Control device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump units and hydronic systems lack the ability to provide comprehensive control functionality for external components connected to the pump unit, limiting their operational capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A control device integrated into the pump unit, featuring a three-pin connector electric interface and a switching device that allows selective communication and voltage supply to sensors and electric loads, enabling expanded control functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard three-pin connector is used for data communication, then the connector structure is simple and widely compatible, but the control functionality for external components is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a standard three-pin connector to serve multiple purposes: data communication (I2C protocol), power supply (5V and 12V), and control of external components (pump, valve, alarm). The control device selectively configures pin functions through a switching device, allowing the same physical connector to adapt to different operational modes and external device requirements without needing multiple specialized connectors.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors and electric loads are connected to the three-pin connector, then the control capabilities are expanded, but the pin configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by using a switching device that can dynamically reconfigure the electrical connections between the three pins and various internal circuits. The switching device changes the electrical schema in real-time based on operational requirements, allowing pins to be dynamically assigned to different functions (SCL, SDA, power, ground, pump control, valve control) without physical reconfiguration or complex hardwired connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device segments the three-pin connector functionality into separate controllable channels through the switching device. Each pin's function is independently configurable, allowing the system to selectively activate sensor reading modes, pump control modes, valve control modes, or alarm control modes by switching individual pin assignments, thereby managing complexity through modular functional segmentation.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device is configured for control of a pump unit or a hydronic system. The control device has an electric interface configured for connecting at least one sensor and at least one electric load with the control device. The electric interface is a three-pin connector, and the control device includes a switching device configured to selectively apply electric signals onto the three pins of the connector, allowing the control device to selectively receive sensor signals from the at least one connected sensor or to supply a voltage to the at least one electric load. A pump unit and a hydronic system have such a control device.