A method for energy management in a water recirculation device

Abstract

The present invention describes a method for energy management, said method being arranged for a water recirculating device. The method comprises measuring a recirculation temperature of the water in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device; performing the following steps in a control unit of said water recirculating device: calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint; using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint; comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting an energy calculation output; deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output; and wherein the method also comprises performing the activity in said water recirculating device.

Description

[0001] A METHOD FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT IN A WATER RECIRCULATION DEVICE

[0002] Field of the invention

[0003] The present invention described herein generally relates to energy management of a water recirculating device, and more specifically a water recirculating shower.

[0004] Technical Background

[0005] In many parts of the world, water is becoming a scarce commodity. Consequently, systems for the purification and recycling of water have found applications across many fields. Conventional water recirculating devices can be effective, but are often costly and requires high energy consumption. There is, therefore, a need for improved water recirculating devices in terms of cost-effectiveness, ease of installation and use, and customizability.

[0006] Recirculation devices with today’s technology are equipped to treat recirculated water and are further equipped with heating means for heating the recirculated water. When there is a need to heat the water beyond the capability of the water recirculation device, the devices are designed such that to discard the water instead; this is because discarding is more energy efficient than providing energy for heating the water. Water that has already been treated but still has a low temperature, i.e. , the water requires a high heating requirement for being heated, will be discarded. Consequently, this leads to high consumption of energy for operating the recirculation device and high consumption of water which is not used.

[0007] Summary of the invention

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies in the prior art and disadvantages singly or in combination.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, these and other objects are achieved in full, or at least in part, by a method for energy management in a water recirculating device, said method comprising: - measuring a recirculation temperature of the water in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device; - performing the following steps in a control unit of said water recirculating device:

[0010] - calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint;

[0011] - using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint;

[0012] - comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting an energy calculation output;

[0013] - deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output; and wherein the method also comprises performing the activity in said water recirculating device.

[0014] According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for measuring the temperature of the water in the drain or in the recirculation loop of said water recirculating device. This is performed in order for the control unit to perform different steps. The steps are calculating the temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and the user temperature setpoint; using the set water flow for calculating the heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint; comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting the energy calculation output; and deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output. The method also comprises performing the activity in said water recirculating device.

[0015] The energy calculation output is a difference in energy between the heating requirement for heating the set water flow to the user temperature setpoint and the heating capability of the heater unit. The energy calculation output is provided by the control unit to decide the activity in said water recirculating device.

[0016] Based on the difference in energy between the heating requirement and heating capability of the heater unit, the control unit can configure different settings and provide the activity accordingly. An advantage of the method according to the first aspect of the present invention includes the control unit that is configured to communicate with other units of said water recirculating device and thus perform and control calculations and provide outputs based on the calculations thereof. The control unit may collect input data and signals from different units in said water recirculating device and may provide activities based on the collected data and signals. The term “activities" and / or “activity” may also comprise the control unit sending out signals to the units, wherein the units then perform the activity accordingly. The control unit may also receive input data from a manufacturer, installer, and or user. The input data may be received during installation, during manufacturing, and / or during usage depending on the provider of the input data. The control unit may also be updated during a lifetime of said water recirculating device or during a lifetime of the control unit. Enabling updating provides the control unit and thus said water recirculating device to be in accordance with for example new regulations.

[0017] Another advantage of the present invention may be that said method enables providing a good user experience while saving energy and water. The user experience may be the user being able to determine the user setpoints and experience these user setpoints accordingly. Particularly temperature is a setting that the user may want to determine by themselves as different users have different preferences and needs. However, the user may also want to consider energy management. The method of the present invention enables consideration of both user experience and energy management so that the user(s) themselves do not have to choose between being energy efficient or experiencing reasonable temperature, and furthermore, the user(s) do not have to take active action as said method performs all operations automatically based on input, and return values.

[0018] According to said method of the present invention, the activity may be setting a user output water flow based on the energy calculation output.

[0019] The activity based on the energy calculation output may be in the form of setting a user output water flow. The user output water flow may be a water flow provided by an output, such as a nozzle, to the user. According to said method of the present invention, the activity based on the energy calculation output may comprise decreasing the user output water flow, increasing the user output water flow, performing no change in the user output water flow, or providing a mixture of recycled water flow with the warm water flow from an external water source to provide the user output water flow.

[0020] The activity based on the energy calculation output may be setting the user output water flow, wherein the user output water flow may be particularly decreasing the user output water flow, increasing the user output water flow, performing no change in the user output water flow, or providing a mixture of the recirculating water flow with warm water flow to provide the user output water flow. Performing no change in the user output water flow may be that the activity is setting the user output water flow according to the latest previous activity. It may also be that the user output water flow is set to be equal to the user setpoint of the user output water flow. The user output water flow may comprise only recirculated water, i.e., water from the recirculation loop, only the water from the external water source, or a combination thereof.

[0021] According to said method of the present invention, the activity may comprise decreasing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit.

[0022] Decreasing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit enables the advantage of providing the user with the user output water flow according to the user temperature setpoint even if it is beyond the heating capability of the heater unit. This is provided by decreasing the user output water flow to a flow level that may be heated to the user temperature setpoint. The user output water flow may be only recirculated water. Depending on the energy calculation output, the decreased user output water flow may be only recirculated water. If only recirculated water is used, the user output water flow may be decreased further to a level that ensures that the user does not run out of water. If the deceased user output water is a combination of recirculated water and external water, the decrement may be different from that when using only recirculated water. It may be that there is no need to decrease the user output water flow to the same extent as when only recirculated water is used.

[0023] According to said method of the present invention, the activity comprises increasing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit.

[0024] If the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater, there is provided an excess in energy, The excess in energy may provide increasing the user output water flow to the user setpoint of the user output water flow. Increasing the user-user output water flow may enable providing wider use of said water recirculating device as a higher user output water flow, and thus a higher water pressure may be used for cleaning. The increasing user output water flow may also provide an enhanced user experience. The increased user output water flow may be recirculated water or a combination of recirculated water and water from the external water source. If the increased user output water flow is based on only recirculated water, then the increase may be lower than if the increased user output water flow is based on a combination of recirculated water and water from the external water source.

[0025] According to said method of the present invention, the activity comprises providing a mixture of a water flow in the recirculation loop and a warm water flow from an external water source, for providing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit.

[0026] If the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit, there may be provided a mixture of the water flow from the recirculation loop and warm water flow from the external water source in order to form the user output water flow. Combining water flow from the recirculation loop and water flow from the external water source may enable providing the user with the user setpoint of the user output water flow and the user temperature setpoint even if the heating capability of the heater unit is below the heating requirement and thus the user does not need to choose a decreased user experience. Combining water flow from the recirculation loop and water flow from the external water source may also enable the user setpoint of the user output water flow. It may also be possible to only use recirculated water by providing a decreased output water flow.

[0027] According to one aspect of the present invention, these and other objects are achieved in full, or at least in part, by a method intended for a water recirculating device, said method comprising:

[0028] - measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in the drain or in the recirculation loop of said water recirculation device;

[0029] - if the measured water quality is equal to or above a water quality threshold, setting the water recirculating device in a recirculation mode; and wherein said method also comprises:

[0030] - increasing the water flow in the recirculation loop to increase the user output water flow.

[0031] This feature of this embodiment of the present invention may facilitate increased user output water flow while still saving energy and water as no water flow from an external water source is taken in. Instead, recirculated water, i.e., water flow in the water recirculation loop, is utilized. Measuring the water quality being a prerequisite ensures that potent water is being provided to a user.

[0032] According to said method of the second aspect of the present invention, the user output water flow may be increased when said water recirculating device is in the recirculation mode and when the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit.

[0033] Providing increased user output water flow when said water recirculating device is in the recirculation mode may facilitate that the providing of the increased user output water flow is supported by the water flow in the recirculation loop. This means that at least a portion of the increased user output water flow is the water flow from the recirculation loop. As a prerequisite for increasing the user output water flow, the heater requirement may need to be lower than the heating capability of the heater unit. Otherwise, the user output water flow may be decreased in order to ensure that the user experiences the user temperature setpoint. According to said method of the second embodiment of the present invention, the user output water flow may be the water flow in the recirculation loop.

[0034] Providing increased user output water flow when said water recirculating device is in the recirculation mode may facilitate that only the water flow from the recirculation loop is used. This provides the advantage of enabling the user an increased user output water flow without the need to input water flow from the external water source, thus providing energy- and water management.

[0035] According to said method of the second embodiment of the present invention, increasing the user output water flow may be provided by mixing the water flow in the recirculation loop and a water flow from the external water source to provide the user output water flow.

[0036] Providing the mixture of water flow in the recirculation loop and the water flow from the external water source may give the user the option of still experiencing the user setpoint of the user output water flow and the user temperature setpoint while still enabling an extent of energy- and water management. The water flow from the recirculation loop is used to its maximum extent, and if the water flow from the recirculation loop is still below the user setpoint of the user output water flow the increased user output water flow is supported by the water flow from the external water source. A control unit of said method and said water recirculating device, based on the data input, provides a mixing proportion between water flow from the recirculation loop and the water flow from the external water source accordingly.

[0037] According to said method of the second embodiment of the present invention, the user output water flow may be in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute.

[0038] The user output water flow may from the external water source vary between countries but seldom exceeds 20 liter / m inute from an outlet such as a shower nozzle. It may not be common to desire higher output flow water as it generally concerns unnecessary high water consumption, and high water pressure which may further correspond to a bad user experience. The user output water flow in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute may provide sufficiently high pressure for cleaning, comfort showering, saving water, and energy management. The feature of a dynamic water flow, i.e. the user output water flow being in the range of 2-20 liter / minute, preferably 4-16 liter / minute, and more preferably 5-12 liter / minute, may further provide the advantage of said method being able to provide the optimum settings and user output water flow depending on the situation. The optimum setting and user output water flow may vary depending on for example the temperature of the water in the drain, the timeframe of the use of said water recirculating device and incoming water flow.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the drain and / or the recirculation loop comprise a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor, preferably the drain of the water recirculation device comprises a collecting arrangement and a sensor tank comprising at least one sensor, more preferably the drain comprises a sensor tank comprising a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor.

[0040] Providing the temperature sensor and the water quality sensor in the drain of the water recirculating device, wherein the drain may comprise a sensor tank which may ensure that the water quality is equal to or above the water quality threshold in order to provide the user with potent water. The water in the water recirculating device eventually reaches the drain, and a big portion of the water is collected in the drain when the water recirculating device is not in use. Thus a suitable position for at least the temperature sensor and the water quality sensor may be in the drain. There may also be provided additional temperature sensors, water quality sensors, or sensors the like in the drain or in other suitable positions in said water recirculating device.

[0041] According to one embodiment of the present invention, said water recirculating device is a shower, bath, or sink.

[0042] The method being able to be integrated into a shower, bath, sink, or the like, provides saving water, energy management, and improved user experience. The user may be able to increase the user output water flow higher than what is provided by the external water source. This may be advantageous as the increased user output water flow combined with an extendable nozzle may provide the possibility to clean a bathtub, a shower, a wall, a floor, a toilet, a mirror, or the like, in the bathroom with the increased water pressure. Using the user output water flow for showering may also provide a good user experience.

[0043] Brief description of the drawings

[0044] The above, as well as additional objects, features, and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

[0045] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a method according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example of a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates an example of a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Fig. 4 illustrates a method according to a second aspect of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an example of a method according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an example of a method according to the second aspect of the present invention.

[0051] Detailed description

[0052] The present disclosure describes a method for energy management in a water recirculating device and a water recirculating device related to the same. Initially, some terminology may be defined to provide clarification for the following disclosure.

[0053] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. The use of terms “first”, “second”, “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0054] All references to “a / an / the [element, device, component, means, step, etx]” are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0055] As used, the term "comprising" and variations of that term is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and to fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled addressee.

[0056] A feature described in relation to one aspect may also be incorporated in other aspects, if not explicitly stated not to, and the advantages of the feature are applicable to all aspects in which it is incorporated.

[0057] Other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will appear from the following detailed disclosure, from the attached claims as well as from the drawings.

[0058] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “a water recirculating device". It should be understood that a water recirculating device may refer to a water recycling device or water recirculation device. The terms may be used interchangeably.

[0059] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “recirculation mode". It shall be understood that the recirculation mode and may refer to a recirculating mode. Recirculation mode and non-recirculating mode may be seen as a basis for recirculating systems. Water recirculating system in connection to external water sources is provided to facilitate the recirculation of the water and provide means for treating the water to save energy and water. With today’s technology, it does not exist recirculation systems enable the recirculation and reuse of water without the need to receive external water at regular intervals. Thus, water recirculating system have both recirculation mode and non-recirculation mode. By non- recirculation mode, it is meant only use of the water flow from the external water source. The mixture of the water flow from the recirculation loop and the water flow from the external water source may still be considered to be recirculation mode as part of said water recirculation system uses recirculated water.

[0060] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “user setpoint”. User setpoint may be seen as the setpoint determined by a user. There may be provided different setpoints, wherein the setpoints may be parameters related to the properties of the water provided by said recirculating device, settings of said water recirculating device or settings of said method, or a combination thereof. The parameters may comprise a temperature of a user output water flow, a user output water flow, activating / deactivating recirculating mode, and activating / deactivating nonrecirculating mode.

[0061] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “water in a drain". Water in the drain could be for example tap water or similar. Water in the drain may be recirculated water, water from the external water source, or a combination thereof. The quality and possible contaminants of the water flow from the external water source may vary between applications of the water recirculating device, and between different countries and / or locations.

[0062] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “recirculated watef’ and “water flow in the recirculation loop". It should be understood that these terms have the same meaning. Recirculated water and water flow in the recirculation loop refers to water that has been previously used, has been undergoing purification, and is intended to be reused, i.e. , recycled.

[0063] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “heating requirement”. The heating requirement may be seen as the energy required for heating a volume of water to a predetermined setpoint. It may refer to the energy required for heating a volume of water from the drain to a predetermined setpoint. The setpoint may be predetermined by for example a manufacturer, an installer, or a supplier.

[0064] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “user output water flow”. User output water flow may be seen as the water flow being provided to the user by the water recirculating device through an output such as a nozzle, for instance, a shower nozzle, or similar means.

[0065] With reference to FIG. 1 , a method 100 according to a first aspect 100 of the present invention is disclosed. The method comprises collecting water via a drain 110; measuring a recirculation temperature of water in the drain or in a recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 120; calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint 130; based on a set water flow, a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint is calculated 140; the heating requirement is compared with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device followed by setting an energy calculation output 150; based on the energy calculation output, an activity is decided and performed in said water recirculating device 160.

[0066] Collecting water in the drain may be performed by means of paths, wherein paths may be for example pipes for transporting water. Collecting water in the drain may also be performed by means of valves in liquid communication with the paths.

[0067] The drain may be a collecting tank, a collecting arrangement, a sensor tank, a recirculation tank, or a floor unit, wherein the drain may be arranged with a sensor.

[0068] The recirculation temperature of the water in the drain or in the recirculation loop may be measured by a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be a part of a sensor system, wherein the sensor system is in communication with a control unit. There may be arranged more than one type of sensor in the drain. The drain may also comprise a water quality sensor, a level sensor, or a combination thereof. The method is performed by a control unit. The control unit may be in communication with the temperature sensor, and other sensors, in the drain. The control unit may perform a calculation, wherein the calculation may be the basis for determining the temperature difference. Furthermore, the control unit may be configured to determine the heating requirement. The heating requirement may be based on the temperature difference and water volume from the drain, wherein the water volume may be a portion or all of the water in the drain. Based on the heating requirement, the control unit may configure the setting and user output water flow accordingly.

[0069] With reference to FIG. 2, an example of a method 200 according to a second embodiment 200 of the present invention is illustrated. It should be understood that the features described with reference to FIG.1 may also be valid and / or combined with the features described herein for FIG. 2. FIG. 2 illustrates collecting water via a drain 210; measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device 220; if the measured water quality is below a water quality threshold 230 then said method is arranged to be purified, send the water to the drain, sending water for discarding, or a combination thereof 260; if the measured water quality is at or above a water quality threshold 230 then said method is arranged to set said water recirculation device in recirculation mode 240. The recirculation mode further enables increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow 250.

[0070] The feature of sending the water to be purified, sending water for discarding, sending it to the drain, or a combination thereof may be seen as different portions of the water may have different outcomes, i.e. , may be sent to different positions. The water may be below the water quality threshold, however, there may be different levels of the quality. Therefore, if the water quality is for example 10% or less below the water quality, the water may be sent for purification while if the water quality is more than 10% below the water quality threshold then the water may be set for discarding. It may occur that solid debris may follow the water flow and thus only that portion of the water flow, which contains the solid debris, will be sent for discarding while the rest may be sent for purification.

[0071] The water quality may be measured by a water quality sensor such as but not limited to a UV sensor. The water quality sensor may be a part of a sensor system, wherein the sensor system is in communication with the control unit. There may be arranged more than one type of sensor in the drain. The drain may also comprise a temperature sensor, a level sensor, or a combination thereof. With reference to FIG. 3, an example of a method 300 according to a first and a second embodiment of the present invention. It is understood by the skilled person that any combination of the first and second embodiment of the present invention is possible without going outside of the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the features described with reference to FIG.2 and / or FIG. 3 may also be valid and / or combined with the features described herein for FIG. 3. FIG. 3 illustrates collecting water via a drain 310; measuring a recirculation temperature of water in the drain or in a recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 320; calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint 321 ; using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint 322; comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting an energy calculation output 323; measuring water quality in at least one sensor position in the drain or in the recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 330; if the measured water quality is not equal to or above a water quality threshold 331 then purifying the water, sending water for discarding, sending the water to the drain, or a combination thereof 332; if the measured water quality is equal to or above the water quality threshold 331 then setting said water recirculating device in a recirculation mode 333; deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output in said water recirculating device 340; if the heating requirement is not equal to or lower than a heating capability of a heater unit 341 then decreasing a user output water flow 342, and wherein if the heating requirement is equal to or lower than the heating capability of the heater unit then increasing the user output water flow or performing no change of the user output water flow 343. Different combinations may be preferred for different applications of said water recirculating device and said method. For example, the decision of the activity based on the energy calculation output may be determined before measuring the water quality of the water; said water recirculation mode may be set in a recirculation mode after deciding the activity based on the energy calculation output. It shall be understood from FIG. 3 that this embodiment may be seen as a possible additional feature that may provide the advantage of an increased user experience and a wider scope of usage of the user output water flow as the water pressure may be increased by the present invention. A second aspect of the present invention

[0072] According to a second aspect of the present invention, it is an object to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies mentioned in the technical background.

[0073] According to this second aspect, the present invention provides a method for a water recirculation device, said method comprising:

[0074] - measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in a drain or in a recirculation loop of the water recirculation device;

[0075] - if the measured water quality is at or above a water quality threshold, setting the water recirculation device in recirculation mode; and wherein said method also comprises:

[0076] - increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow.

[0077] It is a prerequisite for said water recirculation device that the water quality must be equal to or above a water quality threshold. The water quality is such that the water quality is not acceptable if it is below the water quality threshold. The recirculation of water is of use when the water quality is potent for humans and / or animals. In other words, there is no need to recycle water that contains debris or other hazardous substances. The water quality threshold is configured into said water recirculation device, preferably into a control unit of said water recirculation device. The water quality threshold may be set by the user, installer, or manufacturer and shall be in accordance with the regulations of the country application of said method and said water recirculation device. Facilitated by said water recirculation device is the enablement of providing increased water flow in the recirculation loop of said water recirculation device to provide a user with increased user output water flow. According to said second aspect of the present invention, said method may comprise increasing the user output water flow above a maximum of a water incoming flow of an external water source.

[0078] The maximum of the incoming water flow of the external water source may refer to the maximum water flow provided by the external water source which is regulated by authorities in a country, water maintenance personnel, or the like. The maximum water flow may differ between countries and regions. According to this feature of the present invention, said method provides the advantage of increasing the user output water flow above the maximum of the incoming water flow of the external water source and thus enabling a broader scope of use of the user output water flow as the water flow may have higher water pressure. The broadened scope and application of this feature may be but is not limited to sanitizing an object or bathroom and increased comfort showering. The increased user output water flow, and thus higher pressure, for sanitizing, facilitates the advantage of being able to use only water for cleaning. The increased user output water flow may thus be used for pressure washing. Lower water flow, and thus lower water pressure, may require the use of chemicals to achieve the same extent of sanitation. The user output water flow may be provided by an outlet of said water recirculation device such as a nozzle, water tap, inlet to a toilet, or the like.

[0079] According to said second aspect of the present invention, said method may comprise increasing the user output water flow to a user setpoint of the user output water flow.

[0080] The user output water flow may be increased to a user setpoint. The user setpoint may be set by an installer, a user, a manufacturer, or the like. The meaning of “user” may differ based on the application of said water recirculation device and said method. According to the present invention, said method and water recirculating may be implemented in public baths, such as spa facilities, swimming halls, and public restrooms. The user may thus be anyone who uses said water recirculation system. The user may also be a facility owner or a system incorporated into the facility and regulated by the facility owner. The system may be arranged to comprise a control unit that may receive input data and provide signals and activities accordingly. The advantage of enabling the user setpoint of the user output water flow includes enhanced user experience and facilitates the wider scope of use for the user.

[0081] According to said second aspect of the present invention, increasing the user output water flow may be provided by increasing the water flow in the recirculation loop, preferably the user output water flow is provided only by the water flow in the recirculation loop.

[0082] Increasing the user output water flow based on the water flow in the recirculation loop facilitates saving water. Preferably, the water flow used to increase the user output water flow is provided by only the water flow in the water recirculation loop, meaning no intake of water from the external water source and thus saving significant volumes of water.

[0083] According to this method embodiment of the present invention, increasing the user output water flow may be provided by mixing the water flow in the recirculation loop and water flow from the external water source to provide the user output water flow.

[0084] If said method may not provide increased user output water flow based on only the water flow in the water recirculation loop. Then, said method may support the increased user output water flow by mixing at least a portion of the water flow from the recirculation loop with the water flow from the external water source to provide the user output water flow. Thus enabling the user to experience the user setpoint of the user output water flow.

[0085] According to this second aspect of the present invention, said method may also involve a recirculation decision based on energy management when setting the water recirculation device in recirculation mode or not.

[0086] This feature of the present invention provides saving energy and water. By the recirculation decision based on the energy management of said method, calculations and activities are performed accordingly.

[0087] According to this second aspect of the present invention, the decision based on energy management may be performed in accordance with the following:

[0088] - measuring a recirculation temperature of the water in the drain or in the recirculation loop of said water recirculation device; - performing the following steps in a control unit of said water recirculation device:

[0089] - calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint;

[0090] - using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint;

[0091] - comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculation device for setting an energy calculation output;

[0092] - deciding if setting said water recirculation device in recirculation mode or not based on the energy calculation output; and

[0093] - deciding if increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow or not if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit and if the user setpoint of the user output water flow calls for it.

[0094] The method is arranged for measuring the temperature of the water in the drain or in the recirculation loop of the water recirculation device. This is performed in order for the control unit to perform different steps. The steps comprise calculating the temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and the user temperature setpoint; using the set water flow for calculating the heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint; comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculation device for setting the energy calculation output; and deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output. The method also comprises performing the activity in the water recirculation device.

[0095] The energy calculation output is the difference in energy between the heating requirement for heating the set water flow to the user temperature setpoint and the heating capability of the heater unit. The energy calculation output is provided by the control unit to decide the activity in said water recirculation device. Based on the difference between the heating requirement and heating capability of the heater unit, the control unit can configure different settings and provide the activity accordingly. An advantage of the method according to the present invention is that the control unit is configured to communicate with other units of said water recirculation device and thus perform and control calculations and provide outputs based on the calculations thereof. The control unit may collect input data and signals from different units in said water recirculation device and may provide activities based on the collected data and signals. The activity may also be the control unit sending out signals to the units, wherein the units perform the activity / activities accordingly. The control unit may also receive input data from a manufacturer, installer, and or user. The input data may be received during installation, during manufacturing, and / or during usage depending on the provider of the input data.

[0096] The method comprises increasing the user output water flow or not if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater and if the user setpoint of the user output water flow calls for it. This feature of the present invention provides that if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit, then there may be provided the possibility to increase the water flow in the recirculation loop and thus the user output water flow if the user desires that. The user may control this by setting the user setpoint of the user output water flow according to their wish. If the control unit detects that the user setpoint of the user output water flow is higher than the instant user output water flow, then the control unit may provide the activity of increasing the user output water flow according to the user setpoint of the user output water flow.

[0097] Another advantage of the present invention according to this second aspect is that said method enables providing a good user experience while saving energy and water. The user experience may be the user being able to determine the user setpoints and experience these user setpoints accordingly. Particularly temperature is a setting that the user may want to determine by themselves as different users have different preferences and needs. According to said second aspect of the present invention, the user output water flow is set in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute.

[0098] The user output water flow may from the external water source varies between countries but seldom exceeds 20 liter / m inute from an outlet such as a shower nozzle. It may not be common to desire higher output flow water as it generally concerns unnecessary high water consumption, and high water pressure which may further correspond to a bad user experience. The user output water flow in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute may provide sufficiently high pressure for cleaning, comfort showering, saving water, and energy management. The feature of a dynamic water flow, i.e. the user output water flow being in the range of 2-20 liter / minute, preferably 4-16 liter / minute, and more preferably 5-12 liter / minute, may further provide the advantage of said method being able to provide the optimum settings and user output water flow depending on the situation. The optimum setting and user output water flow may vary depending on for example the temperature of the water in the drain, the timeframe of the use of said water recirculation device, and incoming water flow.

[0099] According to the second aspect of the present invention, the drain and / or the recirculation loop comprise a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor, preferably the drain of the water recirculation device comprises a collecting arrangement and a sensor tank comprising the at least one sensor, more preferably the drain comprises a sensor tank comprising a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor.

[0100] Providing the temperature sensor and the water quality sensor in the drain of the water recirculation device, wherein the drain may comprise a sensor tank which may ensure that the water quality is equal to or above the water quality threshold in order to provide the user with potent water. The water in said water recirculation device eventually reaches the drain, and a big portion of the water is collected in the drain when said water recirculation device is not in use. Thus a suitable position for at least the temperature sensor and the water quality sensor may be in the drain. There may also be provided additional temperature sensors, water quality sensors, level sensors, UV sensors, or sensors the like in the drain or in other suitable positions in the water recirculation device.

[0101] According to the present invention, said water recirculation device may be a shower, bath, or sink.

[0102] The method being able to be integrated into a shower, bath, sink, or the like, provides saving water, energy management, and improved user experience. The user may be able to increase the user output water flow higher than what is provided by the external water source. This may be advantageous as the increased user output water flow combined with an extendable nozzle may provide the possibility to clean a bathtub, a shower, a wall, a floor, a toilet, a mirror, or the like, in the bathroom with the increased water pressure. Using the user output water flow for showering may also provide a good user experience.

[0103] Detailed description

[0104] The present disclosure describes a method for a water recirculation device. Initially, some terminology may be defined to provide clarification for the following disclosure.

[0105] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein.

[0106] The use of terms “first”, “second”, “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0107] All references to “a / an / the [element, device, component, means, step, etc]” are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0108] As used, the term "comprising" and variations of that term is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and to fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled addressee.

[0109] A feature described in relation to one example may also be incorporated in other examples of the present invention, if not explicitly stated not to, and the advantages of the feature are applicable to all examples, and combinations of examples, in which it is incorporated.

[0110] Other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will appear from the following detailed disclosure, from the attached clauses as well as from the drawings.

[0111] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “a water recirculation device". It should be understood that a water recirculation device may refer to a water recycling device or water recirculating device. The terms may be used interchangeably.

[0112] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “recirculated watef’ and “water flow in the recirculation loop". It should be understood that these terms have the same meaning. Recirculated water and water flow in the recirculation loop refers to water that has been previously used, has been undergoing purification, and is intended to be reused, i.e. , recycled.

[0113] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “recirculation mode". It shall be understood that the recirculation mode may refer to a recirculating mode. Recirculation mode and non-recirculating mode may be seen as a basis for recirculating systems. A water recirculating system in connection to external water sources is provided to facilitate the recirculation of the water and provide means for treating the water to save energy and water. With today’s technology, it does not exist recirculation systems enable the recirculation and reuse of water without the need to receive external water at regular intervals. Thus, water recirculating systems have both recirculation mode and non-recirculation mode. By nonrecirculation mode, it is meant only to use of the water flow from the external water source. A mixture of the water flow from the recirculation loop and the water flow from the external water source may still be considered to be recirculation mode as part of said water recirculation system uses recirculated water Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “user setpoint”. User setpoint may be seen as the setpoint determined by a user. There may be provided different setpoints, wherein the setpoints may be parameters related to the properties of the water provided by said recirculating device, settings of said water recirculating device or settings of said method, or a combination thereof. The parameters may comprise a temperature of a user output water flow, a user output water flow, activating / deactivating recirculating mode, and activating / deactivating nonrecirculating mode.

[0114] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to “water in a drain". Water in the drain could be for example tap water or similar. Water in the drain may be recirculated water, water from the external water source, or a combination thereof. The quality and possible contaminants of the water flow from the external water source may vary between applications of the water recirculating device, and between different countries and / or locations.

[0115] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “heating requirement”. The heating requirement may be seen as the energy required for heating a volume of water to a predetermined setpoint. It may refer to the energy required for heating a volume of water from the drain to a predetermined setpoint. The setpoint may be predetermined by for example a manufacturer, an installer, or a supplier.

[0116] Throughout the present disclosure, reference is made to a “user output water flow”. User output water flow may be seen as the water flow being provided to the user by the water recirculating device through an output such as a nozzle, for instance, a shower nozzle, or similar means.

[0117] With reference to FIG. 4, a method 1100 according to the present invention is disclosed. The method describes collecting water via a drain 1110; measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device 1120; if the measured water quality is below a water quality threshold 1130 then said method is arranged to be purified, send the water to drainage, to drain, or a combination thereof 1160; if the measured water quality is at or above a water quality threshold 1130 then said method is arranged to set said water recirculation device in recirculation mode 1140. The method further enables increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow 1150.

[0118] The feature of sending the water to be purified, sending water for discarding, sending it to the drain, or a combination thereof may be seen as different portions of the water may have different outcomes, i.e. , may be sent to different positions. The water may be below the water quality threshold, however, there may be different levels of the quality. Therefore, if the water quality is for example 10% or less below the water quality, the water may be sent for purification while if the water quality is more than 10% below the water quality threshold then the water may be set for discarding. It may occur that solid debris may follow the water flow and thus only that portion of the water flow, which contains the solid debris, will be sent for discarding while the rest may be sent for purification.

[0119] The water quality may be measured by a water quality sensor such as but not limited to a UV sensor. The water quality sensor may be a part of a sensor system, wherein the sensor system is in communication with the control unit. There may be arranged more than one type of sensor in the drain. The drain may also comprise a temperature sensor, a level sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0120] With reference to FIG. 5, an example of a method 1200 according to the second aspect of the present invention is disclosed. The method describes collecting water via a drain 1210; measuring a water recirculation temperature of water in the drain or in a recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 1220; calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint 1230; based on a set water flow a heating requirement may be calculated for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint 1240; comparing between the heating requirement and a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculation device is performed for setting an energy calculation output 1250; and based on the energy calculation output, an activity may be decided in said water recirculating device 1260.

[0121] With reference to FIG. 6, there is shown an example of a method 1300 according to the second aspect of the present invention. It is understood by the skilled person that any combination of features of the present invention is possible without going outside the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the features described with reference to FIG.4 and / or FIG. 5 may also be valid and / or combined with the features described herein for FIG. 6. FIG. 6 illustrates collecting water via a drain 1310; measuring a recirculation temperature of water in the drain or in a recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 1320; calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint 1321 ; using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint 1322; comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting an energy calculation output 1323; measuring water quality in at least one sensor position in the drain or in the recirculation loop of the water recirculation device 1330; if the measured water quality is not equal to or above a water quality threshold 1331 then purifying the water, sending water for discarding, sending the water to the drain, or a combination thereof 1332; if the measured water quality is equal to or above the water quality threshold 1331 then setting said water recirculating device in a recirculation mode 1333; deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output in said water recirculating device 1340; if the heating requirement is not equal to or lower than a heating capability of a heater unit 1341 then decreasing a user output water flow 1342, and wherein if the heating requirement is equal to or lower than the heating capability of the heater unit then increasing the user output water flow or performing no change of the user output water flow 1343. Different combinations may be preferred for different applications of said water recirculation device and said method. For example, the decision of the activity based on the energy calculation output may be determined before measuring the water quality of the water; said water recirculation mode may be set in a recirculation mode after deciding the activity based on the energy calculation output. Clauses - a second aspect of the present invention

[0122] 1 . A method arranged for a water recirculation device, said method comprising:

[0123] - measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device;

[0124] - if the measured water quality is at or above a water quality threshold, setting said water recirculation device in recirculation mode; and wherein said method also comprises:

[0125] - increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow.

[0126] 2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said method comprises increasing the user output water flow above a maximum of an incoming water flow of an external water source.

[0127] 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said method comprises increasing the user output water flow to a user setpoint of the user output water flow.

[0128] 4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein increasing the user output water flow is provided by increasing the water flow in the recirculation loop, preferably the user output water flow is provided only by the water flow in the recirculation loop.

[0129] 5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein increasing the user output water flow is provided by mixing the water flow in the recirculation loop and water flow from the external water source to provide the user output water flow. 6. The method according to any of claims 1 -5, wherein said method also involves a recirculation decision based on energy management when setting said water recirculation device in recirculation mode or not.

[0130] 7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the decision based on energy management is performed in accordance with the following:

[0131] - measuring a recirculation temperature of the water in the drain or in the recirculation loop of said water recirculation device;

[0132] - performing the following steps in a control unit of said water recirculation device:

[0133] - calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint;

[0134] - using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint;

[0135] - comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculation device for setting an energy calculation output;

[0136] - deciding if setting said water recirculation device in recirculation mode or not based on the energy calculation output; and

[0137] - deciding if increasing a water flow in the recirculation loop to increase a user output water flow or not if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit and if the user setpoint of the user output water flow calls for it.

[0138] 8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user output water flow is set in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute.

[0139] 9. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the drain and / or the recirculation loop comprise a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor, preferably the drain of said water recirculation device comprises a collecting arrangement and a sensor tank comprising the at least one sensor, more preferably the drain comprises a sensor tank comprising a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor. 10. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein said water recirculation device is a shower, bath, or sink.

Claims

Claims1 . A method for energy management in a water recirculating device, said method comprising:- measuring a recirculation temperature of the water in a drain or in a recirculation loop of said water recirculation device;- performing the following steps in a control unit of said water recirculating device:- calculating a temperature difference between the recirculation temperature and a user temperature setpoint;- using a set water flow for calculating a heating requirement for heating the set water flow from the recirculation temperature to the user temperature setpoint;- comparing the heating requirement with a heating capability of a heater unit in said water recirculating device for setting an energy calculation output;- deciding an activity based on the energy calculation output; and wherein the method also comprises performing the activity in said water recirculating device.

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the activity is setting a user output water flow based on the energy calculation output.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the activity based on the energy calculation output comprises decreasing the user output water flow, increasing the user output water flow, performing no change in the user output water flow, or providing the mixture of a water flow in the recirculation loop with a warm water flow from an external water source to provide the user output water flow.

4. The method according to any of claims 1-3, wherein the activity comprises decreasing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit.

5. The method according to any of claims 1-4, wherein the activity comprises increasing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit.

6. The method according to any of claims 1-5, wherein the activity comprises providing a mixture of the water flow in the recirculation loop and the warm water flow from the external water source, for providing the user output water flow if the heating requirement is higher than the heating capability of the heater unit.

7. A method intended for a water recirculating device according to any of claims 1-6, said method comprising:- measuring water quality in at least one sensor positioned in the drain or in the recirculation loop of said water recirculation device;- if the measured water quality is equal to or above a water quality threshold, setting the water recirculating device in a recirculation mode; and wherein said method also comprises:- increasing the water flow in the recirculation loop to increase the user output water flow.

8. The method according to any of claims 1-7, wherein the user output water flow is increased when said water recirculating device is in the recirculation mode and when the heating requirement is lower than the heating capability of the heater unit.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the user output water flow is the water flow in the recirculation loop.

10. The method according to any of claims 8 or 9, wherein increasing the user output water flow is provided by mixing the water flow in the recirculation loop and a water flow from the external water source to provide the user output water flow.11 . The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user output water flow is set in the range of 2-20 liter / m inute, preferably between 4-16 liter / m inute, and more preferably between 5-12 liter / m inute.

12. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the drain and / or the recirculation loop comprise a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor, preferably the drain of the water recirculation device comprises a collecting arrangement and a sensor tank comprising at least one sensor, more preferably the drain comprises a sensor tank comprising a temperature sensor and a water quality sensor.

13. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the water recirculating device is a shower, bath, or sink.

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