Thermal reduction through activity based thermal targeting to enhance heating system efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hot water heating systems face inefficiencies due to fixed boiler target temperatures, which do not adapt well to varying ambient conditions, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced performance in diverse weather environments.
Innovation Solution
A method that dynamically adjusts the boiler target temperature by reducing it in response to heat demands and increasing it when demands are not met, using a combination of temperature measurement devices and a controller to implement thermal reductions and boosts based on set time intervals and duty cycles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a fixed high boiler target temperature is used, then heating speed is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates during warmer ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The boiler target temperature is made dynamic rather than fixed. The controller automatically adjusts the target temperature based on outdoor conditions and heating system performance, lowering it when efficient and raising it when needed for adequate heating performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from outdoor temperature sensors and heating cycle performance data to continuously adjust the boiler target temperature. The controller monitors whether the heating demand is satisfied and adjusts the target temperature accordingly to optimize efficiency
2Loss of energy
If outdoor reset control is installed with temperature sensor, then energy efficiency is improved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages the heating cycle, monitors outdoor conditions, adjusts target temperature, and adapts to different building characteristics. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate outdoor reset control devices and sensors
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically adapts to the specific building's heating characteristics through learning algorithms that analyze heating cycle patterns and outdoor temperature relationships. This self-adjustment capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or professional installation of complex control systems
3Reliability
If conservative settings are used in outdoor reset controls, then reliability is improved, but energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors heating cycle performance and outdoor temperature data to dynamically adjust the target temperature. This feedback mechanism allows the system to be aggressive when conditions permit and conservative when needed, optimizing both efficiency and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively adjusts the target temperature based on predicted heating needs and outdoor conditions. By anticipating temperature changes and adjusting ahead of time, the system maintains reliability while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances energy efficiency by lowering boiler target temperatures during reduced heat demands and increasing them during unsatisfied heat demands, optimizing energy usage and maintaining consistent heating performance across varying external conditions.
Implementation Method 1
heating an energy transfer medium to a preset temperature and circulating that fluid throughout a building or structure typically through heat exchangers
Data Source
AI summary
Thermal targeting technology is used to continuously adjust boiler target temperature to the minimum necessary to satisfy the required heating load. Responsive to and initiated by a first call for heat, boiler target temperature is reduced by a predetermined amount upon or subsequent to the call for heat. Once the boiler temperature reaches this new target, a call timer is activated. If demand for heat is satisfied before a time set point is reached, the system ceases providing additional heat energy until the next heat demand. Responsive to and initiated by a next call for heat, the boiler target temperature is again reduced by the predetermined amount upon or subsequent to this next call for heat. Each time the heat demand is satisfied within the predetermined time interval, the boiler target temperature is reduced. If heat demand is not satisfied, a thermal boost is provided at set time intervals until the call for heat is removed.