DE102023116403A1 - System and method for collecting sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (100) for detecting sensor data (370) in a spatial segment in the region of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant, comprising an energy generation unit (200), a sensor unit (300), a communication unit (400) and a data processing device (500); wherein the energy generation unit (200) comprises a thermocouple (210) and an energy storage module (250) and is designed to supply the sensor unit (300) with energy; wherein the thermocouple (210) uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or the production plant to generate energy; wherein the energy storage module (250) is designed to supply the sensor unit (300) with energy; wherein the thermocouple (210) uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or the production plant to generate energy; wherein the energy storage module (250) is designed to store the electrical energy and to deliver it to the sensor unit (300) when required; wherein the sensor unit (300) comprises one or more sensors (350) and is designed to record sensor data (370) of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment; and wherein the communication unit (400) is designed to forward the sensor data (370) to the data processing device (500) for further processing.

Description

The invention relates to a system and a method for detecting sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant, a drying section, a calender and a computer program product.

In a machine for producing or treating a fibrous web, the moist fibrous web, e.g. a paper or pulp web, is dried in a drying section by being alternately guided over heated cylinders and then over a short distance over a deflection roller in order to evaporate the liquid contained in the fibrous web. After the fibrous web has been detached from the heated drying cylinder, a space segment or gap, also known as a pocket, forms between the drying cylinder and the fibrous web. A stripping device, such as a scraper, can be provided in the area of the pocket to remove deposits on the drying cylinder. In addition, the stripping device prevents the fibrous web from wrapping around the drying cylinder, particularly in the event of production disruptions.

Similar pockets also form in smoothing devices such as calenders, especially in multi-roll calenders, where the fibrous web is passed through several roll nips one after the other for smoothing.

In both cases, it is very helpful for the plant operator to have as precise a knowledge as possible of the conditions in these pockets. This particularly applies to the temperature, humidity and air flow conditions in the pockets. However, measurements in these pockets are not easy due to the limited space, the harsh environmental conditions, etc.

The DE 43 12 485 A1 discloses a two-pass drying section for paper webs, in which stabilizers extending across the width of the paper web are provided to suppress disruptive influences on the free draw sections between the upper and lower rows of cylinders, on which the paper web is supported by a developing air cushion.

The DE 40 37 423 A1 discloses a drying section of a paper machine consisting of a single-row drying group with several drying cylinders, an upper support belt and lower deflection rollers as well as an adjacent, also single-row drying group with drying cylinders, a lower drying wire and upper deflection rollers. As a result, both sides of the web come into direct contact with the drying cylinders one after the other. The drying cylinders and the deflection rollers are supported on two longitudinal beams running horizontally in the longitudinal direction of the machine.

The DE 10 2009 016 176 A1 discloses a scraper bar made of fiber-reinforced plastic composite material with a blade holder for fastening the scraper blade that cleans a roller. A connection point for sensors is provided on the scraper bar. Since the scraper bar extends over the entire width of the roller, a sensor can be provided at any point in the width direction. In addition to the mechanical connection, the necessary interfaces for the control, the power supply and the supply of the actuators with drive medium (e.g. compressed air) can be provided.

The object underlying the invention is to create possibilities for improved detection of the ambient conditions such as temperature, humidity, flow, etc. in a spatial segment such as a pocket in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant, which are easy to implement and can be used flexibly and provide a stable energy supply for reliable detection of the sensor signals by a sensor unit.

This object is achieved according to the invention with regard to a system by the features of patent claim 1, with regard to a method by the features of claim 8, with regard to a drying section by the features of claim 13, with regard to a calender by the features of claim 14, and with regard to a computer program product by the features of claim 15. The further claims relate to preferred embodiments of the invention.

In the present invention, the temperature gradient in a spatial segment in the region of a moving assembly, which is designed in particular as a drying cylinder in a fiber machine or as a rotating roller in a calender, is used by a thermocouple to convert thermal energy into electrical energy. The electrical energy is stored in an energy storage module, which is designed in particular as a battery or capacitor, and can be retrieved by a sensor unit for detecting sensor signals of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment, which is designed in particular as a pocket.

Since the time intervals for recording sensor signals of the measurement parameters are in a range of 15 to 60 minutes, the amount of energy generated by the thermocouple is sufficient to supply a sensor. In particular, a measuring device with an energy generation unit, a sensor unit and a communication unit can be designed as a mobile device that can be connected to different modules. This achieves a high level of flexibility and can save costs because a separate measuring device does not have to be provided for each module.

According to a first aspect, the invention provides a system for recording sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant. The system comprises an energy generation unit, a sensor unit, a communication unit and a data processing device. The energy generation unit comprises a thermocouple and an energy storage module and is designed to supply the sensor unit with energy, wherein the thermocouple uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or production plant to generate energy and the energy storage module is designed to store the electrical energy generated and to deliver it to the sensor unit when required. The sensor unit comprises one or more sensors and is designed to record sensor data of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment. The communication unit is designed to forward the sensor data to the data processing device for further processing.

It can be provided that the system comprises a housing in which the energy generation unit, the sensor unit and the communication unit are arranged; wherein the housing can be firmly or detachably connected to a fastening device arranged in the spatial segment.

This is made possible by a portable system: Suitable holding devices for the measuring system can be provided at several points along the paper machine. When the machine is shut down, which is planned to happen every few days, the measuring system can be quickly and easily transported from position 1 to position 2. No cables or other infrastructure need to be laid. This makes the system very suitable for troubleshooting.

In a further development, it is provided that the moving assembly is designed as a drying cylinder of the drying section of a fiber machine and the space segment forms a pocket between the drying cylinder and a fiber web. The fiber web can be supported by a covering, e.g. a drying screen.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the moving assembly is designed as a roller of a calender and the space segment forms a pocket between the roller and a fibrous web.

In both the drying section and the calender, scrapers are provided for cleaning the cylinders or rolls. Such scrapers are attached to so-called scraper beams, which extend across the entire width of the machine. It can be advantageous if the system according to the invention is or can be attached entirely or partially to such a scraper beam.

In particular, it can be provided that suitable holding devices for the measuring system are provided on several doctor bars of a drying section, so that the conditions of the pocket air can be determined successively at different points in the drying section using a single measuring system.

In preferred embodiments, the sensor unit can be positioned between 1m and 3m, for example 2m from the edge of the machine - preferably from the driver-side edge of the machine. This distance is advantageous because the position is close enough to the edge to be able to insert the sensor unit - possibly in the form of a housing in which the energy generation unit, the sensor unit and the communication unit are arranged - from the outside during a short machine downtime. On the other hand, the position is far enough away from the edge to ensure that the measurement is not distorted by undesirable external influences.

Advantageously, the energy storage module is designed as a battery or capacitor.

In particular, at least one sensor of the sensor unit is designed as a temperature sensor and/or as a humidity sensor and/or as a flow sensor. It is particularly advantageous if the sensor unit is set up to measure both temperature and humidity. This makes it possible to determine the relative humidity or the dew point of the pocket air. Knowledge of this value can be particularly useful with regard to improved control or regulation.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that the data processing device is designed to generate output data from the sensor data, wherein the output data can be in the form of images, graphics, diagrams, holograms, number series, Power Point presentations and/or audio sequences such as acoustic warning signals or voice messages, in particular for displaying a temperature, humidity and/or flow profile or the course of the corresponding values over time; as well as process parameters of the machine or production plant.

In particular, the data analysis device uses a software application with artificial intelligence algorithms for analyzing and processing the sensor data, wherein the artificial intelligence algorithms include deep learning with neural networks and/or transformers with encoders and decoders and/or reinforcement learning agents (LV).

• - Erzeugen von Energie mittels einer Energieerzeugungseinheit mit einem Thermoelement und einem Energiespeichermodul, wobei das Thermoelement einen während des Betriebs der Maschine oder Produktionsanlage in dem Raumsegment auftretenden Temperaturgradienten zur Energieerzeugung nutzt und in elektrische Energie umwandelt und an das Energiespeichermodul weiterleitet, und wobei das Energiespeichermodul die elektrische Energie speichert;
• - Versorgen einer Sensoreinheit mit Energie von dem Energiespeichermodul;
• - Erfassen von Sensordaten von Messparametern wie Temperatur, Feuchte und/oder Strömung in dem Raumsegment durch einen oder mehrere Sensoren der Sensoreinheit;
• - Weiterleiten der Sensordaten von einer Kommunikationseinheit zu einer Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung;
• - Verarbeiten der Sensordaten in der Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung.

According to a second aspect, the invention provides a method for acquiring sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or production plant. The method comprises the following method steps:

• - generating energy by means of an energy generation unit with a thermocouple and an energy storage module, wherein the thermocouple uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or production plant to generate energy and converts it into electrical energy and transmits it to the energy storage module, and wherein the energy storage module stores the electrical energy;
• - Supplying a sensor unit with energy from the energy storage module;
• - Acquisition of sensor data of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the room segment by one or more sensors of the sensor unit;
• - Forwarding the sensor data from a communication unit to a data processing device;
• - Processing the sensor data in the data processing device.

In a further development, it is provided that the moving assembly is designed as a drying cylinder of a fiber machine and the space segment forms a pocket between the drying cylinder and a fiber web, or that the moving assembly is designed as a roller of a calender and the space segment forms a pocket between the roller and a fiber web.

In an advantageous embodiment, it is provided that at least one sensor of the sensor unit is designed as a temperature sensor, as a humidity sensor or as a flow sensor.

In a further embodiment, it is provided that the data processing device is designed to generate output data from the sensor data, wherein the output data can be in the form of images, graphics, diagrams, holograms, number series, Power Point presentations and/or audio sequences, such as acoustic warning signals or voice messages, in particular for displaying a temperature, humidity and/or flow profile - or the temporal progression of these values - as well as process parameters of the machine or production plant, and are output on an output module and/or forwarded to at least one control device of the machine or production plant.

It can be particularly advantageous if the sensor data is used to control or regulate the drying section or the calender. For example, the steam pressure in the corresponding drying cylinders in the drying section can be adjusted. If, for example, the pocket air is completely saturated with moisture, the steam pressure can possibly be reduced (and thus energy and costs saved) without reducing the drying performance. In addition, the risk of condensation can be avoided.

Alternatively, if the relative humidity of the bag air is very low, the drying performance can be increased by increasing the vapor pressure.

According to a third aspect, the invention provides a measuring device for recording sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant. The measuring device comprises a housing in which a power generation unit, a sensor unit and a communication unit are arranged, wherein the housing can be firmly or detachably connected to a fastening device arranged in the spatial segment.

According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides a drying cylinder for a pulp machine. The drying cylinder has an identification code that can be read by a reading unit of a measuring device and/or a user interface, and wherein the identification tion code is designed as a transponder with an RFID chip or NFC chip (Near Field Communication) or as a QR code.

According to a fifth aspect, the invention provides a roller for a calender. The roller comprises an identification code that can be read by a reading unit of a measuring device and/or a user interface, and wherein the identification code is designed as a transponder with an RFID chip or NFC chip (Near Field Communication) or as a QR code.

According to a sixth aspect, the invention provides a computer program product comprising executable program code that carries out the method according to the second aspect.

The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to embodiments shown in the drawing.

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung einer Trockenpartie einer Faserstoffmaschine;
• 2 eine schematische Darstellung von Walzen eines Kalenders;
• 3 eine Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Systems;
• 4 eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Messvorrichtung;
• 5 ein Flussdiagramm zur Erläuterung der einzelnen Verfahrensschritte des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens;
• 6 eine schematische Darstellung eines Computerprogrammprodukts.

It shows:

• 1 a schematic representation of a drying section of a pulp machine;
• 2 a schematic representation of rollers of a calendar;
• 3 a representation of a system according to the invention;
• 4 a schematic representation of a measuring device according to the invention;
• 5 a flow chart explaining the individual process steps of the process according to the invention;
• 6 a schematic representation of a computer program product.

Additional features, aspects and advantages of the invention or embodiments thereof will become apparent from the detailed description taken in conjunction with the claims.

1 shows a drying section 10 of a pulp machine for producing or processing a pulp web 20. A pulp machine is a machine that is mainly used for producing paper and cardboard. It consists of several sections that are run through one after the other. First, the waste paper is shredded and mixed to form a homogeneous mass. This mass is then diluted with water and poured onto an endless sieve, where the excess water can drain off. The remaining material is further processed into the finished paper or cardboard by pressing and drying. A pulp machine is usually very large and technically complex, so that precise control and monitoring is required to achieve a high quality of the end product.

The drying section 10 is the last section of a pulp machine. This is where the finished paper is dried. The drying section consists of a series of heated drying cylinders that receive the wet paper and remove the moisture from it by rotation. The drying section is divided into several sections to ensure gradual and even drying of the paper. During the drying process, the paper must develop high strength so that it does not break or tear. The drying section can also be equipped with special technological solutions such as air nozzles, suction devices and spray nozzles to accelerate drying and improve the quality of the final product. At the end of the drying section, the paper is wound up and prepared for shipping or further processing. The drying section therefore plays a crucial role in the production of high-quality paper and board.

In the fiber machine, the moist fiber web 20, e.g. a paper or pulp web, is dried in the drying section 10 by being alternately guided over heated drying cylinders 30 and then over a short distance over a deflection roller 40 in order to evaporate the liquid contained in the fiber web 20. After the fiber web 20 has been detached from the heated drying cylinder 30, a gap is formed between the drying cylinder 30 and the fiber web 20, which is also referred to as a pocket 50. In the area of the pocket 50, a stripping device 70 such as a scraper can be provided to remove deposits on the drying cylinder 30. In addition, the stripping device 70 prevents the fiber web 20 from wrapping around the drying cylinder 30, particularly in the event of production disruptions. Such scrapers are attached to so-called scraper beams, which extend across the entire width of the machine. It can be advantageous if the system according to the invention is or can be attached in whole or in part to such a scraper bar. The sensor unit can be arranged between 1m and 3m, for example 2m from the edge of the machine - preferably from the driver's side edge of the machine.

2 shows a calender 80 with several rollers 90, between which a fibrous web 20 is passed. A calender is a machine for smoothing materials, which generally consists of two or more rotating rollers 90 which are pressed against each other with controlled pressure. The material, e.g. paper, cardboard, film or fabric, is passed between the rollers 90 and smoothed by the pressure exerted by the rollers 90. The rollers 90 can have different surface patterns or structures to give the material certain effects or finishes.

In the paper industry, calenders are used after the papermaking process to achieve uniform thickness and surface smoothness. The material passes through rollers that apply pressure to compress and flatten the fibers, producing a more uniform and smoother sheet of paper or board. In textile manufacturing, calenders are used to improve the appearance and texture of fabrics. The fabric is passed through the rollers, which may have various patterns or embossings engraved on their surface. Pressure and heat can be used to change the surface texture of the fabric, create shine, or improve certain properties such as crease resistance or water repellency. Calenders are important to these industries to achieve the desired quality and properties of the materials processed.

3 shows a system 100 according to the invention for recording sensor data in the pocket 50 between the drying cylinder 30 and the fibrous web 20. The system 100 according to the invention comprises an energy generation unit 200, a sensor unit 300, a communication unit 400, a data processing device 500 and an output module 700.

The energy generation unit 200, the sensor unit 300, the communication unit 400 and the data processing device 500 can each be equipped with a processor and/or a memory unit. The data processing device 500 can be designed as an independent computer unit or as a cloud-based solution in a cloud computing infrastructure. In particular, the data processing device 500 can be integrated in a mobile terminal.

In the context of the invention, a "processor" can be, for example, a machine or an electronic circuit. A processor can in particular be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor or a microcontroller, e.g. an application-specific integrated circuit or a digital signal processor, possibly in combination with a memory unit for storing program instructions. The processor can also be a virtualized processor, a virtual machine or a soft CPU. It can also be, for example, a programmable processor that is equipped with configuration steps for carrying out the aforementioned method according to the invention or is configured with configuration steps such that the programmable processor realizes the inventive features of the method, the entity, the modules or other aspects and/or sub-aspects of the invention.

In the context of the invention, a "memory unit" or a "memory module" and the like can be understood as, for example, a volatile memory in the form of a random access memory (RAM) or a permanent memory such as a hard disk or a data carrier or, for example, an exchangeable memory module. The memory module can also be a cloud storage solution.

The energy generation unit 200 serves to supply energy to the sensor unit 300 and contains at least one thermocouple 210, which generates energy from a temperature difference. An energy storage module 250 is provided for storing the energy generated by the thermocouple 210. The energy storage module 250 supplies the sensor unit 300 and the communication unit 400 with electrical energy. The energy storage module 250 can in particular be designed as a battery or capacitor.

A thermocouple is a temperature measuring device based on the Seebeck effect, which occurs when the temperatures at two points on a material are different. If the materials have different electrical conductivities, the temperature difference creates an electrical potential between the points. This voltage can be used to generate electrical energy.

A thermocouple consists of two wires made of different metals, usually connected at one end to form a junction. The two metals used in a thermocouple are chosen for their thermoelectric properties, meaning they produce a voltage in response to temperature differences. The junction where the two wires meet is usually exposed to the environment or substance whose temperature is being measured. This junction is called the measuring or hot spot. The other ends of the wires are connected to a measuring device or circuit for measuring temperature or generating energy. If the temperature at the hot junction is different from the temperature at the other ends of the wires (called the reference or cold junctions), a voltage is generated due to the Seebeck effect. This voltage is proportional to the temperature at which the two wires meet. tional to the temperature difference and can be measured and interpreted as a temperature value.

When measuring temperature, the thermocouple is connected to a measuring device such as a temperature controller or temperature indicator. The voltage generated is converted into a temperature reading by the meter using calibration tables or mathematical equations specific to the thermocouple type.

Thermocouples can also be used to generate energy. When there is a temperature difference between the junctions of the thermocouple, a voltage is generated. This voltage can be used to operate low-power electronic devices or systems. When a thermocouple is used to generate energy, the temperature difference between a hot source and a colder environment is exploited. When the thermocouple is connected to a load, such as a resistor or low-power device, the voltage generated can create a small current flow and power the load. Thermocouples used to generate energy generally require larger temperature differences and optimized materials to maximize their efficiency.

The thermocouple 210 draws its energy from the temperature difference that occurs in the area of the pocket 50 during operation of the drying section 20 of a fiber machine or a calender. This temperature difference can be used to generate a voltage in the thermocouple 210. However, this can only generate a relatively small amount of electrical energy per unit of time, so that such systems cannot generally be used effectively for measuring tasks on high-speed paper machines. The situation is different in the area of the drying section 10 of a fiber machine or on a calender 80.

The temperature conditions in the drying section 10 and thus also in the drying cylinder 30 change only very slowly. If the steam pressure in the drying cylinder 30 is changed in order to increase the cylinder temperature, several minutes pass until the metal of the drying cylinder is heated up accordingly. A further period of time passes until, for example, the equilibrium temperature in the drying cylinder 30 is reached. It is therefore completely sufficient if a measurement is only carried out at intervals of 15 to 60 minutes. At this measuring frequency, the energy generated by the thermocouple 210 is completely sufficient for a sensor 350.

According to the invention, the temperature gradient already present during operation of the drying section 10 or of a calender 80 is used to generate the operating current for a sensor 350.

The sensor unit 300 comprises one or more sensors 350, which measure sensor data 370 of measurement parameters such as the air humidity, the temperature and/or the flow conditions of the air. In particular, it is provided that the air humidity and the temperature in the bag 50 are measured simultaneously in order to calculate how much moisture the air in the bag 50 can still absorb. The sensors 350 are designed differently, in particular as a temperature sensor, humidity sensor and air flow sensor.

A temperature sensor is a measuring instrument that measures the temperature of its surroundings and converts it into a corresponding electrical signal or output. There are several types of temperature sensors, each of which works on a different principle. For example, a thermocouple can be used, which measures a temperature difference based on the Seebeck effect and produces a voltage. This voltage is proportional to the temperature difference and can be measured to determine the temperature. Thermocouples are characterized by their wide temperature range, robustness, and fast response time. Another option is resistance thermometers (RTD). RTDs are based on the principle that the electrical resistance of a metal changes with temperature. Platinum is most commonly used as a sensing element in RTDs because it has a stable and linear relationship between resistance and temperature. As the temperature changes, the resistance of the platinum element changes, which can be measured using a Wheatstone bridge or other measuring circuits. The change in resistance is then converted into a temperature reading using calibration curves or RTD-specific equations. Another possibility is thermistors, which take advantage of the property of certain materials to exhibit a large change in electrical resistance with temperature. They are usually made of ceramic or semiconductor materials. Thermistors can be divided into two types: PTC (positive temperature coefficient) and NTC (negative temperature coefficient). PTC thermistors have a resistance that increases with increasing temperature, while NTC thermistors have a resistance that decreases with increasing temperature. The resistance-temperature relationship of thermistors is highly nonlinear, which is why calibration curves or special Thermistor equations can be used to convert resistance into a temperature reading.

In all three types of temperature sensors mentioned above, the electrical signal generated by the sensor is usually amplified, conditioned and processed by electronic circuits or instruments to obtain an accurate temperature measurement. To ensure accurate temperature measurements, temperature sensors must be calibrated and factors such as self-heating, linearity and environmental influences must be compensated for. Calibration involves comparing the sensor's readings to known reference temperatures and making any necessary adjustments or corrections to the measurements.

A humidity sensor, also called a hygrometer, is a device that measures the moisture content of the ambient air or a gas. There are several types of humidity sensors, but there are two common principles for measuring humidity, capacitive and resistive humidity.

Capacitive humidity sensors measure the change in capacitance that occurs when a moisture-sensitive material absorbs or releases moisture. They consist of a moisture-sensitive layer, usually a polymer or metal oxide, sandwiched between two conductive electrodes. The moisture-sensitive layer absorbs or desorbs moisture from the ambient air, changing the dielectric constant and thus the capacitance between the electrodes. The change in capacitance is then converted into a humidity reading using calibration curves or sensor-specific mathematical equations. Capacitive humidity sensors are widely used because of their accuracy, reliability and low power consumption.

Resistive humidity sensors measure the change in electrical resistance of a humidity-sensitive material at different humidity levels. The humidity-sensitive material is usually a hygroscopic substance such as ceramic or polymer. As the sensor absorbs or releases moisture, the electrical resistance of the material changes. The change in resistance is then measured using a measuring circuit, such as a Wheatstone bridge, and converted to a humidity reading using calibration curves or equations specific to the sensor. Resistive humidity sensors are relatively simple and inexpensive, but can have limitations in terms of accuracy and long-term stability.

Humidity sensors must be calibrated to compensate for factors such as temperature, drift and hysteresis to ensure accurate humidity readings. Calibration involves comparing the sensor's readings to known reference humidity values under controlled conditions and making any necessary adjustments or corrections to the measurements.

Airflow sensors, also known as air flow meters, are devices used to measure the flow and/or velocity of air or gases in various applications. There are several types of airflow sensors and their operating principles may vary.

For example, differential pressure (DP) airflow sensors measure the pressure difference across a restriction or obstruction in the airflow path. The pressure drop across the obstruction is proportional to the flow velocity of the air or gas. The sensor typically consists of a pipe or duct with a restriction, such as an orifice or venturi, and pressure sensors placed upstream and downstream of the restriction. By measuring the pressure difference between the two points, the flow can be determined using calibration curves or sensor-specific equations.

Thermal airflow sensors use the principle that the heat transfer from a heated element to the air or gas passing through it is affected by the flow velocity. The sensor typically consists of a heated element, such as a heated wire or foil, and a temperature sensor that measures the temperature change of the element caused by the airflow. As the flow velocity increases, more heat is removed from the flowing air, causing a temperature change of the heated element. The temperature change is then converted into a flow measurement using calibration curves or sensor-specific mathematical equations.

Hot wire airflow sensors use the cooling effect of air or gas flowing past a heated wire. The sensor consists of a thin wire that is electrically heated to a constant temperature. As the air or gas flows over the wire, the cooling effect on the wire changes, causing its electrical resistance to change. By measuring the change in resistance, the flow can be determined. Hot wire sensors are often used in applications that require high sensitivity and fast response times.

The sensor unit 300 has a processor or is connected to a processor for controlling the sensor unit 300, in particular for calculating the energy requirement for carrying out the measurements with the sensors 350. The sensor unit 300 is connected to the communication unit 400 and transmits the measured values of the sensors 350 as sensor data 370 to the communication unit 400. The communication unit 400 comprises at least one data transmission module 450, which is designed for data transmission by means of a near-field communication connection such as Bluetooth®, Ethernet, NFC (near field communication) and/or Wi-Fi® or as a mobile radio module for a mobile radio connection. In particular, the mobile radio module can be designed as a 5G or 6G radio module.

The data processing device 500 may include one or more software applications 550 for processing the sensor data 370. In particular, the software application 550 uses one or more calculation algorithms to generate output data 770 from the sensor data 370, which includes, for example, a temporal temperature, humidity and/or flow profile in the pocket 50.

In particular, the software application can contain artificial intelligence algorithms such as deep learning with, for example, neural networks and/or transformers with encoders and decoders and/or reinforcement learning agents.

A neural network consists of neurons that are arranged in several layers and connected to one another in different ways. A neuron is able to receive information at its input from outside or from another neuron, evaluate this information in a certain way and pass it on in a modified form at the output of the neuron to another neuron or output it as the final result. Between the input neurons and the output neurons there are so-called hidden neurons. Depending on the type of network, there can be several layers of hidden neurons. They ensure that the information is forwarded and processed. Output neurons finally provide a result and pass it on to the outside world. The arrangement and interconnection of the neurons creates different types of neural networks, such as feedforward neural networks (FNN), recurrent neural networks (RNN) or convolutional neural networks (CNN). The networks can be trained through unsupervised or supervised learning.

In addition, calculation methods such as mean, minimum and maximum methods, lookup tables, expected value models, linear regression methods, Gaussian methods, fast Fourier transforms, integral and differential calculations, Markov methods, probability methods such as Monte Carlo methods, temporal difference learning, extended Kalman filters, radial basis functions and/or data fields from the software application 550 can be used.

The output data 770 can in particular be in the form of images, graphics, diagrams, holograms, number series, Power Point presentations and/or audio sequences such as acoustic warning signals or voice messages so that they are easy for a user to interpret. In particular, the output data 770 can include a recommendation, for example, for regulating the temperature of the drying section 10. A comparison can be made with characteristic values and other comparison data that are stored, for example, as historical data in a database. Other process parameters such as the speed of the fiber machine, properties of the fiber web, etc. can also be taken into account as boundary conditions in order to calculate optimized process parameters on this basis. If, for example, the temperature of a drying cylinder 50 or a roller 90 exceeds a critical limit value, a corresponding warning signal can be issued.

The output data 770 can be output directly from the output module 750 and/or the calculated process parameters are transmitted directly to appropriately designed control devices of the machine or production plant, in particular the fiber machine or the calender 80. The output data 770 can also be stored in a database such as a cloud computing infrastructure. The output module 700 can be integrated in a computer, a tablet, a smartphone, etc. and have a user interface 750 for entering data, in particular for controlling the energy generation unit 200 and the sensor unit 300. Furthermore, it can be provided that the data processing device 500 is integrated in the output module 700, so that the sensor data 370 is sent directly to the output module 700.

4 shows a measuring device 800 with a housing 850 in which the energy generation unit 200, the sensor unit 300 and the communication unit 400 are arranged. The housing 850 can be firmly connected to the stripping device 70. However, it is also conceivable that the housing 850 is designed as a portable housing that is attached to a arranged fastening device can be releasably attached.

Furthermore, it can be provided that a fastening device for the housing 800 is provided in the area of the pocket 50, which is arranged separately from the stripping device 70. Furthermore, it can be provided that some of the sensors 350 of the sensor unit 300 are arranged outside the housing 800 at different positions of the pocket 50 or at other positions of the fiber machine, wherein the sensors 350 can be connected to the sensor unit 300 via appropriately designed connecting lines.

Typically, the housing 850 of the measuring device 800 is arranged at a distance of 1 to 3 m, in particular 2 m, from the periphery of the drying cylinders 30. Since a pulp machine has a large number of drying cylinders 30 and corresponding stripping devices 70, a portable housing 850 can be inserted into appropriately designed fastening devices in the individual pockets 50 of the pulp machine. Since the routine operation of a pulp machine usually results in an operational standstill of the machine every few days, the sensor unit can be quickly transported from one position to another during this time, without contact, without cables or other infrastructure components having to be laid.

In addition, it can be provided that an assembly such as a drying cylinder 50 of a fiber machine or a roller 90 of a calender 80 has an identification code such as a transponder with an RFID chip or an NFC chip (Near Field Communication) or a QR code. A reading unit with which the identification code can be read can be provided in the housing 850 of the measuring device 800. The user interface 750 of the output module 700, for example in the form of a mobile terminal such as a cell phone or a tablet, can also be used for reading. The data processing device 500 can then make an assignment between the recorded sensor data 370 and the identification code of the respective assembly. Furthermore, it can be provided that the data processing device 500 retrieves from a database, in particular the cloud computing infrastructure, further data, such as historical measured values, target specifications, digital design data, such as digital twins of the respective assembly, specifications of the sensors 350, etc., which are stored for the respective assembly under the respective identification code. By assigning the sensor data 370 to the specific features of the respective assembly, optimally adapted process parameters can be calculated.

5 represents the process steps for collecting sensor data in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or production plant.

In a first step S10, energy is generated by means of an energy generation unit 200 with a thermocouple 210 and an energy storage module 250, wherein the thermocouple 210 uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or production plant to generate energy and converts it into electrical energy and transmits it to the energy storage module 250, and wherein the energy storage module 250 stores the electrical energy.

In a second step S20, a sensor unit 300 is supplied with energy from the energy storage module 250.

In a third step S30, sensor data 370 of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment are recorded by one or more sensors 250 of the sensor unit 200.

In a step S40, the sensor data 370 are forwarded from a communication unit 400 to a data processing device 500.

In a step S50, the sensor data 370 are further processed in the data processing device 500.

6 schematically illustrates a computer program product 900 comprising an executable program code 950 that carries out the method according to the first aspect of the present invention.

In the system, the method and the measuring device according to the present invention, the temperature gradient in a spatial segment in the region of a moving assembly, which is designed in particular as a drying cylinder in a fiber machine or as a rotating roller in a calender, is used by a thermocouple to convert thermal energy into electrical energy. The electrical energy is stored in an energy storage module, which is designed in particular as a battery or capacitor, and can be retrieved by a sensor unit for detecting sensor signals of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment, which is designed in particular as a pocket.

Since the time intervals for recording sensor signals of the measurement parameters are in a range of 15 to 60 minutes, the amount of energy generated is sufficient to supply a sensor. In particular, a measuring device with an energy generation unit, a sensor unit and a communication unit can be designed as a mobile device that can be connected to different modules. This achieves a high level of flexibility and can save costs because a separate measuring device does not have to be provided for each module.

reference sign

10

drying section

20

fibrous web

30

drying cylinder

40

pulley

50

Bag

70

scraper device

80

calender

90

roller

100

system

200

power generation unit

210

thermocouple

250

energy storage module

300

sensor unit

350

sensors

370

sensor data

400

communication unit

450

data transfer module

500

data processing facility

550

software application

800

measuring device

850

Housing

700

output module

750

user interface

770

output data

900

computer program product

950

program code

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 43 12 485 A1 [0005]
• DE 40 37 423 A1 [0006]
• DE 10 2009 016 176 A1 [0007]

Claims (15)

System (100) for detecting sensor data (370) in a spatial segment in the region of a moving assembly of a machine or a production plant, comprising an energy generation unit (200), a sensor unit (300), a communication unit (400) and a data processing device (500); wherein the energy generation unit (200) comprises a thermocouple (210) and an energy storage module (250) and is designed to supply the sensor unit (300) with energy; wherein the thermocouple (210) uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or production plant to generate energy; wherein the energy storage module (250) is designed to store the electrical energy generated and to deliver it to the sensor unit (300) when required; wherein the sensor unit (300) comprises one or more sensors (350) and is designed to detect sensor data (370) of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment; and wherein the communication unit (400) is designed to forward the sensor data (370) to the data processing device (500) for further processing. System (100) after claim 1 , wherein the system comprises a housing (850) in which the energy generation unit (200), the sensor unit (300) and the communication unit (400) are arranged; wherein the housing (850) can be firmly or detachably connected to a fastening device arranged in the spatial segment. System according to one of the Claims 1 or 2 , wherein the spatial segment is formed as a pocket (50) between a rotating cylinder (30) or a rotating roller (90) and a fibrous web (20). System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , wherein the energy storage module (250) is designed as a battery or capacitor. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 4 , wherein at least one sensor (350) of the sensor unit (300) is designed as a temperature sensor, as a humidity sensor or as a flow sensor. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein the data processing device (500) is designed to generate output data (770) from the sensor data (370), wherein the output data (770) can be in the form of images, graphics, diagrams, holograms, number series, Power Point presentations and/or audio sequences such as acoustic warning signals or voice messages, in particular for representing a temperature, humidity and/or flow profile or a course of the temperature, humidity and/or flow conditions over time; as well as process parameters of the machine or production plant. System (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , wherein the data analysis device (500) uses a software application (550) with artificial intelligence algorithms for the analysis and processing of the sensor data (370), wherein the artificial intelligence algorithms comprise deep learning with neural networks and/or transformers with encoders and decoders and/or reinforcement learning agents (LV). Method for recording sensor data (370) in a spatial segment in the area of a moving assembly of a machine or production plant, with the following method steps: - generating (S10) energy by means of an energy generation unit (200) with a thermocouple (210) and an energy storage module (250), wherein the thermocouple (210) uses a temperature gradient occurring in the spatial segment during operation of the machine or production plant to generate energy and converts it into electrical energy and passes it on to the energy storage module (250), and wherein the energy storage module (250) stores the electrical energy; - supplying (S20) a sensor unit (300) with energy from the energy storage module (250); - recording (S30) sensor data (370) of measurement parameters such as temperature, humidity and/or flow in the spatial segment by one or more sensors (350) of the sensor unit (300); - Forwarding (S40) the sensor data (370) from a communication unit (400) to a data processing device (500); - Processing (S50) the sensor data (370) in the data processing device (500). procedure according to claim 8 , wherein the moving assembly is designed as a drying cylinder (30) in the drying section of a fiber machine and the space segment forms a pocket (50) between the drying cylinder (30) and a fiber web (20), or wherein the moving assembly is designed as a roller (90) of a calender (80) and the space segment forms a pocket (50) between the roller (90) and a fiber web (20). procedure according to claim 8 or 9 , wherein at least one sensor (350) of the sensor unit (300) is designed as a temperature sensor, as a humidity sensor or as a flow sensor. Method according to one of the Claims 8 until 10 , wherein the data processing device (500) is designed to generate output data (770) from the sensor data (370), wherein the output data (770) can be in the form of images, graphics, diagrams, holograms, series of numbers, Power Point presentations and/or audio sequences, such as acoustic warning signals or voice messages, in particular for representing a temperature, humidity and/or flow profile or a course of the temperature, humidity and/or flow conditions over time; as well as process parameters of the machine or production plant, and are output on an output module (700) and/or forwarded to at least one control device of the machine or production plant. Method according to one of the Claims 8 until 11 , wherein the sensor data (370) are used to control or regulate the drying section or the calender (80). Drying section of a fibrous web machine, comprising a plurality of drying cylinders (30), wherein the drying cylinders (30) are each assigned a doctor which is fastened to a doctor beam, wherein a holding device is provided on at least one, in particular all, doctor beams, and at least one system (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 which is connected or connectable to these holding devices. Calender (80) of a fibrous web machine, comprising a plurality of rollers (90), wherein the rollers (90) are each assigned a scraper which is fastened to a scraper beam, wherein a holding device is provided on at least one, in particular all, scraper beams, and at least one system (100) according to one of the Claims 1 until 7 which is connected or connectable to these holding devices. Computer program product (900) comprising an executable program code (950) which implements the method according to one of the Claims 8 until 11 executes.

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