assemblies or individual functions can be displayed in detail.

[0149] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, remedial measures can be automatically suggested for the at least one monitored machine on the basis of the evaluation data by the at least one evaluation unit.

[0150] In an embodiment of the present invention, this solution may improve machine performance, for example by keeping cycle times or cycle times of, for example, a tire curing press consistently low to increase productivity.

[0151] In an embodiment of the invention, using the at least one evaluation unit, early warnings can be generated based on the evaluation data, which increases machine availability by avoiding unplanned downtime, assisting repair and maintenance procedures and / or reducing consumption of spare parts.

[0152] In an embodiment of the invention, a digital solution displays the energy consumption of at least one monitored machine during production, e.g. a tire curing press, so that the user or operator of the machine has access to actions to improve the energy consumption / CO2 footprint.

[0153] In embodiments, the invention provides the following advantages or has the following features, either individually or in combination:

[0154] Optimization of machine performance, monitoring and stabilization of cycle times of machines, e.g. tire curing presses, at a low level, issuing early warning messages when cycle times exceed certain thresholds, indicating causes of continuous and gradual increase in cycle times like undetected leaks, wear or incorrect settings, reduction of actual cycle times of tire curing presses and cycles by an average of 10-20 seconds, increasing productivity of tire curing presses by approximately 600-1800 tires per year (+1-3%).

[0155] Embodiments of the invention allow for improved machine usability, which is achieved in particular by the following measures, individually or in practical combination: -Reduction of unplanned downtime through early warning of events such as leaks, wear and tear, - Avoidance of unnecessary cooling and pre-heating by reducing unplanned downtime; - Reducing repair times by identifying the causes of defects and thereby supporting targeted countermeasures; -Reduction in planned maintenance by focusing on issues that need repair; - Optimization of spare part consumption through condition-based replacement of spare parts; - Lower operating costs by reducing maintenance time and avoiding unnecessary expenses; -Reduced energy bills and unnecessary energy consumption through real-time monitoring; -Overall reduction in cost per vulcanized tire of 1-3%.

[0156] In the embodiment of the present invention, rational vulcanization of the tire is achieved. In an embodiment of the present invention, the so-called "smart vulcanization" includes data exchange with the tire curing press in the vulcanization area and with the necessary databases that record production and process data. The system allows simultaneous production monitoring, traceability, recipe control and analysis of the tire curing press.

[0157] In an embodiment of the invention, a control loop is implemented which either interferes with the machine control system (e.g. automatically providing digital parameters of the machine PLC, changing the configuration) depending on the detected time deviation or the identified cause of the time deviation, or which uses mechanical actuators to selectively interfere with the system to be controlled, thereby making it possible to achieve a "self-healing" tire curing press.

[0158] Application areas include manufacturing monitoring (e.g. planned vs actual OEE, TCO), process monitoring (e.g. cure data acquisition, recipe control, quality assurance), machinery monitoring (e.g. condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, alarm diagnostics, machine servicing), energy monitoring (e.g. electricity, compressed air, oil).

[0159] In embodiments of the present invention, the applied technologies / methods include, for example, sensor technology, actuator technology, PLC programming and control, IT-networking of machines (e.g. tire curing presses), edge / fog, edge / fog computing, IIOT gateways, internet connectivity / protocols, cloud technology, data analytics, mobile applications, machine learning algorithms / artificial intelligence, virtual reality and / or augmented reality.

[0160] According to the digital solution for condition monitoring of a machine (e.g. a tire curing press) according to the invention, in an embodiment of the invention, the machine status can be displayed in a digital app and automatically suggested remedial actions can be performed to operators and maintenance personnel, and also allows technical self-healing and automatically controlled actions of the machine during production.

[0161] Fields of application include production monitoring (e.g. keeping the cycle time of a tire curing press stable and low in order to increase productivity by outputting deviations / deviations between predefined set values ​​and measured actual values ​​in the cycle times of (partial) phases of the tire curing process), process monitoring (e.g. using machine warning messages and machine parameters to indicate quality defects in the tire curing process, whereby monitoring of the curing cycle time provides assistance to prevent previously unnoticed process deviations that would otherwise result in a continuous increase in the cycle time in the tire curing process), machine monitoring / machine control (e.g. by correlating cycle time deviations with machine parameters and / or fault messages). In this way, automatic indications of the causes of failures can be derived and automatic suggestions for troubleshooting can be made.

[0162] In an embodiment of the present invention, a digital maintenance tool for a machine (eg, for a tire curing press) is provided.

[0163] In an embodiment of the present invention, a method and apparatus for efficient and effective maintenance of a machine (eg, a tire curing press) is provided for this purpose.

[0164] In an embodiment of the invention, the method and apparatus are based on the principles of digital condition monitoring and / or artificial intelligence.

[0165] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect wear or defects in at least one assembly, such as a hydraulic unit, a pneumatic unit, a loading and / or unloading device, a closing unit or a security scanner.

[0166] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect wear or defects in at least one component itself or as part of an assembly such as a shock absorber, hydraulic cylinder, motor, line (leak / blockage) or sensor.

[0167] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect wear or defects in the at least one hydraulic unit. To this end, in an embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is designed to ascertain cycle times or sub-cycle times that are directly or indirectly influenced by the state of the hydraulic unit and / or to detect the hydraulic pressure using at least one pressure sensor and / or to evaluate machine messages and / or control parameters (configurations) related to the hydraulic unit.

[0168] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects and / or wear in the pressure regulator of the at least one hydraulic unit. If the pressure regulator of the hydraulic unit is defective or worn, a different pressure, usually a reduced pressure, is provided instead of the set pressure. This slows down the hydraulically realized movements of the machine, which leads to corresponding longer cycle times and / or sub-cycle times.

[0169] In an embodiment of the present invention, using at least one evaluation unit, based on detected deviations / deviations in cycle times or sub-cycle times with possible causes in the hydraulic system, a list of causes can be read out, which includes, for example, causes wear of the hydraulic unit, leaks in the hydraulic system, faulty operation of the hydraulic unit, faulty adjustment of the hydraulic system and wear of the hydraulic cylinders.

[0170] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, criteria for the individual possible causes are readable and preferably automatically checkable by means of at least one evaluation unit in order to automatically narrow down at least one cause underlying at least one detected deviation.

[0171] For example, in an embodiment of the invention, one or more of the following criteria can be read out and preferably checked: pressure in the pressure lines of the hydraulic unit, electrical parameters at the hydraulic unit (current, voltage, power consumption), temperature of the hydraulic oil, oil level in the hydraulic unit, flow rate in the hydraulic lines of the hydraulic unit (leak detection), vibrations in the motor of the hydraulic unit, machine messages for interruptions in hydraulic movement or temperature warnings for the hydraulic oil, data of the upstream and / or downstream value chain.

[0172] In a corresponding embodiment of the present invention, based on the gist of the criteria fulfilled or not fulfilled, at least one cause can be automatically and unambiguously determined using at least one evaluation unit, or the cause list can be at least further reduced.

[0173] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects and / or wear of a closing unit of the tire curing press. In an embodiment of the invention, defects / wear of the closing unit can be detected by evaluating the cycle time and / or the sub-cycle time and / or by monitoring the energy consumption of the hydraulic unit and / or by evaluating machine messages.

[0174] In an embodiment of the present invention, using at least one evaluation unit, based on detected deviations / deviations in cycle times or sub-cycle times with possible causes related to the closing unit, a list of causes can be read out, which includes, for example, causes of a lack of lubricant in the slide platen or in the mould segments of the tire mould, hydraulic leaks when operating the mould segments, incorrect operation (configuration) of the hydraulic functions for closing the press, incorrect setting of the hydraulic functions for closing the press (e.g. setting of the pressure relief valve).

[0175] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, criteria for the individual possible causes are readable by means of at least one evaluation unit and can preferably be checked automatically in order to automatically narrow down at least one cause underlying at least one detected deviation.

[0176] For example, in an embodiment of the invention, one or more of the following criteria can be read out and preferably checked: pressure in the pressure lines of the hydraulic unit, hydraulic closing pressure provided, electrical parameters at the hydraulic unit (current, voltage, power consumption), temperature of the hydraulic oil, flow rate in the hydraulic lines of the hydraulic unit (leak detection), oil level in the hydraulic unit, vibrations in the motor of the hydraulic unit, machine messages for interruptions of the closing process, data of the upstream and / or downstream value chain.

[0177] In a corresponding embodiment of the present invention, based on the gist of the criteria which are met or not met, at least the causes can be automatically and unambiguously determined using at least one evaluation unit, or the list of causes can be at least further reduced.

[0178] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects and / or wear of a security scanner in the at least one machine.

[0179] For example, contamination of a security scanner in a machine designed as a tire curing press results in irregular machine stoppages, which, if they occur during the curing of a tire, usually results in an over-vulcanized tire and thus a reject.

[0180] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects and / or wear of the security scanner of the at least one machine by evaluating the machine messages.

[0181] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect a disconnection of at least one sensor of the at least one machine.

[0182] For example, if a sensor cable breaks, the sensor may be disconnected.

[0183] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect a disconnection of at least one sensor of at least one machine by evaluating the machine messages and / or by evaluating the cycle times and / or the sub-cycle times.

[0184] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to guide and detect required maintenance measures.

[0185] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to evaluate a machine message and / or to evaluate a current process step in a process cycle.

[0186] For example, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to evaluate the machine messages for an enable signal, in particular in the case of a tire curing press, and to compare the enable signal with a current process step of a process cycle.

[0187] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to monitor the downtimes of the at least one machine, the development of the downtimes, in particular their increase, being also an indication of the need for maintenance measures.

[0188] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to monitor sensor signals and / or messages from at least one machine safety system.

[0189] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to evaluate a light barrier signal. Light barriers are often used to protect a safety area around a machine, for example around a tire curing press. As soon as the light barrier is triggered, the machine is stopped.

[0190] The invention allows visualization of machine messages and / or corresponding activation of safety devices by cycle interruption.

[0191] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects and wear of the at least one pneumatic unit, for this purpose in an embodiment of the invention the evaluation unit is designed to ascertain cycle times and / or sub-cycle times which are directly or indirectly influenced by the state of the pneumatic unit and / or to detect the air pressure by means of at least one pressure sensor and / or to evaluate machine messages related to the pneumatic unit.

[0192] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect defects in the compressed air supply of a pneumatic device of at least one machine. For this purpose, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is designed to monitor the pressure in the pneumatic device and / or in the compressed air supply.

[0193] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect wear of at least one loading and / or unloading device of at least one machine. To this end, in an embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is designed to ascertain cycle times or sub-cycle times which are directly or indirectly influenced by the state of the loading and / or unloading device and / or to evaluate machine messages related to the loading and / or unloading device.

[0194] For example, there may be mechanical problems with the loading and / or unloading devices (eg, with the buffers) that prevent the loading and / or unloading devices from moving to the correct position.

[0195] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect wear of at least one loading and / or unloading device of at least one machine.

[0196] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect oil leaks in the at least one machine, which may occur for example at a connection location or at a crack / hole in an oil line.

[0197] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one evaluation unit is designed to detect oil leaks in the at least one machine by evaluating machine data (eg oil volume, energy consumption) of the hydraulic unit.

[0198] A machine according to the invention comprises at least one device according to the invention for obtaining measurement data of the machine.

[0199] The tire curing press according to the invention comprises at least one device for obtaining measurement data of the machine according to the invention.

[0200] The method for obtaining measurement data of a machine according to the invention comprises at least the following steps: - ascertaining at least one machine parameter of at least one monitored machine; - automatically comparing at least one machine parameter that is tracked with a set value, - Automatic detection of deviations that exceed defined tolerances - automatically retrieving data from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine in the manufacturing process; - Carrying out automatic condition monitoring of at least one monitored machine based on the detected deviations and said data from at least one process step of the manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the monitored machine.

[0201] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a cause list containing possible causes for the detected deviation is then automatically populated based on the at least one detected time deviation.

[0202] In an embodiment of the present invention, the retrieved cause list is then automatically output.

[0203] In an embodiment of the present invention, an automatic check of the list of possible causes for the detected time skew is performed using at least one criterion for clearly identifying at least one cause or for narrowing down the list of causes.

[0204] In an embodiment of the invention, the identified cause(s) or the narrowed list of causes is then automatically output.

[0205] In an embodiment of the invention, action suggestions and / or action instructions for correcting the identified at least one cause are automatically retrieved at a later time.

[0206] In an embodiment of the invention, action suggestions are then automatically output and / or the defined instructions for correcting the at least one cause are automatically implemented.

[0207] In an embodiment of the invention, data is automatically read from at least one additional data source in parallel with the monitoring of at least one machine parameter or after detection of a deviation and used for the automatic unequivocal identification of at least one cause or for narrowing down the list of causes based on defined criteria.

[0208] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is designed as a method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press.

[0209] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least one device for obtaining measurement data of the machine according to the invention, the machine according to the invention and / or a tire curing press according to the invention is used.

[0210] In an embodiment of the invention in which a digital maintenance tool for a machine (e.g. for a tire curing press) is realised, the following method steps and / or features are used in a corresponding method or apparatus either in their entirety or in any practical combination:

[0211] A method according to the invention for digitally condition monitoring ("condition monitoring") of the cycle time of a machine (e.g. a tire curing press) is described below in an embodiment according to the invention using the example of a tire curing press:

[0212] Monitoring the cycle of a tire curing press to manufacture a tire from start to finish gives information on whether the machine in question meets the production requirements and design specifications. Monitoring the cycle over time based on individual sections or even individual movements gives detailed information on the condition of the tire curing press: early detection of possible machine defects, localization of problem areas and causes of problems during defect analysis and information for preventive maintenance. Whenever the target and actual times of individual machine movements or sections in the production cycle deviate from certain tolerances, this is an indication of some number of possible defects and defect causes.

[0213] In an embodiment of the present invention, the determined indicators are displayed by a digital end device (eg, a smart phone, a smart watch, a tablet, a notebook, a PC or a digital display panel).

[0214] This cycle time monitoring based on individual motions, and derived assistance for error analysis and error correction, is the focus of this embodiment of the present invention.

[0215] In an embodiment of the present invention, this detailed cycle time monitoring is supplemented by the following: - Link to collection and analysis of warning and fault messages from the machine, -Sensor monitoring of individual components, - Data-based comparison of several tire curing presses with other machines ("benchmarking", "collection of experience" / "knowledge pool" / "case database" creation), - Machine learning (ML) / artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the future behavior of machines, - 3D visualization technologies in the sense of augmented reality or virtual reality.

[0216] In an embodiment of the invention, control loops are set up using data techniques and actuators, and the diagnostics / analysis described above are supplemented by "self-healing", automated control measures.

[0217] In an embodiment of the present invention, the cycle time of a machine (eg, a tire curing press) is monitored.

[0218] In an embodiment of the invention, the final (approximately 4-5; possibly flexibly adjustable) cycle times of a tire curing press or a group of tire curing presses (complete trenches / heating chambers) are displayed as an overview during operation and set with respect to the specifications of the tires to be manufactured. If the actual cycle time is higher than the target cycle time, deviations and preferably instructions to check and optimally set the relevant assemblies or individual functions are output as messages. Exact thresholds and tolerances are predefined.

[0219] In an embodiment of the invention, signalling functions can be (de)activated. If required, operational data for the relevant assemblies or individual functions can be displayed in detail.

[0220] In an embodiment of the invention, if the total cycle time is not within target, instructions are given to check the subsystems (e.g., supply pressure for hydraulics or pneumatics) and / or to check assemblies or individual functions that are not within target / in a fault state and have associated impacts on their respective (process) parts.

[0221] Depending on the machine setup and associated functions, power / regulation in embodiments of the invention may be checked manually or automatically by sensors and adjusted manually or automatically by actuators.

[0222] For troubleshooting by the machine operator maintenance technician, in an embodiment of the invention, problem analysis and action suggestions for problem elimination are automatically assigned in advance to the indication of off cycle times according to the know-how of the machine expert and made available via the condition monitoring solution, if necessary.

[0223] In an embodiment of the invention, this is combined with a technical quick guide (and possibly links to online learning) and supported by component specific data from condition monitoring.

[0224] If the engineer is unable to improve the cycle time based on the instructions, further analysis by a machine expert is required. In an embodiment of the present invention, the processing of the instructions is digitally documented.

[0225] In an embodiment of the invention, the operational data of all assemblies or individual functions is stored for long term statistical evaluation and accessible to machine experts.

[0226] In an embodiment of the invention, cycle time monitoring and associated target-actual-comparison of travel times is used to derive leading indicators for machine productivity and / or availability.

[0227] In an embodiment of the invention, average values ​​of past cycles and predictions of future cycles are generated for each individual movement from statistical methods or using machine learning algorithms.

[0228] In an embodiment of the invention, the determined cycle time is displayed in tabular form (e.g. as total duration and duration per section), in an embodiment of the invention in detail in tabular form (i.e. all individual movements of a phase) or in graphical form, for example as a diagram (e.g. as total cycle duration and duration of individual phases).

[0229] In an embodiment of the present invention, metrics for productivity and availability are derived in conjunction with the collection and analysis of warning and fault messages from the machines.

[0230] The combination of cycle time monitoring and the collection and analysis of warning and fault messages as implemented in embodiments of the present invention provides considerable advantages.

[0231] If the machine (eg a heated press) is equipped with the necessary sensor technology for condition monitoring, in an embodiment of the invention this is derived directly from the operating behavior (actual values) and its development (trend).

[0232] In an embodiment of the present invention, all warning and fault messages are stored in long term memory for statistical analysis and accessible to mechanical experts.

[0233] In an embodiment of the invention, the processing of messages is digitally documented, ideally according to a defined schedule, in order to be able to make long-term analyses / correlations. The aim is to be able to carry out an analysis of the operating behavior of the machine from the most detailed possible recording of warning / error messages (fault analysis) and from the corrective actions taken (maintenance / action log files) and from statistical evaluation. Over time, in an embodiment of the invention, condition monitoring is realised in the interaction of state parameters [explicit information via sensors] and operating behavior in a given situation, using statistical methods / predictions.

[0234] In an embodiment of the invention, an overview of current warning and fault messages for a machine is displayed, including symbolic severity / criticality, message designation and timestamp.

[0235] In an embodiment of the invention, details of individual warning and fault messages for a machine are displayed with name, description, solution instructions, references to the same message on other machines with timestamps and links (e.g., product IDs) to products manufactured under the fault condition.

[0236] In an embodiment of the invention, a message overview of several machines (eg, tire curing presses) is output with an overview of the hazard, designation, machine location ("trench"), machine number and / or timestamp.

[0237] In an embodiment of the invention, individual components of at least one monitored machine are monitored by sensors.

[0238] In an embodiment of the invention, if the sensor system used reports a status value outside the respective tolerance range defined for the component in question, a warning or fault message is sent to the machine, which is then integrated into the solution according to the invention.

[0239] Conversely, the inclusion of sensor values ​​in embodiments of the present invention serves to localize and check for the plausibility of causes of time deviations in cycle times and the plausibility of causes of warning and fault messages.

[0240] In an embodiment of the present invention, a comparison (local or global) of warning and fault messages from a machine (e.g., a tire curing press) is used to draw conclusions about possible design and / or process improvements.

[0241] In an embodiment of the present invention, Machine Learning (ML) / Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms are used to predict the future behavior of a machine.

[0242] In an embodiment of the invention, average values ​​of past cycles and forecasts of future cycles are generated for each individual movement from statistical methods or using machine learning algorithms. Various statistical methods and machine learning algorithms can be used for this purpose, which can further be combined together and with each other.

[0243] The procedures differ fundamentally in how much input parameters, comparison / training data and result parameters can and must be processed.

[0244] Input parameters are for example: recipe parameters, machine parameters, cycle times, warning and fault messages, and / or sensor data.

[0245] A large number of data sets for input parameters are needed to check the validity of the statistical method and to "teach" the machine learning algorithm. In an embodiment of the invention, the results of the method and the method are compared to the next actual results, respectively. In an embodiment of the invention, by this repeated comparison, a suitable statistical method is determined or a machine learning model is trained.

[0246] Result parameters are, for example, future cycle times, warning and fault messages, and / or machine conditions (measured sensor data).

[0247] The quality of the prediction depends on the "training horizon" with example data: the further into the future one looks, the better the prediction naturally decreases.

[0248] In an embodiment of the invention, 3D visualization techniques in the sense of augmented reality or virtual reality are used.

[0249] Using 3D visualization techniques, meaning augmented or virtual reality, the present invention allows visual navigation around and "through" the machine in corresponding embodiments, including zooming in or out for detailed or overview drawings. Furthermore, machine movements can be dynamically displayed and thus simulated using 3D visualization techniques. This aids in tracking information through data analysis and localization of relevant machine positions and identification of required spare parts.

[0250] In an embodiment of the invention, constructive machine data (CAD data) is linked with data (condition monitoring: cycle times, warning and fault messages, and sensor data) that is collected or displayed for display using 3D visualization techniques.

[0251] In an embodiment of the present invention, a control loop is implemented to "self-heal" the machine.

[0252] In an embodiment of the invention, a control loop is additionally set up using data techniques and actuators, whereby the above-mentioned diagnostics / analysis are supplemented by "self-healing" automatic control measures. Compared to conventional control loops, the invention is characterized in this respect by the combination of different data sources (cycle times, sensor data, warning messages and fault messages), the use of statistical procedures and machine learning methods, and / or by having local, regional or global standards / benchmarks via centrally established information collections (data pools).

[0253] In various embodiments of the present invention, the methods of cycle time monitoring, sensor monitoring, evaluating machine messages and monitoring media consumption are realized in relation to an apparatus for obtaining machine measurement data according to the present invention, a method for obtaining machine measurement data according to the present invention and a tire curing press according to the present invention.

[0254] Aspects of the invention are illustrated by way of example in the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0255] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of an apparatus for obtaining measurement data from a machine according to the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a further block diagram of an embodiment of an apparatus for obtaining measurement data from a machine according to the invention; [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of another embodiment of an apparatus for obtaining measurement data from a machine according to the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the functional modules of an embodiment of a method for obtaining measurement data of a machine according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0256] 1 shows an embodiment of an apparatus (1) for obtaining measurement data of a machine (10) according to the invention, which has a determination device (2) for determining at least one machine parameter and an evaluation unit (3) for evaluating the data determined by means of the determination device (2).

[0257] The data captured by the capture device (2) can be transmitted directly or indirectly via a network (4) to the evaluation unit (3). "Indirectly" means that the data is first stored in a storage device (5). In addition, the captured data is stored in parallel in an external storage device (6), which is realized here as a cloud storage.

[0258] In the illustrated example, the grasping device (2) accesses the machine control device to grasp the machine data.

[0259] 2 is a schematic block diagram of a device (1) for obtaining measurement data from a machine (10) according to the invention applied to a tire curing press. The evaluation unit (3) is realized by means of an application running on a server (7). Outputs for the "energy monitoring" and "condition monitoring" functions can be output to an output device (8).

[0260] 3 shows diagrammatically the application of the device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a machine (10) according to the invention as a digital maintenance tool. Information about the maintenance requirements of the monitored tire curing press is derived based on cycle time monitoring, evaluation of machine messages and monitoring of media consumption (in this case energy consumption).

[0261] FIG. 4 shows diagrammatically the use of data and functions of an apparatus (1) for obtaining measurement data of a machine (10) according to the present invention in combination with statistical or machine learning models to enable predictions about the duration of cycles and sub-cycles of a tire curing press. [Explanation of symbols]

[0262] 1. Equipment for obtaining measurement data from a tire curing press 2 Grasping device 3 Evaluation Unit

Claims

1. The tire curing press monitor includes at least one determining device (2) configured for monitoring at least one tire curing press and for determining at least one machine parameter of the at least one tire curing press to be monitored, and at least one evaluation unit (3), 1. An apparatus (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press, wherein the at least one evaluation unit (3) is designed for monitoring a state of the at least one monitored tire curing press on the basis of at least one machine parameter ascertained, 1. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press, characterized in that by means of the at least one evaluation unit (3), additional data of the tire manufacturing process can be read out from at least one process step upstream and / or downstream of the tire curing press and can be used to monitor the state of the at least one tire curing press being monitored.

2. 2. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the at least one evaluation unit (3) is designed to read out stored set values, tolerance values ​​and / or limit values ​​of the at least one machine parameter to be monitored, to compare the determined actual values ​​with the set values, tolerance ranges and / or limit values ​​for the set values ​​and to detect deviations if at least one of the determined machine parameters does not fall within a defined tolerance range for a set value or exceeds the respective limit value.

3. 3. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the at least one evaluation unit (3) is designed to automatically detect at least one cause underlying the deviation or to automatically define possible causes by assigning in time the course of the at least one ascertained machine parameter to a specific process step or machine movement.

4. 4. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as described in claim 3, characterized in that the assigned possible causes are built into cause lists, at least one criterion is assigned to each of the causes listed in each of the cause lists, and from checking the presence or absence of the at least one criterion it is possible to determine whether each of the causes is or may be applicable.

5. 5. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, if a deviation outside the tolerance range is detected, the at least one evaluation unit (3) is designed to read out additional data, by the evaluation of which the cause in connection with the detected deviation can be automatically identified or at least further narrowed down.

6. 6. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to claim 5, characterized in that the additional data is readable from at least one process step of the tire manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the tire curing press.

7. 7. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as claimed in any one of claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the readable additional data comprises sensor data and / or machine messages and / or media consumption relating to the at least one tire curing press monitored and / or the corresponding tire curing press.

8. 8. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press as claimed in any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that with the aid of the evaluation unit (3) criteria for the presence or absence of specific causes for detected deviations can be automatically checked by evaluating additional read-out data in the form of sensor data, machine messages, media consumption and / or data from at least one process step of the tire manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the tire curing press.

9. 9. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to claims 5 to 8, characterized in that it has at least one communication device for connecting to at least one additional data source and / or transmitting the data to a higher level storage and / or evaluation unit.

10. The device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to claims 5 to 9, characterized in that the at least one evaluation unit (3) is designed to automatically generate, based on the determined at least one cause or the determined possible causes for the at least one detected deviation, suggestions for eliminating the causes and / or to perform automatic cause elimination and / or to output suggestions or instructions for further cause determination.

11. A tire vulcanizing press, characterized in that it comprises at least one device (1) for obtaining measurement data according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. 1. A method for obtaining measurement data for at least one tire curing press, comprising the steps of: At least the following steps: a. determining at least one machine parameter of at least one tire curing press being monitored; b. automatically comparing said at least one machine parameter to a set point; c. Automatically detect deviations that exceed defined tolerances; d. automatically retrieving data from at least one process step of a tire manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of said tire curing press; e) providing automatic condition monitoring of the at least one monitored tire curing press based on the detected deviations and the data from at least one process step of the tire manufacturing process upstream and / or downstream of the tire curing press; A method comprising the steps of:

13. 13. The method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that a cause list containing possible causes for the detected deviation is automatically populated based on the at least one detected deviation.

14. 14. A method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that an automatic check of the list of possible causes for the detected deviation is performed using at least one criterion for unambiguous identification of the at least one cause or for narrowing down the list of causes.

15. automatically subsequently retrieving action suggestions and / or action instructions for correcting the at least one identified cause; A method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press as described in any one of claims 13 and 14, characterized in that these are subsequently output and / or defined action instructions for correcting the at least one cause are automatically implemented.

16. 16. A method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that in parallel with the monitoring of at least one machine parameter or after detection of a deviation, data is automatically read in from at least one additional data source and used for an automatic unambiguous identification of said at least one cause or for a narrowing down of said list of causes based on defined criteria.

17. According to the present invention, there is provided a method for obtaining measurement data of at least one tire curing press according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that at least one device (1) for obtaining measurement data of a tire curing press according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or at least one tire curing press according to claim 11 is used.

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