Polynomial Method for Hot Water Volume Estimation in Storage Tanks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the volume of hot water in storage tanks are complex and imprecise, failing to effectively utilize temperature sensors for optimizing heating device efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method using second-order polynomials to calculate the volume of liquid at a predetermined temperature based on temperature values from multiple sensors, allowing for simpler and more precise estimation, and enabling the calculation of thermal energy quantities and consumption profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple temperature sensors and complex algorithms are used to estimate hot water volume, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the complex multi-step algorithm into a simple polynomial calculation by changing the mathematical parameters from iterative estimation to direct computation using second-order polynomials with pre-calculated coefficients, maintaining precision while eliminating complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified mathematical model (polynomial function) that copies the essential relationship between temperature sensor readings and hot water volume, replacing the need for complex algorithms while preserving measurement accuracy
2Measurement precision
If complex multi-step algorithms are implemented, then volume estimation precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent simplifies implementation by changing the computational parameters from multiple iterative steps to a single polynomial evaluation with pre-determined coefficients, making the system easier to operate while maintaining precision
3Measurement precision
If polynomial regression with higher order polynomials is used, then volume estimation precision is improved, but computation power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the polynomial order parameter to second-order, which provides sufficient precision for hot water volume estimation while minimizing computation power requirements compared to higher-order polynomials
Data Source
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AI summary
This method for determining a volume (V(Tp)) of liquid at a predetermined temperature (Tp) within a storage tank, the tank being provided with at least two temperature sensors each supplying a temperature value, consists in calculating the volume of liquid (V(Tp)) at the predetermined temperature (Tp) by means of a formula using at least one polynomial (P1, P2) of order greater than or equal to two, having, as input variables, temperature values supplied by the temperature sensors, and being expressed, as a function of these input variables, with a set of constant coefficients.