Hydronic System Outlet Temperature Adaptation for Energy Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydronic systems face inefficiencies and reduced user comfort due to fixed outlet temperatures of thermal sources, leading to excessive flow or short duty cycles.
Innovation Solution
A control method and hydraulic supply unit that dynamically adjusts the outlet temperature of thermal sources based on predefined criteria, using a supply unit control to influence the thermal source and optimize energy efficiency and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the thermal source provides a fixed outlet temperature, then the system operation is simple, but the energy efficiency is reduced due to excessive flow or short duty cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the thermal source outlet temperature based on real-time load circuit conditions. The control system continuously monitors flow conditions and adjusts the outlet temperature dynamically, transforming the fixed temperature system into a dynamic one that adapts to varying demands, thereby improving energy efficiency without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the hydraulic supply unit monitors flow conditions and communicates with the thermal source control to adjust outlet temperature. This closed-loop feedback system enables the thermal source to adapt its output based on actual system needs, resolving the contradiction between simple operation and energy efficiency
2Ease of operation
If the thermal source provides a fixed outlet temperature, then the control system is simple, but user comfort is reduced due to insufficient thermal supply
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the thermal source outlet temperature based on monitored flow conditions and load circuit demands. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the thermal supply matches user comfort requirements while avoiding the need for overly complex control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the outlet temperature parameter of the thermal source based on predefined criteria and monitored system conditions. By adjusting this key parameter dynamically, the system improves user comfort while maintaining relatively simple control architecture
3Loss of energy
If the outlet temperature is adapted dynamically, then energy efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback-based control system where the hydraulic supply unit monitors flow conditions and communicates with the thermal source control to adjust outlet temperature. This feedback mechanism enables energy-efficient operation while keeping the control system architecture relatively simple and manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically adjusts the thermal source outlet temperature based on monitored conditions without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability improves energy efficiency while minimizing the operational complexity for users
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 energy efficiency and user comfort by adapting thermal energy output to match load circuit demands, reducing energy consumption and ensuring consistent heating or cooling.
Implementation Method 1
a liquid heat transfer medium is circulating... the heat transfer medium transfers heat from a load circuit to the thermal source
Data Source
AI summary
A control method is for a hydronic system. The hydronic system has at least one thermal source and a hydraulic supply unit connected to the outlet of the thermal source and controlling a supply of a heat transfer medium to at least one load circuit. The hydraulic supply unit causes the heat source to adapt the outlet temperature of the heat source, if at least one predefined criterion in the hydraulic supply unit is fulfilled. A hydraulic supply unit and a hydronic system are configured for use of such method.