Combustion device with adaptive electronic composite

Abstract

Adaptive electronic interconnection. Combustion device comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1). The combustion device comprises an actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25) to the burner (1) and comprises a non-volatile memory. A regulating and / or control and / or monitoring device (16) which is different from the actuator (3, 4, 9) and communicatively connected to the actuator (3, 4, 9) and is configured to: generate a request signal and send it to the actuator (3, 4, 9); wherein the actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: receive the request signal; in response to receiving the request signal, check the presence of a stored rate of change in the memory of the actuator (3, 4, 9); to load the stored rate of change from the memory of the actuator (3, 4, 9).

Description

background

[0001] The present invention relates to the control of fluid flows in a combustion device. In particular, the present invention relates to the control of fluid flows such as...

[0002] Air and / or fuel gas via one or more actuators.

[0003] Changes in air temperature and / or air pressure cause fluctuations in the air-fuel ratio λ in a combustion device.

[0004] Combustion appliances are therefore set with an excess of air. This measure serves to prevent unhygienic combustion. A disadvantage of setting combustion appliances to an excess of air is a reduced efficiency of the system.

[0005] Due to the aforementioned fluctuations in the operation of a combustion device, at least one actuator of the combustion device must be readjusted during operation. This at least one actuator can be an air actuator or include an air actuator. The air actuator acts on an air supply through an air supply duct of the combustion device, the air supply duct leading to a combustion chamber of the combustion device. In particular, the at least one actuator of the combustion device can be an air blower or include such a blower. Furthermore, the at least one actuator of the combustion device can be an air damper or include such an air damper.

[0006] The at least one actuator of the combustion device can also be a fuel actuator or include a fuel actuator. The fuel actuator acts on a fuel supply through a fuel supply channel of the combustion device, the fuel supply channel also leading to the combustion chamber of the combustion device. In particular, the at least one actuator of the combustion device can be a valve for fuel gas or include such a valve.

[0007] The readjustment of one or more such actuators can be performed based on a rate of change. This readjustment can, but does not have to, take place during operation. For example, a blower can increase or decrease its speed according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change is preferably a characteristic of the blower. It can depend on the type and design of the blower. Blowers that are controlled and / or regulated using pulse-width modulated signals and / or frequency converters are common.

[0008] Furthermore, an air damper can open or close according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change is preferably a property of the air damper. It can depend on the type and design of the air damper.

[0009] Furthermore, a fuel valve, such as a fuel gas valve or an oil valve, can open or close according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change is preferably a property of the fuel valve. It can depend on the type and design of the fuel valve.

[0010] In practice, the maximum rates of change of the aforementioned actuators mean that a combustion device is conservatively set to the actuator with the slowest rate of change. This means that the actuator with the slowest rate of change is used as the reference for all other actuators that are adjusted simultaneously and in conjunction with it. Similarly, the air flap with the slowest rate of change is used as the reference for all other air flaps. Furthermore, the fuel valve with the slowest rate of change is used as the reference for all other fuel valves.

[0011] This approach ensures that the combustion unit can be operated with all or almost all fans, air flaps, or fuel valves. However, it also introduces delays. This means that the combustion unit does not modulate as quickly as possible and / or appropriate. For example, in the case of combustion with undesirable emissions, it takes longer than necessary to correct these emissions by changing at least one actuator. Furthermore, changes in the combustion unit's power output cannot be made as quickly as would be possible considering the individual speeds involved.

[0012] Furthermore, the aforementioned actuators do not operate at their nominal rate of change. This can lead to deviations between the target and actual positions of the blowers, air flaps, or fuel valves. In the worst case, such deviations can result in the combustion system shutting down.

[0013] Patent application DE102011111453A1 was filed on August 30, 2011, by Robert Bosch GmbH, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany. The application was published on February 28, 2013. DE102011111453A1 relates to a method for adjusting the air ratio in a heating appliance.

[0014] European patent EP2685167B1 was granted on December 16, 2015 to HONEYWELL TECHNOLOGIES SARL. The filing date of EP2685167B1 is July 13, 2012. EP2685167B1 relates to a method for operating a gas burner.

[0015] European patent EP2685169B1 was granted on October 24, 2018, to HONEYWELL TECHNOLOGIES SARL. The filing date of EP2685169B1 is July 13, 2012. EP2685169B1 relates to a method for operating a gas burner.

[0016] The object of the present invention is to improve the regulation and / or control of actuators in a combustion device. In particular, it concerns optimized changes in the speeds and / or positions of such actuators. Summary

[0017] The invention is described in the attached set of claims.

[0018] The present disclosure thus teaches a combustion device comprising at least one actuator and a control and / or monitoring device. The at least one actuator acts on a supply of a fluid, such as air, fuel gas, or heating oil, through a supply channel of the combustion device. The supply channel opens into the burner of the same combustion device.

[0019] The control and / or monitoring device now sends a command to at least one actuator. This command involves a change, such as a change in the speed of a fan or a change in the position of a valve. The at least one actuator receives the command and begins the change. It is helpful if the command to the at least one actuator is such that the change occurs close to the nominal or maximum rate of change. This ensures that the change is carried out promptly in accordance with the command from the control and / or monitoring device. If the change is intended to eliminate unhygienic combustion, the unhygienic combustion will cease promptly.

[0020] To determine the nominal or maximum rate of change of the at least one actuator, the control and / or regulation and / or

[0021] The monitoring device detects the rate of change from the at least one actuator. This means that the control and / or monitoring device sends a request signal to the at least one actuator. The at least one actuator responds to the request signal by reporting a rate of change back to the control and / or monitoring device. The control and / or monitoring device is now able to initiate a change in the supply of a fluid through the supply channel at the optimal rate of change.

[0022] Meanwhile, it can happen that no rate of change is stored or saved in at least one actuator. In this case, the at least one actuator cannot report back a nominal or maximum rate of change. Instead, the response signal may contain an exception signal and / or an error signal or a signal indicating an invalid value. Furthermore, the feedback may time out. In these cases, a rate of change is missing from the memory of the at least one actuator.

[0023] If no rate of change is stored or defined in the at least one actuator, the rate of change can be defined by parameterization or by applying a constant value. For example, a rate of change can be parameterized in a control and / or monitoring device. The control and / or monitoring device can include non-volatile memory for this purpose. Furthermore, the control and / or monitoring device can assume a constant value. This constant value can be independent of the specific type of the at least one actuator.

[0024] For example, with external, speed-controlled fans, it may happen that no rate of change is stored or saved in the at least one actuator. In this case, a manually initiated adaptation can be performed during commissioning. This involves recording the step response of the at least one actuator, such as the external, speed-controlled fan. From this step response, possible rates of change for acceleration and / or deceleration are determined. This determination can be carried out, for example, by a control and / or monitoring device.

[0025] If, as a result of the request, no or no valid rate of change is available in the control and / or monitoring device, the rate of change can be determined empirically. For this purpose, the rotational speed and / or the position of at least one actuator are determined once before and once after a change and sent to the control and / or monitoring device. Furthermore, two timestamps are recorded before and after the change, either at the at least one actuator or in the control and / or monitoring device.

[0026] From the empirically determined mechanical parameters and timestamps, a rate of change can then be empirically determined. This empirically determined rate of change can subsequently be used instead of a queried rate of change for the automation of at least one actuator. Brief description of the characters

[0027] Various details will be made accessible to those skilled in the art by means of the following detailed description. The individual embodiments are not limiting. The drawings accompanying the description can be described as follows: FIG 1 schematically shows a combustion device as a system. FIG 2 shows a sequence of querying the rate of change of rotational speed and / or the position of at least one actuator of the combustion device. FIG 3 shows a process of measuring the rate of change of rotational speed and / or the position of at least one actuator of the combustion device. Detailed description

[0028] FIG 1 Figure 1 shows a combustion device comprising a burner 1, a heat consumer 2, a fan 3 with adjustable speed, and a motor-operated adjustable damper 4. The motor-operated adjustable damper 4 is located downstream of the air inlet 23. The heat consumer 2 (heat exchanger) can, for example, be a hot water boiler. The air supply 5 can be adjusted according to... FIG 1 The motor-operated adjustable flap 4 and / or the speed setting of the blower 3 can be adjusted via signal line 18. The air supply 5 can also be regulated. Signal line 18 can comprise or consist of a single optical fiber. Optical fiber signal lines offer advantages in environments with explosive substances or mixtures.

[0029] If flap 4 is missing, the air supply 5 can also be adjusted solely by the speed of the blower 3. Pulse width modulation, for example, is suitable for adjusting the speed of the blower 3. According to another embodiment, the motor of the blower 3 is connected to a frequency converter. The speed of the blower 3 is thus adjusted via the frequency of the frequency converter.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the blower 3 operates at a fixed, unchangeable speed. The air supply 5 is then determined by the position of the flap 4. Furthermore, additional actuators are possible that modify the air supply 5. These could include, for example, a nozzle adjustment of the burner and / or an adjustable flap in the exhaust duct.

[0031] The supply 6 (e.g., particle flow and / or mass flow) of the fuel fluid through the fuel supply channel 25 can be adjusted by a fuel flap 9. According to one embodiment, the fuel flap 9 is a (motorically adjustable) valve.

[0032] Suitable fuels include, for example, flammable gases such as natural gas and / or propane and / or hydrogen. A liquid fuel such as heating oil is also suitable. In this case, the flap 9 is replaced by a motor-driven adjustable oil pressure regulator in the oil nozzle's return line. The safety shutdown and / or closing function is implemented by the redundant safety valves 7 and 8. According to a specific embodiment, the safety valves 7 and 8 and / or the fuel flap 9 are implemented as an integrated unit(s).

[0033] Fuel is mixed with air in and / or before the burner 1. The mixture is burned in the combustion chamber of the heat consumer 2. The heat is then transferred within the heat consumer 2. For example, heated water is pumped to heating elements and / or, in industrial combustion systems, a material is heated (directly). The exhaust gas 10 is discharged (into the environment) via an exhaust gas path 26, such as a chimney. Alternatively, the exhaust gas 10 can be discharged (into the environment) via an exhaust gas path 26, such as a flue.

[0034] A control and / or monitoring device 16 automates at least one actuator of the combustion device. In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 automates all actuators of the combustion device. Thus, the correct supply 6 of fuel and / or combustion gas is adjusted for each power point via the position of the flap 9 relative to the corresponding supply 5 of air. This results in the desired air-fuel ratio λ.

[0035] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 comprises a microcontroller. According to a particular embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 is implemented as a microcontroller. In another embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 comprises a microprocessor. According to yet another particular embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 is implemented as a microprocessor.

[0036] The control and / or monitoring device 16 automates the blower 3 via signal line 18 and / or the air damper 4 via signal line 19. Signal line 19, like signal line 18, can comprise or consist of an optical fiber. Optical fiber signal lines offer advantages in environments with explosive substances or mixtures.

[0037] For the automation of units 4 and 5, values ​​stored in the control and / or monitoring unit 16 can be used. The values ​​stored in the control and / or monitoring unit 16 can, for example, be in the form of a characteristic curve and / or a mathematical relationship.

[0038] Preferably, the control and / or monitoring device 16 comprises a memory, for example a non-volatile memory. The memory contains those values, in particular those characteristic curves and / or those mathematical relationships.

[0039] The position of the fuel flap 9 is automated via signal line 22. During operation, the safety shut-off valves 7 and 8 are opened via signal lines 20 and 21. The safety shut-off valves 7 and 8 are held open during operation. Signal lines 20 and 22 can each contain or consist of a single optical fiber. Optical fiber signal lines offer advantages in environments with explosive substances or mixtures.

[0040] During operation, faults may occur in flap 4, 9 and / or in the blower 3. Such faults can be detected, for example, in an electronic interface or control unit of flap 4 and / or blower 3. Fault feedback can be provided, for example, by a safety-related feedback signal regarding the position of flap 4 via the (bidirectional) signal line 19 for air flap 4. Fault feedback can also be provided by a safety-related feedback signal regarding the position of flap 9 via the (bidirectional) signal line 22 for fuel flap 9.

[0041] Safety-related position feedback can be implemented, for example, using redundant position sensors. If safety-related feedback on the rotational speed is required, this can be provided via the (bidirectional) signal line 18 using (safety-related) speed sensors. For this purpose, redundant speed sensors can be used, and / or the measured rotational speed can be compared with the target rotational speed. The control and feedback signals can be transmitted via different signal lines and / or via a bidirectional bus, such as a CAN bus.

[0042] Furthermore, NAMUR encoders and / or NAMUR sensors can be used. These encoders and / or sensors are advantageously actuated via cams that are positively connected to the shaft of a drive of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. A rotational speed can then be calculated from the pulse interval of the signals recorded by the encoder and / or the sensor. Ideally, the rotational speed can be calculated in a safety-relevant manner. This is achieved by the fact that the cams are arranged at known angles around the drive shaft. For example, the cams can be arranged at angles of 60°, 120°, or 180° around the drive shaft. The direction of rotation can also be determined in a safety-relevant manner by means of asymmetrical cam spacing and / or asymmetrical angles between the individual cams.

[0043] In one embodiment, the calculation of the rotational speed, in particular the safety-relevant calculation of the rotational speed, is performed by the control and / or monitoring device 16. The NAMUR encoders can include encoders according to DIN EN 60947-5-6 and / or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR encoders can be encoders according to DIN EN 60947-5-6 and / or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR sensors can include sensors according to DIN EN 60947-5-6 and / or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR sensors can be sensors according to DIN EN 60947-5-6 and / or VDE 0660-212:2000-12.

[0044] A side channel 24 is located upstream of the burner 1. The side channel 24 is in fluid contact with the air supply channel 11 at a point 12. A small quantity of outgoing air 15 flows outwards through the side channel 24. The side channel 24, together with the burner 1 and the exhaust gas path 26 of the heat consumer 2, forms a flow divider. For a defined flow path through the burner 1 and exhaust gas path 26, a corresponding value of airflow 15 flows out through the side channel 24 for each value of the air supply 5 (reversibly unique).

[0045] A flow resistance element 14 is installed in the side channel 24. The flow rate 15 in the side channel 24 depends on the cross-sectional area of ​​the flow resistance element 14.

[0046] With this arrangement, the flow rate (particle flow and / or mass flow) through the side channel 24 is a measure of the air supply 5 to the burner 1. Influences due to changes in air density, for example, due to changes in absolute pressure and / or air temperature, are compensated for by the mass flow sensor 13. To provide feedback of a signal from the mass flow sensor 13, this sensor 13 is connected to the control and / or monitoring device 16 via a signal line 17.

[0047] In known combustion devices, the rotational speed of the blower 3 is changed conservatively with a slow rate of change. This ensures that the combustion device can operate with a large number of blowers 3 of different designs and / or types. Furthermore, the position of the air damper 4 is changed conservatively with a slow rate of change. This also ensures that the combustion device can operate with a large number of air dampers 4 of different designs and / or types. The rate of change of the air damper 4 is generally different from the rate of change of the blower 3.

[0048] The position of the fuel actuator 9 is also changed conservatively at a slow rate of change. This ensures that the combustion device can operate with a large number of fuel actuators 9 of different designs and / or types. The rate of change of the fuel actuator 9 is generally different from the rate of change of the blower 3. The rate of change of the fuel actuator 9 is generally different from the rate of change of the air flap 4. In one embodiment, the fuel actuator 9 includes a fuel flap. In a specific embodiment, the fuel actuator 9 is a fuel flap.

[0049] In one embodiment, the blower 3 comprises a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the blower 3 includes a memory, such as non-volatile memory. The memory of the blower 3 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the blower 3. In particular, the memory of the blower 3 can be part of the microcontroller.

[0050] In another embodiment, the blower 3 is controlled by the control and / or monitoring device 16 using a pulse-width modulated signal. Alternatively, the blower 3 can be controlled via a bus signal. This bus signal can originate from a CAN bus. Furthermore, the rotational speed can be recorded using one of the previously described NAMUR encoders and / or sensors. The recorded rotational speed is then converted into a measured value of the rotational speed by the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0051] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the blower 3 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the unit 16 via the signal line 18.

[0052] In one embodiment, the air flap 4 comprises a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the air flap 4 includes a memory, such as non-volatile memory. The memory of the air flap 4 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the air flap 4. In particular, the memory of the air flap 4 can be part of the microcontroller.

[0053] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the air flap 4 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the unit 16 via the signal line 19.

[0054] In one embodiment, the fuel actuator 9 comprises a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the fuel actuator 9 includes a memory, such as non-volatile memory. The memory of the fuel actuator 9 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the fuel actuator 9. In particular, the memory of the fuel actuator 9 can be part of the microcontroller of the fuel actuator 9.

[0055] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the fuel actuator 9 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the unit 16 via the signal line 22.

[0056] The fuel actuator 9 can, for example, be a fuel flap. This means that the fuel flap includes a microcontroller and / or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the fuel flap includes a memory, such as non-volatile memory. The fuel flap's memory is communicatively connected to the fuel flap's microcontroller and / or microprocessor. In particular, the fuel flap's memory can be part of the fuel flap's microcontroller.

[0057] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the fuel flap is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the unit 16 via the signal line 22.

[0058] To ensure that the rotational speed and / or the position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 does not change at the slowest expected speed, the following applies according to FIG 2 The following procedure is performed. At the beginning of step 27, the control and / or monitoring device 16 requests a change rate from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. Specifically, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can request such a change rate. For this purpose, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can generate a request signal and send it to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0059] In step 28, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the request and / or the request signal. In step 29, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 responds to the request and / or the request signal. For this purpose, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 loads a rate of change from its memory. Specifically, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can load a rate of change from non-volatile memory. The rate of change can, for example, be a nominal and / or a maximum rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0060] In step 30, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 sends its rate of change back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. For this purpose, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate an initial response signal from the stored rate of change. After generating the initial response signal, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the initial response signal to the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0061] In the following step 31, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives the first response signal. The control and / or monitoring device 16 determines the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 from the first response signal.

[0062] Subsequently, in step 32, the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a first automation signal. This first automation signal is generated taking into account the rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In step 33, the first automation signal is sent to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In step 34, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first automation signal.

[0063] The first automation signal can, for example, include a control signal and / or a regulation signal. Furthermore, the first automation signal can be either a control signal or a regulation signal.

[0064] Finally, in step 35, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 begins to change its speed and / or position in response to receiving the first automation signal. The speed and / or position is changed in such a way that the reported rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is not exceeded. This means that during the change in the speed and / or position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9, the rate of change remains less than or equal to the reported rate of change.

[0065] Ideally, the rotational speed and / or position is changed so that the reported change rate of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. In a further embodiment, the rotational speed and / or position is changed so that a maximum of 95 percent of the change rate of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. Furthermore, the rotational speed and / or position can be changed so that a maximum of 90 percent of the reported change rate of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. By not performing its change at the maximum reported change rate, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is mechanically protected. At the same time, the change occurs sufficiently quickly.

[0066] In one embodiment, a reduction is already factored into the rate of change reported by the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. This means that the reduced rate of change can be stored in a memory, for example, in non-volatile memory, of the control and / or monitoring device 16. The primary purpose of this reduction is to provide a reserve. In the event of position or rotational speed deviations of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9, these deviations can be compensated for by independent adjustments. Ideally, this compensation requires no intervention from the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0067] Preferably, the rotational speed and / or the position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is changed such that the rate of change is reduced at the beginning of the change. Likewise, the rate of change can be reduced at the end of the change. The reason for the reduced rates of change is that, in particular, speed-controlled actuators 3 do not accurately follow the reported rate of change at the beginning and / or end.

[0068] It may happen that one or more actuators 3, 4, 9 do not accurately follow the positioning commands of the control and / or monitoring device 16. Consequently, the control and / or monitoring device 16 registers a deviation between the actual position and the target position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. Furthermore, the control and / or monitoring device 16 may register a deviation between the actual speed and the target speed of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. Such deviation registrations can be made, for example, by evaluating one or more signals from a NAMUR encoder and / or NAMUR sensor.

[0069] In this case, the control and / or monitoring device 16 reduces the rate of change for all participating actuators 3, 4, 9. For example, the rates of change can be reduced by at least 30 percent, 50 percent, or 70 percent. Advantageously, the control and / or monitoring device 16 registers the respective deviations for all participating actuators 3, 4, 9. The control and / or monitoring device 16 compares the deviations with each other and determines the largest deviation among those compared. The control and / or monitoring device 16 reduces the rates of change of all participating actuators 3, 4, 9 as a function of the largest deviation.

[0070] The reduction in the rates of change of all participating actors 3, 4, 5 can, for example, be a linear function of the largest deviation. The reduction in the rates of change of all participating actors 3, 4, 5 can also be an affine function of the largest deviation.

[0071] In an embodiment with periodically reported rotational speeds and / or positions, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can detect the aforementioned deviations. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 learns that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is not accurately following the reported rate of change. The change in rotational speed and / or position can, for example, occur depending on the magnitude of a deviation between the target speed and the actual speed and / or between the target position and the actual position. In one embodiment, the change in rotational speed and / or position is initiated by the control and / or monitoring device 16 depending on the magnitude of the deviation.In particular, a microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can take into account the magnitude of deviations between target speed and actual speed and / or between target position and actual position.

[0072] It is possible that in step 29, at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) does not load a rate of change from its memory. For example, there may be no rate of change stored in the memory of blower 3. The same applies to air flap 4 or fuel actuator 9. In particular, there may be no rate of change stored in the memory of fuel flap 9.

[0073] In this case, at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a second feedback signal in step 36. This second feedback signal indicates that no rate of change is reported. In particular, the second feedback signal can an error message and / or an exception message and / or an invalid value for the rate of change, such as zero or a negative value specify. Furthermore, the second response signal can an error message and / or an exception message and / or an invalid value for the rate of change, such as zero or a negative value include.

[0074] In addition, the second response signal can an error message and / or an exception message and / or an invalid value for the rate of change, such as zero or a negative value be.

[0075] In particular, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate the second response signal. After generating the second response signal, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the second response signal to the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0076] In the following step 37, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives the second feedback signal. The control and / or monitoring device 16 determines from the second feedback signal that the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 has not been reported. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 must determine the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 by another means.

[0077] Furthermore, it is possible that the control and / or monitoring device 16 does not receive a first or second feedback signal in either step 31 or step 37. The control and / or monitoring device 16 typically waits for a first or second feedback signal for a predetermined period. This predetermined period can be, for example, at least one hundred milliseconds, two hundred milliseconds, or five hundred milliseconds. Longer predetermined periods ensure that the control and / or monitoring device 16 does not miss a feedback signal.

[0078] If the specified time period elapses without a first or second feedback signal, the control and / or monitoring device 16 will have to determine the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 by other means.

[0079] The determination of the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 by other means can be carried out as in FIG 3 The process is shown. The determination of the rate of change according to... FIG 3 However, it can also be done independently of a previous query of the rate of change.

[0080] This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a first status query signal in an optional step 38. The first status query signal can, for example, indicate a first query of a first speed and / or a first position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The first status query signal can also include a first query of a first speed and / or a first position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0081] Preferably, the first status query signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0082] Preferably, the first status query signal is an initial status query signal. In this case, the initial status query signal can, for example, indicate an initial query of an initial rotational speed and / or an initial position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The initial status query signal can also include an initial query of an initial rotational speed and / or an initial position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0083] Preferably, the initial status query signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0084] In optional step 39, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends the first status query signal and / or the initial status query signal to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In optional step 40, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first and / or the initial status query signal.

[0085] In step 41, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a first status signal. This first status signal can, for example, indicate a first speed and / or a first position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The first status signal can also include a first speed and / or a first position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The first status signal can also be a first speed and / or a first position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0086] Preferably, the first status signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the first status signal in response to the first status query signal. In another embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically, thus eliminating the need for the aforementioned queries. This means that in this case, the first status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can periodically generate status signals. In this case, the first status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0087] Ideally, the first status signal also includes a first timestamp. The first timestamp indicates the point in time at which the first status signal is generated. The first timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The first timestamp can also be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0088] Alternatively, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can generate the first timestamp upon receiving the first status signal in step 43 described below. The first timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The first timestamp can also be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0089] Preferably, the first status signal is an initial status signal. In this case, the initial status signal can, for example, indicate an initial rotational speed and / or an initial position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The initial status signal can also include an initial rotational speed and / or an initial position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0090] Preferably, the initial status signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the initial status signal in response to the initial status query signal. In another embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically, thus eliminating the need for the aforementioned queries. This means that in this case, the initial status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can periodically generate status signals. In this case, the initial status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0091] Ideally, the initial status signal also includes an initial timestamp. The initial timestamp indicates the time at which the initial status signal is generated. The initial timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The initial timestamp can also be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0092] Alternatively, upon receiving the initial status signal in step 43 described below, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can generate the initial timestamp. The initial timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The initial timestamp can also be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0093] In step 42, at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the first and / or initial status signal to the control and / or monitoring device 16. In step 43, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives the first and / or initial status signal.

[0094] Now, in step 44, the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a change signal. This change signal can, for example, include a command to reduce the speed of the blower 3. Furthermore, the change signal can include a command to close the air damper 4. In addition, the change signal can include a command to close the fuel actuator 9. Specifically, the change signal can include a command to close the fuel valve 9 and / or the combustion gas valve 9. Of course, speeds can also be increased and positions opened.

[0095] The change signal can, for example, include a control signal and / or a regulation signal. Furthermore, the change signal can be a control signal or a regulation signal.

[0096] In step 45, the generated change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0097] In step 46, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the change signal and begins to change its speed and / or position. Specifically, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can receive the change signal in step 46. Based on the change signal, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates, for example, a pulse-width modulated signal and / or a converter signal. Based on the pulse-width modulated signal and / or the converter signal, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can begin to change its speed and / or position.

[0098] In optional step 47, the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a second status query signal. This second status query signal can, for example, indicate a second query for a second speed and / or a second position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The second status query signal can also include a query for a second speed and / or a second position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0099] Preferably, the second status query signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16. In one embodiment, the first status query signal is identical to the second status query signal. That is, the first and second status query signals contain the same information. For example, the first and second status query signals can query the speed of the blower 3, the position of the air damper 4, or the position of the at least one fuel actuator 9. In a related embodiment, the initial status query signal is identical to the second status query signal. That is, the initial and second status query signals contain the same information. For example, the initial and second status query signals can query the speed of the blower 3, the position of the air damper 4, or the position of the at least one fuel actuator 9.

[0100] The second status query signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 in step 48. This second status query signal can be sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 after a predefined delay of at least one second, at least two seconds, or at least five seconds. Longer delay times allow for a precise determination of the rate of change of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0101] Preferably, the specified delay begins to run from the sending of the first and / or initial status query signal by the control and / or monitoring device 16. Likewise, the specified delay can begin to run from the sending of the change signal by the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0102] In the optional step 49, at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first and / or the initial status query signal.

[0103] In step 50, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a second status signal. This second status signal can, for example, indicate a second speed and / or a second position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The second status signal can also include a second speed and / or a second position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0104] Preferably, the second status signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the second status signal in response to the second status query signal. In another embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically, thus eliminating the need for the aforementioned queries. This means that in this case, the second status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can periodically generate status signals. In this case, the second status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0105] Ideally, the second status signal also includes a second timestamp. This second timestamp indicates the time at which the second status signal is generated. The second timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. Alternatively, the second timestamp can be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.

[0106] Alternatively, upon receiving the second status signal in step 52 described below, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can generate the second timestamp. The second timestamp can be determined, for example, by an internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The second timestamp can also be determined by counting the clock cycles of the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0107] In step 51, at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the second status signal to the control and / or monitoring device 16.

[0108] In step 52, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives the second status signal. The control and / or monitoring device 16 is now able to determine the rate of change of the rotational speed and / or the position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. For this purpose, a first mechanical status s1, that is, a first rotational speed or a first position, is determined from the first status signal. Furthermore, a first time t1 is determined from the first timestamp.

[0109] From the second status signal, a second mechanical status s2, that is, a second rotational speed or a second position, is determined. Furthermore, a second time t2 is determined from the second timestamp. The rate of change v can then be determined: v = s 1 − s 2 t 1 − t 2

[0110] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 determines the rate of change. Ideally, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor also determines the first and second mechanical statuses s1, s2 as well as the first and second timestamps t1, t2.

[0111] In a related embodiment, an initial mechanical status si, that is, an initial rotational speed or an initial position, is determined from the initial status signal. Furthermore, an initial time ti is determined from the initial timestamp. From the second status signal, a second mechanical status s2, that is, a second rotational speed or a second position, is determined. Furthermore, a second time t2 is determined from the second timestamp. The rate of change v can be determined in this case: v = s i − s 2 t i − t 2

[0112] Preferably, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 determines the rate of change. Ideally, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor also determines the initial and second status si, s 2 as well as the initial and second timestamp ti, t 2.

[0113] Subsequently, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can use the empirically determined rate of change when automating the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a second automation signal in step 53. The second automation signal is sent to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the second automation signal in step 54. In response to receiving the second automation signal, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 changes its rotational speed and / or its position in step 55.

[0114] The second automation signal can, for example, include a control signal and / or a regulation signal. Furthermore, the second automation signal can be a control signal or a regulation signal.

[0115] Preferably, the second automation signal is generated by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16. In one embodiment, the first automation signal is different from the second automation signal. That is, the first and second automation signals contain different information.

[0116] Ideally, the rotational speed and / or position is changed so that the empirically determined rate of change v of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. In a further embodiment, the rotational speed and / or position is changed so that a maximum of 95 percent of the rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. Furthermore, the rotational speed and / or position can be changed so that a maximum of 90 percent of the determined rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. By not performing its change at the maximum empirically determined rate of change, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is mechanically protected. At the same time, the change occurs sufficiently quickly.

[0117] Preferably, the rotational speed and / or the position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is changed such that the rate of change is reduced at the beginning of the change. Likewise, the rate of change can be reduced at the end of the change. The reason for the reduced rates of change is that, in particular, speed-controlled actuators 3 do not accurately follow the empirically determined rate of change at the beginning and / or end.

[0118] In an embodiment with periodically reported rotational speeds and / or positions, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can detect the aforementioned deviations. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 learns that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is not accurately following the empirically determined rate of change. The change in rotational speed and / or position can, for example, occur depending on the magnitude of a deviation between the target speed and the actual speed and / or between the target position and the actual position. In one embodiment, the change in rotational speed and / or position is initiated by the control and / or monitoring device 16 depending on the magnitude of the deviation.In particular, a microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the control and / or monitoring device 16 can take into account the magnitude of deviations between target speed and actual speed and / or between target position and actual position.

[0119] The above refers to individual embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the embodiments can be made without deviating from the underlying idea and without leaving the scope of this invention. The subject matter of the present invention is defined by the claims. Various modifications can be made within the scope of protection defined by the following claims. Reference sign

[0120] 1 Burner 2 Heat consumer (heat exchanger) 3 Motor-driven blower 4 (Motor-adjustable) air damper 5 Air supply (particle and / or mass flow) or flow through channel 11 6 Fluid flow of a combustible fluid (fuel supply) 7, 8 Fuel valves, in particular safety-related fuel valves 9 (Motor-adjustable) fuel damper 10 Exhaust gas flow 11 Air supply channel 12 Connection point 13 Mass flow sensor 14 Flow resistance element (orifice plate) 15 Flow or flow in the side channel 16 Control and / or monitoring device 17 - 22 Signal lines 23 Air inlet 24 Side channel 25 Fuel supply channel 26 Exhaust gas path 27 Request for a rate of change 28 Receipt of the request signal 29 Loading of the rate of change 30 Transmission of the rate of change 31 Receipt of the response signal 32 Generation of an automation signal 33 Sending the automation signal 34 Receiving theAutomation signal 35 Start and / or execution of a change 36 Generation of a response signal 37 Receipt of the response signal 38 Generation of a status query signal 39 Sending the status query signal 40 Receipt of the status query signal 41 Generation of a status signal 42 Sending the status signal 43 Receipt of the status signal 44 Generation of a change signal 45 Sending the change signal 46 Receipt of the change signal 47 Generation of a status query signal 48 Sending the status query signal 49 Receipt of the status query signal 50 Generation of a status signal 51 Sending the status signal 52 Receipt of the status signal 53 Generation of an automation signal 54 Receipt of the automation signal 55 Start and / or execution of a change

Claims

1. Combustion apparatus comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) fluidically connected to the burner (1), the combustion apparatus comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), which acts on a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25) to the burner (1) and comprises a non-volatile memory, and a closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16), which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and is configured to: generate a request signal and transmit it to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: receive the request signal; check the presence of a stored rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) in response to the receiving of the request signal; if the stored rate of change is present in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): load the stored rate of change from the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); generate a reply signal from the stored rate of change; transmit the reply signal to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: receive the reply signal; determine the stored rate of change from the reply signal; and generate a first automation signal as a function of the stored rate of change, wherein the first automation signal, on receipt by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), causes the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to change a mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) such that the mechanical variable at most changes at the stored rate of change.

2. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: if the rate of change is missing in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): generate the reply signal from an error and / or exception signal; transmit the reply signal to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: receive the reply signal; and determine the error and / or exception signal from the reply signal.

3. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: if the rate of change is missing in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): determine an invalid value of the rate of change; generate the reply signal from the invalid value of the rate of change; transmit the reply signal to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: receive the reply signal; determine the invalid value from the reply signal; and infer an error and / or an exception from the invalid value.

4. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: wait for the reply signal during a predefined period of time from the transmitting of the request signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); and if the reply signal is missing once the predefined period of time has expired: infer an error and / or an exception.

5. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: generate a first status signal, which indicates a first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), and to transmit it to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: if the rate of change is missing in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) or if the reply signal is missing once a or the predefined period of time has expired: receive the first status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); generate a change signal temporally after receiving the first status signal; and transmit the change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).

6. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: to generate a first measurement signal, which indicates a first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), generate a first timestamp t1 at the point in time of the generating of the first measurement signal; generate a first status signal on the basis of the first measurement signal and the first timestamp t1, and to transmit it to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: if the rate of change is missing in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) or if the reply signal is missing once a or the predefined period of time has expired: receive the first status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); generate a change signal temporally after receiving the first status signal; and transmit the change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).

7. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: receive the change signal from the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) on the basis of the change signal; and generate a second status signal, which indicates a second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), temporally after starting to change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), and transmit it to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16).

8. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is configured to: receive the change signal from the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16); change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) on the basis of the change signal; generate a second measurement signal, which indicates a second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), temporally after starting to change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); generate a second timestamp t2 at the point in time of the generating of the second measurement signal; generate a second status signal on the basis of the second status signal and the second timestamp t2; and transmit the second status signal to the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16).

9. The combustion apparatus according to claims 5 and 7, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: determine the first mechanical status s1 as a function of the first status signal; generate a first timestamp t1 at the point in time of the receiving of the first status signal; receive the second status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); determine a second mechanical status s2 as a function of the second status signal; and generate a second timestamp t2 at the point in time of the receiving of the second status signal.

10. The combustion apparatus according to claims 6 and 8, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: determine the first mechanical status s1 as a function of the first status signal; determine the first timestamp t1 as a function of the first status signal; receive the second status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); determine the second mechanical status s2 as a function of the second status signal; and determine the second timestamp t2 as a function of the second status signal.

11. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 9 or 10, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: empirically determine a rate of change v as a function of the first and second mechanical status s1, s2 and as a function of the first and second timestamp t1, t2.

12. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: empirically determine a or the rate of change v as a function of a difference between the second mechanical status s2 and the first mechanical status s1 and as a function of a difference between the second timestamp t2 and the first timestamp t1.

13. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or monitoring facility (16) is configured to: generate a second automation signal as a function of the empirically determined rate of change v, wherein the second automation signal, on receipt by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), causes the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to change a mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) such that the mechanical variable at most changes at the empirically determined rate of change v.

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