Variable-Speed Pump Control Using Linear Set Point Curves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump control systems for hydronic heating and cooling systems and water booster systems face challenges in optimizing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs, as they often require dynamic and unknown system characteristics, which are difficult to manage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pump controller with a signal processor that determines a control set point based on a linear set point control curve derived from an adaptive set point control curve, using equations such as P*(t)=P0*Q*(t)/Qmax+b0, to optimize flow rates and pressure settings, allowing for energy-efficient operation without requiring all zone flow rate signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If adaptive control approaches are used to reduce energy consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but the system requires dynamic and unknown system characteristics that are difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex adaptive control algorithms with a simple linear control curve approach that uses basic system parameters (flow rate, pressure, power) to achieve energy efficiency without requiring sophisticated system modeling or continuous adaptation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control approach from adaptive algorithmic adjustments to a linear parameter-based control curve that relates power, flow rate, and pressure through a simple mathematical relationship, making the system easier to manage while maintaining energy efficiency
2Ease of operation
If linear set point control curve is used to simplify control, then ease of operation is improved, but control precision may be reduced compared to adaptive curves
Solution Approach 1:
The linear control curve method uses readily available system parameters (flow rate, pressure, power) to automatically determine control set points without requiring complex adaptive algorithms, achieving both simplicity and sufficient precision for energy-efficient pump control
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, such as a pump controller, features a signal processor configured at least to: receive signaling containing information about a linear set point control curve based at least partly on an adaptive set point control curve related to fluid being pumped by a pump in a pumping system, and determine a control set point based at least partly on the signaling received. The signal processor may be configured to provide a control signal containing information to control the pump based on the control set point determined.