Pump control method and apparatus

Abstract

One aspect of the present invention relates to a pump control unit (1) for controlling a pump (P1). The pump (P1) has a pump drive motor (2), a pump type identification device (5) for identifying a pump type, and a pump speed rating identification device (6) for identifying a pump speed rating. The pump control unit (1) includes at least one controller (10) configured to control an inverter (11) for supplying power to the pump drive motor (2), a pump type identification circuit (11), and a pump speed rating identification circuit (12). The pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to communicate with the pump type identification device (5) to identify the pump type, and the pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to output a pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) for identifying the pump type. The pump speed rating identification circuit (12) is configured to communicate with the pump speed rating identification device (6) to identify the pump speed rating, and the pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to output a pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) for identifying the pump speed rating. The controller (10) has a cross-check circuit (13) for receiving the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON). The cross-check circuit (13) is configured to identify a mismatch between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating. The cross-check circuit (13) is configured to output a mismatch signal (ID_CROSS-CHECK), which inhibits operation of the pump based on the identification of the mismatch. Aspects of the present invention also relate to a pump (P1) and a method of controlling the pump (P1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a pump control method and apparatus. Aspects of the invention relate to a pump control unit, a pump system, a pump device, and a pump control method.

Background Art

[0002] Pumps for pumping process gases, such as turbo molecular pumps (TMPs), may be used in harsh operating environments. For example, the pump may be exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation that require the use of suitably rugged materials. Considering the harsh operating environment, it has been recognized that it is advantageous to utilize a pump controller that is remote from the pump system. The pump controller can be placed in a benign environment that is not exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation. Active electronic devices within the pump controller, such as such microcontrollers and silicon-based integrated circuits, can be protected from damage resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation that could otherwise threaten their lifespan. The connection between the remote turbo molecular pump and the associated pump controller can consist of a power connection and signal cables. Power and signals can be combined for a particular application.

[0003] Standard turbo molecular pumps typically provide integrated control electronics within the pump system itself. Functional safety elements are provided by electronics specifically designed for the pump system. As a result, the mechanical integration of the pump controller within the pump system prevents incompatibility between the functional safety components and the pump system, so there is no risk of mismatch between the functional safety components and the wrong pump system.

[0004] When the pump controller is positioned distal to the pump, for example, at a large physical distance (e.g., up to 200m), certain technical challenges can arise. Maintaining the functional safety of the pump can be particularly problematic. In the case of high-speed pump systems such as turbomolecular pumps, a specific problem is operating the turbomolecular pump above its rated speed. This can lead to mechanical failure, and in some cases, vacuum seal failure or other mechanical failures. These problems can be exacerbated if the pump controller is configured to control multiple different pumps. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] The object of the present invention is to address one or more of the drawbacks associated with the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention provide a pump control unit, a pump system, a pump device, and a pump control method as described in the appended claims.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a pump control unit for controlling a pump is provided, the pump comprising a pump drive motor, a pump type identification device for identifying the pump type, and a pump speed rating identification device for identifying the pump speed rating, the pump control unit, A controller configured to control an inverter for supplying power to a pump drive motor, A pump type identification circuit configured to communicate with a pump type identification device to identify the pump type, and configured to output a pump type identification signal for identifying the pump type, A pump speed rating identification circuit is configured to communicate with a pump speed rating identification device to identify the pump speed rating, and the pump type identification circuit is configured to output a pump speed rating identification signal for identifying the pump speed rating. A cross-check circuit that receives a pump type identification signal and a pump speed rating identification signal, and identifies a mismatch between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating, The cross-check circuit is configured to output a mismatch signal to suppress pump operation based on the identification of a mismatch.

[0008] In at least certain implementation configurations, the pump control unit can provide a multi-level hardware detection scheme for identifying the remote pump system before operation. This detection scheme can be configured to optionally implement an overspeed protection system to help avoid pump operation at speeds exceeding the speed rating. This provides an improved functional safety element for the entire pump system.

[0009] The pump control unit can identify specific variations of the pump system. The identified variations can be cross-checked with the secondary pump speed rating identification signal. This allows the pump control unit to ensure that the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating are matched. In at least certain embodiments, the pump control unit can be configured to enable pump operation based on the identification of the match between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating.

[0010] The pump type identification circuit and the pump speed rating identification circuit can be implemented as two dedicated hardware detection circuits. Pump identification and pump speed rating can be identified via two signals, for example, first and second analog voltage signals. The two signals can be used by a cross-check circuit to verify that a valid pump system has been detected. To achieve a high level of protection (PL), the primary functional safety elements can be achieved exclusively by hardware electronics.

[0011] The pump control unit can perform complementary checks on the pump type identification signal and the pump speed rating signal, for example, via embedded firmware. These checks can enable diagnostics and / or complementary protection. For example, pump operation can be suppressed based on the detection of inconsistencies by the firmware. Firmware checks can complement the hardware checks described herein.

[0012] In at least certain embodiments, the pump control unit can provide one or more of the following advantages: • A hardware-based solution that provides redundancy to achieve improved reliability, thus enabling a high level of protection (PL) rating. A hardware-based solution that provides a clearly defined platform for evaluating reliable designs for functional safety. • A cost-effective solution allows pump systems to be categorized by speed range, reducing design complexity and the number of parts.

[0013] The cross-check circuit may be configured to output a mismatch signal to the trip latch circuit in order to suppress the operation of the pump. In at least certain embodiments, the trip latch circuit may be configured to suppress the operation of the inverter.

[0014] The pump type identification circuit can be configured to output a first current to the pump type identification circuit and measure the pump type identification voltage. The pump type identification circuit can be configured to identify the pump type based on the measured pump type identification voltage.

[0015] The pump speed rating identification circuit can be configured to output a second current to the pump speed rating identification circuit and measure the pump speed rating identification voltage. The pump speed rating identification circuit can be configured to identify the pump speed rating based on the measured pump speed rating identification voltage.

[0016] A cross-check circuit can be configured to identify a mismatch based on the determination that the measured pump type identification voltage and the measured pump speed rating identification voltage are different from each other. A cross-check circuit can also be configured to identify a mismatch based on the determination that the relationship between the measured pump type identification voltage and the measured pump speed rating identification voltage is outside a predetermined range.

[0017] At least one controller can be configured to receive a pump type identification signal and a pump speed rating identification signal.

[0018] At least one controller may be configured to perform a secondary check to identify a mismatch between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating, based on the pump type identification signal and the pump speed rating identification signal.

[0019] The above or each controller comprises at least one electronic processor and a memory device. A set of computer instructions can be stored in the memory device. When executed by at least one electronic processor, a computer instruction causes at least one electronic processor to perform the method described herein. In particular, a computer instruction causes at least one electronic processor to identify a second inconsistency.

[0020] At least one controller can be configured to suppress the operation of the pump based on the identification of an inconsistency.

[0021] At least one controller can be configured to control the operating speed of the pump based on the identified pump speed rating.

[0022] The pump control unit can include an overspeed detection unit. The overspeed detection unit can be configured based on a pump speed rating identification signal.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a pump system including the pump control unit described herein is provided. The pump system can include a pump device.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a pump drive motor; a pump type identification device for identifying a pump type; and a pump speed rating identification device for identifying a pump speed rating; are provided, and the pump type identification device and the pump speed rating identification device are operable independently of each other to identify the pump type and the pump speed rating, respectively.

[0025] The pump type identification device can include a pump type resistance network for establishing a pump type identification voltage that is independent of the supply of a first current.

[0026] The pump speed rating identification device can include a speed rating resistance network for establishing a pump speed rating identification voltage that is independent of the supply of a second current.

[0027] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a pump control unit for controlling the operation of a pump including a pump drive motor, a pump type identification device, and a pump speed rating identification device is provided, and the pump control unit The pump type is determined by communicating with the pump type identification device. The pump speed rating is determined by communicating with the pump speed rating identification device. The determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating are cross-checked. The pump operation is suppressed based on the identification of a mismatch between the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating. The pump controller can be configured to enable pump operation based on the identification of a match between the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating.

[0028] A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for controlling a pump comprising a pump drive motor, a pump type identification device, and a pump speed rating identification device, wherein the method is A step of determining the pump type by communicating with a pump type identification device, The steps include: determining the pump speed rating by communicating with a pump speed rating identification device, The steps include cross-checking the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating, Based on the identification of a mismatch between the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating, the pump operation is suppressed, This method may include enabling the operation of the pump based on the identification of a match between the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating.

[0029] The control units or controllers described herein may appropriately comprise a computer device having one or more electronic processors. A system may comprise a single control unit or electronic controller, or alternatively, different functions of a controller may be embodied in or hosted by different control units or controllers. As used herein, the terms “controller” or “control unit” are understood to include both a single control unit or controller and multiple control units or controllers operating collectively to provide any of the described control functions. To constitute a controller or control unit, a suitable instruction set may be provided to cause the control unit or computer device to implement the control techniques identified herein when executed. The instruction set may appropriately be incorporated into one or more electronic processors. Alternatively, the instruction set may be provided as software stored in one or more memories associated with the controller for execution on the computer device. A control unit or controller may be implemented as software running on one or more processors. One or more other control units or controllers may be implemented as software running on one or more processors, optionally, on the same one or more processors as the first controller. Other suitable configurations can also be used.

[0030] Within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, alternative forms, and in particular, the individual features thereof described in the preceding paragraph, claims and / or the following description and drawings are expressly intended to be interpretable independently or in any combination. That is, any embodiments and / or features may be combined in any way and / or combination, provided that such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to modify the originally filed claims or to file new claims thereunder, including the right to modify the originally filed claims to rely on and / or incorporate features of other claims, even if they were not originally claimed in that manner.

[0031] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings as illustrations. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0032] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of a pump control unit according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] A schematic diagram of a pump control unit equipped with a controller is shown. [Figure 3] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the controller. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the circuit diagram of the pump type identification circuit provided in the pump control unit for communicating with the onboard pump type identification device. [Figure 5] The circuit diagram shows the pump speed rating identification circuit installed in the pump control unit for communication with the onboard pump speed rating identification device. [Figure 6] The circuit diagram of the cross-check circuit installed in the pump control unit for comparing pump type and pump speed rating is shown. [Figure 7] The circuit diagram of the overspeed circuit installed in the pump control unit to identify pump overspeed is shown. [Figure 8]The circuit diagram of the overspeed trip circuit installed in the pump control unit to suppress the operation of the first pump is shown. [Figure 9] The circuit diagram of the latch circuit provided in the pump control unit to suppress the operation of the first pump is shown. [Figure 10] A flowchart illustrating the operation of the pump control unit according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 11] The first and second tables show the status conditions for pump type identification and pump speed rating identification. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] With reference to the attached figures, this specification describes a pump control unit 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The pump control unit 1 is configured to control a first pump P1 having a pump drive motor 2. The pump control unit 1 and the first pump P1 together form a pump system.

[0034] In this embodiment, the pump control unit 1 is selectively configured to control the operation of multiple different pumps Pn. The pumps Pn can be of different types (referred to herein as pump types) and / or have different speed ratings. Different pump types can be variations of the same pump Pn, or they can be different pumps Pn. Different types of pumps Pn can have different mechanical and / or electrical operating parameters. For example, the air gap flux can vary depending on the type of pump drive motor 2. The speed rating can, for example, define the full-load speed rating of the pump drive motor 2. Different speed ratings can have different mechanical and / or electrical operating parameters. As described herein, the pump control unit 1 is configured to modify its control functions based on the determined pump type and / or speed rating. The pump control unit 1 can also control diagnostic feedback based on the determined pump type and / or speed rating.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, the pump control unit 1 is described herein with reference to the first pump P1. The first pump P1 is a first pump type and has a first speed rating. The pump control unit 1 is separate from the first pump P1. In this embodiment, the pump control unit 1 is located remotely from the first pump P1 and provides remote control of the first pump P1. The pump control unit 1 is electrically connected to the first pump P1 by power and signal cables. The pump control unit 1 operates to determine the pump type and pump speed rating of the first pump P1. As described herein, the pump control unit 1 is configured to select an appropriate control strategy for controlling the operation of the first pump P1 based on the determined pump type and pump speed rating. The control method can be selected from a plurality of predetermined control methods.

[0036] In this embodiment, the first pump P1 is a vacuum pump for establishing a vacuum in an industrial process. When in use, the first pump P1 is configured to pump process gases. The first pump P1 can be, for example, a turbomolecular pump. The first pump P1 comprises a pump drive motor 2, a pump type identification device 5, and a pump speed rating identification device 6. The pump drive motor 2 is a permanent magnet (PM) motor. As schematically shown in Figure 1, the pump drive motor 2 comprises a rotor 7 and a stator 8. The pump type identification device 5 and the pump speed rating identification device 6 may be incorporated into the first pump P1. A three-phase alternating current is supplied to the motor 2 from an inverter 9. As described herein, the inverter 9 is controlled by a pump control unit 1. A schematic diagram of the pump control unit 1 is shown in Figure 2. The pump control unit 1 comprises a controller 10, as shown in Figure 3.

[0037] The pump type identification device 5 is provided to enable the pump control unit 1 to identify the pump type of the first pump P1. The pump type identification device 5 is implemented in hardware as a circuit. The pump type identification device 5 is configured to enable the pump control unit 1 to distinguish between two or more different pump types. The pump control unit 1 communicates with the pump type identification device 5 to identify that the first pump P1 is of the first pump type. The pump type identification device 5 enables the pump control unit 1 to distinguish between the first pump type and at least one second pump type. The pump type identification device 5 includes a pump type resistor network TRN1 consisting of one or more electrical registers. The registers are provided on a printed circuit board located inside the first pump P1. The printed circuit board and passive components are referred to as a pump electronic printed circuit assembly (pump electronic PCA). The pump type resistor network TRN1 has identifiable predefined pump type resistors. The pump type resistors are predefined and associated with the first pump type. Each pump Pn has a pump type identification device 5 comprising a pump type resistance network TRN1 having associated pump type resistors. The pump type resistors are predefined and differ for each pump type. The pump type resistors are selected to provide sufficient tolerance and range banding, such as allowing cable lengths up to 200 meters. The pump type resistors are capable of identifying eight or more different pump types. The pump control unit 1 can identify the pump type by measuring the pump identification voltage (PUMP_ID) across the pump type resistance network TRN1 to determine the pump type resistor. For example, a second pump P2 of a second type may have a second pump type resistor, which may comprise a second pump type resistance network different from that of the first pump type resistor.

[0038] The first pump P1 has a first speed rating. The speed rating can, for example, define the full-load speed rating of the first pump P1. If the first pump P1 is operated above its rated speed, there is a risk of mechanical failure, which may result in a failure of the vacuum seal. A pump speed rating identification device 6 is provided to enable the pump control unit 1 to identify the speed rating of the first pump P1. The pump speed rating identification device 6 is implemented in hardware as an electrical circuit. The pump speed rating identification device 6 may have the same configuration as the pump type identification device 5. The pump speed rating identification device 6 enables the identification of the speed rating of the first pump P1 as one of several different speed ratings. In particular, the pump type identification device 5 enables the pump control unit 1 to identify the first pump P1 as having a first speed rating. For example, different pumps Pn available in a particular range may have different speed ratings. The pump speed rating identification device 6 enables the distinction between the speed rating of the first pump P1 and the speed ratings of other pumps Pn. The pump speed rating identification device 6 includes a speed rating resistance network SRN1 consisting of one or more electrical resistors. The resistors are provided on a printed circuit board located inside the first pump P1. The speed rating resistance network SRN1 may be incorporated into the pump electronic circuit printed circuit board assembly (pump electronic circuit PCA). The pump type resistance network TRN1 and the speed rating resistance network SRN1 are independent of each other. The speed rating resistance network SRN1 has identifiable predetermined speed rating resistances. The first speed rating resistance is predetermined and associated with the first pump speed rating. Each pump Pn includes the pump speed rating identification device 6 and a speed rating resistance network SRN1 having speed rating resistances. The speed rating resistance is predetermined and differs for each speed rating. The speed rating resistance values ​​are selected to provide sufficient tolerance and range band, for example, to allow cable lengths up to 200 meters. The pump type resistor is capable of identifying four or more different pump speed ratings.The pump control unit 1 can identify the pump speed rating and determine the pump type resistance by measuring the pump speed identification voltage (PUMP_SPEED_ID) voltage across the speed rating resistance network SRN1. For example, a second pump P2 may have a second pump type resistance network having a second speed rating resistance, which is different from the first speed rating resistance.

[0039] As shown in Figure 2, the pump control unit 1 comprises a controller 10, a pump type identification circuit 11, a pump speed rating identification circuit 12, a cross-check circuit 13, a pump overspeed circuit 14, and a trip latch circuit 15. The controller 10 is configured to control the operation of the pump drive motor 2 by controlling the operation of the inverter 9. In particular, the controller 10 is configured to select and implement a control method for the pump drive motor 2 based on the determined pump type and pump speed rating. As shown in Figure 3, the controller 10 comprises at least one electronic processor 16 and a system memory 17. A set of computer instructions is stored in the system memory 17. When executed, these computer instructions cause the electronic processor 16 to implement the methods described herein. The controller 10 is configured to communicate with the pump type identification circuit 11, the pump speed rating identification circuit 12, the cross-check circuit 13, and the pump overspeed circuit 14. The pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 are implemented in hardware as separate circuits. The operation of the pump control unit 1 will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying diagrams.

[0040] The pump type identification circuit 11 is configured to communicate with the pump type identification device 5 to identify the pump type. The pump type identification circuit 11 is implemented in hardware. A second circuit diagram 200 representing the pump type identification circuit 11 is shown in Figure 4. The pump type identification circuit 11 is configured to output a pump type identification signal to the pump type identification device 5. The pump type identification signal includes a predetermined current generated by a current source. The pump type identification signal is injected into the pump type resistance network TRN1 provided in the pump type identification device 5. The voltage measured across the pump type resistance network TRN1 is used to determine the pump type resistance of the pump type resistance network TRN1. The pump type resistance is unique to each pump type. This allows the pump type identification circuit 11 to identify the pump type based on the measured voltage. The pump type identification circuit 11 outputs a pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) for identifying the pump type. In this embodiment, the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) indicates the voltage measured across the pump type resistance network TRN1. The pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) is output to the controller 10 and the cross-check circuit 13. In this embodiment, the pump type identification circuit 11 identifies the first pump P1 as the first pump type.

[0041] The pump speed rating identification circuit 12 is configured to communicate with the pump speed rating identification device 6 to identify the pump speed rating. The pump speed rating identification circuit 12 is implemented in hardware. A third circuit diagram 300 representing the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 is shown in Figure 5. The pump speed rating identification circuit 12 is configured to output a pump speed rating identification signal to the pump speed rating identification device 6. The pump speed rating identification signal includes a predetermined current generated by a current source. The pump speed rating identification signal is injected into the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1 provided in the pump speed rating identification device 6. The voltage measured across the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1 is used to determine the pump speed rating resistance of the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1. The pump speed rating resistance is unique to each pump speed rating. This allows the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 to identify the pump speed rating based on the measured voltage. The pump speed rating identification circuit 12 outputs a pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) to identify the pump speed rating. In this embodiment, the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) indicates the voltage measured across the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1. The pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) is output to the controller 10 and the cross-check circuit 13. In this embodiment, the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 identifies that the first pump P1 has a first pump speed rating.

[0042] The cross-check circuit 13 is configured to determine whether there is a valid match between the pump type identified by the pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed identified by the pump speed rating identification circuit 12. The cross-check circuit 13 is performed in hardware. A fourth circuit diagram 400 representing the cross-check circuit 13 is shown in Figure 6. The cross-check circuit 13 receives a pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) from the pump type identification circuit 11 and a pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) from the pump speed rating identification circuit 12. The cross-check circuit 13 compares the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) to determine whether there is a match between the pump type identified by the pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed identified by the pump speed rating identification circuit 12. The cross-check circuit 13 performs a hardware check using a window comparator to identify a match or mismatch. The measured pump identification voltage is used by the cross-check circuit 13 along with the pump speed identification voltage to determine whether the first pump P1 is correctly identified. This analysis is performed before the operation of the first pump P1 and helps ensure safe operation. The pump identification voltage and pump speed identification voltage must match or fall within a specified range before and during the operation of the first pump P1. If the cross-check circuit 13 determines that there is a match between the identified pump type and the pump speed rating, a matching signal is output to the controller 10. If the cross-check circuit 13 determines that there is a mismatch between the identified pump type and the pump speed rating, a mismatch signal is output to the controller 10. The cross-check circuit 13 is configured to output a mismatch signal (ID_CROSS-CHECK) to suppress the operation of the pump P1 based on the identification of a mismatch. The mismatch signal (ID_CROSS-CHECK) is output to the controller 10 and the trip latch circuit 15. Only effective matching before and during operation leads to power supply to the first pump P1.If the cross-check circuit 13 determines that the identified pump type and pump speed rating are not a valid match, the trip latch circuit 15 controls the inverter 9 to suppress the power supply to the pump drive motor 2.

[0043] The pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) are output to the controller 10. At least one processor 16 is configured to control the operation of the first pump P1 based on the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON). The at least one processor 16 can, for example, provide functional performance and / or diagnostic feedback based on the pump type identified by the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON). Functional performance can, for example, define one or more parameters for estimating the air gap magnetic flux in the pump drive motor 2. Functional performance and / or diagnostic feedback can be tailored to the identified pump type. Different functional performance and / or diagnostic feedback can be provided for different pump types. The controller 10 can control the operating speed of the first pump P1 based on the speed rating identified by the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON). For example, the controller 10 can determine an upper speed threshold based on the identified pump speed rating. The controller 10 can optionally be configured to perform a secondary check using embedded firmware to identify a match or mismatch between the pump type identified by the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identified by the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON). If the secondary check identifies a mismatch, the controller 10 can control the inverter 9 to suppress power supply to the pump drive motor 2. In at least certain embodiments, the operation of the first pump P1 can be suppressed unless both the controller 10 and the cross-check circuit 13 identify a valid match between the pump type and the pump speed rating.

[0044] The pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) is output to the pump overspeed circuit 14. The pump overspeed circuit 14 is implemented in hardware. A fifth circuit diagram 500 representing the pump overspeed circuit 14 is shown in Figure 7. The pump speed rating is used to configure the overspeed circuit 14 to control the operating speed of the first pump P1. The voltage measured across the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1 is used to configure the pump overspeed trip circuit 18. The pump overspeed trip circuit 18 is implemented in hardware. A sixth circuit diagram 600 representing the pump overspeed trip circuit 18 is shown in Figure 8. The voltage measured across the pump speed rating resistance network SRN1 is used to configure a dedicated current source to set the interval timer for the pump overspeed circuit 14. In this embodiment, the pump overspeed circuit 14 and the pump overspeed trip circuit 18 are implemented as separate circuits. In a modified example, the pump overspeed circuit 14 and the pump overspeed trip circuit 18 can be coupled together.

[0045] The trip latch circuit 15 is implemented in hardware. A seventh circuit diagram 700 representing the trip latch circuit 15 is shown in Figure 9. The trip latch circuit 15 is configured to suppress the operation of the first pump P1 based on the identification of a mismatch by either the controller 10 or the cross-check circuit 13.

[0046] Next, the operation of the pump control unit 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart 800 shown in Figure 10. The pump control unit 1 is connected to the first pump P1 using power and signal cables (block 805). The pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 are mounted on the first pump P1. The pump control unit 1 determines the pump type by querying the pump type identification circuit 11 (block 810). The pump control unit 1 determines the pump speed rating of the first pump P1 by querying the pump speed rating identification circuit 12 (block 815). The cross-check circuit 15 compares the determined pump type and pump speed rating to determine whether there is a valid match or a mismatch (i.e., an invalid match) (block 820). If the cross-check circuit 15 detects a mismatch, the operation of the first pump P1 is suppressed (block 825). In this embodiment, the trip latch circuit 15 operates to suppress the operation of the first pump P1. The pump control unit 1 can optionally output a mismatch signal to warn the operator of a mismatch between the pump type and the pump speed rating. If the cross-check circuit 15 determines that there is a valid match, the operation of the first pump P1 is enabled (block 830). The pump control unit 1 controls the first pump P1 based on the determined pump speed rating. For example, the pump control unit 1 can limit the operating speed of the first pump P1 to match the pump speed rating (block 835). The operation of the first pump P1 is terminated in the conventional manner (block 840).

[0047] In at least certain embodiments, the pump control unit 1 can be used to safely control multiple different pumps Pn. Each pump Pn is equipped with a pump type identification circuit 11 and a pump speed rating identification circuit 12. The pump control unit 1 injects a predetermined current into the pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed rating identification circuit 12. The measured voltage indicates the pump type and pump speed rating of the pump Pn. The pump control unit 1 utilizes a cross-check circuit 15 to verify that the pump type and pump speed rating are matched. If there is no effective match between the pump type and pump speed rating, the cross-check circuit 15 outputs a mismatch signal. The trip latch circuit 15 is configured to suppress the operation of the pump Pn based on the reception of the mismatch signal. By comparing the pump type and pump speed rating, the pump control unit 1 performs additional checks to ensure accurate identification of the pump Pn. The pump control unit 1 provides hardware redundancy, which is an important feature for achieving high reliability of functional safety. The system uses two independent identification circuits: the pump type identification circuit 11 and the pump speed rating identification circuit 12. If any of these circuits detect an incorrect pump type or speed type, the pump control unit 1 disables the output power from the pump control unit 1 to the pump Pn. Furthermore, each detection circuit is designed to capture both short-circuit and open conditions. In at least certain embodiments, this may provide an additional level of protection. The pump control unit 1 implements an appropriate control scheme based on the identified pump Pn. For example, the pump control unit 1 can select one of several predefined control schemes based on the identified pump Pn.

[0048] The first table (Table A) and the second table (Table B) are shown in Figure 11. The first table 25 represents the state conditions of the pump speed rating identification signal, and the second table 30 represents the state conditions of the pump type identification signal used by the cross-check circuit 15. When these state conditions are combined, a LOW output signal indicating a valid matching condition must be generated. If the output signal remains HIGH, a mismatch condition, i.e., a short-circuit condition or an opening condition, has been detected. It will be understood that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of this application.

[0049] TIFF0007836902000001.tif117153 TIFF0007836902000002.tif56153

Claims

1. A pump control unit (1) for controlling a pump (P1), The pump (P1) comprises a pump drive motor (2), a pump type identification device (5) for identifying the pump type, and a pump speed rating identification device (6) for identifying the pump speed rating. The pump control unit (1) At least one controller (10) configured to control an inverter in order to supply power to the pump drive motor (2), A pump type identification circuit (11) configured to communicate with the pump type identification device (5) to identify the pump type, and configured to output a pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) for identifying the pump type, A pump speed rating identification circuit (12) is configured to communicate with the pump speed rating identification device (6) to identify the pump speed rating, and the pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to output a pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) for identifying the pump speed rating. A cross-check circuit (13) receives the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON) and identifies a mismatch between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating. Equipped with, The cross-check circuit (13) is configured to output a mismatch signal (ID_CROSS-CHECK) and suppress the operation of the pump based on the identification of the mismatch. Pump control unit (1).

2. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein the cross-check circuit (13) is configured to output the mismatch signal (ID_CROSS-CHECK) to the trip latch circuit in order to suppress the operation of the pump.

3. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to output a first current to the pump type identification circuit (11) and measure a pump type identification voltage, and the pump type identification circuit (11) is configured to identify the pump type based on the measured pump type identification voltage.

4. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the pump speed rating identification circuit (12) is configured to output a second current to the pump speed rating identification circuit (12) to measure a pump speed rating identification voltage, and the pump speed rating identification circuit (12) is configured to identify the pump speed rating based on the measured pump speed rating identification voltage.

5. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 3, wherein the cross-check circuit (13) is configured to identify a mismatch based on the determination that the relationship between the measured pump type identification voltage and the measured pump speed rating identification voltage is outside a predetermined range.

6. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one controller (10) is configured to receive the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON).

7. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one controller (10) is configured to perform a secondary check to identify a mismatch between the identified pump type and the identified pump speed rating based on the pump type identification signal (PUMP_ID_MON) and the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON).

8. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 7, wherein the at least one controller (10) is configured to suppress the operation of the pump based on the identification of the mismatch.

9. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one controller (10) is configured to control the operating speed of the pump based on the identified pump speed rating.

10. The pump control unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising an overspeed detection unit configured based on the pump speed rating identification signal (PUMP_SPEED_ID_MON).

11. A pump system comprising a pump control unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2 and a pump device (P1).

12. A pump device (P1), Pump drive motor (2), A pump type identification device (5) for identifying the pump type, A pump speed rating identification device (6) for identifying the pump speed rating, Equipped with, Pump device (P1), wherein the pump type identification device (5) and the pump speed rating identification device (6) are capable of operating independently of each other to identify the pump type and the pump speed rating, respectively.

13. The pump device (P1) according to claim 12, wherein the pump type identification device (5) comprises a pump type resistance network for establishing a pump type identification voltage based on the supply of a first current to the pump type identification device (5).

14. The pump device (P1) according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the pump speed rating identification device (6) comprises a speed rating resistor network for establishing a pump speed rating identification voltage based on the supply of a second current to the pump speed rating identification device (6).

15. A method for controlling a pump (P1) which includes a pump drive motor (2), a pump type identification device (5), and a pump speed rating identification device (6), The steps include communicating with the pump type identification device (5) to determine the pump type, The steps include: communicating with the pump speed rating identification device (6) to determine the pump speed rating, The steps include cross-checking the pump type and pump speed rating determined above, A step of suppressing the operation of the pump (P1) based on the identification of a mismatch between the determined pump type and the determined pump speed rating, Methods that include...

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