Heat trace control system and self-limiting heat trace

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of heat tracing band control system and self-limiting temperature heat tracing band, heat tracing band control system is connected with self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body, and heat tracing band control system includes temperature detection module and variable resistance module;Temperature detection end of temperature detection module is correspondingly set with self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body, and the first output end of temperature detection module is connected with the control end of variable resistance module, and variable resistance module is connected with self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body in series. The temperature of self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body is detected by setting temperature detection module, and then the resistance of variable resistance module connected with self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body in series is adjusted, so as to adjust the total resistance of the branch where self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body is located, limit the current of the branch, avoid excessive current due to the resistance of self-limiting temperature heat tracing band body being too low in low temperature environment, and improve the safety of self-limiting temperature heat tracing band.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of electric heat tracing, and in particular to a heat tracing control system and a self-regulating heat tracing cable. Background Technology

[0002] Self-regulating electric heating cables consist of conductive plastic, two parallel busbars, and an outer insulation layer. These cables are made of a high-molecular-weight conductive composite material. When the ambient temperature rises, the polymer micromolecules expand, the carbon particles gradually separate, causing a circuit interruption, increased resistance, and the heating cable automatically reduces its power output. When the ambient temperature decreases, the spacing between the polymer microparticles shrinks, and the carbon particles connect to form a circuit, automatically increasing the heating power of the heating cable. When the ambient temperature reaches a stable state, the system achieves stable heat output, giving it temperature self-limiting properties.

[0003] Self-regulating heating cables are typically used in low-temperature conditions, such as when water freezes below 0°C after being filled in the shell and tube, causing it to expand and potentially burst, damaging the unit. In such cases, self-regulating heating cables are needed to maintain the shell and tube temperature. However, during startup in low-temperature environments, the resistance of the self-regulating heating cable is very low, resulting in a large starting current that can damage the circuit. Replacing the cable or device with a more current-resistant type wastes resources. Utility Model Content

[0004] The main purpose of this invention is to propose a heat tracing control system and a self-regulating heat tracing cable, which aims to solve the problem of resource waste caused by replacing cables or devices with more current-resistant types in the existing technology.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides a heat tracing control system. The heat tracing control system is connected to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The heat tracing control system includes a temperature detection module and a variable resistor module. The temperature detection terminal of the temperature detection module is correspondingly set to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The first output terminal of the temperature detection module is connected to the control terminal of the variable resistor module. The variable resistor module is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body.

[0006] Optionally, the variable resistor module includes a rheostat unit, wherein: The control terminal of the variable resistor unit is connected to the first output terminal of the temperature detection module, and the variable resistor unit is connected in series with the self-limiting temperature tracing cable body.

[0007] Optionally, the rheostat unit includes a sliding rheostat and a drive motor; wherein: The sliding rheostat is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body; the sliding end of the sliding rheostat is connected to the drive motor, and the control end of the drive motor serves as the control end of the rheostat unit.

[0008] Optionally, the heat tracing control system further includes a bypass module; the control terminal of the bypass module is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module, and the bypass module is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

[0009] Optionally, the bypass module includes a relay; wherein: The coil of the relay is connected to the output terminal of the temperature detection module; a set of normally open contacts of the relay are connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

[0010] Optionally, the bypass module includes a controllable switch; wherein: The control terminal of the controllable switch is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module as the control terminal of the bypass module, and the controllable switch is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

[0011] Optionally, the temperature detection module includes a temperature sensor and a controller; wherein: The temperature sensor is in contact with the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body, and the output terminal of the temperature sensor is connected to the input terminal of the controller. The output terminal of the controller serves as the output terminal of the temperature detection module.

[0012] Optionally, the tropical control system further includes a voltage detection module, wherein: The detection terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the power supply of the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body, and the output terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the voltage detection terminal of the temperature detection module.

[0013] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model also provides a self-regulating heat tracing cable, which includes a self-regulating heat tracing cable body and a heat tracing cable control system as described above.

[0014] Optionally, the self-regulating heating cable is made of a material with a positive temperature coefficient.

[0015] This invention proposes a heating cable control system and a self-regulating heating cable. The system acquires the detection temperature corresponding to the self-regulating heating cable body; determines the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detection temperature; and sets the resistance value of a variable resistor module to the target compensation resistance value so that the current value in the branch where the self-regulating heating cable body is located is less than a preset current threshold. By setting a temperature detection module to detect the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable body, the resistance status of the self-regulating heating cable body is determined. Then, by adjusting the resistance value of the variable resistor module connected in series with the self-regulating heating cable body, the total resistance value of the branch where the self-regulating heating cable body is located is adjusted, thereby limiting the current in the branch and preventing excessive current caused by excessively low resistance of the self-regulating heating cable body in low-temperature environments, thus improving the safety of the self-regulating heating cable. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the heat tracing control method of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a modular structure diagram of the heat tracing control system of this utility model; Figure 3 This is an overall structural diagram of the heat tracing control system of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the module structure of the temperature detection module of this utility model.

[0020] Explanation of icon numbers: Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0022] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the present invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed.

[0023] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0024] This utility model provides a method for controlling a heat tracing cable, applied to a heat tracing cable control system, with reference to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the first embodiment of the heat tracing control method of this utility model. The method includes the following steps: Step S10: Obtain the detection temperature corresponding to the self-limiting heat tracing cable body; The self-regulating heat tracing cable body is the part of the self-regulating heat tracing cable that realizes the self-regulating heat tracing cable function.

[0025] The detected temperature is the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable itself; the specific detected temperature can be obtained by collecting the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable itself through the temperature detection module.

[0026] Step S20: Determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detected temperature; Step S30: Set the resistance value of the variable resistor module to the target compensation resistance value so that the current value of the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is located is less than the preset current threshold.

[0027] The target compensation resistance value indicates the compensation for the resistance of the self-limiting heating cable body. It is understood that the self-limiting heating cable body is made of temperature-sensitive material; therefore, its resistance changes with its own temperature. When the resistance of the self-limiting heating cable body is too low, the current in the branch containing the self-limiting heating cable body will be too high. Therefore, to ensure that the current in the branch containing the self-limiting heating cable body is within the allowable range, this embodiment determines the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detected temperature and sets the resistance value of the variable resistor module to the target compensation resistance value. It is understood that the variable resistor module is connected in series with the self-limiting heating cable body. Therefore, when the resistance value of the variable resistor module is set to the target compensation resistance value, the total resistance of the branch containing the self-limiting heating cable body can be increased, thereby reducing the current in the branch containing the self-limiting heating cable body.

[0028] The preset current threshold is the maximum allowable current value of the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable. When the current in the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable is less than the preset current threshold, the current in the branch will not damage the circuit or the components within it. When the current in the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable is greater than or equal to the preset current threshold, the current in the branch may damage the circuit or the components within it. In this embodiment, by setting the target compensation resistance value to make the current value in the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable less than the preset current threshold, the problem of overcurrent caused by the excessively low resistance of the self-regulating heating cable under low temperatures is avoided, thus improving circuit safety.

[0029] The specific value of the preset current threshold can be set based on the actual application scenario, such as the current that the line can withstand and the current that the appliance can withstand.

[0030] It is understandable that in this embodiment, the resistance of the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable is adjusted by setting a variable resistor module, thereby achieving current limiting. Compared to replacing the cable or device with a more current-resistant type, this embodiment does not increase the cost of the cable or device. At the same time, since the current of the self-regulating heating cable is very small in most cases, replacing the cable or device with a more current-resistant type would waste resources. This embodiment, on the other hand, maintains the original self-regulating heating cable and related device settings, and achieves the suppression of excessive driving current by adding a temperature detection module and a variable resistor module, with a low increase in cost and no waste of resources.

[0031] For the sake of clarity in the following explanation, the heat tracing control system used in the heat tracing control method of this application will be described first.

[0032] The heat tracing control system is connected to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100. The heat tracing control system includes a temperature detection module 200 and a variable resistance module 300. The temperature detection terminal of the temperature detection module 200 is correspondingly set to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100. The first output terminal of the temperature detection module 200 is connected to the control terminal of the variable resistance module 300. The variable resistance module 300 is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100.

[0033] The temperature detection module 200 detects the temperature of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 to obtain the detection temperature, and after determining the target compensation resistance value based on the detection temperature, sends the control signal corresponding to the target compensation resistance value to the variable resistor module 300 to set the resistance value of the variable resistor module 300 to the target compensation resistance value.

[0034] Since the variable resistor module 300 is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100, the resistance value of the variable resistor module 300 can be set to increase the total resistance value of the branch where the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100 is located, thereby reducing the current in the branch where the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100 is located.

[0035] Furthermore, the variable resistor module 300 includes a rheostat unit, wherein: The control terminal of the variable resistor unit is connected to the first output terminal of the temperature detection module 200, and the variable resistor unit is connected in series with the self-limiting temperature tracing cable body 100.

[0036] In this embodiment, a rheostat unit is used as the variable resistor module 300. It can be understood that the rheostat unit can adjust its own resistance value to meet the resistance adjustment requirements of the variable resistor module 300. The control terminal of the rheostat unit is connected to the first output terminal of the temperature detection module 200. After determining the target compensation resistance value, the temperature detection module 200 sends a corresponding control signal to the rheostat unit so that the resistance value of the rheostat unit can be adjusted to the target compensation resistance value.

[0037] The specific type of rheostat used in the rheostat unit can be set according to actual needs, such as sliding rheostat 310, potentiometer, digital rheostat, etc.

[0038] Furthermore, the rheostat unit includes a sliding rheostat 310 and a drive motor; wherein: The sliding rheostat 310 is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100; the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310 is connected to the drive motor, and the control end of the drive motor serves as the control end of the rheostat unit.

[0039] In this embodiment, a sliding rheostat 310 is used to construct the rheostat unit. It can be understood that the sliding rheostat 310 adjusts its resistance value by moving its sliding end. The two connecting ends of the sliding rheostat 310 that can realize the variable resistance are connected in series in the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is located, so that the resistance value of the sliding rheostat 310 in the branch can be adjusted when the sliding end moves.

[0040] In this embodiment, a drive motor is specifically used to control the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310. The drive motor is controlled by the control signal output by the temperature detection module 200. A transmission relationship can be established between the drive motor and the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310. When the drive motor rotates, it can control the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310 to move. The temperature detection module 200 can specifically set the correspondence between the position of the drive motor, the position of the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310, and the resistance value of the sliding rheostat 310. After determining the target compensation resistance value, the corresponding drive motor position is obtained by matching the target compensation resistance value, and then the control signal corresponding to the drive motor position is determined. The control signal is sent to the drive motor so that the drive motor adjusts the position of the sliding end of the sliding rheostat 310 to the position corresponding to the target compensation resistance value.

[0041] Other types of rheostats can be specifically configured based on their adjustment methods.

[0042] Furthermore, the heat tracing control system also includes a bypass module; the control terminal of the bypass module is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module 200, and the bypass module is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module 300.

[0043] It is understandable that a rheostat is an energy-consuming device that does no useful work. Therefore, when a rheostat is connected to a circuit, it will generate additional power consumption. The purpose of setting up a rheostat is to avoid the problem of excessive current caused by the low resistance of the self-limiting heating cable. Therefore, if the resistance of the self-limiting heating cable body 100 is not too low, there is no need to use the rheostat. Therefore, the rheostat can be bypassed to avoid power consumption from the rheostat.

[0044] Specifically, in this embodiment, a bypass module is provided, which is controlled by the temperature detection module 200; When the temperature detection module 200 detects that the detected temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, it means that the resistance of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is small, which will cause the current in the branch to be lower than the preset current threshold. In this case, the variable resistor needs to provide additional resistance to suppress the current. Therefore, the variable resistor module 300 is connected to the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is located, and the resistance of the variable resistor module 300 is adjusted by detecting the temperature to suppress the current. When the temperature detection module 200 detects that the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the preset temperature threshold, it means that the resistance of the self-limiting heating cable body 100 is large at this time, and the current in the branch will not be less than the preset current threshold. In this case, even if no rheostat provides additional resistance, there will be no excessive current. Therefore, the variable resistor module 300 can be bypassed through the bypass module at this time to avoid power consumption by the rheostat.

[0045] Furthermore, the bypass module includes a relay K1; wherein: The coil of the relay K1 is connected to the output terminal of the temperature detection module 200; a set of normally open contacts of the relay K1 are connected in parallel with the variable resistor module 300.

[0046] In this embodiment, the bypass module function is implemented through relay K1.

[0047] When the temperature detection module 200 detects that the temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, it does not output voltage to the coil of relay K1. At this time, the coil of relay K1 is de-energized, the normally open contact of relay K1 is opened, and the variable resistor module 300 is connected to the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is located. When the temperature detection module 200 detects a temperature greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, it outputs a voltage to the coil of relay K1. At this time, the coil of relay K1 is energized, the normally open contact of relay K1 is closed, and the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is bypassed.

[0048] Furthermore, the bypass module includes a controllable switch; wherein: The control terminal of the controllable switch is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module 200 as the control terminal of the bypass module, and the controllable switch is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module 300.

[0049] In this embodiment, the bypass module function is implemented through a controllable switch.

[0050] When the temperature detection module 200 detects that the temperature is less than the preset temperature threshold, it outputs a control signal indicating disconnection to the controllable switch. At this time, the controllable switch is disconnected, and the variable resistor module 300 is connected to the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is located. When the temperature detection module 200 detects that the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the preset temperature threshold, it outputs a control signal indicating that the switch is closed. At this time, the controllable switch is closed, and the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100 is bypassed.

[0051] The specific type and structure of the bypass module can be set according to actual needs.

[0052] Furthermore, the temperature detection module 200 includes a temperature sensor 210 and a controller 220; wherein: The temperature sensor 210 is disposed in contact with the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body 100, and the output end of the temperature sensor 210 is connected to the input end of the controller 220. The output end of the controller 220 serves as the output end of the temperature detection module 200.

[0053] Temperature sensor 210 is used to detect the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable body 100; the specific type of temperature sensor 210 can be set according to actual needs; temperature sensor 210 is set to contact the self-regulating heating cable body 100 to realize the temperature detection of the self-regulating heating cable body 100.

[0054] Temperature sensor 210 sends the detected temperature to controller 220. Controller 220 determines the target compensation resistance value of variable resistor module 300 and the status of bypass module based on the detected temperature, and sends the target compensation resistance value to variable resistor module 300 and sends the corresponding control signal to bypass module.

[0055] The specific settings of the temperature sensor 210 can also be set based on the actual type used. For example, for non-contact temperature detection devices, such as infrared thermometers, the temperature detection area of ​​the temperature detection device can be set on the self-limiting heat tracing cable body 100.

[0056] Furthermore, the tropical control system also includes a voltage detection module, wherein: The detection terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the power supply of the self-regulating heat tracing cable body 100, and the output terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the voltage detection terminal of the temperature detection module 200.

[0057] It is understandable that the current in the branch where the self-regulating heating cable body 100 is located is determined by both voltage and resistance. Generally, the voltage in the branch where the self-regulating heating cable body 100 is located is fixed, such as 220V. However, in special scenarios, undervoltage or voltage instability may occur. Therefore, in order to accurately determine the target compensation resistance value, this embodiment also sets a voltage detection module to detect the actual voltage in the branch where the self-regulating heating cable body 100 is located to obtain the detection voltage. After obtaining the detection voltage, the minimum resistance threshold is calculated based on the detection voltage and the preset current threshold. The body resistance value corresponding to the self-regulating heating cable body 100 is determined by detecting the temperature, and the difference between the minimum resistance threshold and the body resistance value is taken as the target compensation resistance value.

[0058] The specific type of voltage detection module can be set based on actual needs.

[0059] This embodiment uses a temperature detection module to detect the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable body, thereby determining its resistance. Then, by adjusting the resistance of a variable resistor module connected in series with the self-regulating heating cable body, the total resistance of the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable body is adjusted, thus limiting the current in that branch. This prevents excessive current caused by low resistance of the self-regulating heating cable body in low-temperature environments, improving the safety of the self-regulating heating cable.

[0060] Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the heat tracing control method of the present invention based on the first embodiment, step S20 includes the following steps: Step S21: Determine the body resistance value corresponding to the detection temperature, wherein the body resistance value is the resistance value of the self-limiting heat tracing tape corresponding to the detection temperature; Step S22: Determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the body resistance value, wherein the sum of the target compensation resistance value and the body resistance value is greater than or equal to the minimum resistance value threshold.

[0061] It is understandable that self-regulating heating cables are made of thermistor materials. Therefore, the relationship between the temperature and resistance of the self-regulating heating cable body is fixed. Generally, the self-regulating heating cable body is made of positive temperature coefficient material. The correspondence between the temperature and resistance of the self-regulating heating cable body is set in advance in the temperature detection module. After the detection temperature is determined, the resistance of the body can be matched.

[0062] The minimum resistance threshold is the total resistance of the branch when the current in the branch is at a preset current threshold.

[0063] Understandably, the purpose of setting up a variable resistor module is to avoid excessive current. Therefore, when the sum of the main resistance value and the target compensation resistance value is greater than or equal to the minimum resistance threshold, the current in the branch can be greater than the preset current threshold. Therefore, in this embodiment, the target compensation resistance value is determined based on the minimum resistance threshold and the main resistance value.

[0064] Further, step S22 includes the following steps: Step S221: Obtain the minimum resistance threshold; Step S222: The difference between the minimum resistance threshold and the body resistance is taken as the target compensation resistance.

[0065] It is understandable that the larger the target compensation resistance value, the greater the power consumption of the variable resistor module. However, when the sum of the target compensation resistance value and the main resistance value is equal to the minimum resistance threshold, the branch current can be kept within the allowable range. Therefore, in order to reduce the power consumption of the variable resistor module as much as possible, this embodiment sets the sum of the target compensation resistance value and the main resistance value to the minimum resistance threshold, so that the target compensation resistance value is the minimum value that can meet the current limiting requirements, thereby reducing the power consumption of the variable resistor module while avoiding overcurrent.

[0066] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the heat tracing control method of the present invention based on the first embodiment, step S20 includes the following steps: Step S23: Determine whether the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, wherein the preset temperature threshold is the temperature at which the resistance of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is at its minimum resistance threshold. Step S24: If the detected temperature is less than the preset temperature threshold, then determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detected temperature.

[0067] When the temperature detection module detects that the temperature is lower than the preset temperature threshold, it means that the resistance of the self-regulating heating cable is low, which will cause the current in the branch to be lower than the preset current threshold. In this case, a variable resistor is needed to provide additional resistance to suppress the current. Therefore, the variable resistor module is connected to the branch where the self-regulating heating cable is located, and the resistance of the variable resistor module is adjusted by detecting the temperature to suppress the current.

[0068] Furthermore, step S24 is preceded by the following steps: Step S241: Determine whether the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, wherein the preset temperature threshold is the temperature at which the resistance of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is at its minimum resistance threshold. Step S242: If the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, then the bypass module is controlled to bypass the variable resistor module.

[0069] When the temperature detection module detects that the detected temperature is greater than or equal to the preset temperature threshold, it means that the resistance of the self-limiting heating cable is relatively large at this time, and the current in the branch will not be less than the preset current threshold. In this case, even if no rheostat provides additional resistance, there will be no excessive current. Therefore, the variable resistor module can be bypassed through the bypass module to avoid power consumption by the rheostat.

[0070] The overall implementation principle of this application is explained below: The self-regulating heating cable is connected in series with a sliding rheostat, and the sliding rheostat is connected in parallel with the normally open contact of a relay. Assuming the maximum current that the circuit can withstand for a long time, i.e., the preset current threshold, is I0, and the voltage of the circuit is constant at U0, then the corresponding minimum resistance threshold R0 is:

[0071] When the self-regulating heating cable is in a low temperature state, its resistance R is very small, R < R0. At this time, R0 is the sum of the resistance values ​​of the sliding rheostat and the self-regulating heating cable.

[0072] When the temperature changes, the resistance of the self-regulating heating cable changes, and the resistance of the sliding rheostat changes synchronously through the controller adjustment, so that the sum of the resistances of the two is always R0; when the resistance R of the self-regulating heating cable body is R0, the corresponding temperature T0 of the self-regulating heating cable body is the preset temperature threshold.

[0073] The self-regulating heating cable is equipped with a temperature sensor that can monitor the temperature T of the self-regulating heating cable in real time and feed the temperature signal back to the controller. The controller can compare T with the preset temperature T0 in real time.

[0074] When T≤T0, the controller controls the rheostat according to the above method to achieve constant current start-up of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body; When T > T0, the controller outputs an electrical signal to the relay coil, the relay coil is energized, the normally open contact closes, and the two ends of the sliding rheostat are short-circuited to achieve bypass. At this time, only the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is working in the circuit.

[0075] This system enables the self-regulating heating cable to maintain a constant current during startup. When the temperature is high and the resistance of the self-regulating heating cable is large enough that the current in the circuit is within the acceptable range, the sliding rheostat can be short-circuited without affecting the normal operation of the self-regulating heating cable.

[0076] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the foregoing method embodiments are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that this application is not limited to the described order of actions, as some steps may be performed in other orders or simultaneously according to this application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to this application.

[0077] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods according to the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk), and includes several instructions to cause a terminal device (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0078] This application also provides a heat tracing control system for implementing the above-described heat tracing control method. The heat tracing control system is connected to a self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The heat tracing control system includes a temperature detection module and a variable resistor module. The temperature detection terminal of the temperature detection module is correspondingly configured with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The first output terminal of the temperature detection module is connected to the control terminal of the variable resistor module. The variable resistor module is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The temperature detection module includes: The first acquisition module is used to acquire the detection temperature corresponding to the self-limiting heat tracing cable body; The first determining module is used to determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detected temperature; The first setting module is used to set the resistance value of the variable resistor module to the target compensation resistance value so that the current value of the branch where the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is located is less than the preset current threshold.

[0079] This self-regulating heating cable control system uses a temperature detection module to monitor the temperature of the self-regulating heating cable itself, thereby determining its resistance. Then, by adjusting the resistance of a variable resistor module connected in series with the self-regulating heating cable, the total resistance of the branch containing the self-regulating heating cable is adjusted, thus limiting the current in that branch. This prevents excessive current due to low resistance of the self-regulating heating cable in low-temperature environments, improving the safety of the self-regulating heating cable.

[0080] It should be noted that the first acquisition module in this embodiment can be used to execute step S10 in this application embodiment, the first determination module in this embodiment can be used to execute step S20 in this application embodiment, and the first setting module in this embodiment can be used to execute step S30 in this application embodiment.

[0081] Furthermore, the variable resistor module includes a rheostat unit, wherein: The control terminal of the variable resistor unit is connected to the first output terminal of the temperature detection module, and the variable resistor unit is connected in series with the self-limiting temperature tracing cable body.

[0082] Furthermore, the heat tracing control system also includes a bypass module; the bypass module includes a relay; wherein: The coil of the relay is connected to the output terminal of the temperature detection module; a set of normally open contacts of the relay are connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

[0083] Furthermore, the temperature detection module includes a temperature sensor and a controller; wherein: The temperature sensor is in contact with the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body, and the output terminal of the temperature sensor is connected to the input terminal of the controller. The output terminal of the controller serves as the output terminal of the temperature detection module.

[0084] Further, the first determining module includes: The first determining unit is used to determine the body resistance value corresponding to the detection temperature, wherein the body resistance value is the resistance value of the self-limiting heat tracing tape corresponding to the detection temperature. The second determining unit is used to determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the body resistance value, wherein the sum of the target compensation resistance value and the body resistance value is greater than or equal to the minimum resistance value threshold.

[0085] Further, the second determining unit includes: The first acquisition subunit is used to acquire the minimum resistance threshold. The first calculation subunit is used to take the difference between the minimum resistance threshold and the body resistance as the target compensation resistance value.

[0086] Furthermore, the first determining module includes: The first judgment unit is used to determine whether the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, wherein the preset temperature threshold is the temperature at which the resistance of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is at its minimum resistance threshold. The third determining unit is used to determine the target compensation resistance value corresponding to the detection temperature if the detected temperature is less than the preset temperature threshold.

[0087] Furthermore, the third determining unit includes: The first judgment subunit is used to determine whether the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold, wherein the preset temperature threshold is the temperature at which the resistance of the self-limiting heat tracing cable body is at its minimum resistance threshold. The first control subunit is used to control the bypass module to bypass the variable resistor module if the detected temperature is greater than or equal to a preset temperature threshold.

[0088] This utility model also provides a self-regulating heat tracing cable, which includes a self-regulating heat tracing cable body and a heat tracing cable control system as described above.

[0089] Reference Figure 4 In terms of hardware structure, the temperature detection module may include components such as a communication module 10, a memory 20, and a processor 30. In the temperature detection module, the processor 30 is connected to both the memory 20 and the communication module 10. The memory 20 stores a computer program, which is executed by the processor 30. When the computer program is executed, it implements the steps of the above-described method embodiment.

[0090] The communication module 10 can connect to external communication devices via a network. The communication module 10 can receive requests from the external communication devices and can also send requests, instructions, and information to the external communication devices. The external communication devices can be other temperature detection modules, servers, or IoT devices, such as televisions, etc.

[0091] The memory 20 can be used to store software programs and various data. The memory 20 may primarily include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system, at least one application program required for a function (such as obtaining the detection temperature corresponding to the temperature-limiting heating cable itself), etc.; the data storage area may include a database, and may store data or information created based on system usage. Furthermore, the memory 20 may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, or other volatile solid-state storage device.

[0092] The processor 30 is the control center of the temperature detection module. It connects various parts of the temperature detection module via various interfaces and lines. By running or executing software programs and / or modules stored in the memory 20, and by calling data stored in the memory 20, it performs various functions and processes data of the temperature detection module, thereby providing overall monitoring of the temperature detection module. The processor 30 may include one or more processing units; optionally, the processor 30 may integrate an application processor and a modem processor. The application processor mainly handles the operating system, user interface, and applications, while the modem processor mainly handles wireless communication. It is understood that the modem processor may not be integrated into the processor 30.

[0093] although Figure 4 Not shown, but the temperature detection module described above may further include a circuit control module, which is connected to a power supply to ensure the normal operation of other components. Those skilled in the art will understand that... Figure 4The temperature detection module structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the temperature detection module. It may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0094] This utility model also proposes a computer-readable storage medium on which a computer program is stored. The computer-readable storage medium may be... Figure 4 The memory 20 in the temperature detection module can also be at least one of ROM (Read-Only Memory) / RAM (Random Access Memory), magnetic disk, optical disk, etc. The computer-readable storage medium includes several instructions to cause a terminal device with a processor (which may be a television, automobile, mobile phone, computer, server, terminal, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of this utility model.

[0095] In this utility model, the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth" and "fifth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0096] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0097] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. It is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, and substitutions to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention, and such changes, modifications, and substitutions should all be covered within the protection scope of the present invention. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A control system for a heat tracing band, characterized by The heat tracing control system is connected to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The heat tracing control system includes a temperature detection module and a variable resistor module. The temperature detection terminal of the temperature detection module is correspondingly set to the self-regulating heat tracing cable body. The first output terminal of the temperature detection module is connected to the control terminal of the variable resistor module. The variable resistor module is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body.

2. The heat tracing control system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The variable resistor module includes a rheostat unit, wherein: The control terminal of the variable resistor unit is connected to the first output terminal of the temperature detection module, and the variable resistor unit is connected in series with the self-limiting temperature tracing cable body.

3. The heat tape control system of claim 2, wherein, The rheostat unit includes a sliding rheostat and a drive motor; wherein: The sliding rheostat is connected in series with the self-regulating heat tracing cable body; the sliding end of the sliding rheostat is connected to the drive motor, and the control end of the drive motor serves as the control end of the rheostat unit.

4. The heat tracing control system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The heat tracing control system also includes a bypass module; the control terminal of the bypass module is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module, and the bypass module is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

5. The heat tracing control system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The bypass module includes a relay; wherein: The coil of the relay is connected to the output terminal of the temperature detection module; a set of normally open contacts of the relay are connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

6. The heat tape control system of claim 4, wherein, The bypass module includes a controllable switch; wherein: The control terminal of the controllable switch is connected to the second output terminal of the temperature detection module as the control terminal of the bypass module, and the controllable switch is connected in parallel with the variable resistor module.

7. The heat tape control system of claim 1, wherein, The temperature detection module includes a temperature sensor and a controller; wherein: The temperature sensor is in contact with the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body, and the output terminal of the temperature sensor is connected to the input terminal of the controller. The output terminal of the controller serves as the output terminal of the temperature detection module.

8. The heat tracing control system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The tropical control system also includes a voltage detection module, wherein: The detection terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the power supply of the self-regulating temperature tracing cable body, and the output terminal of the voltage detection module is connected to the voltage detection terminal of the temperature detection module.

9. A self-limiting temperature tracing band, characterized in that The self-regulating heat tracing cable includes a self-regulating heat tracing cable body and a heat tracing cable control system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The self-regulating heat tracing cable as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The self-regulating heating cable is made of a material with a positive temperature coefficient.

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