Volume flow regulator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing volumetric flow controllers for air conditioning and ventilation systems are complex to operate, requiring external scales and multiple operating elements for parameter selection and adjustment, which complicates the process of setting and configuring control and configuration parameters.
Innovation Solution
A push button, touch-sensitive switch, or contactless operating element is used to advance parameter values displayed on a screen, with a rotary knob for adjusting these values, eliminating the need for external scales and simplifying the operation by allowing parameter selection and adjustment through intuitive gestures or button presses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If external scales and multiple operating elements are used for parameter selection and adjustment, then parameter setting capability is provided, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the scale and operating elements directly into the display device. The display shows both the parameter values and the operational controls (buttons, knobs, or touch interfaces) integrated within the same housing, eliminating the need for separate external scales and multiple distributed operating elements. This integration reduces operational complexity while maintaining full parameter setting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves multiple functions: it displays parameter values, provides the scale for parameter selection, and houses the operating elements for both selection and adjustment. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while preserving adaptability for various parameter settings.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate operating elements are provided for parameter selection and adjustment, then comprehensive control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of parameter selection and adjustment into a single integrated display unit. The display housing contains both the scale for selection and the operating elements (such as buttons, knobs, or touch interfaces) for both selection and value adjustment, reducing the total number of separate components while maintaining comprehensive control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides visual output, serves as the reference scale, and houses the control interface. This universal design allows a single device to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate components, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving full control adaptability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the operation of volumetric flow controllers by allowing parameter selection and adjustment directly on the device's display, enhancing usability and reducing operational complexity while maintaining precise control over air flow settings.
Implementation Method 1
a differential pressure sensor for measuring a pressure difference prevailing in the flow channel
Implementation Method 2
a control unit that displaces the control flap to adjust a target volumetric flow in the flow channel depending on the pressure measured by the pressure sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A volumetric flow controller for air conditioning and ventilation systems for displacing a control flap that is adjustably supported in the interior of a flow channel includes a differential pressure sensor for measuring a pressure difference prevailing in the flow channel. A control unit displaces the control flap depending on the pressure measured by the pressure sensor for adjusting a target volumetric flow in the flow channel. A first operating element is for selecting one of a plurality of parameters, in particular of control and/or configuration parameters. A second operating element is for adjusting the value of the respective selected parameter. A display is for displaying the currently set value of the respective selected parameter. The first operating element is a push button, a touch-sensitive switch, a touch-sensitive control panel or a contactless operating element for advancing the respective parameter displayed in the display.