HVAC Circuit Balancing Valve Control for Stable Pressure Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conditioning systems for climate control are complex, expensive, and lack flexibility in balancing fluid flow and pressure, with mechanical systems being rigid and sensitive to mechanical limitations.
Innovation Solution
A programmable automatic balancing system with a control valve that adjusts fluid flow based on input signals from pressure sensors in different sections of the system, allowing for precise control of fluid flow through a check element that rotates along a predetermined path, enabling fine sensitivity and flexibility in fluid control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a control circuit with individual valves and sensor systems is used for temperature control in multiple areas, then selective temperature control is achieved, but the system becomes extremely complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual control functions into a single centralized control unit that manages temperature regulation for multiple areas. Instead of having separate control circuits for each zone, one control unit receives signals from sensors in different areas and actuates multiple valves, thereby achieving selective temperature control while reducing overall system complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If mechanical balancing valves are used to maintain pressure differential, then pressure balance is achieved, but the system becomes rigid and limited by mechanical characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static mechanical balancing valves with dynamic electronically-controlled valves that can adjust their opening degree based on real-time feedback from pressure sensors. The control unit continuously monitors pressure differentials and modulates valve positions accordingly, enabling the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining reliable pressure balance, thus overcoming the rigidity of mechanical systems.
3Ease of operation
If a programmable automatic balancing system is implemented for precise fluid control, then flexibility and sensitivity are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where pressure sensors continuously monitor the actual pressure differential across the balanced circuit and send signals to the control unit. The control unit compares the measured pressure with the desired setpoint and automatically adjusts the valve positions to eliminate any deviation. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables precise automatic balancing while keeping the control logic centralized and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to automatically self-regulate the fluid distribution without requiring manual intervention. The control unit autonomously processes sensor signals, calculates the required valve adjustments, and actuates the valves to maintain optimal pressure balance. This self-service capability improves operational ease while the modular architecture keeps the complexity contained within the intelligent control unit rather than distributed throughout the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
A conditioning plant comprises a general inlet, a general outlet, a circuit which sets the general inlet in fluid communication with the general outlet, a plurality of users arranged on the circuit, and a balancing system. The balancing system comprises a sensor for detecting at least a real value depending on a difference of intensity between upstream and downstream of the users, of at least a physical parameter of the fluid; the balancing system further comprises a flow regulating organ, and a control device connected to the sensor, acting on the flow regulating organ and configured for enabling memorization of at least a reference value of a same physical parameter of the fluid, comparing the reference value with the real value, commanding the regulating organ to regulate the fluid internally of the circuit such as to maintain the real value substantially aligned with the reference value.