Patent ID: 8342083

Claim:
Method for an operation and safety control for a press ( 1 ), including a hydraulic system with at least one hydraulic cylinder ( 2 ), operated by means of a hydraulic valve ( 4 ) controlled by the intervention of a programmable processing unit ( 7 ) whereby a number of electrical signal inputs and outputs ( 8 ) are provided and into which a software application ( 9 ) is loaded, the method comprising: at least one incremental position sensor ( 6 ) is fitted to determine a position of the hydraulic cylinder ( 2 ) whereby a result of the determination of the position of the hydraulic cylinder is automatically transmitted to the programmable processing unit ( 7 ) and whereby the position sensor ( 6 ) is independent of any transducers or feedback signals on the hydraulic valve ( 4 ) and on the basis of the programmable processing unit's ( 7 ) internal clock or timer and the result of the aforementioned incremental position sensor ( 6 ), the aforementioned software application ( 9 ) can: determine an operating speed of the press ( 1 ); control a motion pattern of the press ( 1 ) in accordance with pre-programmed profiles; calculate a hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic system; evaluate a status of the hydraulic system before, during and after the press ( 1 ) executes an operation; detect a status, correct functioning and closed position of the hydraulic valve or valves ( 4 ); detect possible leaks that might occur in various places in the hydraulic system; and test and control lag length and time of the press ( 1 ).