Variable Speed Pump Energy Optimization Circuits
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Solution Overview
Problem
In complex hydraulic systems with multiple speed-controllable centrifugal pumps, it is challenging to achieve energy optimization without compromising the performance of system parts, particularly in heating systems where identifying pump functions and optimizing energy usage is difficult due to the complexity of the network.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining pilot pumps directly assigned to consumers and controlling downstream pumps at varying speeds to form energy optimization circuits, optimizing the system by matching the power consumption quotients of pilot and downstream pumps to minimize energy consumption, while dividing the system into simpler circuits for efficient optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple speed-controlled centrifugal pumps are installed in parallel or series to meet hydraulic requirements, then the system can reliably supply fluid to all system components, but the device complexity and difficulty of identifying pump functions increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex hydraulic system into multiple energy optimization circuits, each containing pilot pumps and downstream pumps. This segmentation allows the system to maintain the reliability of multiple pumps while reducing the complexity of control by treating each circuit as a manageable unit with defined relationships between pumps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the concept of pilot pumps as intermediaries that directly supply consumers and serve as reference points for controlling downstream pumps. These pilot pumps act as mediators that simplify the control architecture by providing a basis for speed control of other pumps in the system.
2Ease of operation
If traditional control methods are used for multiple pumps, then the system can operate, but energy optimization becomes difficult and overall energy efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the operating points of pilot pumps and using this information to adjust the speeds of downstream pumps. The control system calculates optimal speeds based on actual system conditions, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that achieves energy optimization while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes energy efficiency by dynamically changing the speed parameter of downstream pumps based on system conditions. Instead of fixed-speed operation, the system adjusts pump speeds as a controllable parameter to minimize energy consumption while meeting hydraulic requirements.
3Use of energy by moving object
If downstream pumps are controlled with varying speeds for energy optimization, then energy consumption is reduced, but the control complexity and measurement requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by first identifying and classifying pumps as either pilot pumps or downstream pumps based on their hydraulic connections to consumers. This preliminary classification simplifies subsequent control and measurement tasks by establishing clear roles for each pump before optimization begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves self-service by using the operating data from pilot pumps to automatically determine the optimal speeds for downstream pumps. The control system uses readily available measurements from pilot pumps (such as pressure and flow data) to calculate and adjust downstream pump speeds without requiring additional complex sensors or measurements.
Data Source
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AI summary
The method involves determining whether pumps (pu1, pu5) are directly assigned to loads (v1, v3) as pilot pumps (pu2, pu3) and hydraulically connected upstream of the pilot pumps. The upstream pumps are controlled with variable speed for energy optimization. Energy optimization circuits are selected such that the upstream pumps are assigned to one of the energy optimization circuits. The energy optimization circuits are energy-optimized with respect to the upstream pumps, where the upstream pumps comprise a speed-controllable centrifugal pump driven by an electric motor. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a control unit for implementing a method for optimizing energy (2) a pump for implementing a method for optimizing energy.