Device and method for heating water
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water heating devices require skilled personnel to reset after overheating, lack reliable temperature control, and can suffer damage due to prolonged overload protection tripping times, leading to inefficient and unsafe operation.
Innovation Solution
A device with multiple heater modules connected in parallel, each equipped with independent control and protective switches, a temperature sensor, and a control unit that manages switching based on set points and temperature readings to prevent overheating, and an automatic reset thermostat to ensure safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a contact thermostat is used to prevent water overtemperature, then water temperature safety is improved, but the device requires manual reset by skilled personnel and loses automation
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-diagnosis and self-reset operations. When overtemperature occurs, the control unit automatically identifies the faulty heater module and isolates it, then automatically resets the system without requiring manual intervention, enabling the device to serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit continuously monitors temperature signals from the temperature sensor and automatically adjusts the operation of heater modules based on feedback. When overtemperature is detected, the system receives feedback and automatically implements protective actions and reset procedures
2Reliability
If a contact thermostat is used for overtemperature protection, then temperature limit enforcement is improved, but the functionality cannot be controlled and there is no guarantee about proper operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact thermostat with an electronic control system consisting of a control unit, temperature sensor, and electronic switches. This substitution enables programmable temperature limits, automatic diagnosis, and flexible control strategies that adapt to different operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit performs multiple functions: monitoring temperature, controlling heater module operation, diagnosing faults, isolating faulty modules, and executing reset procedures. This multi-functional approach provides both temperature enforcement and adaptability
3Reliability
If an overload protection element is used to disconnect electrical resistors, then current overload protection is improved, but the tripping time is too long and electrical resistors could be damaged before tripping
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors the operational state of each heater module and detects abnormal conditions before they lead to damage. By taking preliminary action to isolate at-risk modules, the system prevents damage before it occurs
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on slow thermal-magnetic tripping, the electronic control system rapidly detects overcurrent conditions and immediately isolates the affected heater module, rushing through the protection process before damage can occur
4Productivity
If multiple heater modules are operated simultaneously to meet power requirements, then heating efficiency is improved, but the risk of overtemperature and system damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system is divided into multiple independent heater modules, each with its own control switch. This segmentation allows the control unit to selectively activate only the number of modules needed to meet the heating demand, optimizing efficiency while controlling risk
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of active heater modules based on real-time temperature feedback and power requirements. The control unit can individually control each module's operation, enabling flexible adaptation to changing conditions and preventing overtemperature
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
Enables autonomous operation, extends switch lifespan, and ensures safe and efficient heating by preventing overheating and allowing for controlled restarts, reducing the need for skilled intervention and minimizing damage from overloads.
Implementation Method 1
By means of a flow of current through the electrical resistor, heat is in fact generated for heating the water
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2~3C
AI summary
A device (D) for heating water, comprising a plurality of heater modules (100) connected in parallel and each comprising an electrical branch (R), including an electrical resistor (102) and a control switch (103). The device (D) further comprises a temperature sensor, configured to generate a temperature signal representing the temperature of the water, and a protection system configured to stop current from circulating in the heater modules (100). The device (D) further comprises a control unit, configured to receive the temperature signal and connected to the protection system to control it as a function of the temperature signal. The protection system comprises, for each heater module (100), a protective switch (200) connected to the heater module (100) and selectively movable between a closed position and an open position. Each protective switch (200) is operable independently of the other protection switches (200).