HEATING SYSTEM FOR A BUILDING

Description

[0001] The application relates to a heating system for a building, comprising at least one heating device designed to heat water that can be supplied to the heating device, and at least one first hot water storage tank, wherein the first hot water storage tank is connected to the heating device via at least one first supply line for supplying heated water to the first hot water storage tank and via at least one first return line for supplying water back to the heating device. Furthermore, the application relates to a method for operating a heating system and an (electrical) energy-to-heat arrangement.

[0002] Nowadays, electricity generation increasingly relies on renewable energy sources. Examples of renewable energy generators include photovoltaic systems and wind turbines. The increased use of such renewable energy generators makes grid control, particularly grid regulation and / or grid stabilization, more challenging. This is because the electricity generation from these renewable energy sources is subject to fluctuations due to weather, seasonal, and / or time-of-day conditions.

[0003] Fluctuations in an electricity grid lead to periods when more energy is fed into the grid by producers than is simultaneously drawn from it. In this context, this is understood as an overload of the electricity grid.

[0004] To maintain grid stability during such periods, renewable energy producers are typically deactivated or throttled as part of feed-in management. However, it is also a known technology to store excess electrical energy in batteries, pumped storage power plants, or similar systems. Furthermore, it is known to convert excess energy or power into hydrogen or heat.

[0005] These established solutions have drawbacks. Storing excess energy in batteries is associated with high costs and losses. Operating pumped-storage power plants or devices for converting electrical energy into hydrogen is also expensive and has poor efficiency.

[0006] As previously described, electrical energy-to-heat devices or arrangements (power-to-heat (P2H)) are known, in which electrical energy is converted into heat and this heat is fed, for example, into a local and / or district heating network. It is also possible that heat-intensive industrial plants have an energy-to-heat device.

[0007] A disadvantage of the aforementioned electrical energy-to-heat devices is that, for example, a local and / or district heating network is required to utilize the thermal energy. A problematic aspect of an energy-to-heat arrangement for a heat-intensive industrial plant, in the context of sector coupling within the energy transition, is its location in urban areas, which generally do not represent grid bottlenecks. These bottlenecks are primarily found in rural areas, where numerous renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and photovoltaic systems, are installed. However, such arrangements are lacking in these areas, even though there is a particular need to utilize surplus electrical energy in these regions.

[0008] In these rural areas, there are numerous buildings, such as private homes and small businesses, each equipped with at least one heating system. However, conventional heating systems are unable to convert excess electrical energy into heat energy that can be used within the building. This is due to the design of a conventional heating system. Examples of such heating systems are shown in documents WO 2014 / 027936 A1, US 2017 / 059206 A1, and DE 202011 052452 A1.

[0009] The Figure 1 shows another exemplary heating system 101 in accordance with the state of the art.

[0010] The heating system 101 comprises a heating device 102 and a hot water storage tank 104 fluidically connected to the heating device 102 via a pipe system 112, 114. The heating device 102 has at least one pump 116 for circulating water and at least one combustion unit 118 or burner 118 for heating water. The burner 118 is supplied with a suitable fuel (e.g., gas, oil, etc.) via an inlet 106.

[0011] Furthermore, the heating system 101 has at least one supply line 108 for conveying heated water to at least one (not shown) heating unit, such as a radiator, and a return line 110 for receiving the (cooled) water from the at least one heating unit.

[0012] For example, to heat a heating unit, in a first operating mode of the heating system 101, water obtained via the return line 110 is heated by the burner 118 and directed by the pump 116 via the supply line 108 to the heating unit.

[0013] The hot water storage tank 104, designed as a drinking water storage tank, serves to provide a user of a building with hot water via at least one draw-off point (e.g., a tap). A pipe system (not shown) can be connected to the hot water storage tank 104 for this purpose.

[0014] The water temperature of the water stored in the hot water storage tank 104 is measured by a temperature measuring device 120 and compared with a predetermined minimum permissible temperature. If the minimum permissible temperature is detected being reached or fallen below, the heating device 102 is switched to a second operating mode. For this purpose, a valve device (not shown) in the heating device 102 is adjusted such that water from the return line 114 (and not 110) is directed to the burner 118 and pumped by the pump 116 into the supply line 112 (and not 108). In this operating mode, the water received via the return line 114 is heated by the burner 118. The heated water is then pumped by the pump 116 into the hot water storage tank 104.The heating device 102 usually remains in the second operating mode until the water temperature of the water in the hot water storage tank 104 has (again) reached a predetermined target temperature.

[0015] However, such a conventional heating system lacks the capability to convert excess electrical energy into heat or thermal energy. While there have been considerations in the prior art of retrofitting the hot water storage tank with an electrically operated heating device (e.g., an immersion heater), this has not yet been implemented.

[0016] However, this has proven to be hardly feasible in practice. Even the installation in an existing hot water storage tank is complex and time-consuming, and involves considerable hygiene requirements. Furthermore, the heating system, and in particular the circulation of water within the heating system, is controlled by the heating device and its pump. Therefore, retrofitting an electrically operated heating device also necessitates the implementation of a new control system for the heating system.

[0017] Therefore, the present application is based on the task of providing a heating system for a building which enables the conversion of electrical energy into usable heat energy in a simple manner, especially in the case of a conventional heating system.

[0018] The problem is solved, according to a first aspect of the application, by a heating system for a building according to claim 1. The heating system comprises at least one heating device. The heating device is configured to heat water that can be supplied to the heating device. The heating system comprises at least one first hot water storage tank. The first hot water storage tank is connected to the heating device via at least one first supply line for supplying heated water to the first hot water storage tank and via at least one first return line for supplying water back to the heating device. The heating system comprises at least one energy-to-heat arrangement. The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one second hot water storage tank with at least one electrically operated heating device. The electrically operated heating device is configured to heat the water located in the second hot water storage tank.The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one first valve assembly located in the first return line. The first valve assembly is configured to direct water from the first return line, via at least one second supply line, into the second hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one second return line connected to the second hot water storage tank. This return line is configured to direct water from the second hot water storage tank to the heating device.

[0019] In contrast to the prior art, the application provides a heating system that enables the simple conversion of electrical energy into usable heat energy. In particular, the present application is distinguished by the fact that a return temperature increase can be provided for a (conventional) heating system through an energy-to-heat arrangement as described. This return temperature increase can be used independently of the outside temperature. Retrofitting a (conventional) heating system requires only the installation of a valve device. The hot water storage tank, heating element, heating system control, etc., can remain unchanged. In other words, an energy-to-heat arrangement as described in the application can be easily coupled to a (conventional) heating system (retrofitted).Excess electrical energy can be used with particularly high efficiency, even in rural areas. The heating system as registered may consist of at least one heating system and at least one energy-to-heat arrangement as registered. The heating system may include at least one heating device and at least one first hot water storage tank.

[0020] At least one heating device is designed to heat water.

[0021] According to the invention, (conventional) oil-powered or gas-powered heating devices are provided.

[0022] The at least one heating device is fluidically connected to at least one first hot water storage tank, in particular a potable water storage tank, via a first pipe network. At least one first supply line and one first return line are arranged between the heating device and the first hot water storage tank. Water heated by the heating device can be conveyed to or into the first hot water storage tank via the first supply line.

[0023] The first return line allows (cooled) water from the first hot water storage tank to be directed to the heating device, in particular to (re)heat this water and feed it back into the first hot water storage tank via the first supply line.

[0024] To circulate or pump the water, the heating system can have at least one pump. This pump can be configured to supply water to the first hot water storage tank via the supply line and to return water from the first hot water storage tank via the return line. It is understood that, alternatively or additionally, at least one further pump can be provided in the heating system.

[0025] As previously described, the heating system, as per the application, comprises at least one energy-to-heat arrangement. This energy-to-heat arrangement includes at least one second hot water storage tank. The water in this second hot water storage tank can be heated by at least one electrically operated heating device (and not by the heating device described previously). In particular, the electrically operated heating device, for example, an immersion heater, can be integrated into the second hot water storage tank. By applying an electric current to the electrically operated heating device, the device can be heated, and the generated heat can be transferred to the water that at least partially surrounds the heating device (e.g., the immersion heater).

[0026] To fluidically couple the at least one energy-to-heat arrangement according to the application with the heating system, at least one first valve assembly is arranged in the first return line. The first valve assembly can preferably comprise one valve, such as a three-way valve, or alternatively several valves, such as at least two two-way valves.

[0027] The first valve assembly is configured to direct water from the first return line, via a second supply line connected to the first valve assembly, into the second hot water storage tank. In other words, water to be heated can be pumped from the first hot water storage tank, via the first return line, the first valve assembly, and the second supply line, into the second hot water storage tank. Here, the water can be heated.

[0028] Furthermore, at least one second return line is provided. The second hot water storage tank is fluidically coupled to the heating system via this second return line. The (pre-)heated water from the second hot water storage tank is routed to the heating system via this second return line. This can at least reduce the energy required to heat the already heated water for operating the heating system.

[0029] Due to the first valve arrangement as per the application, the pumping of water through the second supply and return line can be effected by at least one pump of the heating device in the same way as pumping water through the first supply and return line. The installation of an additional pump or modification of the control system of the heating device's pump is therefore unnecessary.

[0030] According to a first embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one first temperature measuring device. The first temperature measuring device can be configured to measure a first water temperature of the water routed through the first return line. The energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one second temperature measuring device. The second temperature measuring device can be configured to measure a second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one control device. The control device can be configured to control the first valve arrangement depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature. The control device can be arranged in the valve arrangement and / or a temperature measuring device and / or a separate device.

[0031] Preferably, the first temperature measuring device can measure the first water temperature in the first return line, viewed in the direction of water flow, upstream of the first valve device. It is understood that, according to other versions of the application, the water temperature of the water in the first hot water storage tank can also be used as the first water temperature.

[0032] The first and second measured water temperatures can be provided to a control unit (or a separate evaluation unit). In an evaluation process, the first measured water temperature can be compared with the second measured water temperature. Based on this evaluation, the control unit can generate a control signal and, for example, actuate the first valve accordingly. Specifically, the control unit can actuate the first valve in such a way that water from the first hot water storage tank is only directed into the second hot water storage tank if the water in the second hot water storage tank is at least warmer than the water in the first hot water storage tank or the first return line.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the first valve assembly (e.g., a three-way valve, two two-way valves, or the like) can be configured in a first valve assembly position to direct water from the first return line via the second supply line into the second hot water storage tank. The first valve assembly can be configured in a second valve assembly position to direct the water from the first hot water storage tank (directly) to the heating device via the first return line.

[0034] The first valve assembly can be controlled, for example by the control device described above, such that it operates in the first valve assembly position when the first water temperature is lower than the second water temperature. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the first valve assembly can be controlled, for example by the control device described above, such that it operates in the second valve assembly position when the first water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature. In a simple and, in particular, automatic manner, the water from the first hot water storage tank can only be directed to the second hot water storage tank if the water in the second hot water storage tank is at least warmer than the water in the first hot water storage tank or the first return line.

[0035] Furthermore, according to another embodiment, the electrically operated heating device can be controlled depending on the state of the electrical grid connected to it. In particular, the electrically operated heating device can be at least activated and deactivated. This can depend, in particular, on a detectable state of the electrical grid. A state of the electrical grid is understood to be, in particular, a parameter or condition of the electrical grid that indicates whether (or not) excess electrical energy or power is present in the monitored electrical grid. The at least one electrically operated heating device can be activated, preferably upon detection of excess energy in the electrical grid.

[0036] Preferably, the electrically operated heating device can have at least one controllable switching unit, which is configured at least for activating and deactivating the electrically operated heating device. Additionally, the switching unit or local control unit can be configured to adjust the current flow through the heating device in steps or, preferably, continuously between a minimum value and a maximum value.

[0037] According to one embodiment, at least one overload detection device can be provided, configured to detect an overload or overload energy (also called excess electrical energy) of the power grid as a power grid condition. For example, (instantaneous) grid load data can be made available to the overload detection device. Such an overload in the power grid, in particular an excessive current in the power grid, for example due to power fed in by renewable energy generators, can result in damage to the lines, substations, and other components of the power grid. This can lead to a power grid failure. This can be reduced and possibly even prevented by the heating system according to the application.

[0038] In principle, overload detection is possible in any way. Preferably, the overload detection device can include at least one measuring device configured to measure at least one network load parameter. Alternatively, the overload detection device can also be connected to at least one measuring device.

[0039] The overload detection device can include at least one evaluation unit configured to detect an overload of the power grid by comparing the measured grid load parameter with a predefined grid load limit. For example, the overload detection device can include the evaluation unit. The grid load parameter can preferably be measured continuously. Furthermore, a comparison between the measured grid load parameter and a grid load parameter limit can be performed continuously. The grid load parameter limit can be predefined and, in particular, specifies a maximum permissible limit for the detected grid load parameter at which the power grid can (still) be operated safely. If the measured grid load parameter exceeds the grid load parameter limit, damage to the power grid can occur. The comparison operation allows an overload to be detected quickly and easily.A way can be provided to dissipate the excess energy.

[0040] It is understood that the overload detection device can also predict a likely overload for a future period based on weather data, network load parameters, etc. It is further understood that the measurement of the network load parameter and / or the comparison operation can also be carried out at predefined time intervals, for example, periodically.

[0041] Furthermore, the evaluation unit can be configured to determine the overload energy to be dissipated based on the measured network load parameter, for example, based on the difference between the measured network load parameter and the predefined network load limit. This determination can be performed continuously. By determining the current overload energy from the measured network load parameter, it is possible to dissipate only the overload energy. This ensures that the maximum possible amount of energy can always be supplied. The shutdown of renewable energy generators can be prevented, and, in particular, dynamic overload protection can be provided.

[0042] According to a further embodiment, a control device (central and, for example, located remotely from the electrically operated heating device) can be provided for controlling the electrically operated heating device. This control device can be configured to control the electrically operated heating device depending on the specific overload energy to be dissipated. In particular, a plurality of electrically operated heating devices can be controlled accordingly by energy-to-heat arrangements according to the patent application.

[0043] Furthermore, the activation and deactivation of the electrically operated heating device can preferably depend on the current state, in particular the thermal state, of the second hot water storage tank. According to one embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the energy-to-heat arrangement can include at least one second (previously described) temperature measuring device, configured to measure at least one second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank. The electrically operated heating device can be controlled depending on the at least one second water temperature and a maximum permissible water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank. This can, in particular, prevent the activation of the electrically operated heating device and / or deactivate it when the maximum heat capacity of the second hot water storage tank has already been reached.

[0044] Preferably, at least one capacity determination device can be provided. The capacity determination device can be configured to determine the maximum electrical energy or power that the second hot water storage tank can (still) absorb, based on the at least one measured second temperature and the maximum heat capacity of the second hot water storage tank. For example, upon detection that the maximum heat capacity of the second hot water storage tank has been reached, deactivation can be triggered and / or activation can be blocked.

[0045] In particular, at least two secondary temperature measuring devices can be arranged at different positions within the secondary hot water storage tank. By having multiple temperature measuring devices, especially at different positions within the secondary hot water storage tank, the amount of heat currently absorbed or stored can be determined with greater accuracy.

[0046] In one embodiment, the maximum electrical energy that the second hot water storage tank can (still) absorb can be provided to at least one (central) control unit (as previously described). In other words, the available flexibility of a heating system can be reported to a central control unit. This control unit can be configured to control the electrically operated heating system depending on detected excess energy, in particular the specific overload energy to be dissipated, and the maximum (still) absorbable energy provided. In particular, multiple heating systems in multiple buildings can be provided and connected to the central control unit.By having each heating system preferably report its available flexibility to the central control unit, even in the event of a detected significant overload, this can be converted into usable energy in a simple and environmentally friendly way.

[0047] Furthermore, preferably at least one absence detection device can be provided, which is configured to detect the absence of at least one user of the heating system for a specific period of time. For example, it can be monitored whether water has been drawn from the first hot water storage tank via a tap during a predetermined period (e.g., 24 hours, 48 ​​hours, etc.). If this is not the case, the absence of at least one user can be inferred. At least the electrically operated heating device can be prevented from being activated, or its activation can be blocked, upon detection of such an absence. The block can be maintained until the presence of at least one user is detected again, for example, due to a detected water withdrawal.This can, for example, be reported to a central control unit described previously.

[0048] As previously described, the heating system can comprise any (conventional) heating device. According to a preferred embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the heating device can be a gas-powered heating device. The gas-powered heating device can have at least one gas inlet connectable to a (public) gas pipeline network. The electrically operated heating device can be controllable depending on at least one gas pipeline network condition, in particular a detected gas shortage. It has been recognized that at low temperatures (e.g., < 0 °C for an extended period) and the associated high usage or load on heating systems, a gas shortage can (temporarily) occur in the gas pipeline network.To at least reduce this, one embodiment proposes activating the electrically operated heating device to heat the water in the heating system upon detection of a gas shortage. This can at least reduce the amount of gas consumed by the heating system during this time and stabilize the gas pipeline network.

[0049] In particular, the present application therefore enables the stabilization of electricity and gas fluctuations in the respective networks, preferably across the entire network. This system allows for the system-friendly integration of the decentralized use of electrical energy-to-heat systems into the electricity and gas distribution network.

[0050] Preferably, at least one additional condition monitoring device may be provided. This additional condition monitoring device may be configured to detect a gas shortage in the gas pipeline network as a gas network condition. The additional condition monitoring device may preferably include at least one measuring device configured to measure the gas pressure in the gas pipeline network to which the heating device is connected.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the further state monitoring device can include at least one evaluation unit configured to compare the measured gas pressure with a predetermined minimum target gas pressure to detect a gas shortage. A control unit (for example, as previously described) for the energy-to-heat system can be provided to control the electrically operated heating device. The control unit can be configured to activate the electrically operated heating device upon detection of a gas shortage, i.e., for example, when the measured gas pressure reaches or falls below the predetermined minimum target gas pressure. It is understood that the electrical energy still available from the second hot water storage tank can also be taken into account here in order to reduce gas consumption and, as a result, stabilize the network.

[0052] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one third supply line connected to the heating device. The third supply line can be configured to convey heated water to at least one heating unit (e.g., a radiator or the like) of the building. The energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one third return line connected to the heating device. The third return line can be configured to convey (cooled) water from the building's heating unit to the heating device. The energy-to-heat arrangement can comprise at least one second valve assembly located in the third return line. The second valve assembly can be configured to convey water from the first return line, via at least one fourth supply line, into the second hot water storage tank. The second valve assembly can be configured similarly to the first valve assembly (e.g.,A three-way valve, or several valves (such as at least two two-way valves), can be used. In particular, this can further reduce fuel consumption and, for example, convert excess electrical energy into heat if the hot water stored in the second hot water storage tank is also used for the heating units (e.g., radiators) located in the building.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment of the heating system according to the application, the energy-to-heat arrangement can include at least one third temperature measuring device. The third temperature measuring device can be configured to measure a third water temperature of the water routed through the third return line. The energy-to-heat arrangement can include at least one second (previously described) temperature tower measuring device. The second temperature tower measuring device can be configured to measure a second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement can include at least one control device. The control device can be configured to control the at least one second valve arrangement depending on the measured third water temperature and the measured second water temperature.Preferably, the third temperature measuring device can measure the third water temperature in the third return line, viewed in the direction of water flow, upstream of the second valve device.

[0054] The third and second measured water temperatures can be provided to a control unit (or a separate evaluation unit). In an evaluation process, the measured third water temperature can be compared with the measured second water temperature. Based on this comparison, the control unit can generate a control signal and, for example, actuate the second valve accordingly. Specifically, the control unit can actuate the second valve in such a way that water from the first hot water storage tank is only directed into the second hot water storage tank if the water in the second tank is at least warmer than the water in the third return line.

[0055] Furthermore, the second valve assembly (e.g., a three-way valve, two two-way valves, or the like) can be configured in a first valve assembly position to direct water from the third return line via the fourth supply line into the second hot water storage tank. The second valve assembly can be configured in a second valve assembly position to direct water from the at least one heating storage tank (directly) to the heating device via the third return line.

[0056] The second valve assembly can be controlled, for example by the control device described above, such that it operates in the first valve assembly position when the third water temperature is lower than the second water temperature. Alternatively, or preferably additionally, the second valve assembly can be controlled, for example by the control device described above, such that it operates in the second valve assembly position when the third water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature. In a simple and, in particular, automatic manner, the water from a heating unit of the building can only be directed into the second hot water storage tank if the water in the second hot water storage tank is at least warmer than the water in the third return line.

[0057] In this context, a valve assembly position is understood to mean at least one valve position of at least one valve of the valve assembly. If the valve assembly comprises multiple valves, this can be understood to mean a corresponding multiple valve positions.

[0058] Another aspect of the application is a method for operating a heating system, in particular a heating system described above. The method comprises: Measuring a first water temperature of the water conveyed through a first return line arranged between a first hot water storage tank and a heating device of the heating system, measuring a second water temperature of the water located in a second hot water storage tank, controlling at least one first valve device arranged in the return line depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature, such that, if the first water temperature is lower than the second water temperature, the water from the first return line is conveyed via at least one second supply line into the second hot water storage tank, and if the first water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature, the water is conveyed through the first return line to the heating device.

[0059] A further aspect of the application is an energy-to-heat arrangement for a heating system with at least one heating device and at least one first hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one second hot water storage tank with at least one electrically operated heating device, configured to heat the water contained in the second hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one first valve device located in a first return line between a first hot water storage tank and a heating device of the heating system, configured to direct water from the first return line via at least one second supply line into the second hot water storage tank. The energy-to-heat arrangement comprises at least one second return line connected to the second hot water storage tank, configured to direct water from the second hot water storage tank to the heating device of the heating system.

[0060] The features of the heating systems, methods, and energy-to-heat arrangements can be freely combined. In particular, features of the description and / or the dependent claims, even by completely or partially circumventing features of the independent claims, can be independently inventive, either on their own or freely combined.

[0061] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the heating system, the method, and the energy-to-heat arrangement as described in the application. Reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to the independent claims, and on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a schematic view of an embodiment of a heating system according to the prior art, Fig. 2 a schematic view of an embodiment of a heating system according to the present application, Fig. 3 a schematic view of a further embodiment of a heating system according to the present application, and Fig. 4 a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application.

[0062] The same reference symbols are used for identical elements in the following.

[0063] The Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a heating system 200 according to the present application. The heating system 200 shown comprises at least one heating system 201 and at least one energy-to-heat arrangement 224.

[0064] The heating system 201 comprises a heating device 202 and a first hot water storage tank 204, which is fluidically connected to the heating device 202 via a piping system 212, 214, in particular a first supply line 212 and a first return line 214. The heating device 202 has at least one pump 216 for circulating water and at least one combustion unit 218 or a burner 218 for heating water. The burner 218 is supplied with a suitable fuel (e.g., gas, oil, etc.) via an inlet 206.

[0065] In addition, the heating system 201 has at least a third supply line 208 for conveying heated water to at least one (not shown) heating unit, such as a radiator, and a third return line 210 for receiving the (cooled) water from the at least one heating unit.

[0066] The first hot water storage tank 204, designed as a drinking water storage tank, serves to provide hot water to a user of a building via at least one draw-off point (e.g., a tap). A pipe system (not shown) can be connected to the hot water storage tank 204 for this purpose.

[0067] The water temperature of the water stored in the hot water storage tank 204 is measured by a temperature measuring device 220 and compared with a predetermined minimum permissible temperature. If the minimum permissible temperature is reached or fallen below, the heating device 202 is switched to a second operating mode. For this purpose, a valve device (not shown) in the heating device 202 is adjusted such that water from the return line 214 (and / or 232) (and not 210) is directed to the burner 218 and pumped by the pump 216 into the supply line 212 (and not 108). In this operating mode, the water received can be heated by the burner 218 (provided it is below a predetermined target water temperature). The heated water is then pumped by the pump 216 into the first hot water storage tank 204.

[0068] The energy-to-heat arrangement 224 comprises at least one second hot water storage tank 226. The second hot water storage tank 226 has at least one electrically operated heating device 234. As can be seen, the electrically operated heating device 234 is integrated, in particular, into the second hot water storage tank 226. For example, the electrically operated heating device 234 can comprise at least one heating element through which an electric current can flow to heat the surrounding water.

[0069] The electrically operated heating device 234 is connected to a (public) power grid 242 via a switching or control unit 238. In particular, the heating device 234 can be supplied with electrical power via the power grid 242.

[0070] The electrically operated heating device 234 can be activated, in particular, if an overload of the power grid 242 in the form of excess electrical energy in the power grid 242 is detected. In this case, the electrically operated heating device 234 can only be activated if the second hot water storage tank 226 has not yet reached its maximum permissible heat capacity limit (i.e., it can still absorb heat energy), and / or can only remain activated until the second hot water storage tank 226 has reached its maximum permissible heat capacity limit.

[0071] Furthermore, at least one second temperature measuring device 236 is integrated into the second hot water storage tank 226. The second temperature measuring device 236 can also be arranged in a different position and configured to measure the second water temperature of the water contained in the hot water storage tank 226.

[0072] Furthermore, the energy-to-heat arrangement 224 comprises a first valve assembly 228, in this case in the form of a three-way valve 228. It is understood that other valve assemblies may also be provided according to other versions of the application. The first valve assembly 228 serves in particular for the fluidic coupling of the energy-to-heat arrangement 224 with the heating system 201.

[0073] As can be seen, the first valve assembly 228 is arranged in the first return line 214. A second supply line 230 is connected to an output of the first valve assembly 228, the further end of which is connected to the second hot water storage tank 226.

[0074] The first valve assembly 228 can be operated in at least two different valve assembly positions, referred to here as valve positions. In a first valve position, water is conveyed from the first hot water storage tank 204 via the return line 214, in particular the first part of the return line 214, through the first valve assembly 228 and via the second supply line 230 into the second hot water storage tank 226. In the second valve position, water is conveyed from the first hot water storage tank 204 via the return line 214, in particular the first part of the return line 214, through the first valve assembly 228 and via the return line 214, in particular the second part of the return line, to the heating device 202. In this case, the first part of the first return line 214 is separated from the second part of the return line 214 by the first valve assembly 228.

[0075] The second hot water storage tank 226 is furthermore fluidically coupled to the heating device 202 via at least one second return line 232. In other (preferred) variants of the application, the second return line can be fluidically coupled, e.g., via another valve assembly, to preferably an existing return line 214, 210 of the heating system 201.

[0076] Furthermore, a first temperature measuring device 240 is arranged. The first temperature measuring device 240 is configured to measure the water conveyed or flowing through the return line 214. The first temperature measuring device 240 is specifically arranged on the first section of the return line 214 in order to measure, in the direction of flow, the first water temperature upstream of the first valve device 228.

[0077] The heating device 202 includes a fourth temperature measuring device 244. This fourth temperature measuring device 244 is designed to measure a fourth water temperature of the water fed back into or returned to the heating device 202. Specifically, the at least one burner 218 can be operated depending on the measured fourth water temperature and a target water temperature. In particular, the fourth water temperature can be compared with the target water temperature, and the burner 218 can be operated based on the determined temperature difference. Specifically, it can be provided that the burner 218 is not activated when a temperature difference of nearly zero is detected (or when the fourth water temperature is higher than the target water temperature).

[0078] The Figure 4 shows a diagram of a method according to the present application. The method can be used, for example, to perform the task described in Figure 2 The heating system 200 shown is operated as follows. The functionality of the heating system 200 is explained below using the following: Figure 2 and 4 described in more detail.

[0079] In a first step 401, a fifth water temperature can be measured in the first hot water storage tank 204 and, in particular, compared with a minimum permissible (or desired) minimum temperature. If the comparison detects that the measured fifth water temperature (essentially) corresponds to the predefinable minimum permissible temperature, this indicates that the water in the first hot water storage tank 204 is to be heated (up to a predefinable target temperature).

[0080] For example, the heating system 201 or the heating device 202 is set to the second operating mode. Preferably, the at least one pump 216 can be activated and, in particular, operated to pump the water through the first supply line 212, the first hot water storage tank 204, and the first return line 214 (and optionally through the second supply and return lines 230, 232, and the second hot water storage tank 226).

[0081] In steps 402 and 403, preferably almost in parallel, the first water temperature of the water flowing through the return line 214 is measured (step 402) and the second water temperature of the water in the second hot water storage tank 226 is measured (step 403), at least after setting the second operating mode. Steps 402 and 403 can preferably be carried out (almost) continuously.

[0082] The measured first and second water temperatures are evaluated in step 404. Step 404 can preferably be performed (almost) continuously with the instantaneously measured first and second water temperatures. The evaluation process can include a comparison operation of the measured first and second water temperatures.

[0083] In step 405, the first valve device 228 is controlled depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature, in particular on the (continuously available) evaluation result. For example, a corresponding control device (not shown) may be provided.

[0084] Preferably, step 405 may provide that the first valve assembly 228 is controlled such that it operates in the first valve assembly position when (and especially as long as) the first water temperature is lower than the second water temperature. Furthermore, step 405 may provide that the first valve assembly 228 is controlled such that it operates in the second valve assembly position when the first water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature. While in the first valve position preheated water is conveyed from the second hot water storage tank 226 to the heating device 202 and then into the first hot water storage tank 204, in the second valve position the water is conveyed directly (in a conventional manner) from the first hot water storage tank 204 to the heating device 202 and then into the first hot water storage tank 204.

[0085] By operating the heating system 200 accordingly, the energy consumption of the heating device 202 can be reduced.

[0086] The Figure 3 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a heating system 300 according to the present application. To avoid repetition, only the differences to the embodiment according to [reference to relevant application] are described below. Figure 2 described and otherwise refer to the above statements regarding the Figure 2 referred.

[0087] The heating system 301 comprises a gas-powered heating device 302. The gas-powered heating device 302 is connected to a (public) gas pipeline network 388 via a gas inlet 306. The heating device 302, in particular the gas burner 318, can be supplied with gas (e.g., natural gas) and operated via the gas inlet 306.

[0088] For monitoring the gas pipeline network 388, a further condition monitoring device 386 is provided. This further condition monitoring device 386 can be configured to detect a gas shortage in the gas pipeline network 388 as a gas pipeline network condition. The further condition monitoring device 386 can preferably include at least one (not shown) measuring device configured to measure the gas pressure in the gas pipeline network 388 to which the heating device 302 is connected.

[0089] Based on the measured gas pressure and a specified minimum target gas pressure, the condition monitoring device 386 can determine the (current) gas pipeline network status and, at least in the event of a detected gas shortage (e.g., gas pressure equal to or less than the minimum target gas pressure), transmit this information via a communication output 390 to, for example, a central control unit 354.

[0090] The central control unit 354 can be a computing unit 354 in the form of at least one server 354. The central control unit 354 can be configured to control a plurality of heating systems 300. For this purpose, the central control unit 354 can be connected via a communication network 352 (e.g., the Internet 352) to a local control unit 350 (e.g., a local building control system 350) of a heating system 300 (e.g., a home automation controller).

[0091] Upon detection of a gas shortage and / or a previously described overload of the power grid 342, the central control unit 354 can, in particular, activate the local control unit 350 in order to utilize any flexibility available in the second hot water storage tank 326. The control unit 350 can then control the control unit 338 via a (not shown) wireless and / or wired (local) communication network. The local control unit 350 may have a communication interface 356 for this purpose. The control or switching unit 338 also has a communication interface 358.

[0092] The control signal enables the activation and, in particular, the setting of a specific power level of the electrically operated heating device 334. Similarly, and / or when the capacity limit is reached, the electrically operated heating device 334 can be deactivated again.

[0093] The central (or local) control unit 354 can analyze and predict network conditions in the electricity network 342, in particular a low-voltage network 342, and in the gas pipeline network 388. Upon reaching the aforementioned limit values, the control unit 354 can at least switch the electrically operated heating device 334 on or off (for a future period). If the network conditions are not critical, the available flexibility can also be marketed in other registration variants.

[0094] The heating system can also operate independently in other variants, without a central control unit 354. For example, the heating system 300 can operate independently via a built-in programmable logic controller (PLC). As soon as the second hot water storage tank 326 can absorb a (pre-)defined amount of heat, the heating element 334 switches on automatically.

[0095] The heating system is installed in a building, preferably a private residence or a small commercial establishment. The building may have a control cabinet. All measured data from the heating system converges in this cabinet. For example, it contains a power meter that determines the actual total energy consumption of the heat-to-energy system. Furthermore, the local control unit, such as a remote terminal unit, may be installed here, enabling communication with the central control unit 354.

[0096] In the present case, the second hot water storage tank 326 comprises a plurality of second temperature measuring devices 336. By means of the plurality of second temperature measuring devices 336 (e.g. in the form of screw-in sensors 336), the amount of heat or energy stored at any given time can be determined with high accuracy.

[0097] From the maximum amount of heat that can be absorbed by the second hot water storage tank 326 and the amount of heat currently stored, the maximum amount of heat that can still be absorbed, or the corresponding electrical energy, can be determined. This flexibility can be transmitted, for example, via a communication interface 337 to the local and / or central control unit 350, 354. The available flexibility can be taken into account when controlling the electrically operated heating device 334.

[0098] Furthermore, the Figure 3It can be deduced that a pump 384 can optionally be arranged in the second return line 332 to assist the pumping of the water. The pump 384 can, in particular, compensate for pressure losses resulting from the additional energy-to-heat arrangement 324. It can only be activated if a flow sensor (not shown) in the return line 332 detects a flow.

[0099] Furthermore, an optional valve 374, controllable via a communication interface 376, is arranged in the second return line 332. This valve can be open whenever water is to be drawn from the second hot water storage tank.

[0100] A third supply line 308 can supply a heating unit (e.g., underfloor heating, radiator, etc.) with heated water from the heating device 302 (not shown). Water can be conveyed or transported from the at least one heating unit to the heating device 302 via the third return line 310, 366.

[0101] In the third return line 310, 366, a second valve assembly 370, 372 is arranged in the form of two valves 370, 372, each controllable via a communication interface 378, 379. The second valve assembly 370, 372 is specifically designed to direct water from the third return line 310, 366 via at least a fourth supply line 368, 330 (which in this case is partially formed from the second supply line 330) into the second hot water storage tank 326. For this purpose, in a first valve assembly position of the second valve assembly 370, 372, valve 372 can be closed and valve 370 open. In a second valve assembly position of the second valve assembly 370, 372, valve 370 can be closed and valve 372 open. In this second valve position, a direct flow of water to the heating device 302 is enabled.

[0102] The energy-to-heat arrangement 324 comprises at least one third temperature measuring device 380, configured to measure a third water temperature of the water passed through the third return line 210, 310, 366. The at least one control device 350 can be configured to control the at least one second valve device 370, 372 depending on the measured third water temperature and the measured second water temperature. In particular, if the third water temperature is equal to or greater than the second water temperature, the second valve device position can be set, and if the third water temperature is at least less than the second water temperature, the first valve device position can be set. It is understood that the second water temperature refers to the minimum second water temperature or an average second water temperature.

[0103] It is understood that, furthermore, as safety measures, check valves, diaphragm expansion vessels or the like, manual shut-off valves, drain valves, safety relief valves, etc. may be installed in the heating system.

[0104] As per the application, an additional (second) hot water storage tank (also called a P2H tank) may be installed in the return lines of the heating system. The second valve in the third return line of the heating system allows the water from the heating system to be continuously routed to the heating unit or heat generator via the P2H tank. The P2H tank contains, in particular, a heating element. Additionally, the temperatures in different layers of the P2H tank can be measured.

[0105] When the P2H storage tank is fully charged, the return temperature can be increased up to the maximum flow temperature (or the previously described target water temperature) of the heating system. In particular, the second hot water storage tank can be specifically matched to the heating system. The heat generator can automatically detect the higher return temperature and, in particular, switch off the heating or combustion process. This can lead to primary energy savings.

[0106] To guarantee consistent heat output regardless of the season and / or outside temperature, the first domestic hot water storage tank can be connected to the energy-to-heat (E2H) system. Specifically, a three-way valve can be used in conjunction with temperature measurement in the first return line of the domestic hot water storage tank and the uppermost temperature measurement in the E2H storage tank. If a lower temperature is detected in the return line of the domestic hot water storage tank than in the E2H storage tank, the three-way valve can automatically open the flow through the E2H storage tank and block the flow to the heat generator. As a result, the domestic hot water can be preheated before being pumped to the heat generator, leading to primary energy savings.

[0107] The system as registered has the following advantages in particular: Fuel independent, freely scalable, season-independent, virtually universally applicable, retrofittable, marketable

[0108] This registration is particularly distinguished by the fact that hot water is needed all year round, so that the acceptance of the heat generated by excess electricity can be guaranteed.

[0109] Furthermore, a key difference from the state of the art is the connection to the gas pipeline network. In addition to analyzing and forecasting the electricity grid situation, the gas network can also be analyzed and forecasted in parallel.

[0110] Finally, it is advantageous that the user does not notice the switching of the valve devices, as the required temperatures are maintained in the heating system. This means no loss of quality for the user.

Claims

1. An energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) for a heating system (201, 301) with at least one oil-fired or gas-fired heating device (202, 302) and at least one first hot water storage tank (204, 304), comprising: - at least one second hot water storage tank (226, 326) with at least one electrically operated heating equipment (234, 334) configured to heat the water in the second hot water storage tank (226, 326), - at least one first valve equipment (228, 328) arranged in a first return pipe (214, 314) for an arrangement between the first hot water storage tank (204, 304) and the heating device (202, 302) of the heating system (201, 301) configured to conduct water from the first return pipe (214, 314) via at least one second supply pipe (230, 330) into the second hot water storage tank (226, 326), characterized by - at least one second return pipe (214, 314) connected to the second hot water storage tank (226, 326) and configured to conduct water from the second hot water storage tank (226, 326) to the heating device (202, 302) of the heating system (201, 301), wherein the second hot water storage tank (226, 326) is fluidically coupled to the heating device (202, 302) via the second return pipe (214, 314) .

2. A heating system (200, 300) for a building, comprising: - at least one oil-fired or gas-fired heating device (202, 302) configured to heat water that can be supplied to the heating device (202, 302), and - at least one first hot water storage tank (204, 304), - wherein the first hot water storage tank (204, 304) is connected to the heating device (202, 302) via at least one first supply line (212, 312) for supplying heated water to the first hot water storage tank (204, 304) and via at least one first return pipe (214, 314) for returning water to the heating device (202, 302), characterized in that the heating system (200, 300) comprises at least one energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) according to claim 1.

3. The heating system (200, 300) according to claim 2, characterized in that the energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) comprises: - at least one first temperature measuring equipment (240, 340) configured to measure a first water temperature of the water conducted through the first return pipe (214, 314), - at least one second temperature measuring equipment (236, 336) configured to measure a second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank (226, 326), and - at least one control equipment (350) configured to control the first valve equipment (228, 328) depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature.

4. The heating system (200, 300) according to claim 3, characterized in that - the first valve equipment (228, 328) is configured in a first valve equipment position to direct water from the first return pipe (214, 314) via the second supply pipe (230, 330) into the second hot water tank (226, 326), and - the first valve equipment (228, 328) is configured in a second valve equipment position to conduct the water from the first hot water storage tank (204, 304) to the heating device (202, 302) via the first return pipe (214, 314), - wherein the first valve equipment (228, 328) is controllable such that it is operated in the first valve equipment position if the first water temperature is lower than the second water temperature, and / or - wherein the first valve equipment (228, 328) is controllable such that it is operated in the second valve equipment position if the first water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature.

5. The heating system (200, 300) according to claim 2, characterized in that the electrically operable heating equipment (234, 334) is controllable depending on a power grid status of a power grid (242, 342) that is connectable to the electrically operable heating equipment (234, 334).

6. The heating system (200, 300) according to any of the preceding claims 2 or 4 to 5, characterized in that the energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) comprises: - at least one second temperature measuring equipment (236, 336) configured to measure at least one second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank (226, 326), - wherein the electrically operable heating device (234, 334) is controllable depending on the at least one second water temperature and a maximum permissible water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank (226, 326).

7. The heating system (200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 6, characterized in that - the heating device (202, 302) is a gas-powered heating device (202, 302), - wherein the gas-powered heating device (202, 302) comprises at least one gas inlet (206, 306) connectable to a gas pipeline network (388), and - the electrically operable heating device (234, 334) is controllable depending on at least one gas pipeline network state of the gas pipeline network (388).

8. The heating system (200, 300) according to any of the preceding claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) comprises: - at least one third supply pipe (208, 308) connected to the heating device (202, 302), and configured to conduct heated water to at least one heating unit of the building, - at least one third return pipe (210, 310, 366) connected to the heating device (202, 302) and configured to conduct water from the heating unit of the building to the heating device (202, 302), and - at least one second valve equipment (370, 372) arranged in the third return pipe (210, 310, 366) and configured to conduct water from the third return pipe (210, 310, 366) via at least one fourth supply pipe (368, 330) into the second hot water storage tank (226, 326).

9. The heating system (200, 300) according to claim 8 and one of claims 2 or 4, 5, 7, characterized in that the energy-to-heat arrangement (224, 324) comprises: - at least one third temperature measuring equipment (380) configured to measure a third water temperature of the water conducted through the third return pipe (210, 310, 366), - at least one second temperature measuring equipment (236, 336) configured to measure a second water temperature of the water located in the second hot water storage tank (226, 326), and - at least one control device (350) configured to control the at least one second valve equipment (370, 372) depending on the measured third water temperature and the measured second water temperature.

10. A method for operating a heating system (200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims 2 to 9, comprising: - measuring a first water temperature of the water conducted through a first return pipe (214, 314) arranged between a first hot water storage tank (204, 304) and an oil-fired or gas-fired heating device (202, 302) of the heating system (200, 300); - measuring a second water temperature of the water located in a second hot water storage tank (226, 326), - controlling at least one first valve equipment (228, 328) arranged in the return pipe (214, 314) depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature such that if the first water temperature is lower than the second water temperature, the water from the first return pipe (214, 314) is fed via at least one second supply pipe (230, 330) into the second hot water tank (226, 326), and - controlling the first valve equipment (228, 328) depending on the measured first water temperature and the measured second water temperature such that if the first water temperature is equal to or higher than the second water temperature, the water is directed through the first return pipe (214, 314) to the heating device (202, 302).