Heating Regulator Retrofit Device for Weather-Predictive Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional heating control systems based solely on indoor temperature measurements are slow to react to external temperature changes, leading to inefficiencies and untimely temperature variations, while external temperature-based systems often require replacing the entire controller or boiler for predictive functionality.
Innovation Solution
A device that connects to a heating regulator and external temperature sensor, using a module for weather data and an impedance network to adjust heating output based on both current outdoor temperature and weather forecasts, allowing retrofitting without replacing existing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If heating control is based solely on indoor temperature measurement, then the system is simple to implement, but the response to external temperature changes is slow and energy inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by obtaining weather forecasts in advance and using them to predict future heating requirements. The impedance network is configured based on predicted temperature changes before they occur, allowing the heating system to anticipate and prepare for upcoming temperature variations rather than merely reacting to current conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary component that connects between the existing temperature sensor and the heating regulator. It receives temperature data from the sensor, processes it through the impedance network along with weather forecast information, and outputs a modified signal to the regulator, thereby enhancing the system's predictive capability without replacing core components.
2Loss of energy
If predictive heating control is implemented, then energy efficiency and comfort are improved, but the entire controller or boiler must be replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the predictive control functionality into a separate, standalone component that can be added independently of the existing heating controller or boiler. This modular approach allows predictive heating control to be implemented without replacing the entire system, as the device operates as an independent module that interfaces with existing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The device serves as an intermediary that bridges existing heating infrastructure and predictive control capabilities. By positioning itself between the temperature sensor and the heating regulator, it enables predictive functionality while preserving the existing controller and boiler, thus avoiding complete system replacement.
3Loss of time
If outdoor temperature sensors are used, then responsiveness to external temperature changes is improved, but the system cannot anticipate future heating requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary action by obtaining weather forecasts in advance and using them to predict future heating requirements. The impedance network is configured based on predicted temperature changes before they occur, allowing the heating system to anticipate and prepare for upcoming temperature variations rather than merely reacting to current conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates feedback by continuously monitoring both current temperature sensor data and forecasted weather conditions. This dual feedback mechanism allows the impedance network to dynamically adjust its configuration based on real-time measurements combined with predictive information, optimizing heating control responsiveness and accuracy.
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
Enhances heating control efficiency by anticipating temperature changes, reducing energy consumption, and improving comfort without requiring system replacement.
Implementation Method 1
Temperature sensors are usually combined with a measuring circuit, most often outside the sensor and within the controller, which supplies a constant electrical current through the sensing element and measures the voltage across the thermistor. These sensors offer high sensitivity and rapid response to temperature changes.
Implementation Method 2
Using Ohm's law (V = IR), where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance, the measuring circuit can determine the resistance of the thermistor, which is directly related to the ambient temperature.
Implementation Method 3
an impedance network between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a plurality of switches for selectively modifying the way in which said impedances are connected in said network, so as to vary the impedance between the first terminal and the second terminal
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
Device (1) intended to be connected to a building heating regulator (3) in order to provide it with an electrical quantity, comprising: - a connection module (15) to a meteorological server (7); a first connection terminal (18) to the building heating regulator (3); a second connection terminal (19) to the building heating regulator (3); a third connection terminal (20) to a thermistor (2) intended to measure the temperature outside the building (53); a fourth connection terminal (21) to the thermistor (2); a network (11) of impedances (110-11n) between the first connection terminal and the second connection terminal; a plurality of switches (120-12n) making it possible to selectively modify the manner in which said impedances are connected in said network (11), so as to vary the impedance between the first terminal and the second terminal;a control circuit (10) linked to the connection module and arranged to control said switches in such a way that the impedance between the first terminal and the second terminal depends both on the impedance of the thermistor (2) and on weather forecasts obtained from said weather server (7).;