Combustion device with continuously modulating actuator

Abstract

Continuously modulating actuator in a combustion device. Combustion device comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid connection with the burner (1), the combustion device comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) that acts on a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25) to the burner (1), and a control and / or regulating and / or monitoring device (16) that is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) and is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), wherein the control and / or regulating and / or monitoring device (16) is configured to: generate a first change signal from a first end value and send the first change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); to generate a second change signal from a second final value and to send the second change signal to at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the control of fluid flows in a combustion device. In particular, the present invention relates to the continuous control of fluid flows such as air and / or fuel gas.

[0002] Changes in air temperature and / or air pressure cause fluctuations in the air-fuel ratio λ in a combustion device.

[0003] In a combustion engine, speed sensors and pressure switches are used to measure the air supply. A disadvantage of speed sensors is their insensitivity to fluctuations in air temperature and pressure. A disadvantage of pressure switches is that they only allow air pressure monitoring at a specific pressure. However, by using multiple switches, air pressure can be monitored at several different pressures.

[0004] 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.

[0005] 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.

[0006] Readjusting such actuators during operation currently requires intermediate stops. This means that the actuator is moved incrementally. For example, the air supply can be adjusted by a small amount using a fan. After this incremental change, the actuator's readjustment stops. The actuator's position and / or speed are then measured and compared to a target value. If the comparison shows that the actuator's target position and / or speed can still be reached, the adjustment is repeated incrementally.

[0007] The stepwise readjustment of at least one actuator results in frequent starts and stops. These frequent starts and stops cause the actuator to heat up, increasing its mechanical wear. Furthermore, the stepwise readjustment process, with its frequent starts and stops, is associated with undesirable noise emissions.

[0008] As a result of frequent starts and stops, the energy required for readjustment also increases. Furthermore, with incremental readjustment, the at least one actuator requires more time to reach its final position and / or final speed. In principle, the additional time required to reach the final position and / or final speed could be compensated for by an actuator with higher mechanical power. Meanwhile, the electrical power consumption of the at least one actuator increases with increasing mechanical power. The at least one actuator tends to heat up more with increasing electrical and / or mechanical power. This, in turn, would necessitate design measures to limit the heating of the at least one actuator.

[0009] European patent EP1236957B1, granted on November 2, 2006, relates to the adaptation of a burner-operated heating appliance to an air-exhaust system. EP1236957B1 discloses a pressure / air mass sensor arranged in the air supply or exhaust gas outlet of a heating device. A controller regulates a fan based on the sensor signal. An operating characteristic curve is stored to adjust the instantaneous air volume flow to the required air volume flow. The instantaneous air volume flow is continuously adjusted to match the required air volume flow. This continuous adjustment can also be carried out stepwise, as described in EP1236957B1, in a known manner.

[0010] European patent application EP2556303A2, filed on February 28, 2011, relates to a pneumatic system with mass balancing. EP2556303A2 discloses a Venturi nozzle that generates a vacuum, with a mass flow sensor in an auxiliary channel. A controller regulates the speed of a blower to a setpoint based on the sensor signal. During operation, a signal received from the sensor is sent to the controller via a signal line. The operational control of the blower according to EP2556303A2 can be performed incrementally.

[0011] German patent DE102004055715B4, granted on March 22, 2007, concerns the adjustment of the air ratio of a combustion system. According to DE102004055715B4, an air mass flow rate mL is increased to achieve hygienic combustion. This air mass flow rate mL, corresponding to hygienic combustion, is achieved by changing the fan speed of the blower. However, the change in the blower speed can be made incrementally, as described in EP2556303A2.

[0012] A European patent application EP3676860A1 was filed on August 28, 2018, by CAMOZZI AUTOMATION. The application was published on July 8, 2020. EP3676860A1 claims priority from August 29, 2017. EP3676860A1 deals with a diagnostic device and a method for solenoid valves. No reference is made to combustion devices in patent application EP3676860A1.

[0013] According to EP3676860A1, a malfunction in a solenoid valve is detected by analyzing the current waveform. For this purpose, a measured current waveform is compared with a reference waveform. Furthermore, the electrical resistance of a solenoid valve coil is recorded during operation and compared with a limit value. If the resistance exceeds a predefined threshold, a fault is inferred.

[0014] Another patent application, JP2006250203A, was filed on March 9, 2005, by DENSO CORP. The application was published on September 21, 2006. JP2006250203A discloses a control and / or regulation system for a valve with a coil. Patent application JP2006250203A does not make any reference to combustion devices.

[0015] According to JP2006250203A, the current through the valve coil and the recorded voltage are observed. From this, the coil impedance is calculated during operation. Subsequently, a duty cycle is corrected based on the observed and calculated values.

[0016] DE102011111453A1 relates to a heating appliance with combustion air and fuel metering, in which the air ratio λ is either regulated or controlled depending on the magnitude and rate of change of the air / fuel quantity. For rapid load changes, an assignment function (table of control signals) is used, which is generated / updated from pairs of measured values ​​only during (quasi-)steady-state control phases and is globally scaled in the event of large deviations; large cumulative changes trigger a warning.

[0017] EP2685167B1 discloses the operation of a gas burner in which a sensor measures a pressure ratio between the gas line and a reference point, and a controller uses this to generate a control signal for a gas valve. Unlike a constant gas-air characteristic, the gas-air ratio is deliberately varied as a function of the blower speed: at low speeds for stable ignition, at high speeds for low emissions, and freely programmable (but leaner) in between via a speed-dependent correction value.

[0018] EP2685169B1 describes a gas burner similar to EP2685167B1, but focuses on monitoring and compensating for the pressure sensor's gain. During burner operation, the controller actuates the gas valve by a defined amount and compares the resulting sensor change with a target curve. If the deviation is small, the sensor is considered to be functioning correctly; if a threshold is exceeded, an impermissible gain drift is detected, which is compensated for by an offset; additionally, mixture adjustment, a service indicator, or shutdown can be triggered.

[0019] The aim of the present invention is to improve the regulation and / or control of actuators in a combustion device. In particular, it is concerned with the most predictive possible regulation and / or control of actuators in a combustion device. In the event of a necessary reversal of direction, the present invention 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 or fuel gas, through a supply channel of the combustion device. The supply channel opens into the burner of the same combustion device. The at least one actuator comprises a processing unit.

[0020] The control and / or monitoring device then sends a first change signal to the at least one actuator. This first change signal represents an initial change, such as a change in the speed of a fan or a change in the position of a valve. The control and / or monitoring device then sends a second change signal to the at least one actuator. This second change signal represents a second change, such as a second change in the speed of a fan or a change in the position of a valve.

[0021] The at least one actuator receives the first change signal and the second change signal. From these signals, the at least one actuator determines an initial rate of change. Finally, the at least one actuator begins executing the change, taking this initial rate of change into account.

[0022] Thus, a control system for at least one actuator can receive a first change signal corresponding to a first change and a second change signal corresponding to a second change. The control system is preferably a computing unit and is local. From the first change signal, the local control system determines a first final speed and / or a first end position. From the second change signal, the local control system determines a second final speed and / or a second end position. The control system of the at least one actuator then determines a speed corresponding to the first change in order to seamlessly approach the second final speed upon reaching the first final speed. Similarly, a speed corresponding to the first change can be determined in order to seamlessly approach the second end position upon reaching the first end position.

[0023] The aforementioned link between the first and second amendments can be extended to further amendments.

[0024] Additionally, the control system of the at least one actuator can assess whether a deviation between a target speed and an actual speed persists for too long. Similarly, the control system of the at least one actuator can assess whether a deviation between a target position and an actual position persists for too long. In such a case, the local control system of the at least one actuator can generate an error signal. The error signal is sent to a higher-level control and / or monitoring unit. The higher-level control and / or monitoring unit receives the error signal and, if necessary, sends a closing command to at least one fuel actuator of the combustion device.

[0025] Furthermore, the control and / or monitoring device of the combustion unit can also assess whether a deviation between a target speed and an actual speed persists for too long. Similarly, the control and / or monitoring device of the combustion unit can assess whether a deviation between a target position and an actual position persists for too long. In such a case, the control and / or monitoring device of the combustion unit can generate an error signal. The control and / or monitoring device of the combustion unit may then send a closing command to at least one fuel actuator of the combustion unit.

[0026] The change in speed and / or valve position can be composed of several partial changes. Preferably, the control and / or monitoring device chains individual partial changes from a multitude of partial changes, thus enabling uninterrupted operation.

[0027] During the execution of the first change, the control and / or monitoring device can receive one or more signals from the at least one sensor. The at least one sensor can be, for example, a speed sensor of a blower and / or a valve position sensor and / or a position sensor. In particular, the at least one sensor can be part of the at least one actuator. The at least one sensor can also be located in the supply channel of the combustion device and record the fluid flow.

[0028] Furthermore, a control system for the at least one actuator can assess whether the actuator has already reached its end position and / or final speed. The control system is preferably local and is based on one or more signals. If the actuator has not yet reached its final speed and / or final position and is within a certain range of that final speed and / or final position, the change continues. Conversely, if the actuator is within the range of its final speed and / or final position, the change can be slowed down.

[0029] Before the change is complete, the control and / or monitoring device can check whether a further change is planned. If both changes are in the same direction, the change can continue beyond the final speed and / or final position until a further final speed or final position is reached. This avoids an interruption.

[0030] Similarly, before the end of a change, at least one actuator can check whether a further change is planned. For example, the at least one actuator can receive another command for a further (fourth) change from the control and / or monitoring device. This further command is then available at an input interface and / or an input buffer of the at least one actuator. If both changes point in the same direction, the change can continue beyond the final speed and / or final position until a further final speed or final position is reached. Thus, the at least one actuator avoids an interruption at the control and / or monitoring device. This relieves the control and / or monitoring device of its workload. Brief description of the characters

[0031] 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 The block diagram schematically shows a combustion device as a system. FIG 2 The flowchart shows the sequence of a change in the rotational speed and / or position of at least one actuator, taking into account two change signals. FIG 3 The flowchart shows the sequence of changes in the rotational speed and / or position of at least one actuator, taking into account an actual value. FIG 4 The flowchart shows the sequence of changes in the rotational speed and / or position of at least one actuator, taking into account other change signals. FIG 5 The flowchart shows the sequence of a change in the rotational speed and / or position of at least one actuator, taking into account further change signals that are received during a change. Detailed description

[0032] FIG 1 Figure 1 shows a system 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-adjustable flap 4 can be set using the signal line 19 and / or the speed setting of the blower 3 using the signal line 18.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] The supply 6 (for example, 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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 several or 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The control and / or monitoring device 16 automates the blower 3 based on signal line 18 and / or the air damper 4 based on signal line 19. Values ​​stored in the control and / or monitoring device 16 can be used for this purpose. These values ​​can be stored, for example, in the form of a characteristic curve and / or a mathematical relationship.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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).

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] In known combustion devices, the speed of the blower 3 is readjusted in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a speed change signal to the blower 3. The blower 3 receives the speed change signal and changes its speed. After the change, the blower 3 reports the changed speed back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. Furthermore, a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can report a signal corresponding to an air supply back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. The sending of the speed change signal, the change in speed, and the feedback are iterated. The iteration continues until the speed of the blower 3 corresponds to a setpoint value.

[0049] Similarly, in known combustion devices, the position of the air flap 4 is readjusted in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a position change signal to the air flap 4. The air flap 4 receives the position change signal and changes its position. After the change, the air flap 4 reports the changed position back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. Furthermore, a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can report a signal corresponding to an air supply back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. The sending of the position change signal, the change of position, and the feedback are iterated. The iteration continues until the position of the air flap 4 corresponds to an end position of the air flap 4.

[0050] Similarly, in known combustion devices, the position of the fuel flap 9 is readjusted in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a position change signal to the fuel flap 9. The fuel flap 9 receives the position change signal and changes its position. After the change, the fuel flap 9 reports the changed position back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. Furthermore, a sensor, such as a flow sensor in the fuel supply channel 25, can report a fuel supply signal back to the control and / or monitoring device 16. The sending of the position change signal, the change in position, and the feedback are iterated. The iteration continues until the position of the fuel flap 9 corresponds to an end position of the fuel flap 9.

[0051] The aforementioned statements regarding the fuel flap 9 apply analogously to the readjustment of a fuel valve 7, 8.

[0052] In FIG 2 Figure 27 shows how, within the framework of predictive control, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a first change signal in a first step. The first change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion device. The at least one actuator is preferably selected from a motor-driven blower 3, an actuator of an air flap 4, an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, an actuator of an air flap 9.

[0053] Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air flap 9 can, for example, include stepper motors. Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air flap 9 can, in particular, be stepper motors. All actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air flap 9 can also each include stepper motors. Furthermore, all actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air flap 9 can each be stepper motors. The stepper motor(s) can have two hundred or four hundred steps. This list of stepper motor steps is not exhaustive.

[0054] Furthermore, the stepper motors can have rotary encoders that record the movement of their respective axes and provide corresponding feedback signals. The output of such a rotary encoder can be made available as a sensor signal.

[0055] Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air damper 9 can, for example, include hydraulic drives. Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air damper 9 can, in particular, be hydraulic drives. All actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air damper 9 can also each include hydraulic drives. Furthermore, all actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or the air damper 9 can each be hydraulic drives.

[0056] Furthermore, the drives can have multi-channel Hall sensors that record the movement of the respective drive axes and provide corresponding feedback signals. In particular, the drives can each have dual-channel Hall sensors. Alternatively, the drives can be controlled exclusively. In this case, it is sufficient for each drive to include a single-channel sensor. The output of such a Hall sensor can be provided as a sensor signal.

[0057] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends the first change signal to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 via a communication bus. The communication bus can, for example, be a digital communication bus. Preferably, a digital communication protocol is used for transmitting the first change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid incorrectly transmitted change signals.

[0058] The first change signal sent by the control and / or monitoring device 16 can be a chain of several partial change signals. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates and combines several individual partial change signals into a first change signal. Thus, the partial change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the first change signal. Each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel based on the first change signal. Preferably, each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel in its entirety based on the first change signal. Chaining the partial change signals into a first change signal helps to avoid the aforementioned problems of stepwise readjustment.

[0059] The at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the first change signal in step 28. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the first change signal via a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0060] In step 29, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a second change signal. The second change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion device.

[0061] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends the second change signal to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 via a communication bus. The communication bus can, for example, be a digital communication bus. Preferably, a digital communication protocol is used for transmitting the second change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid incorrectly transmitted change signals.

[0062] The second change signal, which is sent by the control and / or monitoring device 16, can be a chain of several partial change signals. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates and combines several individual partial change signals into a second change signal. Thus, the partial change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the second change signal. Each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel based on the second change signal. Preferably, each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel in its entirety based on the second change signal. Chaining the partial change signals into a second change signal helps to avoid the aforementioned problems of stepwise readjustment.

[0063] The at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the second change signal in step 30. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the second change signal via a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0064] In response to receiving the first and second change signals, a processing unit of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 calculates a first rate of change in step 31. For example, a rate of change can be a speed of the motor-driven blower 3, a position of an actuator of an air flap 4, a position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, a position of an actuator of an air flap 9. The calculation is performed taking into account the first and second change signals.

[0065] For example, the second change signal can specify the same final speed as the first change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing changes at at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) for the time being. The first change rate is thus limited so that no further changes occur after the first change.

[0066] Furthermore, the second change signal can, for example, indicate the same final position as the first change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing changes at least once at one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). The initial change rate is thus limited so that no further changes occur after the first change.

[0067] Furthermore, the second change signal can indicate a final speed, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed at at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues to change. The first change rate is therefore selected such that, after the initial change, a further change in the same direction occurs. The first change rate is preferably higher in the case of a continuous change than in the case of a limited change.

[0068] Furthermore, the second change signal can indicate a final position, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed, the position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 continues to change. The initial change rate is therefore selected such that, after the change, a further change in the same direction occurs. The initial change rate is preferably higher in the case of a continuous change than in the case of a limited change.

[0069] In step 32, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins to execute the first change. The initial rate of change is taken into account. In particular, the motor-driven blower 3 can begin a first change in its rotational speed. Furthermore, the air flap 4 can begin a first change in its flap position. Likewise, the fuel valve 7, 8, or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change in their valve positions. In addition, the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change in its flap position.

[0070] It is possible that at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) takes an actual value into account when calculating the initial rate of change. This is how the process proceeds according to... FIG 3 Steps 37 to 40 are analogous to steps 27 to 30. FIG 2 .

[0071] In step 41, a sensor sends a sensor signal to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, indicating a current value. The current value can be, for example... a current speed of the motor-driven blower 3, a current position of an actuator of an air flap 4, a current position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, a current position of an actuator of an air flap 9. be.

[0072] In step 42, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal via a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol. In another embodiment, the sensor is, for example, a dual-channel Hall sensor and part of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. Thus, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal directly from its sensor.

[0073] Furthermore, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can convert the sensor signal into a real-time value. For example, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can include an analog-to-digital converter. The analog-to-digital converter communicates with a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and with the sensor. The analog-to-digital converter converts the sensor signal into a real-time value, such as rotational speed or position. This real-time value can then be further processed by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9.

[0074] In a similar embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a delta-sigma converter. For example, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can include a delta-sigma converter. The delta-sigma converter communicates with a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and with the sensor. The delta-sigma converter converts the sensor signal into a real-time value, such as a rotational speed or a position. This real-time value can then be further processed by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9.

[0075] It should be noted that the sensor signal is received in step 42 either before or after the first change signal is received in step 38. It should also be noted that the sensor signal is received in step 42 either before or after the second change signal is received in step 40.

[0076] In response to receiving the first and second rate of change signals and the sensor signal, a processing unit calculates the first rate of change. For example, the rate of change can a speed of the motor-driven blower 3, a position of an actuator of an air flap 4, a position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, a position of an actuator of an air flap 9. The calculation is performed taking into account the first and second change signals and the sensor signal. In a special embodiment, the calculation is performed taking into account only the first and second change signals and the sensor signal.

[0077] For example, the processing unit of at least one first actuator 3, 4, 7 - 9 can determine a first final value from the first change signal. Subsequently, a difference is calculated. d 1 The difference between the first final value and the actual value is calculated. Furthermore, the processing unit of at least one first actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can determine a second final value from the second change signal. Subsequently, a difference is calculated. d 2 calculated between the second final value and the first final value.

[0078] Now the sign of the first difference can be determined. d 1 be different from the sign of the second difference d 2 : sig d 1 ≠ sig d 2

[0079] Therefore, when the first final value is reached, the direction of change changes. The initial rate of change must therefore be chosen to be lower than in a case where the signs of the first d 1 and the second difference d 2 are the same: sig d 1 = sig d 2

[0080] In step 43, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins to execute the first change. The initial rate of change is taken into account. In particular, the motor-driven blower 3 can begin a first change in its rotational speed. Furthermore, the air flap 4 can begin a first change in its flap position. Likewise, the fuel valve 7, 8, or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change in their valve positions. In addition, the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change in its flap position.

[0081] It is possible that at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) considers more than two change signals when determining or calculating the initial rate of change. This is how the process unfolds according to... FIG 4 Steps 47 to 50 are analogous to steps 27 to 30. FIG 2 .

[0082] In step 51, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a third change signal. The third change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion device.

[0083] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends the third change signal to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 via a communication bus. The communication bus can, for example, be a digital communication bus. Preferably, a digital communication protocol is used for transmitting the third change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid incorrectly transmitted change signals.

[0084] The third change signal, which is sent by the control and / or monitoring device 16, can be a chain of several partial change signals. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates and combines several individual partial change signals into a third change signal. Thus, the partial change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the third change signal. Each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel based on the third change signal. Preferably, each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel in its entirety based on the third change signal. Chaining the partial change signals into a third change signal helps to avoid the aforementioned problems of stepwise readjustment.

[0085] In step 52, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the third change signal. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the third change signal via a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0086] In response to receiving the first to third change signals, a processing unit of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 calculates a first rate of change in step 53. For example, a rate of change can a speed of the motor-driven blower 3, a position of an actuator of an air flap 4, a position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, a position of an actuator of an air flap 9. The calculation is performed taking into account the first, second, and third change signals. In one embodiment, the calculation is performed taking into account only the first, second, and third change signals.

[0087] For example, the third change signal can specify the same final speed as the second change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing will change at at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) for the time being.

[0088] Furthermore, the third change signal can, for example, indicate the same final position as the second change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing changes initially at at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0089] Furthermore, the third change signal can indicate a final speed, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed at at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues to change. The first change rate is therefore selected such that, after the initial change, a further change in the same direction occurs. In the case of a continuous change, the first change rate is preferably higher than in the case of a limited change.

[0090] Furthermore, the third change signal can indicate a final position, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed, the position of at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) continues to change. The initial change rate is therefore selected such that, after the change, a further change in the same direction occurs. The initial change rate is preferably higher in the case of a continuous change than in the case of a limited change.

[0091] In step 54, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins to execute the first change. The initial rate of change is taken into account. In particular, the motor-driven blower 3 can begin a first change in its rotational speed. Furthermore, the air flap 4 can begin a first change in its flap position. Likewise, the fuel valve 7, 8, or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change in their valve positions. In addition, the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change in its flap position.

[0092] It is possible that at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 considers more than two change signals when determining or calculating the initial rate of change. In particular, a change signal may also arrive during an initial change.

[0093] The process proceeds as follows: FIG 5 Steps 57 to 62 are analogous to steps 27 to 32. FIG 2 .

[0094] In step 63, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends a fourth change signal. The fourth change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion device. The fourth change signal is generally different from the third change signal from step 51. FIG 3 .

[0095] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 sends the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 via a communication bus. The communication bus can, for example, be a digital communication bus. Preferably, a digital communication protocol is used for transmitting the fourth change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid incorrectly transmitted change signals.

[0096] The fourth change signal, which is sent by the control and / or monitoring device 16, can be a chain of several partial change signals. This means that the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates and combines several individual partial change signals into a fourth change signal. Thus, the partial change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the fourth change signal. Each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel based on the fourth change signal. Preferably, each partial change signal specifies a segment of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to travel in its entirety based on the fourth change signal. Chaining the partial change signals into a fourth change signal helps to avoid the aforementioned problems of stepwise readjustment.

[0097] In step 64, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the fourth change signal. In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the fourth change signal via a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0098] In response to receiving the first, second, and fourth change signals, a processing unit of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 calculates a second rate of change in step 65. For example, a rate of change can a speed of the motor-driven blower 3, a position of an actuator of an air flap 4, a position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, a position of an actuator of an air flap 9. The calculation is performed taking into account at least the second and fourth change signals. Ideally, the calculation is performed taking into account the first, second, and fourth change signals. In a special embodiment, the calculation is performed taking into account the first, second, and fourth change signals.

[0099] In step 66, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins to execute the second change. The second rate of change is taken into account. In particular, the motor-driven blower 3 can begin a second change in its rotational speed. Furthermore, the air flap 4 can begin a second change in its flap position. Likewise, the fuel valve 7, 8, or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a second change in their valve positions. In addition, the fuel flap 9 can begin a second change in its flap position.

[0100] For example, the fourth change signal can indicate the same final speed as the second change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing changes at at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) for the time being. The second change rate is thus limited so that no further change occurs after the change. This means that after reaching the final speed corresponding to the second and fourth change signals, no further change takes place.

[0101] Furthermore, the fourth change signal can, for example, indicate the same final position as the second change signal. In this case, after the change has been completed, nothing changes initially at at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). The second change rate is thus limited so that no further change occurs immediately after the change. This means that after reaching the final position corresponding to the second and fourth change signals, no further change takes place.

[0102] Furthermore, the fourth change signal can indicate a final speed, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed at at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues to change. The second change rate is therefore selected such that, after the change, a further change in the same direction initially occurs. In the case of a continuous change, the second change rate is preferably higher than in the case of a limited change. The second change rate can, in this case, be equal to the first change rate.

[0103] Furthermore, the fourth change signal can indicate a final position, suggesting a continuation of the change. In this case, after the change has been completed, the position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 continues to change. The second change rate is therefore selected such that, after the initial change, a further change occurs in the same direction. In the case of a continuous change, the second change rate is preferably higher than in the case of a limited change. In this case, the second change rate can be equal to the first change rate.

[0104] During the initial change in speed and / or position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the actuator preferably sends back one or more signals. The at least one signal sent back is one or more initial speed or position signals. Similarly, at least one flow sensor, such as the mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply duct 11, can report back one or more initial signals. Additionally, a flow sensor in the fuel supply duct 25 can send back one or more initial signals. The one or more initial feedback signals are sent to the control and / or monitoring device 16 or to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The one or more initial feedback signals are preferably transmitted via a digital communication bus. A digital communication protocol is preferably used for transmitting the one or more feedback signals.A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid incorrectly transmitted speed or position signals.

[0105] In one embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives one or more initial feedback signals. In a specific embodiment, the control and / or monitoring device 16 receives the initial feedback signal or multiple initial speed or position signals via a digital communication bus. Ideally, a digital communication protocol and / or a digital communication bus protocol is used.

[0106] In response to the receipt of one or more initial feedback signals, a comparison with an initial final value can be performed. The initial final value could, for example, be an initial final speed and / or an initial final position. The initial final value could also be an initial value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. Furthermore, the initial final value could be an initial value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25.

[0107] The comparison is preferably performed by the control and / or monitoring device 16. The comparison can also be performed by the computing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The first end speed and / or the first end position can be the first end speed and / or the first end position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The first end value can also be an end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The first end value can also be an end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25. This first end value corresponds to the first change signal.

[0108] For example, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can determine the first final speed and / or first final position by chaining the aforementioned partial change signals. Furthermore, the control and / or monitoring device 16 can determine the first final speed and / or first final position by summing the aforementioned partial change signals.

[0109] In an embodiment with a blower 3, each initial speed signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is individually compared with the initial final speed. Likewise, each initial flow signal of the sensor 13 can be individually compared with the initial final value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11.

[0110] The comparison(s) can be performed by the control and / or monitoring device 16. The comparison can also be performed by the computing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. For example, several individual comparisons can be performed between one of the first speed signals and the first final speed as part of the comparison. Furthermore, several individual comparisons can be performed between one of the first signals from the flow sensor 13 and the first final value of the air supply 5 as part of the comparison.

[0111] In a related embodiment, each first position signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is individually compared with the first end position. This related embodiment relates, for example, to an air flap 4, a fuel valve 7, 8, or a fuel flap 9. Likewise, each first flow signal of a sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 can be individually compared with the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25.

[0112] The comparison(s) can be performed by the control and / or monitoring device 16. The comparison can also be performed by the computing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. For example, several individual comparisons can be performed between one of the first position signals and the first end position as part of the comparison. Likewise, several individual comparisons can be performed between a first signal from a flow sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 and a first end value of the fuel gas supply 6 as part of the comparison.

[0113] As a result of the comparison, the first speed signal from at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can indicate that the first final speed is still to be reached. This means that the first final speed has not yet been reached. Similarly, the first position signal from at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can indicate that the first end position is still to be reached. This means that the first end position has not yet been reached. Furthermore, the first flow signal from mass flow sensor 13 can indicate that the first end value of the air supply 5 through air supply channel 11 is still to be reached. This means that the first end value of the air supply 5 through air supply channel 11 has not yet been reached. Additionally, the first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can indicate that the first end value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 is still to be reached.This means that the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 has not yet been reached.

[0114] In this case, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7 - 9 can locally change its speed in order to compensate for an error.

[0115] Furthermore, as a result of the comparison, the first speed signal from at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can indicate that the first final speed has been reached. Likewise, as a result of the comparison, the first position signal from at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can indicate that the first end position has been reached. Furthermore, the first flow signal from a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can indicate that the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 has been reached. Additionally, the first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can indicate that the first end value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 has been reached.

[0116] No correction is made in that case either.

[0117] Furthermore, as a result of the comparison, each individual first speed signal can indicate that the first final speed is still to be reached. This means that the first final speed has not yet been reached. Similarly, as a result of the comparison, each individual first position signal can indicate that the first final position is still to be reached. This means that the first final position has not yet been reached. Furthermore, each individual first flow signal from a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can indicate that the first final value of the air supply 5 is still to be reached. This means that the first final value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 has not yet been reached. Additionally, each individual first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can indicate that the first final value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 is still to be reached.This means that the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 has not yet been reached.

[0118] In this case, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7 - 9 can locally change its speed in order to compensate for an error.

[0119] Furthermore, as a result of the comparison, each individual first speed signal can indicate that the first final speed has been reached or has been reached exactly. Likewise, as a result of the comparison, each individual first position signal can indicate that the first final position has been reached or has been reached exactly. Furthermore, each individual first flow signal from a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can indicate that the first final value of the air supply 5 has been reached or has been reached exactly. In addition, each individual first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can indicate that the first final value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 has been reached. Moreover, each individual first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can indicate that the first final value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 has been reached exactly.

[0120] In this case, too, no correction is preferably made.

[0121] As a result of the comparison, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 may have changed its speed and / or position too much or too far. In this case, a correction can be made. In particular, the first speed signal may indicate that at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much or too far. Similarly, the first position signal may indicate that at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much or too far. Furthermore, the first flow signal from a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 may indicate that at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much or too far. Additionally, the first signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 may indicate that at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much.

[0122] Furthermore, at least one speed signal from several speed signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Likewise, at least one position signal from several position signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much. Furthermore, at least one initial flow signal from one sensor 13 from several such signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Here, sensor 13 is a sensor such as a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11. Additionally, at least one initial signal from a flow sensor from several such signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Here, the flow sensor is a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25.

[0123] Furthermore, at least one speed signal from several speed signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Likewise, at least one position signal from several position signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much. Furthermore, at least one initial flow signal from one sensor 13 from several such signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Here, sensor 13 is a sensor such as a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11. Additionally, at least one initial signal from a flow sensor from several such signals can indicate that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. Here, the flow sensor is a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25.

[0124] As part of the correction process, the control and / or monitoring device 16 generates a correction signal. Likewise, the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can generate a correction signal. For example, the second change signal can be determined from the aforementioned first final speed and / or first final position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion device. Furthermore, the second change signal can be determined by comparing at least one position signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 with a final signal. In particular, the second change signal can be determined by comparing a position signal last received by the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 with the final signal.

[0125] For example, the second change signal can be determined from the aforementioned first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 to the burner 1. For example, the second change signal can be determined from the aforementioned first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 to the burner 1. Furthermore, the second change signal can be determined by comparing at least one signal from a flow sensor in or on the air supply channel 11 with a corresponding end value. Here, the sensor 13 is a sensor such as a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11.

[0126] Furthermore, the correction signal can be determined from the comparison of at least one signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 with a corresponding final value.

[0127] From now on, the correction signal can replace the first change signal. Therefore, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 will attempt to achieve a new blower speed and / or a new position based on the correction signal and not on the first change signal. Likewise, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can attempt to achieve a new air supply 5 based on the correction signal and not on the first change signal. Furthermore, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can attempt to achieve a new fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 based on the correction signal and not on the first change signal.

[0128] A further comparison of at least one second speed or position signal with the first final speed and / or first final position now follows. Likewise, a further comparison of at least one signal from a flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11 with the first final value of the air supply 5 can be performed. Furthermore, a further comparison of at least one signal from a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 with the first final value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 can be performed. The comparison can be carried out, for example, by the control and / or monitoring device 16. A further correction signal may be generated from the comparison. In one embodiment, the process iterates through changes, feedback speed, position, or flow signals, comparisons, and corrections until the first final speed and / or first final position is reached.

[0129] The aforementioned correction of the speed or position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is undesirable. Likewise, it is impractical for the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 to stop abruptly when the first end speed, first end position, or first end value is reached. Instead, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 requires time to decelerate. Specifically, it is impractical for a blower 3 to abruptly cease changing its speed when it reaches its first end speed. Similarly, it is impractical for a blower 3 to abruptly cease changing its speed when the air supply 5 reaches its end value. Instead, the blower 3 requires time to slowly approach the first end speed or the first end value of the air supply 5. Furthermore, it is impractical for an air damper 4 to abruptly cease changing its position when the air damper 4 reaches its first end position or the air supply 5 reaches its end value.Instead, the actuator of the air flap 4 brakes before reaching the first end position of the air flap 4 or before reaching the first end value of the air supply 5.

[0130] Furthermore, it is impractical for a fuel valve 7, 8 to abruptly cease changing its position once it reaches its first end position. It is also impractical for a fuel valve 7, 8 to abruptly cease changing its position once the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 reaches its end value. Instead, the actuator of the fuel valve 7, 8 brakes before reaching the first end position of the fuel valve 7, 8 or before reaching the first end value of the fuel gas supply 6. Moreover, it is impractical for a fuel flap 9 to abruptly cease changing its position once it reaches its first end position. It is also impractical for a fuel flap 9 to abruptly cease changing its position once the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 reaches its end value.Instead, the actuator of the fuel flap 9 brakes before reaching the first end position of the fuel flap 9 or before reaching the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6.

[0131] To avoid abrupt stops, a further change signal can be communicated to at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) together with or after the first change signal. This is described above.

[0132] The next change signal specifies the next speed or position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. Likewise, the next change signal can specify the next end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. Furthermore, the next change signal can specify the next end value of the fuel supply and / or combustion gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25. The next speed, position, or end value is to be approached by at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 as soon as the first end speed or position is reached. This means that at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can approach the next end speed after the first end speed. Likewise, at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can approach the next end position after the first end position. Furthermore, at least one actuator 3 can be set to the next end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 after the first end value.Furthermore, at least one actuator 3 can be regulated to a next end value for the air supply 5 via the air supply channel 11 after the first end value. Additionally, at least one actuator 7-9 can be set to a next end value for the fuel gas supply 6 via the fuel supply channel 25 after the first end value. Furthermore, at least one actuator 7-9 can be regulated to a next end value for the fuel gas supply 6 via the fuel supply channel 25 after the first end value.

[0133] In one embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a processing unit in the form of a microcontroller. The microcontroller can be used, for example, to generate and process signals such as correction signals and / or feedback signals. In another embodiment, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a processing unit in the form of a microprocessor. The microprocessor can be used, for example, to generate and process signals such as correction signals and / or feedback signals.

[0134] In one embodiment, one or the first final speed can be determined based on the first change signal. The first direction of change is then determined as a function of the initial speed of the at least one actuator 3 and the first final speed. Preferably, the first direction of change is A 1 a sign of a difference between the first final speed ED 1 and the initial rotational speed ID of at least one actuator 3: A 1 = sig ED 1 − ID

[0135] Similarly, based on the first change signal, either the initial or final value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 can be determined. The first direction of change is then determined as a function of the initial air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the first final value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. Preferably, the first direction of change is A 1 a sign of a difference between the first final value EWL 1 of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the initial air supply 5, IL : A 1 = sig EWL 1 − IL

[0136] In a related embodiment, one or the first end position can be determined based on the first change signal. The first change direction is then determined as a function of the initial position of the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 and the first end position. In one embodiment, the first change direction is A 1 a sign of a difference between the first end position EP 1 and the initial position IP of at least one actuator 4, 7 - 9: A 1 = sig EP 1 − IP

[0137] Similarly, based on the first change signal, one or the final value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 can be determined. The first direction of change is then determined as a function of the initial fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 and the first final value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6. Preferably, the first direction of change isA 1 a sign of a difference between the first final value EWB 1 of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 and the initial fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6, IB : A 1 = sig EWB 1 − IB

[0138] Furthermore, the microcontroller and / or microprocessor determines a second direction of change based on the additional change signal. This determination is advantageously performed locally, i.e., by the microcontroller and / or microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. This relieves the control and / or monitoring device 16 of computational tasks. Furthermore, latencies resulting from signal transmissions between the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and the control and / or monitoring device 16 are avoided.

[0139] In the case of a blower 3, the second direction of change can be determined as a function of the first change signal and as a function of the subsequent change signal. In particular, one or the first final speed can be determined based on the first change signal. A further final speed is determined from the subsequent change signal. The second direction of change is then determined as a function of the first final speed and the subsequent final speed. In one embodiment, the second direction of change is A 2 a sign of a difference between the further final speed ED w and the first final speed ED 1 : A 2 = sig ED w − ED 1

[0140] Similarly, based on the first change signal, one or the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 can be determined. From the subsequent change signal, one or the subsequent end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is determined. The second direction of change is then determined as a function of the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the corresponding subsequent end value. Preferably, the second direction of change is A 2 a sign of a difference between the further final value EWL w the air supply 5 and the corresponding first end value EWL 1 : A 2 = sig EWL w − EWL 1

[0141] In the case of an air flap 4 or a fuel valve 7, 8 or a fuel flap 9, the second direction of change is determined accordingly. The second direction of change is determined, for example, as a function of the first change signal and as a function of the subsequent change signal. In particular, one or the first end position can be determined based on the first change signal. A further end position is determined from the subsequent change signal. The second direction of change is then determined as a function of the first end position and the subsequent end position. In one embodiment, the second direction of change is A 2 a sign of a difference between the further final position EP w and the first final position EP 1 : A 2 = sig E P w − E P 1

[0142] Similarly, based on the first change signal, one or the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 can be determined. From the subsequent change signal, one or the subsequent end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 is determined. The second direction of change is then determined as a function of the first end value of the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 and the corresponding subsequent end value. Preferably, the second direction of change is A 2 a sign of a difference between the further final value EWB w the fuel supply and / or fuel gas supply 6 and the corresponding first final value EWB 1 : A 2 = sig EW B w − EW B 1

[0143] The first and second directions of change are compared. If the first direction of change is different from the second direction of change, at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) slows down the first change. Therefore, the rate of change for the first change is reduced. Furthermore, the first direction of change can be opposite to the second direction of change. In particular, the aforementioned signs can be unequal and / or opposite. In this case as well, at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) slows down the first change. Therefore, the rate of change for the first change is reduced.

[0144] The above refers to individual embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to these 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 its claims. A wide variety of modifications can be made without leaving the scope of protection defined by the following claims. Reference sign

[0145] 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 Sending the first change signal 28 Receiving the first change signal 29 Sending the second change signal 30 Receiving the second change signal 31 Calculating the first rate of change 32 Start and / or execution of the first change 37 Sending the first change signal 3839 Receipt of the first change signal 40 Transmission of the second change signal 41 Transmission of the sensor signal 42 Receipt of the sensor signal 43 Calculation of the first rate of change 44 Start and / or execution of the first change 47 Transmission of the first change signal 48 Receipt of the first change signal 49 Transmission of the second change signal 50 Receipt of the second change signal 51 Transmission of the third change signal 52 Receipt of the third change signal 53 Calculation of the first rate of change 54 Start and / or execution of the first change 57 Transmission of the first change signal 58 Receipt of the first change signal 59 Transmission of the second change signal 60 Receipt of the second change signal 61 Calculation of the first rate of change 62 Start and / or execution of the first change 63 Receipt of the fourth change signal 64 Transmission of the fourth change signal 65 Calculation of the second rate of change 66Commencement and / or implementation of the second amendment

Claims

1. Combustion apparatus comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion apparatus comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 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 a closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16), which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) and is linked communicatively to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9), wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate a first change signal from a first end value and to send the first change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); to generate a second change signal from a second end value and to send the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) comprises a processing unit and is configured: to receive the first and the second change signal; to establish a first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal; and to begin a first change of a speed or of a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) using the first change speed.

2. The combustion apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a first plurality of part changes and is configured: to load the first plurality of part changes from the memory; and to determine the first end value based on the first plurality of part changes.

3. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a second plurality of part changes and is configured: to load the second plurality of part changes from the memory; and to determine the second end value based on the first and / or the second plurality of part changes.

4. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end value is equal to the second end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the second change signal, which is equal to the first change signal, from the second end value and to send the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

5. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first end value is different from the second end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the second change signal, which is different from the first change signal, from the second end value and to send the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

6. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the combustion apparatus comprises at least one sensor (13) and the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) is linked communicatively to the at least one sensor (13), wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) is configured: to receive a first sensor signal from the at least one sensor (13); to establish with the aid of the processing unit from the first sensor signal a first actual variable selected from a first actual speed of the at least one actuator (3) or a first actual position of the at least one actuator (4, 7 - 9); and to establish the first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal and the first actual variable.

7. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate a third change signal from a third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) is configured: to receive the third change signal; to establish the first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second and the third change signal; and to begin the first change of a speed or of a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) using the first change speed.

8. The combustion apparatus according to claim 7, wherein a third plurality of part changes is stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) and the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to load the third plurality of part changes from the memory; and to determine the third end value based on the third plurality of part changes.

9. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the second end value is equal to the third end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the third change signal, which is the same as the second change signal, from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

10. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the second end value is different from the third end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the third change signal, which is different from the second change signal, from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

11. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate a fourth change signal from a fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) is configured: to receive the fourth change signal during the first change; to establish a second change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and / or the fourth change signal; and to begin a second change of the speed or the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) using the second change speed.

12. The combustion apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a fourth plurality of part changes and is configured: to load the fourth plurality of part changes from the memory; and to determine the fourth end value based on the fourth plurality of part changes.

13. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the second end value is the same as the fourth end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the fourth change signal, which is the same as the second change signal, from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) is configured: to establish the second change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and the fourth change signal, wherein the second change speed is zero; and to begin the second change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) using the second change speed.

14. The combustion apparatus according to one of claims 11 to 12, wherein the second end value is different from the fourth end value and wherein the closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate the fourth change signal, which is different from the second change signal, from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9).

15. Method for closed-loop control and / or open-loop control of a combustion apparatus, the combustion apparatus comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion apparatus comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 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 a closed-loop control and / or open-loop control and / or supervision facility (16), which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) and is linked communicatively to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9), the method comprising the steps: generating a first change signal from a first end value and sending of the first change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); generating a second change signal from a second end value and sending of the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); receipt of the first and of the second change signal by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); establishment of a first change speed based on the first and the second change signal by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9); and beginning a first change of a speed or of a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7 - 9) using the first change speed.

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