Method for controlling a hydronic system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydronic systems with multiple load circuits face challenges in optimally distributing thermal energy, managing different temperature and flow requirements, and minimizing noise, especially in systems with radiator and floor heating circuits.
Innovation Solution
A method and hydraulic unit that control a hydronic system by adjusting duty cycles, temperature, and flow of heat transfer medium in load circuits, using a changeover valve and a central control device to selectively activate circuits and optimize energy distribution based on energy demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If thermal energy is distributed to multiple load circuits simultaneously in parallel, then all circuits can receive heat transfer medium, but it becomes difficult to optimize energy distribution and manage different temperature requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the thermal energy distribution by dividing load circuits into different groups (first group and second group) that can be controlled independently. Each group can be supplied with different temperature levels, allowing optimized energy distribution tailored to specific circuit requirements while simplifying control complexity through grouped management.
2Use of energy by moving object
If duty cycle of one load circuit is extended to meet its energy demand, then that circuit receives sufficient thermal energy, but the duty cycle of other load circuits must be shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the duty cycles of different load circuit groups based on their respective energy demands. By making the duty cycle allocation flexible and adaptive rather than fixed, the system can extend duty cycles for circuits requiring more energy while proportionally reducing others, ensuring optimal energy distribution across all circuits without rigid time constraints.
3Use of energy by moving object
If flow rate of heat transfer medium is increased to compensate for shortened duty cycle, then energy supply to the circuit is maintained, but noise occurs in radiator circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different control strategies to different load circuit groups based on their specific characteristics. For radiator circuits, the system prioritizes noise reduction by limiting maximum flow rates even if this slightly reduces energy supply efficiency. For other circuit types, higher flow rates may be permitted. This localized quality adjustment resolves the contradiction by tailoring flow control to the specific requirements of each circuit type.
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
The solution enables optimized energy distribution across multiple load circuits, reducing energy consumption, minimizing noise, and ensuring that thermal energy is supplied in accordance with the energy demand of each circuit.
Implementation Method 1
a flow of heat transfer medium through the different load circuits
Implementation Method 2
thermal energy to the different circuits
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a hydronic system having a thermal source and at least a first and a second load circuit connected to the thermal source via a hydraulic system. The system having a changeover valve being configured to selectively activate a flow of heat transfer medium through the first or the second load circuit. Wherein for distributing the required thermal energy to the load circuits in at least one operational condition a duty cycle for the first load circuit is extended, resulting in a shortening of the duty cycle of the second load circuit, and for compensating this shortening of the duty cycle the temperature and/or flow of the heat transfer medium supplied to the second load circuit are adjusted, as well as a hydraulic unit for a hydronic system.