Control system for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation

Abstract

The present invention relates to a control system (10) for controlling at least a water heating and / or cooling installation (12) the control system (10) comprises at least two controllers configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), including at least a first controller (20) configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a first time period (Δt1), and at least a second controller (22) configured to be operable to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a second time period (Δt2) following the first time period (Δt1 ), and a selection module (24), configured to selectively set active the second controller (22) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (Δt2). Moreover, the present invention relates to a thermal installation (12) comprising the control system (10), a method to operate such a thermal installation (12), a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the method, a computer program product, a computer readable data carrier, a data carrier signal and a use of the control system (10).

Description

[0001] Control system for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a control system for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation. Moreover, the present invention relates to a method to operate such a thermal installation, a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the method, a computer program product, a computer readable data carrier, a data carrier signal and a use of the control system.

[0003] Heating and / or cooling of water in buildings, such as heating or cooling of water of a central heating and / or cooling system or heating of water for domestic use, may be accomplished by means of water heating and / or cooling installations including a heat pump or heat pump system. Such a water heating and / or cooling installation can also be called a thermal installation. Such a heat pump system may either be a water source, for example ground source to water heat pump (GSHP) system or an air source to water heat pump (AWHP) system. In a GSHP system, calories are exchanged between the ground and the water. The calories in the ground may be extracted by capturing calories in a water table or by circulating a water-based circuit in the ground or from any suitable water source. In an AWHP system calories are exchanged between the air and the water. The water to which the calories withdrawn from the water or from the air is transferred to water which is typically stored in a water tank. Such a heat pump system can also comprise a reversible heat pump and or be a reversible heat pump system, wherein the reversible heat pump or heat pump system allows for heating and / or cooling, e.g. by way of floor cooling. In other words, a reversible heat pump system can both heat and cool a space by interchanging the role of each heat exchanger. The water heating and / or cooling installation can comprise at least one heat pump or heat pump system and / or an electrical backup heater and / or a gas heating device, and / or a wood-based heating device and / or any other suitable heating and / or cooling device, such as a PV module or the like.

[0004] Such water and / or cooling heating installations need to be controlled and are thus equipped with a control system. Just as an example of one control task, the temperature of the water inside the water tank, or of the water inside a primary or secondary or any further circuit of the water heating and / or cooling installation for domestic hot water, or for heating or cooling of a building, can be determined by a respective internal temperature sensor and the temperature outside the water tank, can be determined by an external temperature sensor and / or online temperature data, the values received by the respective temperature sensor are interpreted with reference to a) a heating demand or domestic water heating requirement and / or b) in case a more than one heating and / or cooling device is available which heating and / or cooling device to use and how many calories to ask from the respective heat device to deliver the heating demand.

[0005] Control systems are typically equipped with only one general controller. This one general controller has to process information received from multiple sensors which leads to a relatively high complexity for just one controller which reduces the robustness, performance and reliability of this one general controller. In addition, the complexity of the control tasks is constantly increasing such that also the risk of bugging or errors such as giving false values, malfunctioning or no longer working, is increasing. Bugging or errors may lead to reduced performance up to malfunction of the heating and / or cooling device which may cause for example energy overconsumption and / or thermal discomfort for the end-user.

[0006] US2024016115 A1 addresses environmental control systems for agricultural buildings, which often include numerous environmental control devices such as heaters (e.g., 30 or more) and exhaust fans. Each device is equipped with a controller to manage its activation or deactivation, typically based on temperature set points. US2024016115 A1 is directed to improving the inefficient and delayed detection and control of environmental conditions in large agricultural buildings, such as poultry barns, which can lead to animal stress, equipment failure, and energy waste. In order to achieve this goal, US2024016115 A1 discloses a zone-based environmental control system designed for agricultural buildings, such as poultry barns. The system divides the open interior of the building into multiple virtual zones, each managed by a zone system that includes environmental control devices (like heaters and fans) and sensors (such as temperature and humidity sensors). Each zone system is operated by a smart hub controller, which receives environmental setpoints (e.g., temperature thresholds) from a main controller. The smart hubs use these setpoints, along with real-time sensor data, to control the devices in their respective zones. This allows for localized, autonomous control of environmental conditions. The system is designed for resilience: if communication with the main controller is lost, each smart hub continues to operate using the last received parameters. The system also includes fault detection capabilities, where smart hubs monitor the status of devices and report malfunctions to the main controller. These faults can trigger alarms or notifications with detailed information about the affected device and its location. Additionally, the system supports contingency-based control, where the operation of devices in one zone can influence permissions or behavior in another zone to optimize energy use and prevent conflicting actions. For example, if an exhaust fan is active in one zone, the system may prevent heaters from activating in an adjacent zone. The system also includes gas pressure monitoring and flow rate analysis to detect low-pressure conditions or potential gas leaks, and can deactivate heating devices accordingly. Overall, the system emphasizes distributed control, fault tolerance, and energy efficiency through intelligent coordination between the main controller and smart hubs.

[0007] CN116045355A aims to solve the issue of unreliable or insufficiently safe heating control systems in power plants. T raditional systems may lack redundancy, making them vulnerable to single-point failures that could disrupt operations or compromise safety. In order to achieve this goal, CN116045355A discloses an automatic control device specifically developed for heating systems in power plants. The patent emphasizes a design that incorporates redundant measurement and control features to enhance operational reliability and safety. CN116045355A outlines a system architecture that includes a power supply unit equipped with circuit breakers and fuses to ensure stable and protected energy delivery. Central to the system is a signal processing and automatic control unit that communicates via Ethernet, enabling real-time data exchange and remote monitoring capabilities. A touchscreen interface is also integrated, allowing operators to interact with the system intuitively. A notable feature of CN116045355A is the inclusion of a frequency converter with a built-in PID (Proportional-lntegral-Derivative) controller. This component allows for precise regulation of heating parameters and adapts dynamically to operational changes. The Ethernet connectivity of the converter ensures seamless integration into the broader control network, supporting coordinated and efficient system performance. Overall, CN116045355A addresses the need for a robust and automated heating control solution in power plants. By embedding redundancy and intelligent control mechanisms, the patent ensures continuous, safe, and optimized heating operations, even in the event of component failures or system disturbances. CN116045355A focuses on simultaneous redundancy for reliability.

[0008] EP3339752A1 is directed to efficiently and flexibly controlling room temperature across different zones within a building and describes a system designed to manage and regulate the temperature within a room or building using multiple control units. These units are distributed across different zones or rooms and can operate independently while also being coordinated to ensure consistent and efficient temperature regulation throughout the space. The system is capable of adapting to environmental changes and user preferences, which allows it to optimize both energy consumption and comfort levels. A key feature of the system is its communication mechanism, which enables the control units to exchange data with each other and potentially with a central controller. This coordination ensures that the system can respond dynamically to varying conditions and maintain the desired temperature settings across all areas. EP3339752A1 emphasizes distributed, adaptive, and spatially coordinated control.

[0009] CN113357695A is directed to reducing operational failure in electric heating systems that rely on a single control unit. When a single controller fails, the entire heating function can be disrupted, leading to discomfort, safety concerns, or downtime in environments where stable temperature control is essential. CN113357695A introduces a method that incorporates a main control unit for standard operation and one or more standby control units that remain inactive unless a failure is detected. A switching mechanism monitors the system and activates a standby controller if the main unit fails, ensuring uninterrupted heating. This structure enhances fault tolerance, improves system reliability, and maintains continuous operation of the electric warmer without manual intervention or service interruption. CN113357695A ensures continuous operation in the face of hardware failure. The teaching of CN113357695A is built around redundancy and fault tolerance, using standby controllers that activate only when the main controller fails.

[0010] It is one object of the present invention to provide a water heating and / or cooling installation system which has an optimized response, robustness, performance and improved reliability with regard to the increasing complexity of tasks of the water heating and / or cooling installation. In particular, the reliability of control systems of the water heating and / or cooling installations should be increased thereby reducing, preferably avoiding energy overconsumption and / or thermal discomfort for the end-user. It is a further objective of the present invention is to provide a control system for a water heating and / or cooling installation that enables structured, intelligent, and adaptive control through the use of temporally distinct control phases. In other words, it is an objective to ensure continuous and context-aware operation of the installation by coordinating multiple controllers in a way that supports learning, responsiveness, and robustness. Specifically, the invention aims to enable good performance and operational stability under varying conditions.

[0011] The objective is solved by the features specified in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and are described herein.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention the control system for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation comprises at least two controllers configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation, including o at least a first controller configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during a first time period, and o at least a second controller configured to be operable to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during a second time period following the first time period, and o a selection module, configured to selectively set active the second controller to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during the second time period.

[0013] The use of at least two controllers in the control system provides a certain redundancy. In case the first controller does not work properly anymore, the selection module can select and set active the second controller. In addition, the control system according to the invention allows for the control system to allocate tasks to the respective controller better suited for the respective task based for example on the complexity of the task and allows to switch between e,g, a more advanced controller for a complex task requiring e.g. more information for performing the task and a less demanding, or standard controller can be chosen if a less demanding task can be performed by the less demanding controller.

[0014] In the first time period, which may last up to 1 to 2 weeks, but can be set shorter or longer, usage data of the water heating and / or cooling installation may be collected using the first controller, while during the second time period, the collected data is exploited to improve for example the energy savings of the water heating and / or cooling installation using the second controller. When the water heating and / or cooling installation is activated, the first controller is typically used as default. The selection module may be a separate hardware component; however, it may be implemented by software that can be executed on the control system. Also, the selection module can be on the same hardware or in a different software or hardware as the first controller and the second controller. Remote control in the cloud or in another devices or boards can thereby be implemented. The components of the control system can be hardware, software, virtual, distributed, cloud-based, etc.

[0015] The selection module is responsible for determining which controller — among at least a first and a second controller — should be active at a given time. To make this decision, the selection module is configured to obtain and evaluate various types of information, including system health indicators such as fault detection, abnormal temperature or pressure readings, performance metrics like energy efficiency or compressor load, and operating conditions including threshold violations or standby readiness. Based on this information, the selection module enables a controlled and context-aware handover between controllers across temporally distinct control phases. This ensures continuous operation and supports performance optimization, fault tolerance, mode-specific control, and adaptive system behavior in response to internal or external conditions.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the selection module may be configured to trigger a failover if the currently active controller is underperforming or has failed. It may also initiate a handover based on dynamic criteria such as load balancing, energy optimization, or external inputs. Furthermore, the selection module may monitor whether a standby controller is correctly receiving and interpreting data while operating in a non-controlling state, such as in a learning or monitoring mode.

[0017] To support these functionalities, the selection module may comprise or interface with several architectural components. A time monitoring component tracks the operational timeline and determines the appropriate transition point between the first and second time periods. An activation logic component evaluates system conditions and decides when to deactivate the first controller and activate the second controller. A controller interface manages communication between the selection module and the controllers, including the transmission of control signals and the reception of status updates. An output routing component ensures that the output of the currently active controller is correctly directed to the water heating and / or cooling installation. Additionally, a controller management function supports the activation, deactivation, standby, or passive operation — such as monitoring or learning — of the first and second controllers. Finally, a system integration component interfaces with the water heating and / or cooling installation itself, which is the target system being controlled.

[0018] Examples of parameters that can be determined may be parameters of a function, and / or physical parameters of the product. For example, this may include, but is not limited to, a source, destination or refrigerant fluid temperature or pressure, flow rate, energy, or information or operating state of the system, such as the system characteristics or as the instantaneous or consumed power of the compressor. The first time period (At1) according to the invention is a predefined or dynamically determined time interval during which the first controller is active and the second controller is not yet set active for control. The duration of At1 may be fixed, adaptive, or based on system conditions such as thermal load, learning thresholds, or external triggers. During this period, the second controller may be in a learning or monitoring mode, acquiring operational data to prepare for future control. At1 may also serve as a delay or stabilization phase before the second controller becomes available for activation.

[0019] The second time period (At2) according to the invention is a time interval that begins after the first time period, during which the second controller is set active and assumes control of the water heating and / or cooling installation. At2 may be indefinite or dynamically adjusted based on performance metrics, environmental changes, or system objectives. The transition from At1 to At2 may be managed by the selection module and can be triggered by elapsed time, completion of learning objectives, or detection of specific operational states. The two periods may be non-overlapping or partially overlapping depending on the control strategy.

[0020] The invention thus achieves the objective of enabling a control system for a water heating and / or cooling installation that ensures the most suitable controller is used to perform the control task under varying operational conditions. It addresses the challenge that certain controllers may be less efficient or incapable of operating under specific conditions due to their inherent characteristics. By supporting the structured use of temporally distinct control phases and incorporating a selection mechanism, the system allows for the use of a controller that is best suited to the current context — even if this involves a compromise — thereby maintaining system functionality, preserving energy efficiency, and ensuring thermal comfort.

[0021] An advantage of the present invention lies in the structured use of two temporally distinct control phases — namely, a first time period (Atx) and a second time period (At2) — to enable intelligent, adaptive, and robust control of a water heating and / or cooling installation. During the first time period (Ati), the first controller is active and responsible for controlling the installation, while the second controller is not yet set active for control. This first time period may be predefined or dynamically determined and may serve as a delay, stabilization, or reference phase. Importantly, during Atx, the second controller may be available in a non-controlling state and configured to monitor system behavior and / or acquire operational data. This allows the second controller to learn from the operation of the first controller under real- world conditions, thereby preparing it for future control tasks. The second time period (At2) begins after the completion of Atxand corresponds to the phase in which the second controller is set active and assumes control of the installation. The duration of At2may be indefinite or dynamically adjusted based on performance metrics, at least one environmental condition, or system objectives. The transition from Atxto At2is managed by a selection module, which may trigger the switch based on elapsed time, completion of learning objectives, or detection of specific operational states. This architecture enables seamless and informed controller switching, supports learning-based optimization, and ensures continuous and context-aware operation. Furthermore, the separation of learning and execution phases enhances system reliability and allows for the deployment of advanced control strategies without compromising operational stability.

[0022] It is a further advantage of the control system according to the invention that it enables a structured and intelligent transition between multiple controllers, thereby supporting adaptive and robust system behavior. During the first time period (Atx), the first controller is active and responsible for controlling the water heating and / or cooling installation. Concurrently, the second controller is present in the system but remains in a non-controlling state, not yet eligible for activation. This first time period may include a delay phase, during which the second controller is configured to monitor system behavior and / or acquire operational data. This phase serves as a reference or learning period, allowing the second controller to observe the system under the control of the first controller and prepare for future control tasks. As a result, when the second controller becomes available for activation — after the delay and upon completion of At , — it has already acquired relevant operational insights. The selection module then initiates a transition to the second time period (Atz), during which the second controller is set active and assumes control of the installation. The first controller may then be set inactive placed in standby, or remain enabled in a non-controlling role, depending on the system configuration. The second time period may be indefinite in duration and may continue until a further control transition is triggered based on system conditions, performance metrics, or external inputs. Because the second controller has already learned from the system’s behavior during Atx, it can apply this knowledge immediately upon activation, thereby improving responsiveness, adaptability, and performance. This architecture supports seamless and informed controller switching, continuous operation under changing conditions, and delayed activation of advanced or context-aware controllers, ensuring that transitions are both data-driven and operationally robust.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the control system comprises at least one determination device, in particular a sensor, configured for determining a parameter relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation.

[0024] The determination device is suitably a sensor-based subsystem responsible for measuring and reporting key operational parameters of the water heating and / or cooling installation. These parameters are used by the control system — including the selection module and controllers — to make real-time decisions about system behavior, performance optimization, or safety. In accordance with the control system defined in claim 1, the determination device plays a foundational role in enabling context-aware control by providing the data necessary to assess the current state of the installation. The parameters determined may include, but are not limited to, temperatures and pressures at various points in the system (e.g., source, destination, or refrigerant circuit), flow rates, energy consumption, and compressor load. Additionally, the determination device may capture system health indicators such as fault conditions, abnormal operating values, or deviations from expected performance. These measurements may be used to evaluate whether the currently active controller is operating within acceptable bounds or whether a transition to another controller is warranted. By continuously supplying accurate and timely data, the determination device supports the selection module in identifying the most suitable controller for the prevailing conditions, thereby contributing to the system’s ability to maintain thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and operational reliability.

[0025] In addition to these, the determination device may also acquire data related to system dynamics, such as temperature gradients, pressure differentials, or temporal variations in energy consumption. These parameters may be measured directly via sensors or inferred from system behavior over time. The determination device may further monitor operational thresholds, detect anomalies, or track performance indicators relevant to the efficiency, stability, or safety of the water heating and / or cooling installation. Such comprehensive parameter acquisition enables the control system to assess current conditions, predict future states, and support informed decision-making by the selection module when determining which controller to activate. In other words, examples of parameters that may be determined by the determination device include both functional parameters and physical parameters associated with the water heating and / or cooling installation. These may comprise, but are not limited to, temperature or pressure values at various points in the system, such as at the heat source, heat sink, or within the refrigerant circuit. Additional parameters may include flow rate of the working fluid, energy consumption, or energy transfer rates. The determination device may also acquire information relating to the operating state of the system, such as compressor status, instantaneous or cumulative power consumption, or system mode (e.g., heating, cooling, standby). Furthermore, the determination device may evaluate system characteristics over time, including trends, deviations from expected behavior, or performance degradation. These parameters may be used individually or in combination to inform the selection module, support controller decision-making, and enable adaptive control strategies based on real-time or historical data.

[0026] In a further embodiment, a controller of the plurality of controllers may be set inactive, optionally set inactive and enabled, in particular by the selection module, wherein a controller in the inactive state does not participate in the control of the thermal installation but may optionally remain enabled to perform auxiliary functions such as monitoring, learning, or data processing.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the first time period (Atx) is a predefined or dynamically determined interval during which the second controller is in a non-controlling state and configured to acquire operational data from the water heating and / or cooling installation. A further advantage of this configuration is that it enables the second controller to observe the system under real operating conditions without influencing its behavior, thereby allowing it to collect relevant data, monitor performance, and optionally learn from the operation of the first controller. This preparatory phase improves the effectiveness of the second controller when it is later set active, as it can apply the insights gained during Atxto optimize control decisions, enhance responsiveness, and reduce the likelihood of instability or inefficiency during the transition to the second time period (At2).

[0028] According to another embodiment, the second controller is configured to learn from the operation of the first controller during the first time period (Atx). An advantage of this embodiment is that it supports the implementation of adaptive or intelligent control strategies, where the second controller can refine its behavior based on observed system dynamics, user preferences, or at least one environmental condition before assuming control. This learning capability enhances the system’s ability to deliver optimized performance once the second controller becomes active.

[0029] According to another embodiment, the second time period (At2) is initiated upon completion of the first time period (Atx), and the duration of the second time period (At2) is either:

[0030] - predetermined and fixed, or

[0031] - dynamically determined based on operational parameters of the water heating and / or cooling installation, or

[0032] - indefinite, continuing until a further control transition is triggered.

[0033] An advantage of this embodiment is that it provides temporal flexibility in controller activation, allowing the system to adapt to varying operational demands, performance thresholds, or external triggers. This ensures that the second controller remains active only as long as it is optimal to do so, thereby supporting energy efficiency, reliability, and responsiveness.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the selection module is configured to activate the second controller based on one or more criteria selected from: elapsed time, system performance metrics, at least one environmental condition, or completion of a learning objective. An advantage of this embodiment is that it enables data-driven and context-sensitive control transitions. By evaluating real-time or predictive indicators, the system can make informed decisions about when to switch control, ensuring that transitions occur under optimal conditions and are aligned with system goals or constraints.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the first controller is configured to operate the water heating and / or cooling installation according to a predefined control strategy during the first time period (Atx), thereby enabling the second controller, while in a non-controlling state, to acquire consistent operational data for use in subsequent control. An advantage of this embodiment is that it ensures the second controller is exposed to a stable and predictable control environment during its learning phase, which improves the quality and reliability of the data it acquires. This consistency supports more accurate modeling, faster adaptation, and smoother transitions when the second controller is activated.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the determination device comprises one or more sensors configured to determine at least one parameter selected from: temperature, flow rate, energy, or at least one environmental condition. An advantage of this embodiment is that it enables the control system to monitor key operational and environmental variables in real time, providing the necessary input for intelligent control decisions, performance evaluation, and adaptive behavior across both Atxand At2.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the selection module is further configured to manage the activation and deactivation of the first controller and the second controller such that the second controller is activated after the first time period (Atx) has elapsed, and the first controller is deactivated or placed in a non-controlling state upon or after the activation of the second controller. An advantage of this embodiment is that it ensures a coordinated and seamless transition between controllers, minimizing control gaps or conflicts. This coordination supports continuous operation, enhances system stability, and allows for fallback or redundancy strategies if needed.

[0038] According to another embodiment, a controller is configured to be enabled or activable when it is switched on to perform one or more functions selected from monitoring, learning, or data processing, but is not set active to control the water heating and / or cooling installation. In this state, the controller may acquire operational data, evaluate system behavior, or prepare for future control tasks without influencing the operation of the installation. An advantage of this embodiment is that it allows the system to prepare multiple controllers in parallel for future activation, thereby improving responsiveness, adaptability, and fault tolerance without compromising control stability.

[0039] According to another embodiment, the selection module is configured to operate in a unidirectional communication mode. In this configuration, the selection module receives operational data, status information, or capability indicators from one or more controllers. The controllers transmit this information without receiving feedback or commands from the selection module. This mode enables the selection module to make autonomous decisions based on the incoming data stream, without requiring changes to the existing controller architecture.

[0040] According to another embodiment, the selection module operates in a bidirectional communication mode. In this configuration, the selection module not only receives data from the controllers but also transmits control signals or instructions back to them. These instructions may include commands such as: enter monitoring mode, begin or stop learning, transition to standby, or terminate an ongoing process. This enables dynamic interaction between the selection module and the controllers, allowing for more granular control and adaptive behavior.

[0041] According to another embodiment, the selection module is configured to perform quality control on the data received from the controllers. The module evaluates the incoming information against predefined criteria and selects only the data that satisfies quality thresholds for further processing. This ensures that decisions regarding controller activation are based on reliable and relevant information. According to another embodiment, the selection module may act as a routing or relay unit. It may forward received information to one or more controllers or repeat information between controllers to ensure synchronization. This functionality allows the selection module to serve as a communication bridge, particularly in systems where direct communication between controllers is limited or not supported.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the selection module is configured to manage the operational states of the controllers. It may send signals to one or more controllers indicating that they are not currently active but should remain in a non-controlling state, such as standby, monitoring, or learning. This allows the system to maintain readiness and responsiveness without requiring full activation of all controllers simultaneously.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the selection module is designed to be integrated into existing systems without requiring modifications to the controllers themselves. The module is inserted between the controllers and the installation, enabling enhanced control logic and decision-making capabilities while preserving the original controller configurations.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the selection module and one or more controllers may be implemented as a single integrated unit. Alternatively, the selection module may be a standalone component that interfaces with multiple independent controllers, such as a heat pump controller, a boiler controller, or a fallback controller. The architecture supports both centralized and distributed control strategies.

[0045] According to another embodiment, the selection module is configured to coordinate control across heterogeneous devices. For example, a new heat pump may be introduced into an existing installation and, via the selection module, may either assume control of the entire system or adapt its behavior based on the operational state of other independent devices. This enables flexible integration and intelligent coordination in multi-device environments.

[0046] According to another embodiment the second controller operates in a learning mode, in which the second controller monitors but does not control the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation, at least during the first time period. A learning mode is a setting which allows the controller to learn from e.g. user interactions or data imports and / or inputs to improve the performance of the water heating and / or cooling installation or user experience. One example of a learning mode is the adjustment and / or optimization of an algorithm based on newly available information, e.g. in the context of machine learning. A learning mode can also be an adaptive learning mode in which the algorithm and thereby the performance of the heating installation is adapted to the user’s behavior, preferences or changes in the environment. These inputs are used to tailor the response and / or functions of the water heating and / or cooling installation. Another example is a machine learning mode integration in check machine learning models enable the processing and analyzing of data to make predictions and / or tailor responses and / or functions to the resulting data set. The goal of such a learning mode is to enhance the user experience by making the controls software more intuitive and responsive to individual needs or circumstances. As mentioned, in the first period, data regarding the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation is collected, while in the second period the second controller analyzes the data. In this embodiment, the second controller is already activated in the first period and monitors the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation but is not set active. The analysis of the collected data in the second period can be at least partially prepared in the first period leading to a better performance. The learning mode can involve the usage of a neuronal network that is taught during the first period by the data collected.

[0047] In a further embodiment the second controller further comprises a memory configured to record information relating to the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation at least while operating in the learning mode. The term “memory” is often synonymous with the terms RAM, main memory, or primary storage. The recording of the determined parameters over time can be used to identify certain patterns e.g., in the heating demand. As an example, a high heating demand may be recorded in the morning hours of workdays between 6:00h and 7:00h. The control system may anticipate such heating demands and thus find an optimal way how to fulfill the heating demand with minimum energy consumption. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, a neuronal network may be used for the learning mode. The data collected in the first period may be used for training the neuronal network and for testing the reaction of the neuronal network at other boundary conditions. The respective data can be copied and manipulated when it is recorded in a memory.

[0048] In another embodiment the second controller further monitors the operation of the first controller at least while operating in the learning mode. In this embodiment not only the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation is monitored but also the operation of the first controller. Thus, the second controller may learn about the way the first controller steers the water heating and / or cooling installation and also identify less optimal commands, thereby improving its own performance.

[0049] For example, the second controller will be able to identify whether the system is operating optimally in relation to the commands sent to the first and / or the second controller. The second controller can for example identify that a significant volume of hot water has been requested by the first controller and produced by the system long before it is consumed by the user. This leads to heat loss and a drop in the system's energy performance. On the basis of this information, the second controller can identify that it leads to an improved performance to shift the heating control and / or adjust the temperature to match the user's consumption.

[0050] On the other hand, the second controller, based on the various system measurements (temperature, pressure, etc.), can determine that during the learning mode, there was a risk of the user running out of hot water at a certain time. The second controller can then identify these risks and the associated parameters (timings, external conditions, etc.) and apply corrective measures, such as launching a second heating element or adjusting the power of the heat pump if there is a risk of a shortage of hot water. Additionally or alternatively, the second controller can use the analysis of system performance and requests from the first controller to identify specific periods or parameters that have resulted in above- average efficiency. The second controller can learn from the history of the water heating and / or cooling installation to implement preventive heating, in other words reduction of energy wastage, when these conditions are met (for example specific range of temperature or humidity values, or specific time slot, etc.). For example, this could involve heating at times of day when the temperature or humidity (even if not measured) of the source is particularly suitable, etc. In an embodiment second controller monitors the first controller in view of the responsiveness to individual needs of the user. In an example to elucidate the principle, the user has the habit of taking a bath or using water inside the dwelling at some time during the day. If the energy source of the heating system is at least partly the air in this dwelling itself, the performance of the water heating and / or cooling installation will be improved during this period and less energy will be used compared to not adapting the water heating and / or cooling installation. It is a known fact that humid air provides a better energy supply than dry air for a heat pump. Therefore, even if humidity is not a parameter measured by the water heating and / or cooling installation and the product has no way of knowing the cause of a particularly high performance, the second controller will be able to identify these periods thanks to the heating history built up by the first controller, and will therefore prefer these periods to start heating.

[0051] It may also be a case of learning, on the basis of regular orders from a user for the product, about particular uses which could lead the second controller to integrate this request and carry it out automatically. For example, the second controller may note that the user tends to apply a silence and / or boost and / or energy reduction mode during a regular time slot (at night, at weekends, on a particular day of the week, etc.) and automate this request. So, for example, if a user is bothered during the learning phase by the noise generated by the product in the evenings, and over time started to put the product in silent mode, the second controller will be able to optimize the heating profile of the heat pump system so as not to generate noise in the evening by modifying the heating periods.

[0052] A further embodiment requires that the selection module selectively sets active the second controller to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during the second time period based, at least in part, on at least one of a request, on a user setting, on a preference, on a parameter, on the information recorded in the learning mode, and / or on a predicted performance measure of the water heating and / or cooling installation when using the second controller. In this embodiment the second controller is set active based on meaningful and comprehensible criteria.

[0053] One application is to handle the restart of the water heating and / or cooling installation and the possibility to automatically be on the second controller if certain conditions are met, likely data sufficiency and a below maximum deactivation time. Thus, there is no need to use the first controller at a restart. A further embodiment requires that the water heating and / or cooling installation further comprises a thermostat. Within the present description, a thermostat can be understood as a regulating element to identify when heat is needed. In particular, it can be an element that determines when the temperature of the environment is outside the set point ranges. For example, when the temperature of the water in the system is lower than the set temperature and the tolerance range (called hysteresis), the thermostat determines that the water heating and / or cooling installation should be operated. The thermostat thus sets the heating demand which is a very important control variable for the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation. In other words, the thermostat thereby defines the heating or cooling demand, which serves as a critical control variable for system operation.

[0054] The determination device of the control system may include a temperature sensor for acquiring environmental or system temperature data; however, the determination device is not necessarily the thermostat. The thermostat may function as a basic controller, operable with a basic temperature sensor, and is capable of independently running the installation if required. In scenarios where other controllers are unavailable or inoperative, the thermostat serves as a default controller, ensuring continued operation of the thermal installation. If the thermostat itself is unavailable, the installation is rendered non-opera- tional. Accordingly, the system architecture ensures that a default controller — typically the thermostat — is always enabled and available to maintain basic functionality. In certain embodiments, the default controller may correspond to the first controller in the control sequence or to any other controller of the plurality of controllers.

[0055] According to another embodiment at least the selection module operates on the thermostat. The operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation may usually be controlled e.g., by the power of the compressor of a heat pump or other components that are involved in the transfer of calories into the water to be heated. When the selection module operates on the thermostat, another way of controlling the water heating and / or cooling installation is available. The setting of the end-user may be overridden by the control system in case the setting leads to a disadvantageous operating condition.

[0056] According to another embodiment the thermostat includes the first controller and / or the second controller. As the thermostat is a component often present in the system as a standard component, the integration of the first controller and / or the second controller therein facilitates a compact and space-efficient assembly.

[0057] In another embodiment, the selection module selectively sets active the second controller to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during the second time period (At2) based, at least in part, on a setting from the thermostat, wherein the second time period (At2) follows a first time period (Atx). As mentioned above, the end-user can set the thermostat according to his or her preferences. In this embodiment, the setting from the thermostat is considered when the second controller is set active. Upon system activation, the first controller is selected by default and operates during Atx. The second controller may be enabled during Atxin a passive mode, such as monitoring or learning, but remains inactive. A delay condition, which may be defined by a predetermined time interval or a specific event (e.g., time-of-day or environmental trigger), is evaluated during Atx. Once the delay condition is satisfied, the selection module sets the second controller active, thereby initiating At2. The delay condition may be overridden by user input to shorten or bypass the delay. The first controller may remain in an enabled, standby, or monitoring state during At2. So, in other words, upon system start-up, the first controller — e.g., the thermostat — is selected by default to control the installation during the first time period. The user may enable the second controller, optionally subject to a delay condition. The delay may correspond to a predefined time interval or be triggered by a specific condition, such as a time-of-day event or environmental threshold. During the delay period, the second controller may operate in a non-con- trolling operational or passive mode, such as monitoring or learning, data processing or stand-by mode. Once the delay condition is satisfied, the second controller is set active. The delay may be shortened or bypassed via an override mechanism. The first controller may remain in an enabled, standby, or monitoring state during this transition. Thus, the preferences of the end-user are matched.

[0058] In another embodiment the control system comprises a performance testing module, the performance testing module is configured to determine a first performance measure of the water heating and / or cooling installation during the first time period, wherein the first performance measure (PM1 ) quantifies an operational characteristic of the installation, such as energy consumption, thermal output or temperature stability;, determine a second performance measure of the water heating and / or cooling installation during the second time period, wherein the second performance measure (PM2) is determined using the same metric as PM1 ; and compute a comparative performance value (PC) by comparing the first performance measure to the second performance measure, wherein the comparative performance value (PC) indicates a relative change in performance between the two time periods.

[0059] The performance measure may be based on measured information of the operation the first controller and / or the second controller, but also the determination from information based on simulations and estimations to predict its possible performance and also to improve the performance in particular of the second controller.

[0060] In another embodiment, the determination device is a sensor, in particular a temperature, flow or pressure sensor for the determination of at least one parameter of the water heating and / or coolling installation, the parameter being selected from temperature, flow, or pressure, the measurement being performed in relation to at least one of the water being heated or cooled within the water heating and / or cooling installation, the energy source supplying thermal input to the water heating and / or cooling installation, or the working fluid circulating within a heat exchange or transfer loop of the water heating and / or cooling installation.

[0061] In an advantageous embodiment a water heating and / or cooling installation comprises an inventive control system.

[0062] According to a further aspect of the invention, a method is provided for controlling at least a water heating and / or cooling installation using a control system. The control system optionally comprises a determination device configured for determining a parameter relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation. The control system comprises at least a first controller configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during a first time period, at least a second controller configured to be operable to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during a second time period following the first time period, and a selection module configured to selectively set active the second controller during the second time period. The method comprises: a) operating the first controller to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during the first time period; b) operating the second controller to control the water heating and / or cooling installation during the second time period; c) activating the second controller via the selection module after the first time period has elapsed; d) deactivating or placing the first controller in a non-controlling state upon or after activation of the second controller; and e) maintaining continuous control of the water heating and / or cooling installation during the transition between the first and second controllers.

[0063] It is understood that the method may be implemented with or without a determination device; in particular, the selection module may receive operational data from various sources, including sensors, external systems, preconfigured settings, or internal controller logic, thereby allowing for flexible integration depending on system architecture and available data inputs.

[0064] According to a further embodiment, the operational data used in the method comprises one or more of: information acquired by the determination device, system parameters, historical data, predictive data, operational context, or user input. The operational context may comprise one or more of: predefined settings, user profiles, at least one environmental condition, at least one weather forecast or current weather condition, or pricing information.

[0065] According to a further embodiment, the selection module operates in a unidirectional communication mode in which the selection module selects a controller based on the operational data without receiving feedback from the controllers. According to a further embodiment, the selection module operates in a bidirectional communication mode in which the selection module receives feedback, status, or capability information from one or more controllers regarding their operability under current or anticipated conditions and selects a controller based on the received feedback.

[0066] A further aspect of the invention relates to a data processing device comprising means for carrying out the method as described in any of the preceding embodiments.

[0067] A further aspect of the invention relates to a computer program product comprising instructions to cause the heat pump of any of the preceding embodiments to execute the steps of the method as described.

[0068] A further aspect of the invention relates to a computer-readable data carrier having stored thereon the computer program product as described.

[0069] A further aspect of the invention relates to a data carrier signal carrying the computer program product as described.

[0070] A further aspect of the invention relates to the use of a control system for controlling at least one thermal installation, in particular a thermal installation comprising at least one heat pump, wherein the control system in particular comprises a selection module as described in the preceding embodiments.

[0071] The advantages described in connection with one aspect of the invention equally apply to other aspects, even if not explicitly repeated. Similarly, the embodiments presented for a particular aspect are to be understood as illustrative embodiments also within the context of the other aspects of the invention. This cross-applicability ensures that the disclosed features, configurations, and benefits are not limited to a single claim category but extend throughout the invention as a whole. For example a configuration of the selection module in an embodiment includes the capability to perform a corresponding step in the method according to a further aspect to the invention.

[0072] The present invention is described in detail with reference to the drawings attached wherein

[0073] Figure 1 shows an inventive embodiment of a control system for controlling a water heating and / or cooling installation,

[0074] Figure 2 is a graphical representation of the way the control system can operate the water heating and / or cooling installation, Figure 3 a water heating and / or cooling installation that comprises the control system shown in Figure 1, both Figures showing principle drawings.

[0075] Figure 4 a flowchart of an embodiment of a selection module and a selection process as part of the control system;

[0076] Figure 5 a flowchart of a further embodiment ofthe selection module as part of the control system for managing controller activation and switching in a thermal Installation;

[0077] Figure 6 a flowchart of an overwriting procedure of the control system for the thermal installation according to another embodiment;

[0078] Figure 7 a flowchart of a recording procedure of the control system for the thermal installation according to another embodiment; and

[0079] Figure 8 a flowchart of the control system for prioritizing control of heating devices in the thermal installation according to a further embodiment.

[0080] Figure 9 a principle drawing of a controller hierarchy of the plurality of controllers 18 within the control system 10, which is configured to control at least one thermal installation 12 according to a further embodiment

[0081] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a control system 10 according to the present invention which is used for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation 12 (see also Figure 1). The control system 10 comprises a determination device 14 which may be provided with a sensor (not shown), configured for determining parameter P relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation 12. Moreover, the control system 10 is equipped with a thermostat 18 by which an end-user of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 can input the heating demand. The thermostat 18 comprises a plurality of controllers, each controller of the thermostat 18 configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation 12. The thermostat 18 includes at least a first controller 20 and at least a second controller 22, and a selection module 24 configured to selectively set active a controller from the thermostat 18. The selection module 24 is configured to determine a set of enabled or activable controllers 23 from the thermostat 18, based, for example, on the determined parameter P. According to an example, a controller is configured to be enabled or activable when it is switched on to perform one or more functions selected from monitoring, learning, or data processing, but is not set active to control the water heating and / or cooling installation. In this state, the controller may acquire operational data, evaluate system behavior, or prepare for future control tasks without influencing the operation of the installation. This definition applies to the set of activable controllers 23 referenced in the figures and throughout the description.

[0082] The selection module 24 comprises two sub-modules, namely a first sub-module 28 configured to selectively set active a controller from the plurality of enabled or activable controllers 23, and a second sub-module 30 configured to determine the set of enabled or activable controllers 23 from the thermostat Moreover, the control system 10 is provided with a memory 26 configured to record the determined parameters P relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation 12. Furthermore, the control system 10 is equipped with a performance testing module 60 by which a first performance measure PM1 of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 during a first time period At1 (see Figure 2) and a second performance measure PM2 of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 during a second time period At2 can be determined. Moreover, a comparative performance PC can be determined by the performance testing module 60 by which the first performance measure PM1 is compared to the second performance measure PM2.

[0083] Figure 2 is a graphical representation of the way the control system may operate the water heating and / or cooling installation over time. In particular, the first time period At1 and the time period At2 are shown. Later, the way the water heating and / or cooling installation can be operated will be described in further detail with reference to Figure 2.

[0084] Figure 3 is a principle sketch of a water heating and / or cooling installation 12 that comprises a control system 10 as shown in Figure 1. The water heating and / or cooling installation 12 is equipped with a heating and / or cooling device 32 connected to a water distribution system 34 comprising a water inlet 36 and a water outlet 38 of a water tank 58. The determination device 14 comprises the determination device 14 by which temperature, volume, flowrate and / or energy and / or other parameters at the water inlet 36 and / or the water outlet 38 and / or inside the water tank 58 can be determined.

[0085] The water heating and / or cooling installation 12 also includes a heat pump 40 having a compressor 42 either of variable or fixed speed. The heat pump 40 transfers calories or heat from the exterior of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 to water stored in the water tank 58.

[0086] The water heating and / or cooling installation 12 is further equipped with an additional heating and / or cooling system 46 that includes additional heating element 44 by which the water in the water tank 58 can be heated either in addition or instead of the heat pump 40. The additional heating element 44 may comprise an electrical heater 52 that can interact with the water in the water tank 58.

[0087] Beyond that the additional heating and / or cooling system 46 comprises a storage tank 50 where hot water can be stored. A heat exchanger 54 is in fluid communication with the water in the storage tank 50 and the water in the water tank 58. If needed, heat can be transferred from the water in the storage tank 50 to the water in the water tank 58 or vice versa. By means of an additional determination device 56, the temperature or other relevant parameter P of the water in the storage tank 50 can be determined. A pump 60 can be activated to transfer heat between the storage tank 50 and the water tank 58.

[0088] The water heating and / or cooling installation 12 can be operated as follows: The end-user may input a desired heating demand using the thermostat 18. The water heating and / or cooling installation 12 may be switched on in reaction of this heating demand, thereby initiating the first time period At1 (see Figure 2). During the first time period At1 the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 is controlled by the first controller 20. The time period At1 is monitored by the selection module 24.

[0089] The control system 10 may be configured such that during the first time period At1, the second controller 22 monitors but does not control the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12. During the first time period At1 , the second controller 22 monitors the first controller 20. While monitoring, the second controller 22 can be operated in a learning mode. The information obtained by the second controller 22 while operating in the learning mode is recorded by the memory 26.

[0090] When the first time period At1 has lapsed, which may be the case after one or two weeks, the selection module 24 may set active the second controller 22 to control the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 during the second time period At2. The activation of the second controller 22 is not only triggered by the lapse of the first time period At1 , but may depend on a request Q, on a user setting SU, on a preference PREF, on a parameter P, on the information recorded in the learning mode ILM, and / or on a predicted performance measure PP of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 and on the setting ST from the thermostat 18 (see Figure 1 ).

[0091] The activation of the second controller 22 may additionally be supported by the performance testing module 60. The performance testing module 60 determines a first performance measure PM1 of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 during the first time period At1 and a second performance measure PM2 of the water heating and / or cooling installation 12 during the second time period At2. By comparing the first performance measure PM1 to the second performance measure PM2, the performance testing module 60 determines a comparative performance PC which is considered in the activation of the second controller 22.

[0092] After the second time period At2 has lapsed, the control system 10 has a good knowledge on the performances of the first controller 20 and the second controller 22.

[0093] With reference to Figure 3, the temperatures of the water inside the water tank 58, at the water inlet 36 and the water outlet 38 can be determined by the determination device 14. These three temperatures and their change over time may be interpreted with reference to a) a water heating requirement and / or b) if the calories of the water in the water tank 58 are sufficient to satisfy the water heating requirement or if calories from the additional heating and / or cooling system are needed. The selection moule 24 can now decide which one of the plurality of controllers 18 to use to fulfill the task a) and task b). To this end, the selection module 24 selectively set active the first controller 20 or the second controller 22 for example in consideration of the comparative performance PC.

[0094] Figure 4 illustrates the operational logic of a control system 10 for controlling at least one water heating and / or cooling installation 12, such as a heat pump. The system comprises as an option at least one determination device 14, the plurality of controllers 18 including the first controller 20 and the second controller 22, and the selection module 24, which may be implemented in software and / or hardware.

[0095] In step 101 , the system is initialized by powering on the installation. In step 102, the selection module 24 evaluates whether the operating conditions of the installation 12 are met. This evaluation is based on operational data, including inputs from the determination device 14, system parameters, historical records, predictive insights, and user input. The evaluation may consider operational context, such as at least one environmental condition, user preferences, or energy pricing.

[0096] If conditions are not met, activation may be deferred or reassigned. If conditions are met, the system proceeds to controller activation.

[0097] In step 103, a controller activation is attempted. In step 104, the system checks whether the activation criteria are satisfied. If not, step 105 verifies the control activation status. If this fails, the system may reset control variables. In step 106, the system verifies whether the control rules associated with the selected controller are satisfied. In step 107, it checks access permissions for control variables. In step 108, the system confirms that all control and access conditions are fulfilled before execution.

[0098] In parallel, steps 109 and 110 involve the determination device 14 calculating new operating points and transmitting them to the controllers 18.

[0099] The selection module 24 manages the transition between the first controller 20 and the second controller 22 based on the defined time periods. During the first time period (Atx), the first controller 20 is active and the second controller 22 is in a non-controlling state. The second controller 22 may acquire operational data during Atx, for example to support learning or monitoring. Upon completion of Atx, the selection module 24 activates the second controller 22 for the second time period (Atz), and deactivates or places the first controller 20 in a non-controlling state. The duration of Atxmay be predefined or dynamically determined, and At2may be fixed, dynamic, or indefinite, continuing until a further control transition is triggered.

[0100] In step 111, if the second controller 22 is no longer preferred, the selection module (24) initiates a control switch in step 112. In step 113, the selection module 24 selects the most appropriate controller based on current operational data. In step 114, the second controller 22 is deactivated. In step 115, the preferred controller, such as the first controller 20 - is activated. In step 116, the system state is updated accordingly.

[0101] The selection module 24 may operate in unidirectional mode, where it transmits control decisions based solely on operational data, without receiving feedback from controllers. This mode simplifies system architecture, reduces communication overhead, and improves determinism.

[0102] Additionally or alternatively the selection module 24 may operate in bidirectional mode, where it also receives feedback, status, or capability data from controllers to inform controller selection. This enables adaptive and context-sensitive control behavior.

[0103] In some embodiments, the selection module (24) supports both modes, allowing dynamic adaptation based on system requirements or controller capabilities.

[0104] Additionally, the selection module (24) may evaluate operational data during runtime. If a change in suitability is detected - e.g., due to controller availability, performance degradation, environmental changes, or predictive indicators - the control task is reassigned to a more suitable controller. Suitability may be based on thermal thresholds, energy efficiency, fault detection, environmental parameters, or predictive maintenance indicators. The reassignment ensures that the controller selected for At2remains appropriate throughout its activation period, or that a new controller is selected if conditions change.

[0105] An advantage illustrated by Figure 4 is the control system’s ability to dynamically manage transitions between multiple controllers based on real-time operational data and contextual factors, while supporting learning-based optimization and continuous operation.

[0106] During the first time period (Atx), the first controller 20 is active and responsible for controlling the water heating and / or cooling installation 12. Simultaneously, the second controller 22 is present in the system but not yet available for being set active for control. This first time period may include a delay phase, during which the second controller is not yet eligible for activation but is already in a non-controlling state, configured to monitor system behavior and / or acquire operational data. This period serves as a reference or learning phase for the second controller 22, enabling it to observe the system under the control of the first controller and prepare for future control tasks.

[0107] This design ensures that by the time the second controller becomes available for activation — after the delay and upon completion of Atx— it has already acquired relevant operational insights. The selection module 24 then initiates a transition to the second time period (Atz), during which the second controller 22 is set active and assumes control of the installation. The first controller 20 is then either deactivated, placed in standby, or remains enabled in a non-controlling role, depending on the system configuration. The second time period (At2) may be indefinite in duration, continuing until a further control transition is triggered based on system conditions, performance metrics, or external inputs. Because the second controller 22 has already learned from the system’s behavior during Atx, it can apply this knowledge immediately upon activation, supporting improved responsiveness, adaptability, and performance.

[0108] This architecture enables the control system 10 to support seamless and informed controller switching, adaptive behavior, and continuous operation, even under changing environmental or operational conditions. It also allows for delayed activation of advanced or context-aware controllers, ensuring that transitions are both data-driven and operationally robust.

[0109] Figure 5 illustrates a preference-based control logic implemented within the control system 10 for the thermal installation 12, wherein the selection module 24 manages the activation of controllers from the plurality of controllers 18 based on operational data and user-defined preferences.

[0110] In step 201, the process begins with the second controller 22 being active. This corresponds to the second time period (At2), during which the second controller has already been set active by the selection module 24, following a prior first time period (Atx) in which it may have been in a non-controlling state for learning or monitoring.

[0111] In step 202, the user updates the control preferences. In step 203, the system registers the update and triggers a re-evaluation. In step 204, the selection module 24 checks whether the currently active second controller 22 remains the top preferred controller, based on preference (PREF), predicted performance (PP), or other operational data. If the second controller 22 is still preferred in step 205, it remains active. If not, step 206, the selection module 24 initiates a transition to the newly preferred controller. In step 207, the new controller, e.g., the first controller 20, is set active. In step 208, the process loops back to allow further preference updates.

[0112] Figure 5 represents a dynamic and adaptive control mechanism that operates during At2, after the second controller has been activated. It complements the Ati / At2architecture by showing how controller selection can continue to evolve based on user input and system evaluation.

[0113] Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart representing the override logic implemented by the control system 10 for managing temporary control transitions in the thermal installation 12. The system includes at least one determination device 14, the plurality of controllers 18 including the first controller 20 and the second controller 22, and the selection module 24.

[0114] In step 211, the second controller 22 is active, indicating that the system is operating in the second time period At2. In step 212, an override is triggered — either by the system or the user — based on operational data from the determination device 14. The process then branches:

[0115] - In step 213, the second controller 22 is paused.

[0116] - In step 214, the override logic is applied, which may involve activating the first controller (20) in a standby or monitoring role.

[0117] In step 215, the system checks whether the override is complete. If not, it loops back to continue the override. Once complete, in step 216, the second controller 22 resumes control.

[0118] Figure 6 demonstrates how the control system 10 can temporarily suspend the active controller during At2to execute critical procedures, while maintaining the ability to resume standard control logic. It complements the Ati / At2framework by showing how the system handles interruptions during the second controller’s active phase.

[0119] Figure 7 illustrates the data recording logic of the control system 10, which controls at least one thermal installation 12. The system includes as an option at least one determination device 14, the plurality of controllers 18 including the first controller 20 and the second controller 22, and the selection module 24.

[0120] In step 301 , the system is powered on. In step 302, data recording begins. This includes measurements and processed data from the determination device 14, which may be used by the selection module 24 to evaluate operational conditions and inform controller selection. In step 303, the system checks whether the product is still on. If yes, it loops back to continue recording. If no, it proceeds to step 304 and stops recording.

[0121] Figure 7 supports the Ati / At2architecture by showing how operational data is continuously collected — both during the first time period Atx, when the second controller may be learning or monitoring, and during the second time period At2, when it is active.

[0122] Figure 8 presents a flowchart outlining the control logic of the control system 10 for managing the thermal installation 12 with multiple heating devices. The system includes at least one determination device 14, the first controller 20, the second controller 22, and the selection module 24.

[0123] The flowchart includes three control paths:

[0124] - Standard Control operating in steps 401-402: Typically managed by the first controller 20, this path may be used during the first time period Atx, when the second controller is not yet active but may be learning or monitoring. - Advanced Control operating in steps 403-404: Typically managed by the second controller 22, this path is activated during the second time period At2, after the second controller has been set active by the selection module 24.

[0125] - Override Procedure marked as step 405: the override procedure temporarily suspends normal control logic to apply emergency or safety routines, as described in Figure 5.

[0126] In step 406, all paths converge at a decision point. In step 407, the selection module 24 prioritizes the appropriate controller based on operational data. In step 408, the selected control output is directed to the heating devices 68, such as a boiler 62, PV system 64, or heat pump 40.

[0127] Figure 8 illustrates how the control system 10 integrates multiple control strategies and dynamically assigns control based on the Ati / At2framework, controller capabilities, and real-time conditions.

[0128] Figure 9 illustrates the controller hierarchy within the control system 10, which controls at least one thermal installation 12. The system includes at least one determination device 14, the plurality of controllers 18 including the first controller 20, the second controller 22, and a third controller 66, all coordinated by the selection module 24.

[0129] - The first controller 20 represents a baseline controller, typically active during the first time period Ati.

[0130] - The second controller 22 represents an advanced controller, typically activated during the second time period At2, after a learning or monitoring phase during Atx.

[0131] - The third controller 66 has intermediate capabilities and may be used for specific tasks.

[0132] The selection module 24 evaluates operational data and assigns control tasks based on controller suitability. Controllers that are enabled but not active remain in a non-controlling state, where they may perform learning, monitoring, or standby functions — particularly relevant for the second controller 22 during Atx.

[0133] Figure 9 further illustrates the Ati / At2architecture by showing how the system enables delayed activation of more advanced controllers, allowing them to learn before being set active, and dynamically assigns control based on performance, suitability, and system conditions. Reference list

[0134] 10 Control system

[0135] 12 water heating and / or cooling installation

[0136] 14 determination device

[0137] 18 thermostat

[0138] 20 first controller

[0139] 22 second controller

[0140] 23 enabled or activable controller

[0141] 24 selection module

[0142] 26 memory

[0143] 28 thermostat

[0144] 30 performance testing module

[0145] 28 first sub-module

[0146] 30 second sub-module

[0147] 32 heating and / or cooling device

[0148] 34 water distribution system

[0149] 36 water inlet

[0150] 38 water outlet

[0151] 40 heat pump

[0152] 42 compressor

[0153] 44 additional heating element

[0154] 46 additional heating and / or cooling system

[0155] 48 additional determination device

[0156] 50 storage tank

[0157] 52 electrical heater

[0158] 54 heat exchanger

[0159] 56 additional determination device

[0160] 58 water tank

[0161] 60 performance testing module

[0162] 62 boiler

[0163] 64 photovoltaic (PV) system

[0164] 66 third, less advanced, controller

[0165] 68 heating device(s)

[0166] At1 first time period

[0167] At2 second time period

[0168] ILM information in the learning mode P parameter

[0169] PC comparative performance

[0170] PP predicted performance

[0171] PM1 first performance measure

[0172] PM2 second performance measure

[0173] PREF preference

[0174] Q request

[0175] ST setting from thermostat

[0176] 101 Product is turned on

[0177] 102 Check if operating condition is active or established

[0178] 103 Control and access link not activated

[0179] 104 Control activation begins

[0180] 105 User attempts to activate the controls

[0181] 106 Check if activation is successful

[0182] 107 Verify control activation

[0183] 108 Activation unsuccessful

[0184] 109 Control and access link not activated (fallback or retry)

[0185] 110 Determine new mode of operation or set general signal protocol

[0186] 111 Evaluate if the mode prevents or allows variable control

[0187] 112 Initiate control switch

[0188] 113 Switch to the most preferred mode for current conditions

[0189] 114 Deactivate current scenario

[0190] 115 Activate most preferred variable control

[0191] 116 Update system state (implied finalization step, not explicitly labeled)

[0192] 201 Second controller 22 is active.

[0193] 202 User updates control preferences in the list

[0194] 203 Preference list is modified

[0195] 204 Evaluation: is second controller (22) the top or preferred controller?

[0196] 205 If yes, second controller (22) remains active

[0197] 206 If no, selection module (24) selects and activates the now preferred controller (e.g. , first controller (20))

[0198] 207 First controller (20) is active

[0199] 208 Process restarts if preferences are updated again

[0200] 211 Second controller 22 is active

[0201] 212 System / User triggers an override procedure

[0202] 213 Second controller 22 is paused 214 Override procedure is applied

[0203] 215 Is override procedure finished?

[0204] 216 second controller 22 is resumed 301 Product is turned on

[0205] 302 Recording data (processed data and / or measurements) and saving to storage

[0206] 303 Is product on? (decision point)

[0207] 304 If “Yes,” loop back to continue recording

[0208] 305 If “No,” proceed to stop 306 Stop (end of recording process)

[0209] 401-402 Steps in the standard control path (managed by first controller 20)

[0210] 403-404 Steps in the advanced control path (managed by second controller 22) 405 Override procedure step 406 Decision point where control paths converge

[0211] 407 Prioritization step (evaluates and selects control strategy)

[0212] 408 Output to heating device(s)

Claims

Patent claims1. Control system (10) for controlling at least a water heating and / or cooling installation (12), the control system (10) comprising the control system (10) characterized in that the control system (10) comprises at least two controllers configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), including o at least a first controller (20) configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a first time period (At1), and o at least a second controller (22) configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a second time period (At2) following the first time period (At1), and o a selection module (24), configured to selectively set active the second controller (22) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (At2).

2. Control system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the control system (10) comprises at least one determination device (14) configured for determining a parameter relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation (12),3. Control system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first time period (At1 ) is a predefined or dynamically determined interval during which the second controller (22) is in a non-controlling state and configured to acquire and / or to process operational data from the water heating and / or cooling installation (12).

4. Control system (10) according to claim 3, wherein the second controller (22) is configured to learn from the operation of the first controller (20) during the first time period (At1 ).

5. Control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second time period (At2) is initiated upon completion of the first time period (At1 ), and wherein the duration of the second time period (At2) is either:- predetermined and fixed, or- dynamically determined based on operational parameters of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), or- indefinite, continuing until a further control transition is triggered.

6. Control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the selection module (24) is configured to activate the second controller (22) based on one or more criteria selected from:elapsed time, system performance metrics, at least one environmental condition, or completion of a learning objective.

7. Control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first controller (20) is configured to operate the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) according to a predefined control strategy during the first time period (At1), thereby enabling the second controller (22), while in a non-controlling state, to acquire consistent operational data for use in subsequent control.

8. Control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the determination device (14) comprises one or more sensors configured to determine at least one parameter (P) selected from: temperature, flow rate, energy , or at least one environmental condition.

9. Control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the selection module (24) is further configured to manage the setting active or setting inactive of the first controller (20) and the second controller (22) such that the second controller (22) is set active after the first time period (At1 ) has elapsed, and the first controller (20) is set inactive or placed in a non-controlling state upon or after the activation of the second controller (22).

10. Control system (10) of claim any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second controller (22) operates in a learning mode, in which the second controller (22) monitors but does not control the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), at least during the first time period (At1).

11. Control system (10) of claim any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second controller (22) further comprises a memory (26) configured to record information relating to the operation of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) at least while operating in a learning mode.

12. Control system (10) of any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second controller (22) further monitors the operation of the first controller (20) at least while operating in the learning mode.

13. Control system (10) of any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the selection module (24) sets active the second controller (22) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (At2) based, at least in part, on at least one of a request (Q), on a user setting (SU), on a preference (PREF), on a parameter (P), on the information recorded in the learning mode (ILM), and / or on a predictedperformance measure (PP) of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) when using the second controller (22).

14. Control system (10) of any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) further comprises a thermostat (18).

15. Control system (10) of claim 14, characterized in that at least the selection module (24) operates on the thermostat (18).

16. Control system (10) of claim 14 or claim 15, characterized in that the thermostat (18) includes the first controller (20) and / or the second controller (22).

17. Control system (10) of any one of claims 14 through 16, characterized in that the selection module (24) set active the second controller (22) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (At2) based, at least in part, on a setting (ST) from the thermostat (18).

18. Control system (10) of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a performance testing module (60), wherein the performance testing module (60) is configured to: a) determine a first performance measure (PM1 ) of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the first time period (At1), wherein the first performance measure (PM1) quantifies an operational characteristic of the installation, such as energy consumption, thermal output, or temperature stability; b) determine a second performance measure (PM2) of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (At2), wherein the second performance measure (PM2) is determined using the same metric as PM1 ; and c) compute a comparative performance value (PC) by comparing the first performance measure (PM1) to the second performance measure (PM2), wherein the comparative performance value (PC) indicates a relative change in performance between the two time periods.

19. Control system (10) of any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the determination device (14) is a sensor, in particular a temperature, flow or pressure sensor for the determination of at least one parameter of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), the parameter being selected from temperature, flow or pressure, the measurement being performed in relation to at least one of the water being heated or cooled within the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), the energy source supplying thermal input to the water heating and / or cooling installation(12), or the working fluid circulating within a heat exchange or transfer loop of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12).

20. Water heating and / or cooling installation (12), comprising a control system (10) according to any of claims 1 to 19.

21. A method for controlling at least a water heating and / or cooling installation (12) using a control system (10), in particular according to any of claims 1 to 19, the control system (10) comprising: optionally a determination device (14) configured for determining a parameter relating to the water heating and / or cooling installation (12), further comprising at least a first controller (20) configured to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a first time period (At1 ), at least a second controller (22) configured to be operable to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during a second time period (At2) following the first time period (At1 ) and a selection module (24) configured to selectively set active the second controller (22) during the second time period (At2), the method comprising: a) operating the first controller (20) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the first time period (At1 ); b) operating the second controller (22) to control the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the second time period (At2); c) setting active the second controller (22) via the selection module (24) after the first time period (At1 ) has elapsed; d) setting inactive or placing the first controller (20) in a non-controlling state upon or after activation of the second controller (22); and e) maintaining continuous control of the water heating and / or cooling installation (12) during the transition between the first and second controllers.

22. The method according to claim 21 , wherein the operational data comprises one or more of: information acquired by the determination device (14), system parameters, historical data, predictive data, operational context, or user input, and wherein the operational context comprises one or more of: predefined settings, user profiles, at least one environmental condition, at least one weather forecast or current weather condition, or pricing information.

23. The method according claim 21 or 22, wherein the selection module (24) operates in a unidirectional communication mode in which the selection module (24) selects a controller based on the operational data without receiving feedback from the controllers.

24. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the selection module (24) operates in a bidirectional communication mode in which the selection module (24) receives feedback,status, or capability information from one or more controllers regarding their operability under current or anticipated conditions and selects a controller based on the received feedback.

25. Data processing device comprising means for carrying out the method of at least one of the claims 21 to 24.

26. A computer program product comprising instructions to cause the heat pump (10) of any one of claims 1 to 19 to execute the steps of the method of any of the preceding claims 21 to 24.

27. A computer readable data carrier having stored thereon the computer program product according to claim 26.

28. A data carrier signal carrying the computer program product according to claim 26.

29. Use of a control system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 19 for controlling at least one thermal installation (12), in particular a thermal installation (12) comprising at least one heat pump, in particular a thermal installation (12) according to any one claim 20.

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