Method respectively computer program product for operating an HVAC system, an HVAC field device and an HVAC system

Abstract

A method of operating an HVAC system (1) comprising: communicatively and energetically connecting HVAC field devices (C1-n) using power over data line connection(s) (40) to enable data communication and supply the HVAC field devices (C1-n) with electrical power from a power source (P); operating one or more HVAC field devices (C1-n) in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal; generating release signal(s) and transmitting the release signal(s) to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (C1-n) via the power over data line connection(s) (40); and operating, in response to receipt of the release signal(s), the HVAC field devices (C1-n) in further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode, wherein operation in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the respective HVAC field device (C1-n) from the power over data line connection(s) (40) to a low power threshold.

Description

[0001] METHOD RESPECTIVELY COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR OPERATING AN HVAC SYSTEM, AN HVAC FIELD DEVICE AND AN HVAC SYSTEM

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a method and a computer program product for operating a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC system. The present disclosure further relates to an HVAC field device and an HVAC system. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method and a computer program product for operating an HVAC system comprising a plurality of communicatively interconnected HVAC field devices. Specifically, the present disclosure further relates to an HVAC field device. Specifically, the present disclosure even further relates to an HVAC system comprising a plurality of communicatively interconnected HVAC field devices.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] As people spend an estimated 90% of their time indoors, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC systems have become of great importance to everyday life and have a great impact on people’s health and comfort. In the field of Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, HVAC systems typically comprise a fluid transportation system comprising one or more fluid transportation circuit(s), one or more of the fluid transportation circuit(s) being connected to a heat exchanger arranged in order to be able to transfer thermal energy to I extract thermal energy from the environment to be controlled by means of a fluid circulating in said fluid transportation system and / or to humidify, to dehumidify, to supply fresh air I to extract polluted air from the environment to be controlled.

[0006] In order to be able to regulate the flow of fluid to / from the heat exchanger and hence the amount of thermal energy transferred, the heat exchanger is connected to the fluid transportation system via one or more regulating devices, such as valves and dampers. The regulating devices are mechanically controlled by HVAC field devices, in particular actuators, including motorized HVAC actuators coupled to the regulating device(s). In the field of HVAC, HVAC actuators typically comprise an electric motor, drivingly coupled (through gears and / or other mechanical coupling), to the actuated part, i.e. the regulating device. HVAC actuators are electrically controlled by HVAC controllers, in particular an electronic circuit of HVAC controller(s). In addition, various HVAC sensors are used to measure environmental variables such as humidity, temperature, CO2 or dust particle levels. Furthermore, HVAC sensors are used to determine operational parameters of various elements of an HVAC system, such as an actuated position of an actuated part, the operational state of an HVAC actuator, e.g. online / standby / offline, operating temperature, error state, etc.

[0007] HVAC field devices are devices hydraulically and / or mechanically connectable to at least part of fluid transportation circuit(s) with fluid supply / return lines, such as pipes, ducts or ports of valves and / or dampers in order to regulate and / or measure parameters of fluid(s) flowing therethrough, parameters such as flow rate, temperature, humidity, pressure, viscosity and / or chemical composition. Alternatively, or additionally, HVAC field devices are connectable to other HVAC field device(s) in order to control and / or measure parameters thereof, such as valve position, as well as speed, current and voltage of actuator motor(s), as well as positions of flow regulating devices, such as valves and / or dampers, etc.

[0008] HVAC field devices for regulating flow (parameters) of fluid(s) are referred to as HVAC actuators. HVAC actuators typically comprise a motor, such as an electric motor, and a mechanical drive for drivingly connecting the electric motor to an actuated part such as a valve or damper. HVAC actuators typically further comprise an interface for receiving electrical power; control and / or configuration signals.

[0009] HVAC field devices for measuring parameters of fluid(s) are referred to as HVAC sensors. Furthermore, the term HVAC field device also encompasses HVAC field devices combining sensor and actuator functions, for both controlling and measuring parameters of fluid(s) or other HVAC field device(s). In addition, as used in the context of the present application, the term HVAC field device further encompasses auxiliary devices such as signal gateways and / or hubs located on the premises of an HVAC system and / or adjacent thereto. For integrating HVAC field devices into an HVAC system in order to fulfil various HVAC functions in collaboration, HVAC field devices are communicatively interconnected using data communication lines. In order to supply HVAC field devices with electrical power, HVAC field devices are energetically connected to one or more power sources. In accordance with requirements of particular use cases, the one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices may each be directly connected to one or more power supplies. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices may be connected indirectly to one or more power supplies, for example by connecting the one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices is series, the HVAC field devices being configured to pass-through at least part of the power received - this topology being also referred to as daisy-chaining.

[0010] Recently, in order to simplify the wiring of HVAC field devices, the energetic and communicative connections of HVAC field devices are combined, in particular using power over data line connection(s), a power over data line connection enabling both transmission of data signals as well as electrical power. In order to even further simplify wiring of HVAC field devices, such combined energetic and communicative connections of HVAC field devices are themselves daisy chained, the HVAC field devices being configured to pass-through both (at least part of) the power received as well as (at least part of) data signals, referred to as combined energetic and communicative daisy-chaining.

[0011] However, the capacity of the power supply and the power supply connections is limited. This is even more the case for combined energetic and communicative connections, which if not addressed may lead to malfunctions, failures, and / or overloading of one or more of the HVAC field devices, the power supply and / or of the combined energetic and communicative connections.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0013] It is an object of this disclosure to provide a method respectively a computer program product for operating a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC system, an HVAC field device and / or an HVAC system, which method, computer program product, HVAC field device and / or an HVAC system do not have at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it is an object of this disclosure to provide a method respectively a computer program product for operating a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning HVAC system, an HVAC field device and / or an HVAC system, which enable an efficient, low complexity energetic and communicative interconnection while ensuring safe, reliable operation with significantly reduced risk of overloading any of the components of the HVAC system.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, these objects are addressed by the features of the independent claims. In addition, further advantageous embodiments follow from the dependent claims and the description.

[0015] According to the present disclosure, the above-mentioned objects are particularly addressed by a method of operating an HVAC system comprising a plurality of HVAC field devices. In a preparatory step, the plurality of HVAC field devices are communicatively and energetically connecting using power over data line connection(s), in particular Single Pair Ethernet SPE connections.

[0016] The plurality of HVAC field devices are communicatively and energetically connected using power over data line connection(s) in order to enable data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices, e.g. exchange of control data and / or measurement data. Furthermore, the plurality of HVAC field devices are communicatively and energetically connected using power over data line connection(s) in order to enable supply (At least partially) of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices with electrical power from a power source connected to and / or comprised by one of the plurality of HVAC field devices. According to embodiments, the power source is connected to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices using a power over data line connection. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source is connected to one of the plurality of HVAC field devices using a power supply connection. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source is comprised by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices. According to embodiments, supplying each of the plurality of HVAC field devices with electrical power from a power source connected to one of the plurality of HVAC field devices may or may not necessarily require each of the plurality of HVAC field devices being supplied with electrical power for full simultaneous operation.

[0017] Applicant has observed that overloading of the combined energetic and communicative connections occurs often upon initial installation (referred to as commissioning) of an HVAC system, in particular upon commissioning of a plurality of HVAC field devices. Applicant identified a common cause for overloading of the combined energetic and communicative connections occurs often upon commissioning, namely that often HVAC field devices have a significantly high power consumption upon initial start-up (commissioning). The significantly high power consumption upon initial start-up (commissioning) of HVAC field devices is due to the fact that both electronic and electric components are intensively active. Upon commissioning, electronic components, such as a processing unit, initiate a so-called booting procedure comprising loading of computer-readable instructions such as a firmware and / or an operating system and / or data from a memory, which operations usually consume significant amounts of energy, as compared to an idle state for example. Electric components, such as an electric motor or a sensor are often caused to perform a calibration upon commissioning. Electric motors for example are caused to drive an actuated part to its end positions, and / or at the highest speed / torque to calibrate the electro-mechanical assembly, such as an electric motor drivingly connected to an actuated part via a gearing.

[0018] In order to avoid overloading of any of the power over data line connection(s) and / or the power source, a first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices are operated in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal. Operation of the first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the respective HVAC field device from the power over data line connection(s) to a low power threshold. Thereafter, release signal(s) corresponding to a second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices are generated allowing one to define when any of the plurality of HVAC field devices of the second subset are allowed to consume electrical power beyond low power threshold.

[0019] The release signal(s) are then transmitted to the second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices via the power over data line connection(s), thereby lifting the limitation on the electrical power consumption of the HVAC field device(s) below low power threshold.

[0020] In response to receipt of the release signal(s), the second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices are operated in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode. Operation of HVAC field devices in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode is not limited to electrical power consumption below the low power threshold.

[0021] According to embodiments, release signal(s) comprise power limit value(s). Correspondingly, HVAC field devices receiving release signal(s) comprising power limit value(s) operate in a specific operating mode in order to ensure that the power drawn from the power over data line connection(s) does not exceed the respective power limit value(s). In an embodiment, HVAC field device(s) comprising an actuator operate at a reduced actuation speed which requires a reduced amount of electrical power.

[0022] In order to allow identifying the HVAC field devices of the HVAC system, the method further comprises generating, by the HVAC field device(s), identification data identifying the HVAC field device(s) in the low power operation mode. Thereafter, device profile(s) are retrieved corresponding to the identification data of the HVAC field devices. Based on the device profile^), power requirement data associated with HVAC field devices is determined. Knowing the power requirements of the HVAC field devices, the release signal(s) are generated and / or transmitted to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices in accordance with the respective power requirement data. According to embodiments, as part of generating and / or transmitting the release signal(s) in accordance with the respective power requirement data, the release signal(s) are generated and / or transmitted in a release sequence. In particular, the release signal(s) are generated and / or transmitted in a release sequence if a sum of maximum power requirements of the plurality of HVAC field devices exceeds a maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s). In this way, it can be ensured that the plurality of HVAC field devices do not draw a high level of electrical power simultaneously, thereby avoiding overloading of the output of the power source of the power over data line connection(s) but also ensuring operation of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices.

[0023] According to embodiments, operational dependency(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices are determined before defining the release sequence. The release sequence is then generated in accordance with the operational dependency(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices.

[0024] In particular, operational dependencies define a dependency of operating a second HVAC field device (of the plurality HVAC field devices) on a first HVAC field device (of the plurality HVAC field devices) having been previously or being simultaneously operated. In other words, operational dependency(s) define that a first HVAC field device must be operated before or at the same time as a second HVAC field device. For example, an HVAC field device comprising an actuator for actuating a flow control valve cannot be calibrated without first calibrating another HVAC field device comprising a flow sensor. This setup is defined by an operational dependency of the HVAC field device comprising an actuator for actuating a flow control valve on the HVAC field device comprising a flow sensor. Correspondingly, the release sequence is defined such that a release signal is transmitted first to the HVAC field device comprising a flow sensor and only afterwards is a release signal is transmitted to the HVAC field device comprising the actuator for flow control. Alternatively, or additionally, according to embodiments, priorities between the plurality HVAC field devices are determined before defining the release sequence. The release sequence is then generated in accordance with the priorities between the plurality HVAC field devices. In particular, priorities define that releasing a first HVAC field device (of the plurality HVAC field devices) from the low power operation mode is prioritized (more important) over releasing a second HVAC field device (of the plurality HVAC field devices), in particular when the power requirements of both the first and the second HVAC field devices exceed the maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s).

[0025] According to embodiments, an HVAC application comprising a plurality of HVAC operations to be executed by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices is retrieved. Using the power requirement data, a first subset of operations of the plurality of operations executable simultaneously without exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) is identified. Using the power requirement data, a second subset of operations of the plurality of operations defined by the HVAC application is identified to be executed sequentially to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s). Having identified the first subset of operations (simultanoeus) and the second subset of operations (sequential), the plurality of HVAC field devices are controlled to execute the first subset of operations simultaneously and the second subset of operations sequentially.

[0026] According to embodiments, the HVAC application is a commissioning application, comprising device calibration operation(s) of the plurality of HVAC field devices connected by the power over data line connection(s). Since commissioning of HVAC field devices of an HVAC system is typically not time-critical but requires significant electrical power, it is particularly advantageous to execute a commissioning application by identifying a first subset of operations executable simultaneously (without exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s)) and a second subset of operations to be executed sequentially (to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s)).

[0027] For example, in a "synchronization" HVAC application at initial commissioning and / or at each power-up (including power up after a power failure), an actuator is commanded to run to a default position defined by a position of a clockwise CW / or counter crosswise CCW direction of rotation switch. As a further example, in an "adaptation" HVAC application, an actuator is commanded to drive one full cycle to its end stops or mechanical seats of a valve driven by the actuator. Upon completion of this cycle a working range (input, feedback and running time) of the actuator will be adapted to the actual mechanical angle of rotation. In a "Function Test" HVAC application complete opening and closing of the actuator is verified. It shall be noted that since each of the exemplified HVAC applications require significant electrical power, making it advantageous to execute these HVAC applications by identifying operations executable simultaneously (without exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s)) and operations to be executed sequentially (to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s)).

[0028] According to embodiments, the one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices are controlled to execute HVAC operations of the second subset of operations upon a request signal being received from the respective HVAC field device, the request signal indicating a request for making electrical power exceeding the low power threshold available.

[0029] According to embodiments, the power over data line connections connecting the plurality of HVAC field devices are Single Pair Ethernet connections. According to embodiments, the plurality of HVAC field devices are connected in a daisy chain sequence, in particular using Single Pair Ethernet connections. In order to be able to integrate HVAC field devices having maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source and / or of the power over data line connection, according to embodiments, supplementary power interface(s) are provided for a third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices having maximum power requirements) exceeding the capacity of the power source and / or of the power over data line connection. The third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices provided with supplementary power interface(s) are then powered from a supplementary power source at least for executing HVAC operations having a maximum power requirement exceeding the capacity of the power source and / or of the power over data line connection. According to embodiments, the capacity of the supplementary power source(s) is taken in consideration when identifying the first subset of operations executable simultaneously respectively of the second subset of operations to be executed sequentially. According to embodiments, the capacity of the supplementary power source(s) are transmitted by the respective HVAC field devices, i.e. as part of the identification data identifying the HVAC field device(s) transmitted in the low power operation mode.

[0030] The third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices provided with supplementary power source(s) may be connected with the supplementary power source(s) using the power over data line connection(s). Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices provided with supplementary power source(s) may be connected with the supplementary power source(s) using supplementary power source connections) via the supplementary power interface(s).

[0031] According to embodiments disclosed herein, a gateway device (other than any of the plurality of HVAC field devices) is communicatively connected to the plurality of HVAC field devices using the power over data line connection(s) and acts as a mater device. The gateway device is a hardware component comprising at least a processing unit, a data storage unit (for storing instructions to be carried out by the processing unit) and a power over data line interface. Alternatively, or additionally, one or a group of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices is selected as a master device. Alternatively, or additionally, a remote computer, communicatively connected to one or more of the HVAC field devices acts as master device.

[0032] Having connected or selected a master device, one or more of the following steps is executed by a processing unit of the master device: generating release signal(s); retrieving device profile(s) corresponding to the identification data of the HVAC field devices; determining power requirement data associated with HVAC field devices based on the device profile(s); determining operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices; retrieving an HVAC application comprising a plurality of HVAC operations to be executed by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices; identifying, using the power requirement data, a first subset of operations of the plurality of operations executable simultaneously without exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connections); identifying, using the power requirement data, a second subset of operations of the plurality of operations defined by the HVAC application, to be executed sequentially to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s); controlling one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices to execute the first subset of operations simultaneously and the second subset of operations sequentially and / or identifying one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices having maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source and / or of the power over data line connection.

[0033] According to embodiments, power requirement data comprises one or more of:

[0034] Peak power, such as peak power required to switch on a part with high power demand;

[0035] Maximum power for operation;

[0036] Maximum standby power in normal power mode;

[0037] Power demand in low power mode;

[0038] Net power demand (includes supplementary power). Can be positive or negative if electrical power is transferred by the respective HVAV field device from its supplementary power supply to the power over data line interface.

[0039] According to further embodiments, a remote computer is communicatively connected to the master device using a communication interface, the device profile(s), the operational dependency^), and / or the HVAC application being retrieved by the master device from the remote computer via the communication interface. According to embodiments, the communication interface comprises one or more of:

[0040] A wired communication interface (such as an Ethernet, in particular a Power over Ethernet PoE, Single Pair Ethernet SPE, a BUS, in particular an MP Bus, BACnet, KNX or Modbus interface); A Wide Area Network communication circuit (such as GSM, LTE, 3G, 4G or 5G mobile communications circuit);

[0041] A Low Power Wide Area Network (such as Narrowband Internet of Things NB-loT, Long Range LoRa / LoRaWAN, SigFox, or Long Term Evolution Category M1 LTE- CatM1);

[0042] A local area network communication circuit (such as Wireless LAN);

[0043] A short range wireless communication circuit (such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy BLE, Ultra-wideband UWB, Thread and / or Zigbee); and / or

[0044] A close-range wireless communication circuit (such as Radio Frequency Identification RFID or a Near Field Communication NFC).

[0045] According to embodiments, the remote computer comprises one or more of: a physical or virtual server; a cloud-based computing environment; and / or an mobile device, such as a tablet computer, a mobile phone or a dedicated mobile computing device provided with an application for operating an HVAC system such as a Building Automation or Building Management System BMS.

[0046] According to the present disclosure, the above-mentioned objects are further addressed by a HVAC field device comprising sensor device(s) and / or actuator(s); a power over data line interface and a processing unit. The sensor device(s), of a sensors-type HVAC field device, is / are arranged for measurement of a parameter of an HVAC system. According to embodiments disclosed herein the sensor device comprises a sensing element arranged within and / or outside a housing of the HVAC field device and a connection element for connecting the sensing element with the processing unit.

[0047] The actuator(s), of an actuator-type HVAC field device, is / are arranged and configured for actuating an actuated part for regulating a flow rate of a fluid, such as a valve and / or a damper. According to embodiments disclosed herein the actuator comprises an electric motor mechanically coupled to a mechanical drive, the mechanical drive being configured for actuating a valve or damper arranged outside a housing of the HVAC field device.

[0048] The power over data line interface, of the HVAC field device is provided and configured for communicatively and energetically connecting the HVAC field device to further HVAC field device(s) using power over data line connection(s). The power over data line interface is provided and configured in order to enable data communication between the HVAC field device and the further HVAC field device(s). The power over data line interface is further provided and configured to enable supply of each of the HVAC field device and the further HVAC field device(s) with electrical power from a power source connected to the HVAC field device and / or the further HVAC field device(s).

[0049] The processing unit of the HVAC field device is configured in order to operate the HVAC field device in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal, wherein operation in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the HVAC field device from the power over data line connection(s) to a low power threshold. The processing unit of the HVAC field device is further configured to operate the HVAC field device, in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode in response to receipt of a release signal(s) via the power over data line interface, the HVAC field device. According to embodiments disclosed herein, electrical power drawn by the HVAC field device from the power over data line connection(s) is limited, in the low power operation mode, to a low power threshold by limiting a current and / or voltage of the power over data line interface.

[0050] According to the present disclosure, the above-mentioned objects are further addressed by an HVAC system comprising a plurality of HVAC field devices according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, wherein the HVAC system is configured to carry out the method according to one of the embodiments of a method of operating an HVAC system disclosed herein.

[0051] According to the present disclosure, the above-mentioned objects are further addressed by a computer program product comprising instructions, which, when executed by a processing unit of an HVAC field device causes the HVAC field device to carry out the method according to one of the embodiments disclosed herein, the HVAC field device being part of an HVAC system comprising a plurality of communicatively and energetically connected HVAC field devices using power over data line connection(s) enabling data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices and enabling supply of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices with electrical power from a power source connected to one of the plurality of HVAC field devices.

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The present disclosure will be explained in more detail, by way of example, with reference to the drawings in which:

[0054] Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating schematically an HVAC system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 2 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0056] Figure 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0057] Figure 5 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0058] Figure 6 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0060] Figure 1 shows a block diagram illustrating schematically an HVAC system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the HVAC system 1 comprises a plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n. Each of the HVAC field devices Ci-ncomprise sensor(s) S (also referred to as sensor-type HVAC field devices) and / or actuator(s) A (also referred to as actuator-type HVAC field devices); a power over data line interface 14 and a processing unit 20.

[0061] The sensor device(s) S, of a sensors-type HVAC field device, is / are arranged for measurement of a parameter of an HVAC system 1 . According to embodiments disclosed herein the sensor device S comprises a sensing element arranged within and / or outside a housing of the HVAC field device Ci-nand a connection element for connecting the sensing element with the processing unit 20.

[0062] The actuator(s) A, of an actuator-type HVAC field device, is / are arranged and configured for actuating an actuated part for regulating a flow rate of a fluid, such as a valve and / or a damper. According to embodiments disclosed herein the actuator A comprises an electric motor mechanically coupled to a mechanical drive, the mechanical drive being configured for actuating a valve or damper arranged outside a housing of the HVAC field device Ci-n.

[0063] The power over data line interface 14 of the HVAC field device is provided and configured for communicatively and energetically connecting the HVAC field device Ci-nto further HVAC field device(s) Ci-nusing power over data line connection(s) 40. The power over data line interface 14 is provided and configured in order to enable data communication between the HVAC field device Ci-nand the further HVAC field device(s) Ci-n. The power over data line interface 14 is further provided and configured to enable supply of each of the HVAC field device C1 and the further HVAC field device(s) Ci-nwith electrical power from a power source P connected to the HVAC field device C1 and / or the further HVAC field device(s) Ci-n. According to embodiments, the power source P is connected to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nusing power over data line connection(s) 40. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source P is connected to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nusing a power supply connection 50. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source P is comprised by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n.

[0064] Optionally, one or more of the HVAC field devices Ci-ncomprise a communication interface 12. The communication interface 12 is provided to connect one or more of the HVAC field devices Ci-n, in particular an HVAC field device elected as master HVAC field device Cmaster with a remote computer 100, such a physical or virtual server; a cloud-based computing environment; and / or an mobile device 200, such as a tablet computer, a mobile phone or a dedicated mobile computing device any of these provided with an application for operating an HVAC system such as a Building Automation or Building Management System BMS.

[0065] Alternatively, a remote computer 100, communicatively connected to one or more of the HVAC field devices Ci-nacts as master device Cmaster.

[0066] The processing unit 20 of the HVAC field device Ci-nis configured to operate the HVAC field device Ci-nin a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal, wherein operation in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the HVAC field device Ci-nfrom the power over data line connection(s) 40 to a low power threshold Pmax. The processing unit 20 of the HVAC field device Ci-nis further configured to operate the HVAC field device Ci-n, in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode in response to receipt of a release signal(s) via the power over data line interface 14, the HVAC field device Ci-n.

[0067] Figure 1 further shows a dedicated gateway device GW as master device Cmaster (other than any one of the HVAC field devices Ci-n) communicatively connected using the power over data line connection(s) 40 to the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n.

[0068] The function of the master device Cmaster shall be described with reference to figure 5.

[0069] In the following paragraphs, described with reference to Figures 2-6 are possible sequences of steps of operating an HVAC system according to an embodiment of the present dis-clo- sure.

[0070] In a preparatory step S10, the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare communicatively and energetically connecting using power over data line connection(s) 40, in particular Single Pair Ethernet SPE connections. The plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare communicatively and energetically connected using power over data line connection(s) 40 in order to enable data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n, e.g. exchange of control data and / or measurement data. Furthermore, the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare communicatively and energetically connected using power over data line connection(s) 40 in order to enable supply of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nwith electrical power from a power source P connected to one of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n.

[0071] In step(s) S20, a first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare operated in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal in order to avoid overloading of any of the power over data line connection(s) 40 and / or the power source P. Operation of the first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nin the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the respective HVAC field device Ci-nfrom the power over data line connection(s) 40 to a low power threshold Pmax.

[0072] Thereafter, in a step S30, release signal(s) corresponding to a second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare generated allowing one to define when any of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare allowed to consume electrical power beyond low power threshold Pmax. The release signal(s) are then transmitted to the second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nvia the power over data line connection(s) 40, thereby lifting the limitation on the electrical power consumption of the second subset of HVAC field device(s) below low power threshold Pmax.

[0073] In response to receipt of the release signal(s), in step(s) S40 the second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nare operated in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode. Operation of HVAC field devices Ci-nin one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode is not limited to electrical power consumption below the low power threshold Pmax.

[0074] Figure 3 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein in order to allow identifying the HVAC field devices of the HVAC system, in a step S22, identification data identifying the HVAC field device(s) Ci-nis generated by the HVAC field device(s) Ci-nin the low power operation mode.

[0075] Thereafter, in a step S24, device profile(s) are retrieved corresponding to the identification data of the HVAC field devices Ci-n. Based on the device profile(s), power requirement data associated with HVAC field devices Ci-nis determined. According to embodiments, in a step S25, operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices Ci-nare determined before defining the release sequence. The release sequence is then generated - is steps S26 - in accordance with the operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices Ci-n.

[0076] Subsequently, in a step S26, in accordance with the power requirement data a release sequence is determined for the release signal(s). Alternatively, or additionally, power limit value(s) are determined in step S26, the power limit value(s) defining a maximum power an HVAC field device may draw from the power over data line connection(s).

[0077] Thereafter, as part of step S30, the release signal(s) are generated and / or transmitted in accordance with the release sequence. In particular, the release signal(s) are generated and / or transmitted in a release sequence if a sum of maximum power requirements of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nexceeds a maximum power output of the power source P and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) 40. In this way, it can be ensured that the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-ndo not draw a high level of electrical power simultaneously, thereby avoiding overloading of the output of the power source P of the power over data line connection(s) 40 but also ensuring operation of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n.

[0078] According to embodiments where power limit value(s) have been determined, the release signals are generated by the master device such as to comprise the respective power limit value(s). Correspondingly, in step S40, HVAC field devices Ci-nreceiving release signal(s) comprising power limit value(s) operate in a specific operating mode in order to ensure that the power drawn from the power over data line connection(s) 40 does not exceed the respective power limit value(s). In an embodiment, HVAC field device(s) Ci-ncomprising an actuator A operate at a reduced actuation speed which requires a reduced amount of electrical power.

[0079] Figure 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein in a step S27, an HVAC application comprising a plurality of HVAC operations to be executed by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nis retrieved.

[0080] In a step S28, using the power requirement data, a first subset of operations of the plurality of operations executable simultaneously without exceeding maximum power output of the power source P and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) 40 is identified. In a step S29, using the power requirement data, a second subset of operations of the plurality of operations defined by the HVAC application is identified to be executed sequentially to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source P and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) 40.

[0081] Thereafter, in a step S32, the HVAC application is executed by controlling one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nto execute the first subset of operations simultaneously and the second subset of operations sequentially, the release signals - as part of step S32 - being generated and transmitted in accordance with the simultaneously respectively the sequentially executed operations.

[0082] Figure 5 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein - in a step S15 - one or a group of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nis selected as a master device Cmaster. Alternatively, a gateway device GW (other than any of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci.n) communicatively connected to the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nis selected as master device Cmaster.

[0083] In an optional step S16, a remote computer 100 is communicatively connected to the master device Cmaster using a communication interface 12, the device profile(s), the operational dependency^), and / or the HVAC application being retrieved by the master device Cmaster from the remote computer 100 via the communication interface 12. Alternatively, the remote computer 100, communicatively connected to the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-n, is selected as master device Cmaster. Figure 6 shows a flow diagram illustrating steps of operating an HVAC system according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, whereby - in a step S50- in order to be able to integrate HVAC field devices Ci-nhaving maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source P and / or of the power over data line connection 40, supplementary power interface(s) 16 are provided for a third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nhaving maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source P and / or of the power over data line connection 40. The third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nprovided with supplementary power interface^) are then powered from a supplementary power source SP at least for executing HVAC operations having a maximum power requirement exceeding the capacity of the power source P and / or of the power over data line connection(s) 40. According to embodiments, the capacity of the supplementary power source(s) PS is taken in consideration when identifying the first subset of operations executable simultaneously respectively of the second subset of operations to be executed sequentially. According to embodiments, the capacity of the supplementary power source(s) SP are transmitted by the respective HVAC field devices Ci-n, i.e. as part of the identification data identifying the HVAC field device(s) Ci-ntransmitted in the low power operation mode.

[0084] The third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nprovided with supplementary power source SP may be connected with the supplementary power source SP using the power over data line connection(s) 40. Alternatively, or additionally, the third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices Ci-nprovided with supplementary power source SP may be connected with the supplementary power source SP using a supplementary power source connection(s) 60 via supplementary power interface(s) 16.

[0085] It should be noted that, in the description, the sequence of the steps has been presented in a specific order, one skilled in the art will understand, however, that the order of at least some of the steps could be altered, without deviating from the scope of the disclosure. REFERENCE LIST

[0086] HVAC system 1

[0087] HVAC field device Ci-n, Cmaster communication interface (of HVAC field device) 12 power over data line interface (of HVAC field device) 14 supplementary power interface 16processing unit (of HVAC field device) 20 power source P supplementary power source PS power over data line connection 40 power supply connection 50 supplementary power supply connection 60 remote computer 100, 200

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method of operating an HVAC system (1) comprising a plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n), the method comprising: communicatively and energetically connecting a plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) using power over data line connection(s) (40) enabling data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) and enabling supply of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) with electrical power from a power source (P) connected to and / or comprised by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n); operating a first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal; generating release signal(s) corresponding to a second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) and transmitting the release signal(s) to the second subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) via the power over data line connection(s) (40); operating, in response to receipt of the release signal(s), the one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode, wherein operation of the first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci-n) in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by each of the first subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) from the power over data line connection(s) (40) to a low power threshold.

2. The method according to claim 1 , further comprising: generating, by the HVAC field device(s) (Ci.n) identification data identifying the HVAC field device(s) (Ci.n) in the low power operation mode;retrieving device profile(s) corresponding to the identification data of the HVAC field devices (Ci.n); determining power requirement data associated with HVAC field devices (Ci.n) based on the device profile(s); generating and / or transmitting the release signal(s) corresponding to one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) in accordance with the respective power requirement data.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein generating and / or transmitting the release signal(s) in accordance with the respective power requirement data comprises generating and / or transmitting the release signal(s) in a release sequence if a sum of maximum power requirements of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) exceeds a maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) (40).

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: determining operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n); and generating the release sequence in accordance with the operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices (Ci.n).

5. The method according to one of the claims 2 to 4, further comprising: retrieving an HVAC application comprising a plurality of HVAC operations to be executed by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n);identifying, using the power requirement data, a first subset of operations of the plurality of operations executable simultaneously without exceeding maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) (40); identifying, using the power requirement data, a second subset of operations of the plurality of operations defined by the HVAC application, to be executed sequentially to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) (40); controlling the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) to execute the first subset of operations simultaneously and the second subset of operations sequentially.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the HVAC application is a commissioning application, comprising device calibration operation(s) of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) connected by the power over data line connection(s) (40).

7. The method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the power over data line connection(s) (40i.n) connecting the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) is / are Single Pair Ethernet connection(s).

8. The method according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: providing supplementary power interface(s) (16) for a third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) having maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source (P) and / or of the power over data line connection (40); and powering the third subset of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) provided with supplementary power interface(s) (16) from a supplementary powersource (PS) at least for executing HVAC operations having a maximum power requirement exceeding the capacity of the power source (P) and / or of the power over data line connection (40).

9. The method according to one of the claims 1 to 8, further comprising: communicatively connecting a master device (Gw) using the power over data line connection(s) (40) to the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n); and / or selecting one or a group of one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) as a master device (Cmaster) , wherein one or more of the following steps is executed by a processing unit of the master device (Gw, Cmaster) . generating release signal(s); retrieving device profile(s) corresponding to the identification data of the HVAC field devices (Ci.n); determining power requirement data associated with HVAC field devices (Ci.n) based on the device profile(s); determining operational dependency(s) and / or priority(s) between the plurality HVAC field devices (Ci.n); retrieving an HVAC application comprising a plurality of HVAC operations to be executed by one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n); identifying, using the power requirement data, a first subset of operations of the plurality of operations executable simultaneously without exceeding maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) (40);identifying, using the power requirement data, a second subset of operations of the plurality of operations defined by the HVAC application, to be executed sequentially to avoid exceeding maximum power output of the power source (P) and / or a maximum capacity of the power over data line connection(s) (40); controlling one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) to execute the first subset of operations simultaneously and the second subset of operations sequentially and / or identifying one or more of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) having maximum power requirement(s) exceeding the capacity of the power source (P) and / or of the power over data line connection (40).

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: communicatively connecting the master device (Gw, Cmaster) to a remote computer (100) using a communication interface (12); retrieving the device profile(s), the operational dependency(s), and / or the HVAC application by the master device (Gw, Cmaster) from the remote computer (100) via the communication interface (12).

11. An HVAC field device (Ci.n) comprising: a sensor device (S) for measurement of a parameter of an HVAC system (1 ) and / or an actuator (A) for actuating an actuated part for regulating a flow rate of a fluid, such as a valve and / or a damper; a power over data line interface (14) for communicatively and energetically connecting the HVAC field device (Ci.n) to further HVAC field device(s) (Ci.n) using power over data line connection(s) (40) enabling data communication between the HVAC field device (Ci.n) and the further HVAC field device(s) (Ci.n) and to enablesupply of each of the HVAC field device (Ci) and the further HVAC field device(s) (Ci-n) with electrical power from a power source (P) connected to and / or comprised by the HVAC field device (Ci) and / or the further HVAC field device(s) (Ci.n); a processing unit (20) configured to: operate the HVAC field device (Ci.n) in a low power operation mode in absence of a release signal; operate the HVAC field device (Ci.n), in one or more further operation mode(s) different from the low power operation mode in response to receipt of a release signal(s) via the power over data line interface (14), wherein operation in the low power operation mode limits electrical power drawn by the HVAC field device (Ci.n) from the power over data line connection(s) (40) to a low power threshold.

12. The HVAC field device (Ci.n) according to claim 11 , wherein: the sensor device (S) comprises a sensing element arranged within and / or outside a housing of the HVAC field device (Ci.n) and a connection element for connecting the sensing element with the processing unit (20); the actuator (A) comprises an electric motor mechanically coupled to a mechanical drive, the mechanical drive being configured for actuating a valve and / or damper arranged outside a housing of the HVAC field device (Ci.n).

13. An HVAC system (1) comprising a plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the HVAC system (1) is configured to carry out the method according to one of the claims 1 to 10.

14. A computer program product comprising instructions, which, when executed by a processing unit of an HVAC field device (Ci.n) - part of an HVAC system (1) comprisinga plurality of communicatively and energetically connected HVAC field devices (Ci.n) using power over data line connection(s) (40) enabling data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) and enabling supply of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) with electrical power from a power source (P) connected to and / or comprised by one of the plurality of HVAC field devices (Ci.n) - causes theHVAC field device (Ci.n) to carry out the method according to one of the claims 1 to 10.

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