System for controlling a means for producing hot water

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system which includes a measuring device connected to an electrical distribution network, a control box which collects data generated by said measuring device, a first means of producing hot water, a means of producing renewable electrical energy, a water supply, and an output, characterized in that the box is arranged to use the available electricity which is generated by the means of producing renewable electrical energy in order to modulate the heating means to heat the water contained in said tank.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for regulating a means of producing hot water.

[0002] The invention relates to the field of domestic hot water production in an industrial or domestic dwelling using a means of producing renewable electrical energy.

[0003] The climate challenge and the commitments made to achieve carbon neutrality compel us to find solutions to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels by promoting the use of renewable energy. Our current reliance on fossil fuels also makes consumers sensitive to fluctuations in oil prices and the various events that trigger them.

[0004] Domestic hot water represents a significant energy consumption item which can be produced by a gas boiler which may or may not include a small tank (hot water reserve) of around 40-50 liters in order to provide water at a temperature desired by the user.

[0005] However, the cost associated with this hot water production is high and does not allow for a more cost-effective increase in the use of renewable energy sources. Therefore, the gas boiler is used to supply the entire home for various purposes, such as heating the dwelling and providing domestic hot water. A boiler, or any equivalent appliance, is multifunctional in that it is configured to produce water and / or heat the home. This allows for the provision of hot water at the desired temperature on demand.

[0006] For this reason, this type of boiler is often used almost continuously throughout the year, resulting in very high energy consumption.

[0007] The use of alternatives such as electric boilers does not sufficiently address this problem since they consume even more electricity compared to gas and require very high power.

[0008] Today, installing photovoltaic panels has become widespread. To be efficient, maximize the return on investment, and minimize CO2 emissions, it's important to self-consume as much of the energy produced by the system as possible. Without a storage battery, it's best to consume the photovoltaic energy at the moment it's produced.

[0009] Although advantageous systems, such as heat pumps or passive houses, can be installed for new constructions, the fact remains that the majority of homes already have an existing installation that could be improved in order to produce domestic hot water in a more ecological and economical way.

[0010] There are systems that allow the use of energy produced by solar panels.

[0011] FR3099283A1 describes a control unit for a hot water tank system supplied by at least one solar energy source which optimizes the non-solar energy input according to one or more predictive operating models.

[0012] Document WO2015158782A1 discloses a method for modulating the energy consumption of a water heater. D2 proposes, at the expense of promoting self-consumption, to smooth out the amount of energy rejected throughout the day to relieve pressure on the grid by intentionally allowing a certain amount of power to be injected into the grid. D1 thus makes it possible to minimize peaks and variations in the amount of renewable energy injected into the grid.

[0013] The document WO2020212859A1 relates to a method for heating the water contained in an electric water heater to a target temperature depending on the amount of energy available from renewable energy sources and the electrical grid.

[0014] The document DE102012112962A1 deals with a control unit in a hot water production installation which optimizes energy consumption based on the availability of surplus electricity production from photovoltaic panels.

[0015] There is therefore a real need to provide a system to produce domestic hot water easily and economically, while promoting the use of renewable electrical energy for all types of housing without replacing the entire existing installation.

[0016] To solve this problem, the present invention provides a system for regulating a means of hot water production according to claim 1. The system comprises: - A measuring device connected to an electrical distribution network and arranged to quantify the energy consumption of an electrical and / or gas installation for a domestic or industrial building, - A control box connected, wired or wirelessly, to said measuring device and collecting data generated by said measuring device, - A first means of hot water production, preferably a water heater, which has: either a tank that includes a heating element, preferably an electric resistance, for heating water to a given temperature, said heating element being connected to said control box, - or a tank that does not include a heating element, preferably an electric resistance, the latter being located outside said first hot water production means, said heating element and a circulator being connected to said control box, A renewable electrical energy production means, preferably a photovoltaic installation, said renewable electrical energy production means being connected to the electrical distribution network to which said measuring device is connected, A water supply connected to a cold water distribution network, An outlet arranged to provide ready-to-use water at a temperature higher than that supplied by said supply,characterized in that the casing is arranged to use the available electricity generated by the renewable electrical energy production means to modulate the heating means to heat the water contained in said tank, up to a maximum water temperature, preferably between 65 and 95 °C according to the technical specifications of said tank.

[0017] Within the framework of the present invention, the control unit allows for the recovery of at least 90% of the electricity that the power generation system would otherwise discharge into the grid, provided the solar power output is less than or equal to the maximum power output of the primary hot water production system. The developed system thus enables, for example, increased self-consumption in a home.

[0018] More specifically, the system will heat the water contained in the tank of the first production unit in order to provide hot water for a certain period of time, depending on the unit's capacity to maintain the hot water temperature. Thus, the first hot water production unit can be considered as acting as a hot water storage element.

[0019] With this system, the user will have hot water at the temperature they have chosen at the time of use and throughout the day.

[0020] Preferably, the control unit is configured to use available electricity generated by the renewable energy production system to modulate the heating element to heat the water in the tank to a maximum temperature preferably between 65 and 95 °C. Following this power modulation, the time required to reach the maximum temperature in the tank will vary depending on the renewable energy production.

[0021] Thus, the aforementioned first means of hot water production can act as a storage element for hot water that can be supplied as needed during the day.

[0022] The energy used to heat the water in the tank comes from a renewable electricity generation system that supplies power based on the amount of sunshine. In other words, electricity not directly used by the home can be used to heat the water in the tank as much as possible, maintaining a maximum temperature that depends on the amount of electricity generated on a sunny day.

[0023] Advantageously, the control box allows domestic hot water to be produced thanks to the overproduction of energy generated by said means of electrical energy production over time.

[0024] The control unit collects data from the measuring device and preferentially adjusts the heating power of the primary domestic hot water production system. Depending on the season and / or the user's needs, the control unit regulates this primary water production system to provide water at the user's desired temperature.

[0025] According to the invention, the control unit is arranged to continuously monitor the power and / or current to be compensated by said measuring device in order to maximize the self-consumption of energy produced by the electrical power generation installation. Advantageously, the power will depend on the type of system, whether it is single-phase or three-phase. The power can thus vary between 0 and 7 kW for a three-phase system or between 0 and 4 kW for a single-phase system.

[0026] Preferably, the outlet is arranged to provide ready-to-use water at a temperature higher than that supplied by said supply, preferably between 30°C and 95°C.

[0027] More preferably, the system according to the invention comprises a second means of producing hot water, preferably chosen from the group comprising a gas boiler (with or without hot water storage), a pellet boiler, a heat pump, an oil boiler, an electric boiler and combinations thereof.

[0028] In this embodiment, the control unit allows for the hybridization of an existing system already equipped with the aforementioned second hot water production means. This configuration is even more advantageous with at least one thermostatic mixing valve, which will allow for mixing between the hot water from the aforementioned first hot water production means and the hot water supplied by the aforementioned second hot water production means.

[0029] This allows the use of different types of existing equipment, for example water heater, thermostatic mixing valve, boiler (gas, pellet, oil, heat pump, ...) in combination with the control box to provide an efficient hybrid system.

[0030] Advantageously, the said second means of hot water production is arranged so as not to necessarily operate using solar energy.

[0031] More advantageously, said second means of production is arranged to supply hot water at a temperature greater than or equal to that supplied at the outlet of the system.

[0032] Preferably, the control box is equipped with: A voltage and current measurement to measure the energy consumed by the first hot water production unit; possibly a temperature measurement inside the unit to assess the ambient temperature and ensure the unit does not overheat; a temperature measurement to assess the water temperature inside the first production unit; a button to turn the unit on and off; a button for Wi-Fi / Bluetooth pairing; a Wi-Fi antenna; a button to manually force the unit to heat; in single-phase versions, a male plug to connect the unit to the mains; a female plug to connect the water heater; a fin / conduction cooling system; and indicator lights to display the unit's heating power.Indicator lights to display the water temperature in the first hot water production unit; screens to display and control the unit via smartphone and / or computer.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, said control box is arranged to: Collect voltage, power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi, and / or measure the water temperature within the tank of the first production unit, and / or when the water temperature within the tank of the first production unit is below a predefined temperature, activate the heating unit at sufficient power to raise the water temperature, using electricity produced by the power generation unit. Measure the temperature within the enclosure and / or within the room in which the enclosure is installed.

[0034] Thus, the control unit is designed to activate the heating element at sufficient power to raise the water temperature. This temperature is preferably adjustable according to the user's needs.

[0035] The control unit allows for the regulation of a hot water production system and includes: A means of communication to a measuring device or to a means of producing renewable electrical energy, A means of communication to a thermal probe, A dimmer which allows the said heating means to be modulated using the energy generated by the means of producing renewable electrical energy or a static converter, A means of measuring the electrical consumption of the control box which allows the self-regulation of the box in such a way that: o If the consumption of the control box is greater than the energy generated by the means of producing renewable electrical energy, it goes into standby mode, o If the consumption of the control box is equal to or less than the energy generated by the means of producing renewable electrical energy, it modulates the heating means.

[0036] Preferably, the first means of hot water production relates to any means which contains an electric resistance for producing hot water and is preferably chosen from the group including an electric resistance hot water tank, a thermodynamic water heater equipped with an electric resistance.

[0037] Advantageously, the system is arranged to mix the hot water produced by the first means of hot water production with water from the water supply and / or water from said second means of hot water production which preferably has a predetermined temperature, greater than or equal to the temperature of the water at the outlet of the system.

[0038] The system according to the invention preferably comprises a mixing valve (thermostatic), preferably at least two mixing valves (thermostatic), arranged to receive the water produced by said first and second means of water production and / or the water from the distribution network.

[0039] According to an advantageous embodiment, said means of renewable electrical energy production is chosen from the group comprising a wind installation, a hydroelectric installation, a photovoltaic installation and their combinations.

[0040] Advantageously, the system according to the present invention comprises a thermal probe located at the outlet of said tank of said first means of production or inside said first means and being connected to said control box.

[0041] Even more advantageously, the said measuring device is a smart meter.

[0042] The said control unit advantageously activates a heating cycle to reach a maximum temperature within the said tank of the said first means in order to avoid the formation of biological load within the said tank, preferably after at least a number of days during which the maximum water temperature has not been reached in the tank.

[0043] Preferably, when the phase voltage of the means of producing electrical energy exceeds a threshold value, said control box adjusts the power modulation of said control box in order to prevent the electrical production installation from going into safety mode following an overvoltage on the electrical network.

[0044] More preferably, said first means of production is arranged to supply hot water, preferably at a temperature between 5 and 95°C, preferably between 30 and 65°C.

[0045] Advantageously, the first means of hot water production supplies hot water to: maximum 38 - 95°C depending on sunshine / power to be compensated (as well as the maximum temperature accepted by said first means of production), and minimum 5 - 38 °C, depending on what the user has set and the temperature of the water from the distribution network.

[0046] Advantageously, said second means of hot water production is arranged to supply hot water at a temperature greater than or equal to that supplied at the outlet of the system, preferably between 5 °C and 95 °C, preferably between 30 and 70 °C.

[0047] Other features and advantages of the system according to the invention will become apparent from the description provided below and the corresponding claims.

[0048] The present invention also relates to a control box according to claim 14.

[0049] The control box (4) allows the collection of voltage, power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and sunshine forecast data via Wi-Fi.

[0050] Preferably, this data is collected after being generated by a measuring device (2). Alternatively, the control unit (4) is capable of generating and processing this data.

[0051] Additionally, the control box (4) allows a heating means (7) to be modulated using the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9).

[0052] More preferably, ilThe heating system (7) is modulated based on collected data (power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi) to maximize self-consumption. In this way, the control unit (4) continuously monitors the power and / or current to be compensated from the measuring device (2) to maximize self-consumption of the energy produced by the renewable electricity generation system (9).

[0053] During periods when the energy produced by the renewable electricity generation unit (9) is significant (for example, in summer), the control unit (4) redirects as much of this energy as possible to the heating element (7), which can be used, for example, to heat water (8) in a tank (6). This tank (6) thus acts as a storage tank for the energy produced by the renewable electricity generation unit (9). Thanks to this arrangement, the control unit (4) can advantageously produce hot water ready for use (13) using surplus renewable electricity, more specifically photovoltaic energy if the renewable electricity generation unit (9) includes solar panels.During periods of energy overproduction by the renewable electricity generation system (9), this can trigger safety systems such as inverters shutting down due to overvoltage, effectively halting the supply of renewable energy. The control unit (4) helps to limit inverter shut-down by directing as much energy as possible to the heating element (7). This helps to limit overvoltages and reduce the loss of renewable energy.

[0054] Advantageously, the control unit (4) allows the available electricity generated by the power generation unit (9) to be used to modulate the heating element (7) to heat the water (8) contained in the tank (6) to a maximum water temperature. And when necessary, it modulates the heating element (7) to maintain a maximum temperature within the tank (6) and provide hot water at the desired temperature.

[0055] More advantageously, the control unit (4) allows for the hybridization of an existing system that is already equipped with a second means of hot water production (14). This configuration is advantageous because the thermostatic mixing valve (17, 18) allows for mixing that maximizes the use of hot water (16) from said first means of hot water production (5) while minimizing the hot water (15) from said second means of hot water production (14), preferably the second means of hot water production (14) is a conventional means of hot water production (gas boiler, pellet boiler, heat pump, oil boiler, electric boiler and their combinations).This arrangement ensures a continuous supply of hot water ready for use (13) despite variations in renewable electricity production, while minimizing the use of conventional hot water production methods that consume fossil fuels or costly electricity from the grid (3). Advantageously, this allows for easy deployment of the system (1) according to the present invention, particularly the control unit (4), since almost all infrastructure already has conventional hot water production systems. Therefore, it is not necessary to uninstall existing devices to replace them with the device according to the present invention. This is thus much less of a deterrent for consumers and significantly reduces installation costs.

[0056] According to a preferred mode, the control unit (4) measures the water temperature (8) inside or at the outlet of said tank (6) of said first hot water production means (5), and / or when the water temperature inside or at the outlet of said tank (6) of said first hot water production means (5) is below a predefined temperature, modulates said heating means (7) to a sufficient power to increase the temperature of the water in the tank (8) using electricity produced by said renewable electrical energy production means (9). The unit is preferably equipped with or connected to a temperature probe (19) which assesses whether the water in the water heater is still sufficiently hot and thus restarts a heating cycle as needed for the user's comfort so that they have hot water ready for use (13) at all times.Preferably, this thermal probe (19) is used if the control box (4) is used without any other source of hot water production or in the case where the conventional heating source (14) is switched off or unavailable.

[0057] Preferably, the control unit (4) includes a means for measuring the control unit's power consumption, enabling self-regulation of the unit (4) such that if its power consumption exceeds the energy generated by the renewable energy production device (9), it switches to standby mode. This is particularly important during periods of low renewable energy production, as it prevents the system (1) from drawing energy from the distribution network, thus avoiding higher electricity bills compared to conventional hot water production systems. The control unit (4) continuously modulates the heating power (7) to a proportion equal to or less than the energy generated by the renewable energy production device (9) that is not consumed by the domestic electrical installation (23). This maximizes energy efficiency.

[0058] Preferably, the control unit (4) includes a dimmer that allows the heating element (7) to be modulated using energy generated by the renewable electrical power generation unit (9) or a static converter. This latter option allows the use of an AC-AC converter that modifies the amplitude of the signal (50 Hz) but whose resultant remains a sinusoid.

[0059] Preferably, the static converter also allows for the modulation of said heating method using energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production method.

[0060] Other features and advantages of the control box according to the invention will become apparent from the description provided below and the corresponding claims.

[0061] The present invention advantageously allows maximizing the use of renewable electrical energy produced by the existing installation at the time of its production, with the final consequence of reducing the non-renewable energy consumption of the existing hot water production installation.

[0062] The present invention is an efficient means of reducing fossil fuel consumption while saving money for a reasonable investment.

[0063] One of the advantages of the present invention is that it allows a conventional hot water production system to be transformed into a renewable hot water production system without necessarily replacing the main means of production.

[0064] The expression "smart meter" or "communicating meter" refers to a device for measuring the consumption of electrical and / or gas energy in a dwelling.

[0065] Within the framework of the present invention, the system provided allows hybridization with an existing system, which is particularly advantageous.

[0066] Furthermore, the system adapts to all types of existing installations according to several implementation methods illustrated below. Depending on the chosen implementation method, the system, with its high-performance housing, allows for: to counteract the drop in temperature and provides sanitation; operates with a weekly schedule; manages capacity-based pricing; manages several units simultaneously and distributes available solar power among the different heating units; manages / controls a circulator for an architecture where the heating element is outside the tank; heats a room using electric or radiant heating. This configuration allows for maintaining a defined temperature range.

[0067] There figure 1is a schematic view of a first embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

[0068] There figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

[0069] There figure 3 is a schematic view of a third embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

[0070] There figure 4 is a schematic view of a fourth embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

[0071] There figure 5 is a schematic view of a fifth embodiment of the system according to the present invention.

[0072] There figure 6 illustrates a system similar to the one shown in the figure 3 except that the heating element is outside the tank and a circulator is present.

[0073] In the figures, identical or analogous elements bear the same references.

[0074] The references for each element included in the present invention are as follows: System (1) for regulating a means of hot water production: A measuring device (2) An electrical distribution network (3) A control box (4) A first means of hot water production (5) A tank (6) A heating means,Electric resistance (7) Tank water (8) Means of renewable electrical energy production (9) A water supply (10) A cold water distribution network (11) An outlet (12) Water ready for use (13) Second means of hot water production (14) Hot water from the second means of hot water production (15) Hot water from the first means of hot water production (16) Mixing valve (17) Second mixing valve (18) Thermal probe (19) Second heating means (20) for the first means of hot water production Water contained in the second means of hot water production (21) General electrical distribution panel (22) Domestic or industrial installation (23) Feedback to the control box (24) Circulator (25) ,

[0075] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be derived from the following non-limiting description, and with reference to the drawings and examples.

[0076] In the figures, identical or analogous elements bear the same references.

[0077] The system (1) for regulating a means of producing hot water according to the present invention comprises a measuring device (2) connected to an electrical distribution network (3), a control box (4), a first means of producing hot water (5), a tank (6) which includes a heating means (7) for heating tank water (8), a means of producing renewable electrical energy (9), a water supply (10) connected to a cold water distribution network (11), an outlet (12) arranged to provide ready-to-use water (13).

[0078] The measuring device (2) allows the electrical distribution network (3) to be connected to the domestic electrical network. In particular, it allows the quantity of electricity (in kWh) used on the domestic electrical network of a given location, for example, a house, a building, or an industrial site, for a given period. It also allows the determination of the quantity of electricity injected into the network, namely the generated electricity that could not be consumed by the dwelling. More specifically, within the framework of our invention, it allows the measurement of the electrical consumption of the system (1) for regulating a means of hot water production. This applies when the domestic network includes a means of producing renewable electrical energy (9) such as solar panels, a wind turbine, etc.The measuring device (2) is connected to the main distribution board (22) and measures the total amount of energy consumed by the electrical installation (23) or discharged by the domestic renewable electricity generation system (9). The measuring device (2) also generates various data such as voltage, power, current, quarter-hourly peak, meter readings, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi, which can be used, for example, by a control unit (4). The measuring device (2) can be an electromechanical, electronic, communicating, or smart meter, bidirectional, etc. Preferably, the measuring device (2) is a bidirectional meter so that it can measure both the electricity consumed from the electrical distribution network (3) and the electricity fed back into the distribution network (3).Preferably, the measuring device (2) is a smart meter.

[0079] As illustrated in figures 1 to 5 ,The measuring device (2) is preferably positioned between the electrical distribution network (3) and the main electrical distribution panel (22) so as to be able to collect certain data from the electrical installation (23). The latter is also preferably connected to a renewable electricity generation unit (9) so as to measure the energy produced by it. Thus, the control unit (4) can use the surplus electricity generated to carry out the invention. This configuration allows the system (1) to be powered by the surplus renewable electricity produced by the renewable electricity generation unit (9) and not consumed by the electrical installation (23). The measuring device (2) can be connected to the control unit (4) via a wired or wireless connection (24), for example, a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile network (3G, 4G, 5G), etc.

[0080] There figure 6 includes the same elements as those stated above for the figures 1 to 5 except that the heating element, the resistance (7), is located outside the first hot water production element (5). Also, a circulator (25) is also present in this configuration.

[0081] The control unit (4) collects voltage, power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi. Preferably, this data is collected after being generated by a measuring device (2). Alternatively, the control unit (4) is capable of generating and processing this data. Additionally, the control unit (4) modulates a heating system (7) using energy generated by the renewable electricity generation system (9). Preferably, it modulates the heating system (7) based on the collected data (power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi) in order to maximize self-consumption.In this way, the control box (4) allows continuous control of the power and / or current to be compensated from said measuring device (2) in order to maximize the self-consumption of the energy produced by the means of renewable electrical energy production (9).

[0082] During periods when the energy produced by the renewable electricity generation unit (9) is significant (for example, in summer), the control unit (4) redirects as much of this energy as possible to the heating element (7), which can be used, for example, to heat water (8) in a tank (6). This tank (6) thus acts as a storage tank for the energy produced by the renewable electricity generation unit (9). Thanks to this arrangement, the control unit (4) can advantageously produce hot water ready for use (13) using surplus renewable electricity, more specifically photovoltaic energy if the renewable electricity generation unit (9) includes solar panels.During periods of energy overproduction by the renewable electricity generation system (9), this can trigger safety systems such as inverters shutting down due to overvoltage, effectively halting the supply of renewable energy. This energy is wasted and is neither fed back into the electricity grid (3) nor used in the home, for example, to heat water in a hot water production system. The control unit (4) helps to limit inverter shut-down by directing as much energy as possible to the heating system (7). This helps to limit overvoltages and thus reduce the amount of renewable energy lost.

[0083] Preferably, the control unit (4) uses the available electricity generated by the power generation unit (9) to modulate the heating element (7) to heat the water (8) contained in the tank (6) to a maximum water temperature. When necessary, the heating element (7) is modulated to maintain a maximum temperature within the tank (6) and provide hot water at the desired temperature.

[0084] Advantageously, the control unit (4) allows for the hybridization of an existing system that is already equipped with a second means of hot water production (14). This configuration is advantageous because the thermostatic mixing valve (17, 18) allows for mixing by maximizing the use of hot water (16) from said first means of hot water production (5) while minimizing the hot water (15) from said second means of hot water production (14), preferably the second means of hot water production (14) is a conventional means of hot water production (gas boiler, pellet boiler, heat pump, oil boiler, electric boiler and their combinations).This arrangement ensures a continuous supply of hot water ready for use (13) despite variations in renewable electricity production, while minimizing the use of conventional hot water production methods that consume fossil fuels or costly electricity from the grid (3). Advantageously, this allows for easy deployment of the system (1) according to the present invention, particularly the control unit (4), since almost all infrastructure already has conventional hot water production systems. Therefore, it is not necessary to uninstall existing devices to replace them with the device according to the present invention. This is thus much less of a deterrent for consumers and significantly reduces installation costs.

[0085] Alternatively, the control unit (4) according to the present invention can be hybridized with more than two means of hot water production. Alternatively, the control unit (4) according to the present invention can be hybridized with more than one means of renewable electrical energy production.

[0086] Preferably, the control unit (4) measures the water temperature (8) inside or at the outlet of said tank (6) of said first hot water production means (5), and / or, when the water temperature inside or at the outlet of said tank (6) of said first hot water production means (5) is below a predefined temperature, modulates said heating means (7) to a sufficient power to increase the temperature of the water in the tank (8) using electricity produced by said renewable electrical energy production means (9). The unit is preferably equipped with or connected to a temperature probe (19) which assesses whether the water in the water heater is still sufficiently hot and thus restarts a heating cycle as needed for the user's comfort so that they have hot water ready for use (13) at all times.Preferably, this thermal probe (19) is used if the control box (4) is used without any other source of hot water production or in the case where the conventional heating source (14) is switched off or unavailable.

[0087] Preferably, the control unit (4) includes a means for measuring the control unit's power consumption, enabling self-regulation of the unit (4) such that if its power consumption exceeds the energy generated by the renewable energy production device (9), it switches to standby mode. This is particularly important during periods of low renewable energy production, as it prevents the system (1) from drawing energy from the distribution network, thus avoiding higher electricity bills compared to conventional hot water production systems. The control unit (4) continuously modulates the heating power (7) to a proportion equal to or less than the energy generated by the renewable energy production device (9) that is not consumed by the domestic electrical installation (23). This maximizes energy efficiency.

[0088] Preferably the control box (4) includes a dimmer which allows the said heating means (7) to be modulated using the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9) or a static converter.

[0089] As illustrated in figures 1 to 6 ,The control unit (4) is connected to the measuring device (2) and a heating element (7), which heats the water (8) in a tank (6), thus forming the first means of hot water production (5). This configuration makes it easy to convert a conventional water heater into a solar or partially solar version. Optionally, the control unit (4) can be connected to a temperature probe (19) that measures either the temperature of the water (8) inside the tank (6), at its outlet, or even the temperature of a wall of the tank (6). Using this temperature probe (19), the control unit (4) adjusts the heating element (7) according to the detected temperature. A minimum and / or maximum tank water temperature (8) can thus be defined, particularly to prevent microbial growth in the tank (6) or to ensure a constant supply of hot water.

[0090] There figure 6includes the same elements as those stated above for the figures 1 to 5 except that the heating element, the resistance (7), is located outside the first hot water production element (5). Also, a circulator (25) is also present in this configuration.

[0091] As illustrated in the figure 1 ,The tank (6) of the first hot water production unit (5) can be supplied by a water supply (10) connected to the cold water distribution network (11). The control unit (4) is then configured to use the available electricity generated by the photovoltaic panels to modulate the heating element (7) to heat the water (8) contained in the tank (6), preferably to a maximum water temperature. If the temperature sensor (19) indicates that the water in the tank (8) is below a predefined temperature, the control unit (4) again modulates the heating element (7) to reach a target temperature, whether minimum or maximum, at the outlet (12). The hot water is then ready for use (13). (A) Period of high renewable energy production

[0092] If the amount of electricity produced by the photovoltaic panel installation is sufficient throughout the day (for example, in summer), the control unit (4) redirects the surplus electricity generated by the solar panel installation (9) to modulate, when necessary, the heating power of the electric element (7) contained in the water heater (5). In this embodiment, the electricity generated by the solar panel installation (9) optimizes self-consumption.

[0093] For example, with a target temperature of 55°C or even 65°C for the ready-to-use water (13) at the outlet (12) of the system (1), the amount of renewable electrical energy produced is sufficient to cover all daily needs. However, if the entire hot water reserve is used, the control unit (4), via the temperature probe (19), detects whether the water is cold (e.g., <30°C) or lukewarm (e.g., <35°C) and then modulates the heating power of the electric element (7) until hot water (e.g., ≥45°C) is reached in the water heater, or even scalding water (e.g., ≥55°C) to maximize self-consumption of renewable electrical energy while ensuring user comfort. (B) Period of low renewable energy production

[0094] If renewable energy production is insufficient (for example, during winter) to power the control unit (4) and the primary hot water production unit (5), or if the water (8) in the tank (6) does not reach the temperature required for ready-to-use hot water (13), the control unit (4) detects this shortfall. It then compensates for this shortfall by using energy from the electrical grid (3) to modulate the heating unit (7). This ensures that the user has access to ready-to-use hot water (13) under all circumstances.

[0095] For example, if the control unit (4) detects that the tank water (8) is cold (e.g. <30C°) or lukewarm (e.g. <35C°) and that the sunshine forecast for the coming day is not sufficient, the control unit (4) modulates the power of the heating means (7) so that the ready-to-use water (13) is hot for the user's comfort (e.g. ≥ 45C°), even if this requires using energy from the electrical distribution network (3).

[0096] Thus, over an annual period, the system according to the invention remains competitive on the market and allows overall optimization of self-consumption, which remains particularly advantageous for the consumer.

[0097] As illustrated in the figure 2 ,The system (1) alternatively includes a second hot water production means (14), which is a conventional hot water production means, for example, a gas boiler. This second hot water production means (14) is also supplied with cold water from the cold water distribution network (11) and provides hot water (15) from this network. In this configuration, the control unit (4) can be connected to a mixing valve (17) that mixes the hot water from the first hot water production means (16) with the hot water from the second hot water production means (15). The mixing performed by the mixing valve (17) provides ready-to-use water (13) via the outlet (12). The water from the second hot water source (15) is standardized, for example, 55°C or even 60°C. The water temperature (15) of the second hot water production means (14) can be adjusted, for example according to the seasons or needs. (A) Period of high renewable energy production

[0098] This mode can be observed in summer, for example. Thus, when the hot water (16) from the first hot water production unit (5) is at a temperature equal to or higher than the ready-to-use water (13) at the outlet of the system (12), the mixing valve (17) will use only the water from the first hot water production unit (16) so that the water at the outlet (12) of the system (1) is the water from the first hot water unit (16). This avoids using the water from the second hot water unit (15). This allows for ready-to-use water (13) to be produced primarily by renewable energy.Alternatively, the mixing valve (17) allows the water from the first hot water production unit (16) to be mixed with the water from the second hot water production unit (15), so as to adjust the outlet temperature (12) of the system and / or to reduce the amount of water from the second hot water production unit (15) used by the consumer. In this case, the ready-to-use water (13) at the outlet of the system (1) would be partially produced by renewable electrical energy.

[0099] For example, when the water (16) from the first hot water production unit (5) is hot (e.g., ≥ 45°C) or scalding (e.g., ≥ 55°C), the mixing valve (17), set to produce water at a minimum hot temperature (e.g., ≥ 45°C), will exclusively use the water from the first hot water production unit (5). As hot water is used, the temperature of the water from the first hot water production unit (5) will decrease until it falls below the set temperature (e.g., ≥ 45°C) of the mixing valve (17). From this point, the mixing valve (17) will add water from the second production unit (14), which is itself set to supply water at a constant temperature (e.g., 55°C). The more the water temperature of the first hot water production means (5) decreases, the more the addition of hot water from the second hot water production means (14) will increase. (B) Period of low renewable energy production

[0100] If the renewable energy production is insufficient to power the control unit (4) and the first hot water production unit (5), or if the tank water (8) does not reach the temperature required for ready-to-use hot water (13), the hot water from the first hot water production unit (16) will be at a lower temperature than the ready-to-use water (13) at the system outlet (12). The mixing valve (17) adjusts the mixture of water from the first hot water production unit (16) with water from the second hot water production unit (15) to provide ready-to-use hot water (13).

[0101] Preferably, if renewable energy production is insufficient to heat the tank water (8), the mixing valve (17) will use water from the first hot water production means (5) and add water from the second production means (14) to reach the temperature set on the mixing valve (17). In this way, the hot water production system (1) maximizes the use of hot water from the first hot water production system (5) at all times.

[0102] For example, when the renewable energy produced by the production means (9) is insufficient or nonexistent to meet the needs for producing ready-to-use hot water (13), the water (16) from the first hot water production means (5) is cold (e.g., <30°C) or even very cold. The mixing valve (17) ensures that the ready-to-use hot water (13) is the water (15) from the second hot water production means (14), which is, for example, hot (e.g., ≥55°C) or even scalding hot (e.g., ≥60°C). Alternatively, in order to produce ready-to-use hot water (13) (for example ≥ 45C°), if the water (15) is scalding hot (for example ≥ 60C°), the mixing valve (17) allows the use of scalding hot water (15) (for example 60 C°) from the second hot water production means (14) and a little cold water (16) (for example <30C°) or even very cold water from the first hot water production means (5).

[0103] For example, when the renewable energy produced by the production means (9) covers part of the hot water requirements, the water (16) from the first hot water production means (5) is lukewarm (e.g., 35°C). The mixing valve (17) allows a large quantity of lukewarm (e.g., 35°C) water (16) from the first hot water production means (5) to be mixed with a small amount of hot (e.g., ≥ 55°C) or even scalding (e.g., ≥ 60°C) water (15) from the second hot water production means (14) to produce hot water (e.g., 45°C).

[0104] As illustrated in the figure 3 , Alternatively, the tank (6) of the first hot water production means (5) functions as a thermodynamic water heater, a heat pump or a boiler and thus includes a second heating means (20). The control box (4) is preferably connected to the first heating means (7).

[0105] In this configuration, the water (8) in the tank (6) can also be heated by this second heating method, which consists of a heat exchanger transporting a fluid heated by a heat pump or a boiler (20). This second heating method (20) allows the water (8) to be heated in parallel with the first heating method (7).

[0106] Preferably, the tank (6) includes an electric heating element that provides supplemental energy if the outside air is too cold / hot for the operation of the thermodynamic water heater or heat pump, or if the boiler is not functioning correctly, or if the water (8) in the tank (6) has not reached a certain temperature after a certain period. This ensures that hot water (13) is always available for use. This configuration is also advantageous because it eliminates the need for a mixing valve (17, 18) and a second means of hot water production (14). (A) Period of high renewable energy production

[0107] If the renewable energy produced by said means (9) is sufficient to power the control unit (4) and the first hot water production means (5), for example in sunny weather, the control unit (4) redirects most of this energy production to the heating means (7). In this way, ready-to-use hot water (13) produced primarily by renewable energy flows from the outlet (12) for use by the consumer. (B) Period of low renewable energy production

[0108] If renewable energy production is insufficient to power the control unit (4) and the primary hot water production unit (5), or if the water in the tank (8) does not reach the temperature required for ready-to-use hot water (13), the control unit (4) detects this shortfall. It then compensates for this shortfall by using energy from the electrical grid (3) to modulate the primary heating unit (7). This ensures that the user always has ready-to-use hot water (13) with reduced energy consumption from the electrical grid (3).

[0109] As illustrated in the figure 4 , Alternatively, the first means of producing hot water (5) constitutes the hot water reserve of the second means of producing hot water (14).

[0110] In this configuration, the second means of producing hot water recirculates the water contained in the tank (6) in order to heat it and maintain it at the desired temperature.

[0111] This heating system, consisting of a boiler (14) and a tank (6), is or may be equipped with a heating element (7). Preferably, the water from the first hot water production unit (16) mixes with the water (21) contained in the second hot water production unit (14). Preferably, the water from the second hot water production unit (15) mixes with the water in the tank (8) of the first hot water production unit (5). The ready-to-use water (13) flows preferentially from the first hot water production unit (5) to the outlet (12). This configuration allows for the hybridization of an existing system at a lower cost and without major modifications, thereby minimizing the use of fossil fuels or electricity from the power grid (3). (A) Period of high renewable energy production

[0112] If the renewable energy produced by said means (9) is sufficient to power the control unit (4) and the first hot water production means (5), for example, in sunny weather, the control unit (4) redirects most of this energy production to the heating means (7) to heat the water in the tank (8). In this way, the hot water (16) from the first hot water production means (5) does not need to be reheated during its passage (21) through the second hot water production means (14), thus reducing the energy consumption of the second heating means (21). The water then flows out of the outlet (12) for use by the consumer.Alternatively, the second hot water production means (14) can heat the water (21) to a minimum temperature, and then the heating means (7) can further heat the water from the second hot water production means (15), which has already been heated. For example, the second hot water production means (14) can be set to supply hot water at 40°C. The control unit (4) allows the heating means (7) to be modulated to heat the water from 40°C to 65°C. This significantly reduces fossil fuel consumption and provides water partially heated with renewable energy. (B) Period of low renewable energy production

[0113] If the renewable energy production is insufficient to power the control unit (4) and the first hot water production unit (5), or if the water (8) in the tank (6) does not reach the temperature required for ready-to-use hot water (13), the hot water from the first hot water production unit (16) is at a lower temperature than the ready-to-use water (13) at the outlet of the system (12). It is then heated by the second hot water production unit (14) and returned to the first hot water production unit (5). The now hot and ready-to-use water (13) can be sent to the outlet (12). Preferably, the second hot water production unit (14) will reheat the water (15) in the event of a shortfall in renewable energy produced by the unit (9) to power the heating unit (7).

[0114] As illustrated in the figure 5 , Alternatively, the embodiment illustrated in the figure 2includes a second mixing valve (18). This valve also allows the addition of cold water from the distribution network (11) to prevent scalding if the water flowing downstream of the first mixing valve (17) is too hot.

[0115] The first means of producing hot water (5) is designed to efficiently heat water. Preferably, it takes the form of a water heater comprising a tank (6) containing tank water (8) and a heating means (7).

[0116] As illustrated in the figure 6 , which includes the same elements taken from the figure 3 except that the heating element (7) is located outside the first hot water production means (5) and a circulator (25) is also present in this configuration. The operation is thus similar to that described in the figure 3 .

[0117] The first means of producing hot water 5 constitutes the hot water reserve of the second means of producing hot water (20).

[0118] In this configuration illustrated at the figure 6 The second hot water production unit (20) operates to heat and maintain the water in the tank (6) at the desired temperature. The temperature measurement (19) can be moved to the first heating unit (7) so that the control box (4) starts and stops the circulator (25) in order to optimize the temperature of the water coming from the first heating unit (16).

[0119] This heating system, consisting of a thermodynamic water heater, a heat pump, a boiler (20), and a tank (6), is or may be equipped with a heating element (7) located outside the tank (6). Preferably, water from the first hot water production means (16) is drawn from the ready-to-use water (13) to be heated in the first hot water production means, which includes the heating element (7). Preferably, the water from the first hot water production means (16) mixes with the water from the tank (8) heated by the second hot water production means (20). The ready-to-use water (13) flows from the tank (6) to the outlet (12). This configuration allows an existing system to be hybridized at a lower cost and without major modification in order to minimize the use of fossil fuels or electricity from the electrical distribution network (3).

[0120] The presence of the resistance (7) outside the tank implies the use of the circulator (25) which acts as a pump which will allow the hot water to circulate when it reaches a certain temperature according to the user's needs.

[0121] As illustrated in figures 1 to 6 ,This first hot water production unit (5) is positioned so that its energy consumption is measured by the control unit (4). It is connected to the electrical distribution network (3) and to a renewable electricity generation unit (9), via a main electrical distribution panel (23). This control unit (4) manages the heating unit (7) to heat the water (8) contained in the tank (6) using energy from the electrical distribution network (3) and / or the renewable electricity generation unit (9). In addition, a cold water supply (10), connected to the cold water distribution network (11), supplies the tank (6). Alternatively, as illustrated in the figure 4 ,The first hot water production means (5) is supplied with water (15) from the second hot water production means (14). This water is preferably preheated by this second hot water production means (14). For distribution, a water outlet (12) is provided, through which the hot water ready for use (13) flows.

[0122] Alternately, as illustrated in the figure 2 , A mixing valve (17) allows the water (16) from the first hot water production means (5) to be mixed with the water (15) from the second hot water production means (14), thus providing ready-to-use water (13). Alternatively, as illustrated in the figure 5 a second mixing valve (18) is located between the mixing valve (17) and the outlet (12), this second mixing valve (18) being connected to the cold water distribution network (11).

[0123] In addition, the first means of producing hot water (5) includes a thermal probe (19) measuring the temperature of the tank water (8), at its outlet from the tank (6) or inside it.

[0124] Alternately, as illustrated in the figure 3 and to the figure 6 , the first means of producing hot water (5) includes a second means of heating (20) the tank water (8).

[0125] The renewable electricity generation means (9) supplies the system (1) with renewable energy, more specifically a hot water generation means (5, 14), and more specifically a heating means (7, 20) for a hot water generation means. It may, for example, take the form of photovoltaic panels, a concentrated solar power system, a domestic wind turbine, small-scale hydropower, a biomass or biogas energy generation means, etc. The renewable electricity generation means (9) may include one or more of the aforementioned examples.

Claims

1. System (1) for regulating a hot water production means comprising: - A measuring device (2) connected to an electrical distribution network (3) and arranged to quantify the energy consumption of an electrical and / or gas installation for a domestic or industrial building, - A control unit (4) connected, with wires or wirelessly, to said measuring device (2) and collecting data generated by said measuring device (2); - A first hot water production means (5), preferably a water heater, which has: ∘ either a tank (6) that includes a heating means (7), preferably an electric heating element, for heating water (8) to a given temperature, said heating element (7) being connected to said control unit (4); ∘ or a tank (6) that does not include a heating element (7), preferably an electric heating element, the latter being located outside said first hot water production means (5), said heating means (7) and a circulator (25) being connected to said control unit (4); - An electrical energy production means (9), preferably a photovoltaic installation, said renewable electrical energy production means (9) being connected to the electrical distribution network (3) to which said measuring device (2) is connected. - A water supply (10) connected to a cold water distribution network (11), - An outlet (12) arranged to provide ready-to-use water (13) at a temperature higher than that supplied by said water supply (10), characterised in that the unit (4) is arranged to use the available electricity generated by the electrical energy production means (9) so as to modulate the heating means (7) to heat the water (8) contained in said tank (6) until it reaches a maximum water temperature, and in that the control unit is arranged to continuously control the power and / or current to be offset from said measuring device (2) in order to maximise the self-consumption of the energy produced by the electrical energy production means (9).

2. System according to claim 1, comprising a second hot water production means (14), preferably chosen from the group comprising a gas boiler (with or without hot water storage or a tank), a pellet boiler, a heat pump, an oil-fired boiler, an electric boiler and combinations thereof.

3. System according to claim 2, wherein said second hot water production means (14) is arranged so as not to necessarily operate using solar energy.

4. System according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said second production means (14) is arranged to supply hot water (15) at a temperature greater than or equal to that supplied at the outlet of the system (13).

5. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said control unit (4) is fitted with a voltage and current meter to measure the energy consumed by said first hot water production means (5).

6. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said control unit (4) is arranged to: - Collect voltage, power, current, quarter-hourly peak, index, and solar irradiance forecast data via Wi-Fi, and / or - Measure the water temperature (8) inside said tank (6) of said first production means (5), and / or - When the water temperature inside said tank (6) of said first production means (5) is below a predefined temperature, activate said heating means (7) with enough power to raise the water temperature (8) using electricity produced by said electrical energy production means (9).

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first hot water production means (5) relates to any means containing an electric heating element for producing hot water and is preferably chosen from the group comprising an electric heating element water heater and a thermodynamic water heater fitted with an electric heating element.

8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system is arranged to mix the hot water (16) produced by the first hot water production means (5) with water from the water supply (10) and / or water (15) from said second hot water production means (14), which preferably has a predetermined temperature greater than or equal to the temperature of the water at the outlet of the system (13).

9. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a mixing valve (17) (thermostatic), preferably at least two mixing valves (17, 18) (thermostatic), arranged to receive water produced by said first (5) and second (14) water production means and / or water from the distribution network (11).

10. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said renewable electrical energy production means (9) is chosen from the group comprising a wind turbine, a hydroelectric installation, a photovoltaic installation, and combinations thereof.

11. System according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a temperature probe (19) located at the outlet of said tank of said first production means (5) or within said first means (5) and connected to said control unit (4).

12. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said control unit (4) activates a heating cycle to reach a maximum temperature inside said tank (6) of said first means (5) in order to prevent the formation of a biological load inside said tank (6), preferably after at least a number of days during which the maximum water temperature has not been reached in the tank.

13. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, when the phase voltage of said electrical energy production means (9) exceeds a threshold value, said control unit (4) adjusts the power modulation of said control unit (4) in order to prevent the renewable energy production installation (9) from shutting down due to an overvoltage in the electrical network.

14. Control unit for the system according to any one of the preceding claims, which allows the heating means (7) to be modulated using the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9) and for regulating the hot water production means (5), said unit comprising: - A communication means (24) connected to the measuring device (2) connected to the electrical distribution network (3) and arranged to quantify the energy consumption of an electrical and / or gas installation for a domestic or industrial building or to the renewable electrical energy production means (9), - A means of communicating with a temperature probe, - An adjustable control that modulates said heating means (7) using the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9) or a static converter, - A means of measuring the electrical consumption of the control unit that allows self-regulation of the unit such that: ∘ If the consumption of the control unit is greater than the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9), it goes into standby mode, ∘ If the consumption of the control unit is equal to or less than the energy generated by the renewable electrical energy production means (9), it modulates the heating means (7). characterised in that the unit is arranged to use the available electricity generated by the electrical energy production means (9) so as to modulate the heating means (7) to heat the water (8) contained in said tank (6) until it reaches a maximum water temperature, and in that said control unit continuously controls the power and / or current to be offset from said measuring device (2) in order to maximise the self-consumption of the energy produced by the electrical energy production means (9).

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