Integrated Mixing Valve Control for Faster HVAC Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heating and cooling system mixer devices require complex installation and integration of multiple components, including separate control devices and sensors, which increases installation work and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A heating or cooling system mixer device with an integrated valve housing and drive, featuring an internal control device and sensor, which simplifies installation by integrating all essential components into a single structural unit, reducing the need for additional wiring and allowing for wireless communication with external control devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mixer device uses a separate control device and multiple sensors, then the control function is achieved, but the installation complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control device, drive unit, and sensor into an integrated assembly that is directly coupled to the valve body. This merging of previously separate components (control device, sensor, and drive unit) into a single integrated unit eliminates the need for separate wiring connections and reduces installation complexity while maintaining full control functionality.
2Productivity
If multiple separate components are used for control and sensing, then functional requirements are met, but installation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated assembly combining the control device, drive unit, and sensor mounted directly on the valve body allows for single-unit installation rather than multiple separate component installations. This significantly reduces installation time and associated costs while maintaining all necessary control and sensing functions.
3Device complexity
If an integrated design is used, then installation is simplified, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the integrated assembly from the valve body, allowing the control device, drive unit, and sensor to be manufactured and tested as a separate modular unit before being coupled to the valve body. This segmentation enables independent manufacturing optimization while achieving the benefits of integration during installation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a heating or cooling system mixer device with a valve housing (14) which has a first (AB), a second (A) and a third connection (B) and a first flow path from the first connection (AB) to the second port (A) and a second flow path from the first port (AB) to the third port (B), wherein a movable valve element (24) is arranged inside the valve housing (14) in the two flow paths, which is configured and is arranged such that the ratio of the cross sections of the two flow paths to one another can be varied by moving the valve element (24), a drive (36) for moving the valve element (24) being arranged on the valve housing (14), the drive (36) being a Internal control device (38) for controlling the movement of the drive (36), the internal control device (38) has a first communication interface (44) for communication with an external en control device (40), which has a corresponding second communication interface (46), and at least one internal sensor (48, 50) is arranged in or on the valve housing (14), which is connected to the first communication interface (44) for transmitting a sensor signal is connected to the external control device (40).