Abstract:
A method and a system for configuring a strand guiding system ( 8, 8   a,    8   b ) of a continuous casting machine ( 2 ) and such a strand guiding system ( 8, 8   a,    8   b ). A strand guiding segment ( 10   g - r ) guides a metal strand in the strand guiding system ( 8, 8   a,    8   b ). The strand guiding system ( 8, 8   a,    8   b ) has a plurality of strand guiding segments ( 10   g - r ) and respective control units ( 22   g - r ), wherein each control unit ( 22   g - r ) identifies its strand guiding segment ( 10   g - r ), and each control unit ( 22   g - r ) automatically depends on the strand guiding segments ( 10   g - r ) identified by the control unit ( 22   g - r ). The strand guiding system ( 8, 8   a,    8   b ) and the strand guiding segment ( 10   g - r ) are prepared for the performance of the method herein disclosed.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application is a 35 U.S.C. §§371 national phase conversion of PCT/EP2015/074831, filed Oct. 27, 2015, which claims priority of Austrian Patent Application No. A50775/2014, filed Oct. 28, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. The PCT International Application was published in the German language. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The invention relates to a method for configuring a strand guiding system of a continuous casting machine, and to a strand guiding system having a plurality of strand guiding segments. 
       TECHNICAL BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    In continuous casting of metals, a metallic molten mass is supplied to a cooled mold, is solidified in the mold, at least in the edge zone of the molded mass, and usually supplied continuously while already in the form of a strand, from the mold to a strand guiding system of the continuous casting machine which is downstream from the mold, and is conveyed through the strand guiding system. 
         [0004]    The strand is guided, supported and subjected to further cooling by the strand guiding system. For this purpose, the strand guiding system usually has a plurality of strand guiding segments, disposed in succession along a strand conveying means. Usually, these strand guiding segments can be demounted or replaced individually. 
         [0005]    Each strand guiding segment usually has a plurality of strand guiding rollers, between which the strand is guided. At least some of these strand guiding rollers can usually be set against the strand in multiples or singly, and depending on the structural type of the strand guiding segment can be controlled, by an open-loop or closed-loop control, by means of an open-loop or closed-loop control means. 
         [0006]    In particular, for the purpose of maintenance or servicing, it is usual for a strand guiding segment to be removed from the strand guiding system and, for example, to be replaced by another strand guiding segment. 
         [0007]    Besides mechanical demounting and mounting of the strand guiding segment, this may necessitate, in particular, configuring, in the widest sense, establishment, adaptation of operating parameters of the strand guiding system, in particular configuring the open-loop or closed-loop control means of the strand guiding system. 
         [0008]    A strand guiding system, having a plurality of successive strand guiding segments for a continuous casting machine is known from EP 1 807 230 B1. This publication makes no disclosure concerning configuring the strand guiding system, or its configuration. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    It is an object of the invention to enable a strand guiding system to be configured in an advantageous manner. 
         [0010]    This object is achieved by a method for configuring a strand guiding system, and by a strand guiding system, of the type stated at the outset hereof. 
         [0011]    The strand guiding system has a plurality of strand guiding segments and control units, with one control unit assigned to each strand guiding segment. 
         [0012]    Each control unit identifies a strand guiding segment assigned to it by use of a segment-specific item of information, which is software coded and/or hardware coded. 
         [0013]    Each control unit is configured substantially automatically depending on the strand guiding segment identified by it, by setting of operating parameters and/or by selection of a computer-readable program code. 
         [0014]    “Assigned” or “assign” in this case may be understood to mean any establishment of a direct or indirect signal connection or information connection between a strand guiding segment and a control unit. Respectively one control unit may be assigned to each strand guiding segment, and respectively one strand guiding segment respectively may be assigned to each control unit, such that an unambiguous assignment is achieved. 
         [0015]    The respective strand guiding segment can be controlled by the control unit assigned to it, by means of an open-loop or closed-loop control signal, or by means of open-loop or closed-loop control signals (for example, as a set of open-loop or closed-loop signals). 
         [0016]    In such a manner and depending on the structural type of the respective strand guiding segment, a plurality of strand guiding rollers or a single strand guiding roller of the respective strand guiding segment can be set against the strand under open-loop or closed-loop control. It is advantageous if a setting force and/or a setting position of the strand guiding roller, or strand guiding rollers, is controlled by open-loop or closed-loop control. 
         [0017]    Each control unit may have a plurality of closed-loop control elements, in particular a plurality of so-called axis controllers, wherein an individually settable strand guiding roller of the strand guiding segment assigned to the control unit is assignable to each closed-loop control element. 
         [0018]    Within the meaning of the present invention, a control unit can identify a strand guiding segment if it identifies, or locates, the strand guiding segment, in particular its structural type, on the basis of a technical feature, a property, an information signal, an item of segment-specific information, an identifier or the like. 
         [0019]    A configuration may be characterized as a particular adaptation of a computer-readable program code of a computer to an existing system and/or to given operating boundary conditions, and the system itself in its composition and/or setting. Following installation and/or initial setting, the term may also include selectable pre-settings, or a selection of operating parameters. 
         [0020]    “Configure”, and “configured” means setting, inputting, loading, or the like of operating parameters, selection of operating parameters from a set of preset available operating parameters, selection of a computer-readable program code or a software, selection of parameters of a computer-readable program code, or of a software, or the like. 
         [0021]    The strand guiding system comprises a plurality of strand guiding segments for guiding a metallic strand. Each strand guiding has a software coding and/or a hardware coding for identifying it, and a plurality of control units, wherein a respective one of the control units is assigned to each strand guiding segment for the purpose of controlling the strand guiding segment by means of an open-loop or closed-loop control signal, or by means of open-loop or closed-loop control signals (for example, as a set of open-loop or closed-loop control signals). Each control unit is prepared for identification of the strand guiding segment respectively assigned to the segment by use of the software coding and/or hardware coding of the respective strand guiding segment, and each control unit has a configuration that can be adapted substantially automatically, dependent on the identified strand guiding segment, by setting operating parameters and/or by selecting a computer-readable program code. 
         [0022]    A software coding may be understood to mean a unique data-based or signal-based identifier of the strand guiding segment, in particular, having at least the structural type of the strand guiding segment. This software identifier may be such that it can be read out, for example, from a data storage that is disposed, in particular, on the strand guiding segment, and can be transmitted to the control unit. 
         [0023]    A hardware coding may be understood to mean a unique identifier that is inherent to a mechanical element of the strand guiding segment, in particular, having at least the structural type of the strand guiding segment and in particular to a property of this element. This hardware coding may be constituted, for example, by a segment-specific, optically perceivable feature of the strand guiding segment. 
         [0024]    A first of the plurality of strand guiding segments may be a strand guiding segment having a plurality of individually settable strand guiding rollers disposed in succession in a strand conveying direction, wherein each of the individually settable strand guiding rollers can be controlled separately by open-loop or closed-loop control. The strand guiding segment in the aforementioned embodiment may require a configuration of the control unit assigned to it, which configuration is performed or adapted in a first manner. 
         [0025]    A further one of the plurality of strand guiding segments may require a configuration of the control unit assigned to it, which configuration is performed or adapted in a further, different manner. 
         [0026]    A configuration may be understood to mean specifically set or input operating parameters, a loaded or executed computer-readable program, or a software, specifically set, or input parameters of a computer-readable program code; or a software, or the like. 
         [0027]    Advantageously, the control units, in particular the control units that are of substantially the same structural type, have a substantially uniform basic setting, or a generic configuration, that in each case can be adapted, depending on the strand guiding segment respectively assigned to the control unit, in a first and at least one further, different, manner. 
         [0028]    Within the meaning of the present invention, “can be configured/adapted substantially automatically” may mean that the configuration/adaptation is effected with the avoidance of manual interventions, in particular at least predominantly in a self-acting manner, preferably entirely in a self-acting manner. For example, configuring following a previous clearance handling and/or acknowledgement handling by an operator of the strand guiding system, in particular at an operator interface of the strand guiding system, may be effected in a self-acting manner, i.e. without further action by the operator manner. 
         [0029]    In simple terms, the invention is based on the consideration that the strand guiding system, in particular the control units, or the open-loop or closed-loop control means of the strand guiding segments, require elaborate configuration in the widest sense, require adaptation following a replacement of strand guiding segments, in particular of differing structural types, and therefore requiring differing types of control, wherein the replacement is necessitated by maintenance or servicing. 
         [0030]    By assigning respectively one control unit to respectively one strand guiding segment, and by the modular structure thereby achieved, the invention creates a condition for configuring the strand guiding system in a manner that is favorable in respect of work required. 
         [0031]    Owing to use of control units provided with a configuration that can be adapted depending on the identified strand guiding segment, the invention allows simplified maintenance and/or following mounting or removal or replacement of a strand guiding segment, costly and time-consuming manual replacement of the control unit assigned to this strand guiding segment can be avoided. 
         [0032]    In addition, owing to the substantially automatic configuring of the strand guiding system or of the control units, the invention enables savings to be made in deployments of personnel. Furthermore, errors in the configuration of the strand guiding system that result from human error can be avoided in this way. 
         [0033]    The invention and the developments described may be realized both in software and in hardware, for example by use of a special electrical circuit. 
         [0034]    Further, it is possible for the invention, of a described development, to be realized by a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium, stored on which there is a computer program that executes the invention or the development. 
         [0035]    The invention and/or any described development may also be realized by a computer program product that has a non-volatile storage medium on which there is stored a computer program that executes the invention and/or the development. 
         [0036]    Within the meaning of the present invention, an item of information may be segment-specific if the item of information enables at least the structural type of a strand guiding segment to be unambiguously identified. The segment-specific item of information may be an identification number and/or taken from a technical feature, a segment-specific property, an information signal, or the like. 
         [0037]    Advantageously, the segment-specific item of information is transmitted to the control unit via a communication channel established between the strand guiding segment and the control unit assigned thereto, for example a field bus connection, a LAN or WLAN connection, or the like. 
         [0038]    “Software coded” may be understood to mean that the segment-specific item of information is held or stored in a readable or determinable manner, in particular on the strand guiding segment, by use of a computer-readable program code. Advantageously, the software coding is stored in an over-writable and/or erasable manner, such that particularly simple adaptation of the segment-specific item of information can be achieved. 
         [0039]    “Hardware coded” may be understood to mean that the segment-specific item of information is inherent to a mechanical element of the strand guiding segment, in particular to the properties of the element. In this way, it is possible to avoid the use of separate data storage media for storing the segment-specific item of information as a data item, and to avoid any data errors associated therewith. 
         [0040]    According to a preferred development, the software coding is constituted by a data item that can be stored in a storage unit of the strand guiding segment. 
         [0041]    The storage unit is expediently a data storage unit, for example an RFID (radio frequency identification) storage element, a RAM (random access memory) storage module, or the like. There is a wealth of practical experience in the use of RFID storage elements, known per se. By use of an RFID storage element and a corresponding read unit which can acquire the segment-specific item of information and transmit it, via an information channel, to the control unit it is possible to achieve contactless identification of the strand guiding segment. RAM storage modules can be obtained, in a great variety of embodiments and specifications, at a very low cost. In this way, the software coded segment-specific item of information can be stored in a particularly inexpensive manner. 
         [0042]    Other items of information, or data, such as, in particular, segment-specific data, for example geometry data, such as roller diameter, and/or data relating to the displacement measuring system, such as mechanical data, may also be stored, or have been stored, in the storage unit, in particular in the data storage unit. These items of information, or data, may be used to check the strand guiding segment. 
         [0043]    In an advantageous development, the hardware coding is constituted by a segment-specific plug connection of the strand guiding segment. Advantageously, the plug connection is a plug connection for information-based or signal-based connection of the strand guiding segment to the control unit assigned thereto. The segment-specific plug connection may be a plug connection for connecting the strand guiding segment to a bus network, to a LAN network, to a fiber-optic network, or the like. 
         [0044]    A plug connection may be segment-specific if it is assigned to a specific structural type of strand guiding segment and/or to a specific strand guiding segment. Advantageously, a strand guiding segment in a first design may have a plug connection coded in a first manner, for example a 4-pole plug connection, and a strand guiding segment in a further design may have a plug connection coded in another manner, for example a 6-pole plug connection. Coded plug connections are available in a multiplicity of differing embodiments. In this way, the hardware coding can be constituted in a manner that is particularly favorable in respect of resource requirement, since a plug connection for connecting the strand guiding segment to the control unit assigned thereto may be necessary in any case, for transmitting open-loop or closed-loop control signals. 
         [0045]    Also, according to an advantageous embodiment, the control units may be realized so as to be logically and/or physically separate. 
         [0046]    In an advantageous embodiment, control units that are substantially the same are assigned to strand guiding segments of differing structural types. Such an assignment of control units that are substantially the same i.e. control units of the same structural type and/or having the same basic configurations that can be adapted in dependence on the respectively identified strand guiding segment makes it possible to achieve a high proportion of component homogeneity. In this way, in particular, maintenance of the strand guiding segment and storage of replacement parts can be simplified, and expenditure can be saved. 
         [0047]    It is advantageous if a main control unit assigned to the control units is configured substantially automatically in dependence on the identified strand guiding segment by setting of operating parameters and/or by selection of a computer-readable program code. The main control unit may be a means, of the same order or of a higher order than the plurality of control units, which is prepared to control the control units, for example by means of a setpoint value signal. It is advantageous if the segment-specific items of information of the identified strand guiding segments are transmitted indirectly, for example from the control units assigned to the strand guiding segments, to the main control unit. 
         [0048]    Moreover, it is advantageous if an operator interface of the strand guiding segment is configured substantially automatically in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments. 
         [0049]    Further, it is advantageous if a simulation model, on which open-loop control or closed-loop control of the strand guiding system is based, is configured substantially automatically for the purpose of determining open-loop or closed-loop control signals in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments. The simulation model may be realized as computer-readable program code on a processor unit of the main control unit. 
         [0050]    Advantageously, setpoint values for open-loop control or closed-loop control of the setting positions and/or setting forces of the settable strand guiding rollers are determined by use of the simulation model, and transmitted to the control units. In a further step, the control unit, by use of the respectively transmitted setpoint value, in each case determines a manipulated value for the setting position and/or setting force. In a further step, the strand guiding segment assigned to the respective control unit is controlled, by use of the determined manipulated value, by means of an open-loop or closed-loop control signal, for the purpose of influencing the setting position and/or setting force of the settable strand guiding roller. 
         [0051]    Moreover, it is advantageous if the method is used to configure the strand guiding segment after demounting and/or mounting of a strand guiding segment from or into the strand guiding system. In this way, set-up time can be reduced, and costs saved. In particular, if strand guiding segments of differing structural types, requiring differing types of control by open-loop or closed-loop control signals, are interchanged, this use of the method enables the strand guiding system to be configured in a particularly advantageous manner, since it is favorable in respect of resource requirement, avoids error and saves time. 
         [0052]    In an advantageous design, the strand guiding segments each have a storage unit, in particular an RFID storage element and/or a RAM storage module, on which the software coding can be stored. 
         [0053]    In a further advantageous embodiment, the hardware coding is constituted by a mechanical element, in particular by a segment-specific plug connection. 
         [0054]    In a further embodiment, the control units each have a plurality of closed-loop control elements, wherein each closed-loop control element is respectively assigned to a strand guiding roller of the strand guiding segment assigned to the respective control unit, which strand guiding roller can be set individually against the strand. 
         [0055]    A closed-loop control element may be realized in software and/or in hardware. The closed-loop control element may be prepared, by use of a known closed-loop control law, a setpoint value and an actual value of a controlled variable, to determine a manipulated value, or a closed-loop control signal, for influencing the controlled variable. The controlled variable may be a setting position and/or a setting force of a settable strand guiding roller. 
         [0056]    Advantageously, respectively one closed-loop control element of the control unit is respectively assigned to a strand guiding roller of the strand guiding segment assigned to the control unit, such that a particularly refined and/or high-resolution closed-loop control can be achieved. It is also conceivable and advantageous for a closed-loop control element to be assigned to a plurality of strand guiding rollers, for example two, and to be prepared to control the latter. In this way the number of necessary closed-loop control elements can be reduced, and resource requirement can be avoided. 
         [0057]    A roller unit may be constituted by respectively one strand guiding roller that can be set individually on the strand, an adjustment means for setting this strand guiding roller, for example a hydraulic cylinder. Advantageously, the roller units are prepared for individual demounting from the strand guiding segment and/or mounting into the strand guiding segment, and for individual connection to the control unit assigned to the strand guiding segment. 
         [0058]    Advantageously, each roller unit is respectively connected, via a data connection or signal connection, to the closed-loop control element assigned thereto. The individual data connections or signal connections of the roller units of a strand guiding segment may be combined to form an aggregate connection. In this way, the strand guiding segment can be cable-connected in a manner that is favorable in respect of resource requirement. The data connection or signal connection may be a field-bus connection. 
         [0059]    Advantageously, each roller element has a storage unit, on which an item of information specific to the roller unit, and/or a coded plug connection specific to the roller unit, can be stored. In this way, a condition for identification of the roller unit by the control unit can be achieved by simple means. 
         [0060]    It is conceivable and advantageous for the control unit to be prepared to identify a roller unit of the strand guiding segment assigned thereto, and to have a configuration that is prepared for substantially automatic adaptation in dependence on the identified roller unit. In this way, it is possible to reduce set-up time for mounting and demounting a roller unit, and to avoid any operator errors in the configuration of the control unit. 
         [0061]    In a development, the strand guiding system has a main control unit, which is assigned to the control units and which is prepared to control the control units by means of a respective setpoint value signal for forming open-loop or closed-loop control signals. In this way, it is possible to reduce set-up time, avoid any operator errors in the configuration of the main control unit. It is advantageous if the main control unit is connected to the control units via a network connection. In this way, a condition is created, in a simple manner, for the connection of any peripheral devices. 
         [0062]    In an advantageous design, the main control unit is prepared to identify the strand guiding segments indirectly assigned thereto. 
         [0063]    Advantageously, the main control unit has a configuration that can be adapted substantially automatically, in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments, by setting of operating parameters and/or by selection of a computer-readable program code. 
         [0064]    In a preferred embodiment, the strand guiding system has an operator interface for operation of the strand guiding system. To enable good accessibility for combined servicing and/or operation, it is advantageous if the operator interface and the control units are immovably disposed in direct proximity to one another, for example in a common cabinet. 
         [0065]    Advantageously, the operator interface has a configuration that can be adapted substantially automatically in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments. 
         [0066]    It is advantageous if the strand guiding system has a simulation model, on which open-loop control or closed-loop control of the strand guiding system is based, for determining open-loop or closed-loop control signals. 
         [0067]    Advantageously, the simulation model has a configuration that can be adapted substantially automatically in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments. 
         [0068]    The description given hitherto of advantageous designs of the invention contains numerous features, in some cases multiply combined. However, these features may also expediently be considered individually and combined to create appropriate, further combinations. 
         [0069]    In particular, these features can each be combined individually and in any appropriate combination with the method and/or strand guiding system and/or strand guiding segment according to the invention. 
         [0070]    The properties, features and advantages of this invention that are described above, and the manner in which these are achieved, are rendered clearer and more readily comprehensible in the context of the following description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained in greater detail in the context of the drawings. 
         [0071]    The exemplary embodiments serve to explain the invention, and do not limit the invention to the combinations and features specified therein, including in respect of functional features. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0072]      FIG. 1  is a schematic representation of a continuous casting machine, with a strand guiding system that has a plurality of strand guiding segments, 
           [0073]      FIG. 2  is a schematic illustration of a portion of the strand guiding system from  FIG. 1 , with control units and a main control unit, 
           [0074]      FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration of a further strand guiding system, with strand guiding segments that have variously coded segment-specific items of information, 
           [0075]      FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of a further strand guiding system, with control units that each has a plurality of closed-loop control elements, 
           [0076]      FIG. 5  shows a schematic representation of a hydraulic means for supplying power fluid to a strand guiding segment from  FIG. 4 , and 
           [0077]      FIG. 6  shows a detailed schematic representation of a hydraulic unit from  FIG. 5 . 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
       [0078]    Features that are the same, but that may have slight differences, for example in an amount or a number value, in a dimension, a position and/or a function or the like, are denoted by the same reference numeral and a reference letter, or a different reference letter. If only the reference numeral is mentioned, without a reference letter, this relates to all the corresponding components of all exemplary embodiments. 
         [0079]      FIG. 1  shows a schematic representation of a continuous casting machine  2  for producing a metallic strand. The continuous casting machine  2  has a ladle turret  4 , a mold  6 , and a strand guiding system  8  having a plurality of strand guiding segments  10   a  to  10   l.    
         [0080]    The continuous casting machine  2  is located in a hall, which is supported, with respect to a foundation, by means of a hall framework having a plurality of steel girders  12 . The continuous casting machine  2  is supported on a supporting structure  14 . 
         [0081]    For the purpose of producing a metallic strand, liquid steel is supplied to the mold  6  via the ladle turret  4 . In the mold  6 , the liquid steel is brought to solidification, at least in a lateral edge zone, supplied continuously and already in the form of a partly solidified strand, from the mold  6  to the strand guiding system  8  of the continuous casting machine  2 , and is conveyed through the latter. 
         [0082]    The strand is guided, supported and subjected to further cooling by the strand guiding system  8 . For this purpose, the strand guiding system  8  has a plurality of strand guiding segments  10   a  to  10   l.    
         [0083]      FIG. 2  shows a schematic illustration of a portion of the strand guiding system  8  from  FIG. 1 , with only the strand guiding segments  10   g  to  10   l  being represented in  FIG. 2 . 
         [0084]    The strand guiding segments  10   g ,  10   h  and  10   i  are realized as so-called 4-axis segments, having strand guiding rollers  16  that can each be set against the strand in multiples. The strand guiding segments  10   j ,  10   k  and  10   l  are realized in a cassette design, having strand guiding rollers  18  that can each be set singly against the strand. Each of the strand guiding segments  10   j  to  10   l  respectively has a plurality of roller units  20 , more precisely seven, which are structurally substantially the same and which are disposed in succession, in the manner of a cassette, in a strand longitudinal direction L. 
         [0085]    Assigned to each of the strand guiding segments  10   g  to  10   l  respectively is a control unit  22   g  to  221  for controlling the respective strand guiding segment  10   g  to  10   l  by means of a respective open-loop or closed-loop control signal  24   g  to  24   l , or open-loop or closed-loop control signals  24   g  to  24   l.    
         [0086]    The control units  22  are connected to the strand guiding segment  10   g  to  10   l  assigned thereto via a field bus  26 , and are realized substantially with identical hardware, i.e. are structurally the same. 
         [0087]    The control units  22  are prepared to identify the strand guiding segment  10  respectively assigned thereto by use of a segment-specific coding, here, specifically, a coding that indicates the structural type of the respective strand guiding segment  10 . In addition, the control units  22  each have a configuration  28  that can be adapted substantially automatically to strand guiding segments of differing types, more precisely to differing structural types of strand guiding segment, for example to the open-loop or closed-loop control specifications of 4-axis segments and/or cassette-type segments. 
         [0088]    In the present case, the control units  22   g  to  221  respectively have a configuration  28   g  to  28   l  that is adapted substantially automatically in dependence on the respectively identified strand guiding segment  10   g  to  10   l.    
         [0089]    The configurations  28   g  to  28   l  in the present exemplary embodiment are to be understood to be, respectively, specifically set operating parameters of the control units  22   g  to  221 , and specific computer-readable programs, or software, that are executed on the control units. 
         [0090]    The configurations  28   g ,  28   h  and  28   i  of the control units  22   g ,  22   h  and  22   i , respectively, are adapted to the segment structural type, i.e. to the structural type, or to the type of control that is required by the structural type of the strand guiding segments  10   g ,  10   h  and  10   i . The configurations  28   j ,  28   k  and  28   l  of the control units  22   j ,  22   k  and  22   l , respectively, on the other hand, are adapted to the segment type, i.e. the structural type, of the strand guiding segments  10   j ,  10   k  and  10   l , and differ from the configurations  28   g  to  28   i.    
         [0091]    Such an assignment of control units  22  that are substantially the same i.e. control units of the same structural type, having configurations  28  that can be adapted in dependence on the respectively identified strand guiding segment  10  makes it possible, in particular, to achieve a high proportion of component homogeneity within the strand guiding system  8 . 
         [0092]    The control units  22  are connected to a main control unit  32  via a network connection  30 . The main control unit  32  is assigned to the control units  22 , and is prepared to control the latter by means of a respective setpoint value signal  34   g  to  341  for forming open-loop or closed-loop control signals  24 . In addition, the main control unit  32  has a configuration  36 . The main control unit  32  is prepared to identify the strand guiding segments  10  indirectly assigned thereto. The configuration  36  can be adapted substantially automatically in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments  10 . 
         [0093]    For the purpose of configuring the strand guiding system  8 , each control unit  22  identifies the strand guiding segment  10  respectively assigned thereto, and each control unit  22  is configured substantially automatically in dependence on the strand guiding segment  22  identified by it. This means that the respective operating parameters and software settings of the control units  22  are adapted in such a manner, in dependence on the respectively identified strand guiding segment  10 , that the respective strand guiding segment  10  can be controlled in a manner appropriate to the structural type. 
         [0094]    In the present exemplary embodiment, the identification is effected by means of respectively one segment-specific item of information that is transmitted, via the field bus  26 , from each strand guiding segment  10  to the control unit  22  respectively assigned thereto. These items of information are transmitted to the main control unit  22  via the network connection  30 . The configuration  36  of the main control unit is adapted substantially automatically in dependence on these items of information, or in dependence on the identified strand guiding segments  10 . Alternatively, the configuration of the main control unit  32  may also be adapted to the configurations  28   g  to  28   l  of the control units  22   g  to  221  in this way, the control units  22  can be controlled by means of signals and/or supplied with data in a required manner which may correspond to an indirect adaptation of the configuration  36  to the identified strand guiding segments  10 . 
         [0095]    The descriptions of exemplary embodiments that follow are generally limited substantially to the differences in relation to the exemplary embodiments from  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 , to which reference is made with respect to features and functions that remain the same. Components that remain substantially the same are basically denoted by the same references, and features that are not mentioned are included in the following exemplary embodiments without being described over again. 
         [0096]      FIG. 3  shows a schematic illustration of a further strand guiding system  8   a , having strand guiding segments  10   m  to  10   p , control units  22   m  to  22   p , and a main control unit  32   a . Via a field bus  26   a , the strand guiding segments  10   m  to  10   p  are connected, by information or data connection means, to the control units  22   m  to  22   p  assigned thereto. The control units  22   m  to  22   p  are connected to the main control unit  32   a  via a network connection  30   a.    
         [0097]    The strand guiding segments  10   m  to  10   p  each have a segment-specific item of information  38   m  to  38   p  for identification thereof by the control unit  22  assigned thereto, or by the main control unit  32   a . The segment-specific items of information  38  are coded, at least partly, in differing ways. 
         [0098]    The strand guiding segments  10   m  and  10   o  each have a hardware coding  40 , and the strand guiding segments  10   n  and  10   p  each have a software coding  42 . 
         [0099]    The hardware codings  40  are each constituted by segment-specific plug connections  44   m  and  44   o , respectively. The segment-specific plug connections  44   m  and  44   o  are plug connections for connecting the strand guiding segments  10   m  and  10   o , respectively, to the field bus  26   a . The plug connections  44   m  and  44   o  are segment-specific in the sense that they are assigned to the respectively specific structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   m  and  10   o , respectively. In the present exemplary embodiment, the segment-specific plug connection  44   m  is a 4-pole plug connection, the plug connection  44   o  being a 6-pole plug connection. 
         [0100]    The software codings  42  are each constituted by a data item  46   n  and  46   p , respectively, in a storage unit  48   n  and  48   p , respectively, of the strand guiding segment  10   n  and  10   p , respectively. 
         [0101]    The storage unit  48   n  is a RAM storage module  50 , from which the segment-specific items of information  38   n , or the segment-specific data item  46   n , can be read out and transmitted, via the field bus  26   a , to the control unit  22   n.    
         [0102]    The storage unit  48   p  is an RFID storage element  52 , from which the segment-specific item of information  38   p  can be read out contactlessly by use of a read unit  54  and transmitted, via the field bus  26   a , to the control unit  22   p.    
         [0103]    The configuring of the strand guiding system  8   a  is effected in dependence on the segment-specific items of information  38   m  to  38   p  as follows: 
         [0104]    The strand guiding segment  10   m  has been or is connected, by means of the segment-specific plug connection  44   m , via the field bus  26   a , to the control unit  22   m  assigned thereto. The control unit  22   m  identifies the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   m  on the basis of the segment-specific plug connection  44   m  used, and is configured, in dependence on the strand guiding segment  10   m , or the structural type thereof, in such a manner that a configuration  28   m  adapted to the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   m  is loaded, or established. 
         [0105]    In addition, the strand guiding segment  10   o  has been or is connected, by means of the segment specific plug connection  44   o  which differs structurally from the plug connection  44   m  to the control unit  22   o  assigned thereto, via the field bus  26   a . The control unit  22   o  identifies the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   o  which differs from that of the strand guiding segment  10   m  on the basis of the segment-specific plug connection  44   o  used, and is configured, in dependence on the strand guiding segment  10   o , or the structural type thereof, in such a manner that a configuration  28   o  adapted to the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   m  is loaded, or established. 
         [0106]    Furthermore, the segment-specific data item  46   n  is read out from the storage unit  48   n , i.e. the RAM storage module  50 , of the strand guiding segment  10   n , and transmitted to the control unit  22   n  via the field bus  26   a . The control unit  22   n  identifies the strand guiding segment  10   n , or the structural type thereof, by use of the data item  46   n , and is configured, in dependence on the strand guiding segment  10   n , or the structural type thereof, in such a manner that a configuration  28   n  adapted to the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   n  is loaded, or established. 
         [0107]    Further, the segment-specific data item  46   p  is read out of the storage unit  48   p , i.e. the RFID storage element  52 , of the strand guiding segment  10   p  by use of the read unit  54 , and transmitted to the control unit  22   p  via the field bus  26   a . The control unit  22   p  identifies the strand guiding segment  10   p , or the structural type thereof, by use of the data item  46   p , and is configured, in dependence on the strand guiding segment  10   p , or the structural type thereof, in such a manner that a configuration  28   p  adapted to the structural type of the strand guiding segment  10   n  is loaded, or established. 
         [0108]    The segment-specific items of information  38   m  to  38   p  are transmitted to the main control unit  32   a . The main control unit  32   a  has an operator interface  56 , which has a configuration  58  in the form of a graphical user interface for illustrating operating data of the strand guiding system  8   a  and of the mounted strand guiding segment  10  that is prepared for adaptation to strand guiding segments of differing types and, by use of the segment-specific items of information  38   m  to  38   p , is adapted to the strand guiding segments  10   m  to  10   p.    
         [0109]    In addition, a computer-assisted simulation model  60 , on which the open-loop control or closed-loop control of the strand guiding system  8   a  is based, is executed on the main control unit  32   a , or on a processor unit of the main control unit  32   a  that is not represented for reasons of simplicity, in particular for the purpose of calculating setpoint values for setting positions and/or setting forces of the strand guiding rollers  16 ,  20  (see  FIG. 1 ). The simulation model has a configuration  62  in the form of model variables and/or simulation parameters which is prepared for adaptation to strand guiding segments of differing types and, by use of the segment-specific items of information  38   m  to  38   p , is adapted to the strand guiding segments  10   m  to  10   p.    
         [0110]      FIG. 4  shows a schematic illustration of a further strand guiding system  8   b , having control units  22   q  and  22   r , which are assigned to the strand guiding segment  10   q  and the strand guiding segment  10   r , respectively, and which each have a plurality of closed-loop control elements  64 . 
         [0111]    Each of the closed-loop control elements  64   a  to  64   g  is assigned, respectively, to at least one strand guiding roller  16  or  18  of the strand guiding segment  10   q  or  10   r  that is assigned to the respective control unit  22   q  or  22   r , respectively, which strand guiding roller can be set against the strand. 
         [0112]    In the present exemplary embodiment, the closed-loop control elements  64  are realized in software and in the present case are each a constituent part of the configurations  28   q  or  28   r , respectively, of the control means  22   q  and  22   r.    
         [0113]    The closed-loop control elements  64  are prepared, by use of a known closed-loop control law, a setpoint value and an actual value of a controlled variable, to determine a manipulated value, or a closed-loop control signal, for influencing the controlled variable. Here, the controlled variable is, respectively, a setting position and/or a setting force of one or more of the settable strand guiding rollers  16  or  18  of the strand guiding segments  10   q  and  10   r.    
         [0114]    Each of the closed-loop control elements  64   a  to  64   e  of the control unit  22   r  is assigned to at least one of the roller units  20  (see also  FIG. 1 ) of the strand guiding segment  10   r  and consequently at least to one of the individually settable strand guiding rollers  18 . 
         [0115]    More precisely, the closed-loop control element  64   a  is assigned to the roller unit  20   a , the closed-loop control element  64   b  is assigned to the roller unit  20   b , the closed-loop control element  64   c  is assigned to the roller unit  20   c , the closed-loop control element  64   d  is assigned to the roller unit  20   d , and the closed-loop control element  64   e  is assigned to the roller unit  20   e , such that respectively one closed-loop control element is assigned to precisely one roller unit. In addition, the closed-loop control element  64   e  is assigned to the roller unit  20   f  and to the roller unit  20   g  i.e. to two of the roller units  20 . 
         [0116]    The roller units  20   a  to  20   g  are each′constituted by a strand guiding roller  18  that can be set individually against the strand, and an adjustment means for setting this strand guiding roller. The roller units  20   a  to  20   g  are prepared for individual demounting from and/or mounting into the strand guiding segment  10   r , and connected individually to the control unit  22   r  assigned to the strand guiding segment  10   r , the connection in the present case being established via an aggregate cable  68  composed of a plurality of connecting cables. 
         [0117]    The closed-loop control element  64   f  is assigned to a roller means  66   a , and the closed-loop control element  64   g  is assigned to a roller means  66   b , of the strand guiding segment  10   q . The roller means  66   a  and  66   b  are each constituted by an adjustment means and by strand guiding rollers that can be set in multiples against the strand. 
         [0118]    For the purpose of configuring the strand guiding system  8   b , each of the control units  22   q  and  22   r  identifies the strand guiding segment  10   q  or  10   r  respectively assigned thereto, by use of the segment-specific item of information  38   q  or  38   r , respectively (see  FIG. 2 ). The control units  22   q  and  22   r  are each configured substantially automatically in such a manner that a necessary number of the software-based closed-loop control elements  64  is determined, according to the structural type of the identified strand guiding segment  10   q  or  10   r , and the closed-loop control elements are assigned appropriately according to the structural type. 
         [0119]      FIG. 5  shows a schematic representation of a hydraulic means  100  for supplying power fluid to the strand guiding segment  10   r  from  FIG. 4 , the hydraulic means  100  being prepared to supply the individual roller units  20   a  to  20   g  of the strand guiding segment  10   r.    
         [0120]    The hydraulic means  100  has a first infeed means  102 , which is assigned to the roller units  20   a  to  20   f  and indirectly connected to the latter, and a second infeed means  104 , which is assigned to the roller unit  20   g  and indirectly connected to the latter. 
         [0121]    In addition, the hydraulic means  100  has a first power fluid infeed line  106 , which is connected to the first infeed means  102 , and a second power fluid infeed line  108 , which is connected to the second infeed means  104 , and a power fluid discharge line  110 . 
         [0122]    The first infeed means  102  starting from the first power fluid infeed line  106  has a shut-off valve  112   a , an electromagnetically controllable 3/2-way valve  114   a , a hose rupture safety means  116   a , a pressure gauge  118   a  and a non-return valve  120   a , and is connected to a power fluid line  122   a  that is common to the roller units  20   a  to  20   f.    
         [0123]    The second infeed means  104  starting from the second power fluid infeed line  108  has a shut-off valve  112   b , an electromagnetically controllable 3/2-way valve  114   b , a hose rupture safety means  116   b , a pressure gauge  118   b  and a non-return valve  120   b , and is connected to a power fluid line  122   b  that is common to the roller unit  20   g.    
         [0124]    The power fluid lines  122   a  and  122   b  each have a pressure measuring means  124   a  and  124   b , respectively. 
         [0125]    The power fluid discharge line  110  is connected to a tank discharge line  126  that is common to the roller units  20   a  to  20   g , and has a throttle valve  128  and a non-return valve  120   c.    
         [0126]    The individually settable strand guiding rollers  18   a  to  18   g  of the roller units  20   a  to  20   g  can each be set by means of two double-acting hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab  to  130   ga  and  130   gb , and are each respectively supplied with power fluid and controlled via a hydraulic unit  132   a  to  132   g.    
         [0127]    The hydraulic units  132   a  to  132   f  are connected to the power fluid line  122   a , and the hydraulic unit  132   g  is connected to the power fluid line  122   b , all hydraulic units  132   a  to  132   g  being connected to the common tank line  126 . 
         [0128]      FIG. 6  shows a detailed schematic representation of the hydraulic unit  132   a .  FIG. 6  shows how the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab  of the individually settable strand guiding roller  18   a  can be controlled by means of the hydraulic unit  132   a , in particular in combination with the control unit  22   r  (see  FIG. 4 ). 
         [0129]    The hydraulic unit  132   a  is realized as a constituent part of the roller unit  20   a  and is mounted, for example, directly on the roller unit  20   a , or on a frame thereof. 
         [0130]    The hydraulic unit  132   a  has a first infeed unit  134 , which is connected to the hydraulic cylinder  130   aa  for the purpose of driving the latter, and a second infeed unit  136 , which is connected to the hydraulic cylinder  130   ab  for the purpose of driving the latter. 
         [0131]    The infeed units  132  and  134  are connected indirectly to the power fluid line  122   a  for the purpose of supplying it with power fluid, via the hydraulic means  100  (see  FIG. 5 ), and connected directly to the tank line  126 , for the purpose of discharging power fluid. 
         [0132]    A pressure regulating unit  138  is connected upstream from the infeed units  132  and  134 , in the direction of the power fluid line  122   a.    
         [0133]    The pressure regulating unit  138  is connected directly to the power fluid line  122   a , and has a pressure regulating valve  140 , a 3/2-way valve  114   c  and a pressure measuring means  124   c.    
         [0134]    The infeed unit  132  has a 4/3-way valve  142   a  that has a floating mid-travel position. In the infeed direction, leading to the hydraulic cylinder  130   aa , the infeed unit  132  has a shuttle valve  144   a  downstream from the 4/3-way valve  142   a , two controllable non-return valves  146   a  and  146   b , two diaphragm valves  148   a  and  148   b , a settable pressure limiting valve  150   a , two pressure measuring means  124   d  and  124   e , a pressure limiting valve  152   a  and a non-return diaphragm valve  154   a.    
         [0135]    The infeed unit  134  has a 4/3-way valve  142   b  that has a floating mid-travel position. In the infeed direction, leading to the hydraulic cylinder  130   ab , the infeed unit  134  has a shuttle valve  144   b  downstream from the 4/3-way valve  142   b , two controllable non-return valves  146   c  and  146   d , two diaphragm valves  148   c  and  148   d , a settable pressure limiting valve  150   b , two pressure measuring means  124   f  and  124   g , a pressure limiting valve  152   b  and a non-return diaphragm valve  154   b.    
         [0136]    In addition, the roller unit  20   a  has two displacement measuring means  156   a  and  156   b , which are each respectively assigned to one of the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab , and which are prepared to determine a setting position of the settable strand guiding roller  18   a.    
         [0137]    A closed-loop control of the setting position of the strand guiding roller  18   a  is effected, in particular, by use of the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  assigned to the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab , and of the displacement measuring means  156   a  and  156   b . By appropriate controlling of the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  by the control unit  22   r  (see  FIG. 4 ) by means of a control signal, the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  are moved out of a mid-travel position, and a roller gap between the strand and the strand guiding roller  18   a  is opened or closed. 
         [0138]    In particular, the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  are controlled by the closed-loop control element  64   a  (see  FIG. 4 ), which is assigned to the roller unit  20   a , and which may be a 3-point controller or a higher-order controller, and the strand guiding roller  18   a  is thereby adjusted to a setpoint setting position or a setpoint setting force. The positioning closed-loop control may be effected independently of a setting force of the strand guiding roller  18   a . A minimum and/or a maximum setting force may be ensured by the hydraulic unit  132   a , the hydraulic means  100  and/or by a corresponding configuration of the control unit  22   r.    
         [0139]    Further, a setting force of the strand guiding roller  18   a  may be determined, by the determination of a respective pressure in the respectively two chambers of the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab , by means of the pressure measuring means  124   d  and  124   e , and  124   f  and  124   g , respectively. 
         [0140]    The mid-travel position of the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  is held by means of the non-return valves  146   a  to  146   d . A travel speed of the strand guiding roller  18   a , or of the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab , is limited by the diaphragm valves  148   a  to  148   d.    
         [0141]    A closed-loop control of a setting force of the strand guiding roller  18   a  is effected, in particular, by use of the pressure regulating valve  140  upstream from the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b  and the pressure measuring means  124   c , the controllable non-return valves  146   a  to  146   d  also: holding valves being gradually opened via the shuttle valves  144   a  and  144   b , respectively. The closed-loop control of the setting force may be effected independently of the setting position of the strand guiding roller  18   a . Further, a minimum and/or a maximum setting position of the strand guiding roller  18   a  are/is ensured, thereby avoiding inadmissible variances between the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab  and/or the roller units  20   a  to  20   g  of the strand guiding segment  10   r.    
         [0142]    Further, a closed-loop control of the setting position of the strand guiding roller  18   a  may be effected indirectly, or implicitly, by a closed-loop control of the setting force of the strand guiding roller  18   a . In this case, the setting force is increased or reduced in dependence on a deviation from a setpoint value of the setting position that can be determined by means of the displacement measuring means  156   a  and  156   b . This dependence, and consequently a rigidity, may be freely selectable within fixed limits, in particular by means of a corresponding configuration of the control unit  22   r.    
         [0143]    In addition, the setting force of the strand guiding roller  18   a  may be controlled indirectly, or implicitly, by means of a closed-loop control of the setting position, in which the setting position is controlled by closed-loop control in such a manner that an average setting force corresponds substantially to a predefined setpoint value of the setting force. 
         [0144]    Preferably, the setting forces of the individually settable strand guiding rollers  18  of the roller units  20  are controlled by closed-loop control in a completely solidified region of the strand, i.e., for example, in the region of the strand guiding segments  10   j  to  10   l  of the strand guiding system  8  (see  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0145]    In addition, it is advantageous if the setting positions of the strand guiding rollers  16  or  18  of the strand guiding segments, or of the roller units, are controlled by closed-loop control in a partly solidified region of the strand, i.e., for example, in the region of the strand guiding segment  10   a  to  10   i  of the strand guiding system  8  (see  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0146]    In the case of a signal failure, for example resulting from a malfunction of the control unit  22   r , the pressure regulating valve  140  establishes a balance between an outlet pressure and a supply pressure of a power fluid. In the case of a malfunction of the displacement measuring means  156   a  or  156   b , the hydraulic cylinders  130   aa  and  130   ab  can be held in a position by a gradual shutting-off of the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and  142   b , respectively, via the non-return valves  146   a  to  146   d . In the event of a malfunction, for example, of the 4/3-way valves  142   a  and/or  142   b , the strand guiding roller  18   a  can be held in a position by a gradual shutting-off of the 3/2-way valves  114   c , via the non-return valves  146   a  to  146   d.    
       LIST OF REFERENCES 
       [0000]    
       
           2  continuous casting machine 
           4  ladle turret 
           6  mould 
           8 ,  8   a ,  8   b  strand guiding system 
           10   a - 10   r  strand guiding segment 
           12  steel girder 
           14  supporting structure 
           16  strand guiding rollers 
           18 ,  18   a - 18   g  individually settable strand guiding rollers 
           20 ,  20   a - 20   g  roller unit 
           22   g - 22   r  control unit 
           24   g - 24   l  open-loop control signal, closed-loop control signal 
           26 ,  26   a  field bus 
           28   g - 28   p  configuration 
           30  network connection 
           32 ,  32   a ,  32   b  main control unit 
           34   g - 341  setpoint value signal 
           36 ,  36   b  configuration 
           38   m - 38   r  segment-specific item of information 
           40  hardware coding 
           42  software coding 
           44   m ,  44   o  segment-specific plug connection 
           46   n ,  46   p  segment-specific data item 
           48   n ,  48   p  storage unit 
           50  RAM storage module 
           52  RFID storage element 
           54  read unit 
           56  operator interface 
           58  configuration 
           60  simulation model 
           62  configuration 
           64   a - 64   g  closed-loop control element 
           66 ,  66   b  roller means 
           68  aggregate cable 
           100  hydraulic means 
           102  infeed means 
           104  infeed means 
           106  power fluid infeed line 
           108  power fluid infeed line 
           110  power fluid discharge line 
           112   a ,  112   b  shut-off valve 
           114   a - 114   c  3/2-way valve 
           116   a ,  116   b  hose rupture safety means 
           118   a ,  118   b  pressure gauge 
           120   a - 120   c  non-return valve 
           122   a ,  122   b  pressure fluid line 
           124   a - 124   g  pressure measuring means 
           126  tank line 
           128  throttle valve 
           130   aa - 130   gb  hydraulic cylinder 
           132   a - 132   g  hydraulic unit 
           134  infeed unit 
           136  infeed unit 
           138  pressure regulating unit 
           140  pressure regulating valve 
           142   a ,  142   b  4/3-way valve 
           144   a ,  144   b  shuttle valve 
           146   a - 146   d  controllable non-return valve 
           148   a - 148   d  diaphragm valve 
           150   a ,  150   b  settable pressure limiting valve 
           152   a ,  152   b  pressure limiting valve 
           154   a ,  154   b  non-return diaphragm valve 
           156   a ,  156   b  displacement measuring means 
         L strand longitudinal direction