Patent Application
20250230929
The present disclosure relates to fluid flow control in a combustion device. Various embodiments of the teachings herein include systems and/or methods for the flow control of fluids such as air and/or combustion gas using one or more actuators.
Changes in air temperature and/or air pressure cause fluctuations of the air/fuel ratio A in a combustion device. Combustion devices are therefore typically set with excess air. This measure serves to prevent unhygienic combustion. The disadvantage of setting combustion devices with excess air is a reduced level of efficiency of the system.
As a result of the aforementioned fluctuations during the operation of a combustion device, at least one actuator of the combustion device may have to be readjusted during operation. The actuator can be an air actuator. The air actuator acts on an air feed through an air-feed duct of the combustion device, wherein the air-feed duct leads to a combustion chamber of the combustion device. In particular, the actuator can be a blower for air. Furthermore, the actuator can be an air flap.
The actuator can also be a fuel actuator. The fuel actuator acts on a fuel feed through a fuel-feed duct of the combustion device, wherein the fuel-feed duct likewise leads to the combustion chamber of the combustion device. In particular, the actuator can be a valve.
One or more of these actuators can be readjusted using a rate of change. Readjustment can, but does not have to, take place during operation. For example, a blower can increase or decrease its speed according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change may be a characteristic of the blower. It may depend on the type and design of the blower. Blowers that are actuated and/or regulated using pulse-width modulated signals and/or using converters are common.
Furthermore, an air flap can open or close according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change may be a characteristic of the air flap. It can depend on the type and design of the air flap.
In addition, a fuel valve, such as, for example, a combustion gas valve or an oil valve can open or close according to a maximum rate of change. The maximum rate of change may be a characteristic of the combustion gas valve. It can depend on the type and design of the combustion gas valve.
In practice, the maximum rates of change of the aforementioned actuators mean that a combustion device is conservatively set to the actuator with the slowest rate of change. This means that in each case the actuator with the slowest rate of change is used as a reference for all further actuators that are adjusted at the same time and in conjunction with the first actuator. Likewise, the air flap with the slowest rate of change is used as a reference for all further air flaps. Similarly, the fuel valve with the slowest rate of change is used as a reference for all further fuel valves.
This ensures that the combustion device can be operated with all, or almost all, blowers, air flaps or combustion gas valves. On the other hand, this leads to delays. This means that the combustion device does not modulate as quickly as would be possible and/or appropriate. In the case of combustion with undesirable emissions, for example, it takes longer than necessary until the undesirable emissions are eliminated by changing the at least one actuator. Furthermore, a change in the performance of the combustion device cannot take place as quickly as would be possible taking into account the individual speeds.
Furthermore, the aforementioned actuators do not always operate at their nominal rate of change. This can lead to deviations between the target and actual positions of the blowers, air flaps or fuel valves. In the worst case, such deviations can cause the combustion device to shut down.
The teachings of the present disclosure may improve the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of actuators in a combustion device. In particular, it concerns optimized changes in the speeds and/or positions of such actuators. For example, some embodiments of the teachings herein include a combustion device comprising a burner (1) and at least one feed duct (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion device comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and comprises a non-volatile memory and a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied: to generate a request signal and send it to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: to receive the request signal; in response to the receipt of the request signal, to check the presence of a stored rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); if the stored rate of change is present in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): to load the stored rate of change from the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to generate a response signal from the stored rate of change; to send the response signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to receive the response signal; to determine the stored rate of change from the response signal; and to generate a first automation signal as a function of the stored rate of change, wherein, upon receipt by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), the first automation signal causes the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to change a mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) in such a way that the mechanical variable changes at most with the stored rate of change.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to send the first automation signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: if there is no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): to generate the response signal from an error and/or exception signal; to send the response signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to receive the response signal; and to determine the error and/or exception signal from the response signal.
In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: if there is no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9): to establish determine an invalid value for the rate of change; to generate the response signal from the invalid value for the rate of change; to send the response signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to receive the response signal; to determine the invalid value from the response signal; and to infer an error and/or an exception from the invalid value.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to wait for the response signal for a predetermined period of time after sending the request signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); and if there is no response signal after the specified period of time has elapsed: to infer an error and/or an exception.
In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: to generate a first status signal indicating a first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), and to send it to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: if there is no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) or if there is no response signal after a or the predetermined period of time has elapsed: to receive the first status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to generate a change signal after receipt of the first status signal; and to send the change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: to generate a first measurement signal indicating a first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to generate a first time stamp t1 at the time the first measurement signal is generated; to generate a first status signal on the basis of the first measurement signal and of the first time stamp t1 and to send it to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: if there is no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) or if there is no response signal after a or the predetermined period of time has elapsed: to receive the first status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to generate a change signal after receipt of the first status signal; and to send the change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to receive the change signal from the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); to change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) based on the change signal; and to generate a second status signal indicating a second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), at a time after the start of the change in the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and to send it to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16).
In some embodiments, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: to receive the change signal from the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16); to change the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) based on the change signal; to generate a second measurement signal indicating a second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) at a time after the start of the change in the mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to generate a second time stamp t2 at the time the second measurement signal is generated; to generate a second status signal on the basis of the second measurement signal and of the second time stamp t2; and to send the second status signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16).
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to determine the first mechanical status s1 as a function of the first status signal; to generate a first time stamp t1 at the time of receipt of the first status signal; to receive the second status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to determine a second mechanical status s2 as a function of the second status signal; and to generate a second time stamp t2 at the time of receipt of the second status signal.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to determine the first mechanical status s1 as a function of the first status signal; to determine the first time stamp t1 as a function of the first status signal; to receive the second status signal from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9); to determine the second mechanical status s2 as a function of the second status signal; and to determine the second time stamp t2 as a function of the second status signal.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to determine an empirically established rate of change v as a function of the first and second mechanical status s1, s2 and as a function of the first and second time stamp t1, t2.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to determine a or the empirically established rate of change v as a function of a difference between the second mechanical status s2 and the first mechanical status s1 and as a function of a difference between the second time stamp t2 and the first time stamp t1.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied: to generate a second automation signal as a function of the empirically established rate of change v, wherein, upon receipt by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), the second automation signal causes the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to change a mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) in such a way that the mechanical variable changes at most with the empirically established rate of change v.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied to send the second automation signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
Various details are apparent to the person skilled in the art from the following detailed description. Herein, the individual embodiments are not restrictive. The drawings appended to the description are described as follows:
The present disclosure describes combustion devices comprising at least one actuator and a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus. The actuator acts on a feed of a fluid such as, for example, air or combustion gas or heating oil through a feed duct of the combustion device. The feed duct opens into the burner of the same combustion device.
The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus now sends a command to the actuator. The command contains a change, for example a change in the speed of a blower or a change in a valve position. The actuator receives the command and begins the change. Herein, it is helpful if the command is sent to one actuator in such a way that the change takes place close to the nominal or maximum rate of change. Thus, the change is carried out promptly in accordance with the command from the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus. If the change is intended to eliminate unhygienic combustion, the unhygienic combustion ends promptly.
To determine the nominal or maximum rate of change of the actuator, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus can query the rate from the actuator. This means that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus sends a request signal to the actuator. The actuator ideally responds to the request signal by sending feedback of a rate of change to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus is now able to cause a change in the feed of a fluid through the feed duct to be performed at the optimal rate of change.
Meanwhile, it may be the case that no rate of change is stored or saved in the actuator. In this case, the actuator is also unable to feed back a nominal or maximum rate of change of the at least one actuator. Instead, the response signal can contain an exception signal and/or an error signal or a signal indicating an invalid value. Furthermore, a timeout may occur during the feedback. In the cases mentioned, there is no rate of change in the memory of the actuator.
If no rate of change is stored or saved in the actuator, the rate of change can be defined by parameterizing or applying a constant value. For example, a rate of change in a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus can be parameterized. For this purpose, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus can comprise a non-volatile memory. Furthermore, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus can assume a constant value. The constant value can be independent of the specific type of the actuator.
For example, in the case of external speed-controlled blowers, it is possible that no rate of change is stored or saved in the actuator. In this case, an adaptation to be started manually can be carried out during startup. Here, the step response of the actuator, for example the external speed-controlled blower, is recorded. Possible rates of change for acceleration and/or braking can be determined from this step response. The determination can, for example, be carried out by a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus.
Therefore, if there is no or no valid rate of change in the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus as a result of the request, the rate of change can be established empirically. For this purpose, the speed and/or the position of the actuator is determined once before and once after a change and sent to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control and/or apparatus monitoring apparatus. Furthermore, two timestamps are determined before and after the change in either the actuator or in the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus.
A rate of change can then be determined empirically from the empirically established mechanical variables and timestamps. The empirically established rate of change can then be used to automate the actuator instead of a requested rate of change.
If there is no flap 4, the air feed 5 can also be adjusted solely by the speed of the blower 3. One possibility for adjusting the speed of the blower 3 is, for example, pulse width modulation. In some embodiments, the motor of the blower 3 is connected to a converter. Therefore, the speed of the blower 3 is adjusted according to the frequency of the converter.
In some embodiments, the blower 3 runs at a fixed non-variable speed. The air feed 5 is then defined by the position of the flap 4. Further actuators that change the air feed 5 are also possible. Herein, this can, for example, entail a nozzle adjustment of the burner and/or an adjustable flap in the exhaust gas duct.
The feed 6 (for example particle flow and/or mass flow) of the fuel fluid through the fuel-feed duct 25 can be set by a fuel flap 9. In some embodiments, flap 9 is a (motor-adjustable) valve.
Possible fuels are, for example, combustible gases such as natural gas and/or propane gas and/or hydrogen. Another possible fuel is a liquid fuel such as heating oil. In this case, the flap 9 is replaced by a motor-adjustable oil-pressure regulator in the return line of the oil nozzle. The safety shutdown function and/or closing function is implemented by the redundant safety valves 7, 8. In some embodiments, the safety valves 7, 8 and/or the fuel flap 9 are implemented as integrated units(s).
Fuel is mixed with air in and/or in front of the burner 1. The mixture is burned in the combustion chamber of the heat consumer 2. The heat is transported further in the heat consumer 2. For example, heated water is discharged to heating elements via a pump and/or a material is (directly) heated in industrial firing systems. The exhaust gas flow 10 is discharged (into the environment) via an exhaust gas path 26, for example a chimney. Furthermore, the exhaust gas flow 10 can be discharged (into the environment) via an exhaust gas path 26, for example a flue.
A closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 automates at least one actuator of the combustion device. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 automates all actuators of the combustion device. Therefore, the correct feed 6 of fuel and/or combustion gas is set via the position of the flap 9 for the corresponding feed 5 of air for each power point. This results in the desired air/fuel ratio A.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 comprises a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 is embodied as a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 comprises a microprocessor. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 is embodied as a microprocessor.
The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 automates the blower 3 by means of the signal line 18 and/or the air flap 4 by means of the signal line 19. Herein, like the signal line 18, the signal line 19 can comprise a glass fiber or consist of a glass fiber. Signal lines made of glass fibers may provide advantages in environments with explosive substances or mixtures.
Values stored in the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can be used to automate the units 4, 5. The values stored in the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can, for example, be stored in the form of a characteristic curve and/or in the form of a mathematical relationship.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 comprises a memory, for example a non-volatile memory. Those values, in particular those characteristic curves and/or those mathematical relationships, are stored in the memory.
The position of the fuel flap 9 is automated via the signal line 22. During operation, the safety shut-off valves 7, 8 are opened via the signal lines 20, 21. The safety shut-off valves 7, 8 are kept open during operation. Herein, the signal lines 20-22 can in each case comprise a glass fiber or in each case consist of a glass fiber. Signal lines made of glass fibers may provide advantages in environments with explosive substances or mixtures.
During operation, errors can occur in a flap 4, 9 and/or in the blower 3. Such errors can, for example, be detected in an electronic interface or control apparatus of the flap 4 and/or the blower 3. Error feedback can, for example, be provided by safety-related feedback of the position of the flap 4 via the (bidirectional) signal line 19 for the air flap 4. Error feedback can furthermore be provided by safety-related feedback of the position of the flap 9 via the (bidirectional) signal line 22 for the fuel flap 9.
A safety-related position report can, for example, be implemented via redundant position encoders. If safety-related feedback on the speed is required, this can be provided via the (bidirectional) signal line 18 using (safety-related) speed encoders. For this purpose, it is, for example, possible to use redundant speed encoders and/or to compare the measured speed with the target speed. The actuation signals and feedback signals can be transmitted via different signal lines and/or via a bidirectional bus, for example a CAN bus.
Furthermore, NAMUR encoders and/or NAMUR sensors can be used. These encoders and/or sensors may be actuated via cams that are connected in a form-fitting manner to the shaft of a drive of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. It is then possible to calculate a speed from a pulse spacing of the signals recorded by the encoder and/or the sensor. In some embodiments, the speed can be calculated in a safety-relevant manner. This is because the cams are arranged at known angles around the drive shaft. For example, the cams can be arranged at angles of 60° or 120° or 180° around the drive shaft. Asymmetrical cam spacing and/or asymmetrical angles between the individual cams can also be used to determine the direction of rotation in a safety-relevant manner.
In some embodiments, the calculation of the speed, in particular the safety-relevant calculation of the speed, is carried out by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. The NAMUR encoders can comprise encoders according to DIN EN 60947 May 6 and/or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR encoders can be encoders according to DIN EN 60947 May 6 and/or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR sensors can comprise sensors according to DIN EN 60947 May 6 and/or VDE 0660-212:2000-12. The NAMUR sensors can be sensors according to DIN EN 60947 May 6 and/or VDE 0660-212:2000-12.
A side duct 24 is attached upstream of the burner 1. The side duct 24 is in fluid communication with the air-feed duct 11 at a point 12. A small amount of outflowing air 15 flows out through the side duct 24. Together with the burner 1 and the exhaust gas path 26 of the heat consumer 2, the side duct 24 forms a flow divider. For a defined flow path through the burner 1 and exhaust gas path 26, in each case an associated value of an air flow 15 flows out through the side duct 24 for a value of the air feed 5 (reversibly unambiguously).
A flow resistance element 14 is attached in the side duct 24. The flow rate 15 in the side duct 24 depends on the passage area of the flow resistance element 14. With this arrangement, the flow rate (particle flow and/or mass flow) through the side duct 24 is a measure of the air feed 5 to the burner 1. Herein, influences due to changes in the density of the air, for example changes in the absolute pressure and/or the air temperature, are compensated by the mass flow sensor 13. For feedback of a signal from the mass flow sensor 13, this sensor 13 is connected to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 by means of a signal line 17.
In known combustion devices, the speed of the blower 3 is changed conservatively at a slow rate of change. This ensures that the combustion device works together with a plurality of blowers 3 of different designs and/or different types. Furthermore, the position of the air flap 4 is changed conservatively at a slow rate of change. This ensures that the combustion device works together with a plurality of air flaps 4 of different designs and/or different types. The rate of change of the air flap 4 is generally different from the rate of change of the blower 3.
Likewise, the position of the fuel actuator 9 is changed conservatively at a slow rate of change. This ensures that the combustion device works together with a plurality of fuel actuators 9 of different designs and/or different types. The rate of change of the fuel actuator 9 is generally different from the rate of change of the blower 3. The rate of change of the fuel actuator 9 is generally different from the rate of change of the air flap 4. In some embodiments, the fuel actuator 9 comprises a fuel flap. In some embodiments, the fuel actuator 9 is a fuel flap.
In some embodiments, the blower 3 comprises a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the blower 3 comprises a memory such as, for example, a non-volatile memory. Herein, the memory of the blower 3 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or a microprocessor of the blower 3. In particular, the memory of the blower 3 can be part of the microcontroller.
In some embodiments, the blower 3 is actuated by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 using a pulse-width modulated signal. Furthermore, the blower 3 can be actuated via a bus signal. Herein, the bus signal can originate from a CAN bus. In addition, speed can be recorded using one of the NAMUR encoders and/or NAMUR sensors described above. The recorded speed is then converted into a measured speed value by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the blower 3 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the unit 16 by means of the signal line 18.
In some embodiments, the air flap 4 comprises a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the air flap 4 comprises a memory such as, for example, a non-volatile memory. Herein, the memory of the air flap 4 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or a microprocessor of the air flap 4. In particular, the memory of the air flap 4 can be part of the microcontroller.
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the air flap 4 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the unit 16 by means of the signal line 19.
In some embodiments, the fuel actuator 9 comprises a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the fuel actuator 9 comprises a memory such as, for example, a non-volatile memory. Herein, the memory of the fuel actuator 9 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the fuel actuator 9. In particular, the memory of the fuel actuator 9 can be part of the microcontroller of the fuel actuator 9.
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the fuel actuator 9 is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the unit 16 by means of the signal line 22.
The fuel actuator 9 can, for example, be a fuel flap. This means that the fuel flap comprises a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor. Furthermore, the fuel flap comprises a memory such as, for example, a non-volatile memory. Herein, the memory of the fuel flap is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the fuel flap. In particular, the memory of the fuel flap can be part of the microcontroller of the fuel flap.
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the fuel flap is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the unit 16 by means of the signal line 22.
To ensure that the speed and/or the position of at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 does not change at the slowest speed to be expected, the procedure according to
In step 28, the actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the request and/or the request signal. In step 29, the actuator 3, 4, 9 responds to the request and/or to the request signal. For this purpose, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 loads a rate of change from the memory of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. In particular, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 can load a rate of change from a non-volatile memory of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. The rate of change can, for example, be a nominal and/or a maximum rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.
In step 30, the actuator 3, 4, 9 sends its rate of change back to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. For this purpose, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate a first response signal from the loaded rate of change. After the first response signal has been generated, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the first response signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In the subsequent step 31, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 receives the first response signal. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 establishs the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 from the first response signal.
Then, in step 32, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 generates a first automation signal. The first automation signal is generated taking into account the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In step 33, the first automation signal is sent to the actuator 3, 4, 9. In step 34, the actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first automation signal. The first automation signal can, for example, comprise a closed-loop control signal and/or an open-loop control signal. The first automation signal can furthermore be a closed-loop control signal or an open-loop control signal.
Finally, in step 35, the actuator 3, 4, 9 starts to change its speed and/or its position in response to the receipt of the first automation signal. Herein, the speed and/or the position is changed in such a way that the feedback of the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is not exceeded. This means that, during the change of the speed and/or the position of the actuator 3, 4, 9, the speed of the change remains less than or equal to the feedback of the rate of change.
In some embodiments, the speed and/or the position is changed in such a way that the feedback of the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. In some embodiments, the speed and/or the position is changed in such a way that a maximum of 95 percent of the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. Furthermore, the speed and/or the position can be changed in such a way that a maximum of 90 percent of the feedback of the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. The fact that the actuator 3, 4, 9 does not perform its change at the maximum feedback of the rate of change means that the actuator 3, 4, 9 is mechanically protected. At the same time, the change takes place sufficiently quickly.
In some embodiments, a reduction is already included in the feedback of the rate of change by the actuator 3, 4, 9. This means that the reduced rate of change can be stored in a memory, for example in a non-volatile memory, of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. The purpose of this reduction is primarily to provide a reserve. Thus, in the event of deviations of the position or speed of the actuator 3, 4, 9, the deviations can be compensated by changing them independently. In some embodiments, this compensation does not require any intervention by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
Furthermore, the speed and/or the position of the actuator 3, 4, 9 may be changed in such a way that the rate of change is reduced at the beginning of the change. Likewise, the rate of change can be reduced at the end of the change. The reason for the reduced rates of change is that in particular speed-controlled actuators 3 do not follow the feedback of the rate of change accurately at the beginning and/or end.
It can now be the case that one or more actuators 3, 4, 9 do not follow the positioning commands of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 accurately. Therefore, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 registers a deviation between the actual position and the target position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. Furthermore, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can register a deviation between the actual speed and the target speed of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9. Such deviations can, for example, be registered by evaluating one or more signals of a NAMUR encoder and/or NAMUR sensor.
In this case, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 reduces the rate of change for all actuators 3, 4, 9 involved. For example, the rates of change can be reduced by at least thirty percent or by at least fifty percent or by at least seventy percent. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 registers the respective deviations for all actuators 3, 4, 9 involved. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 compares the deviations with one another and determines the largest deviation among the compared deviations. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 reduces the rates of change of all the actuators 3, 4, 9 involved as a function of the largest deviation.
The reduction in the rates of change of all the actuators 3, 4, 5 involved can, for example, be a linear function of the largest deviation. The reduction in the rates of change of all the actuators 3, 4, 5 involved can furthermore be an affine function of the largest deviation.
In some embodiments with periodic feedback of speeds and/or positions, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can learn of the aforementioned deviations. This means that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 learns that the actuator 3, 4, 9 is not following the feedback of the rate of change accurately. The change in speed and/or position can, for example, take place in dependence on the magnitude of a deviation between the target speed and actual speed and/or between the target position and the actual position. In some embodiments, the change in speed and/or position is initiated by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 in dependence on the magnitude of the deviation. In particular, a microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can take account of the magnitude of deviations between the target speed and actual speed and/or between the target position and the actual position.
It is possible that, in step 29, the actuator 3, 4, 9 does not load a rate of change from its memory. For example, it can be the case that no rate of change is stored in the memory of the blower 3. The same applies to the air flap 4 or the fuel actuator 9. In particular, it can be the case that no rate of change is stored in the memory of the fuel flap 9.
In this case, in step 36, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a second response signal. This second response signal indicates that there is no feedback of the rate of change. In particular, the second response signal can indicate
Furthermore, the second response signal can comprise
In addition, the second response signal can be
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate the second response signal. After the second response signal has been generated, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the second response signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In the subsequent step 37, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 receives the second response signal. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 establishes from the second response signal that there has been no feedback of a rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9. This means that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 has to establish the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 by other means.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 does not receive a first or second feedback signal in either step 31 or step 37. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 typically waits for a first or second feedback signal for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined period of time can, for example, be at least one hundred milliseconds or at least two hundred milliseconds or at least five hundred milliseconds. Long predetermined times ensure that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 does not miss a feedback signal.
If the predetermined period of time elapses without a first or second feedback signal, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 has to establish the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 by other means. The other means for establishing the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can take place as shown in
This means that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 generates a first status request signal in an optional step 38. The first status request signal can, for example, indicate a first query for a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The first status request signal can furthermore comprise a first query for a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In addition, the first status request signal can be a first query for a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the first status request signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In some embodiments, the first status request signal is an initial status request signal. In this case, the initial status request signal can, for example, indicate an initial query for an initial speed and/or an initial position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The initial status request signal can furthermore comprise an initial query for an initial speed and/or an initial position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In addition, the initial status request signal can be an initial query for an initial speed and/or an initial position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the initial status request signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In the optional step 39, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 sends the first status request signal and/or the initial status request signal to the actuator 3, 4, 9. In the optional step 40, the actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first and/or the initial status request signal.
In step 41, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a first status signal. The first status signal can, for example, indicate a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The first status signal can furthermore comprise a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In addition, the first status signal can be a first speed and/or a first position of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the first status signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In some embodiments, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the first status signal in response to the first status request signal. In some embodiments, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically, so that there is no need for the aforementioned queries. This means that, in this case, the first status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate status signals periodically. In this case, the first status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the first status signal additionally comprises a first time stamp. The first time stamp indicates the time at which the first status signal is generated. The first time stamp can, for example, be established by an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The first time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can generate the first time stamp upon receipt of the first status signal in step 43 described below. The first time stamp can, for example, be established by an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The first time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In some embodiments, the first status signal is an initial status signal. In this case, the initial status signal can, for example, indicate an initial speed and/or an initial position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The initial status signal can furthermore comprise an initial speed and/or an initial position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In addition, the initial status signal can be an initial speed and/or an initial position of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the initial status signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In some embodiments, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the initial status signal in response to the initial status request signal. In some embodiments, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically, so that there is no need for the aforementioned queries. This means that, in this case, the initial status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate status signals periodically. In this case, the initial status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the initial status signal additionally comprises an initial time stamp. The initial time stamp indicates the time at which the initial status signal is generated. The initial time stamp can, for example, be established by an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The initial time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can generate the initial time stamp upon receipt of the initial status signal in step 43 described below. The initial time stamp can, for example, be established by an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The initial time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In step 42, the actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the first and/or initial status signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. In step 43, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 receives the first and/or initial status signal.
Now, in step 44, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 generates a change signal. The change signal can, for example, comprise a command for the blower 3 to reduce its speed. Furthermore, the change signal can comprise a command for the air flap 4 to close. In addition, the change signal can comprise a command for the fuel actuator 9 to close. In particular, the change signal can comprise a command for the fuel valve 9 and/or the combustion gas valve 9 to close. Of course, speeds can also be increased and positions can also be opened.
The change signal can, for example, comprise a closed-loop control signal and/or an open-loop control signal. The change signal can furthermore be a closed-loop control signal or an open-loop control signal.
In step 45, the change signal generated is sent to the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In step 46, the actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the change signal and starts to change its speed and/or its position. In particular, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can receive the change signal in step 46. The microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates, for example, a pulse-width modulated signal and/or a converter signal based on the change signal. The actuator 3, 4, 9 can start to change its speed and/or its position based on the pulse-width modulated signal and/or based on the converter signal.
In the optional step 47, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 generates a second status request signal. The second status request signal can, for example, indicate a second query for a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The second status request signal can furthermore indicate a query for a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The second status request signal can in addition be a query for a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the second status request signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. In some embodiments, the first status request signal is equal to the second status request signal. This means that the first and the second status request signal contain the same information. For example, the first and the second status request signal can query a speed of the blower 3, a position of the air flap 4 or a position of the at least one fuel actuator 9. In some embodiments, the initial status request signal is equal to the second status request signal. This means that the initial and the second status request signal contain the same information. For example, the initial and the second status request signal can query a speed of the blower 3, a position of the air flap 4 or a position of the fuel actuator 9.
In step 48, the second status request signal is sent to the actuator 3, 4, 9. For example, the second status request signal can be sent to the actuator 3, 4, 9 after a predetermined delay of at least one second, at least two seconds or at least five seconds. Long delay times enable the rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 to be established precisely.
In some embodiments, the predetermined delay starts to run after the first and/or initial status request signal has been sent by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. Likewise, the predetermined delay can start to run after the change signal has been sent by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In the optional step 49, the actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the first and/or the initial status request signal.
In step 50, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates a second status signal. The second status signal can, for example, indicate a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The second status signal can furthermore comprise a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In addition, the second status signal can be a second speed and/or a second position of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the second status signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. In some embodiments, the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates the second status signal in response to the second status request signal. In a further embodiment the actuator 3, 4, 9 generates status signals periodically so that there is no need for the aforementioned queries. This means that, in this case, the second status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals. In particular, the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can generate status signals periodically. In this case, the second status signal is generated as part of a periodic generation of status signals by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the second status signal additionally comprises a second time stamp. The second time stamp indicates the time at which the second status signal is generated. The second time stamp can, for example, be established by an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The second time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the actuator 3, 4, 9.
In some embodiments, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can generate the second time stamp upon receipt of the second status signal in step 52 described below. The second time stamp can, for example, be an internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. The internal clock of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can be based on complementary metal-oxide semiconductors. The second time stamp can likewise be established by counting clock cycles of the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In step 51, the actuator 3, 4, 9 sends the second status signal to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16.
In step 52, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 receives the second status signal. The closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 is now able to establish the rate of change in speed and/or position of the actuator 3, 4, 9. For this purpose, a first mechanical status s1, i.e., a first speed or a first position, is established from the first status signal. Furthermore, a first time t1 is established from the first time stamp.
A second mechanical status s2, i.e., a second speed or a second position, is established from the second status signal. Furthermore, a second time t2 is established from the second time stamp. In this case, the rate of change v can be determined as follows:
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 determines the rate of change. In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor also establishs the first and second mechanical status s1, s2 and the first and second time stamp t1, t2.
In some embodiments, an initial mechanical status s1, i.e., an initial speed or an initial position, is established from the initial status signal. Furthermore, an initial time t1 is established from the initial time stamp. A second mechanical status s2, i.e., a second speed or a second position is established from the second status signal. Furthermore, a second time t2 is established from the second time stamp. In this case, the rate of change v can be determined as follows:
In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 determines the rate of change. In some embodiments, the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor also establishs the initial and second status si, s2 and the initial and second time stamp t1, t2.
Subsequently, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can use the empirically established rate of change in the automation of the actuator 3, 4, 9. This means that, in step 53, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 generates a second automation signal. The second automation signal is sent to the actuator 3, 4, 9. The actuator 3, 4, 9 receives the second automation signal in step 54. In response to the receipt of the second automation signal, the actuator 3, 4, 9 changes its speed and/or its position in step 55.
The second automation signal can, for example, comprise a closed-loop control signal and/or an open-loop control signal. The second automation signal can furthermore be a closed-loop control signal or an open-loop control signal.
In some embodiments, the second automation signal is generated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16. In some embodiments, the first automation signal is different from the second automation signal. This means that the first and the second automation signal contain different information.
In some embodiments, the speed and/or the position is changed in such a way that the empirically established rate of change v of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. In some embodiments, the speed and/or the position is changed in such a way that a maximum of 95 percent of the rate of change of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. Furthermore, the speed and/or the position can be changed in such a way that a maximum of 90 percent of the established rate of change of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is achieved. The fact that the actuator 3, 4, 9 does not perform its change at the maximum empirically established rate of change means that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 9 is mechanically protected. At the same time, the change takes place sufficiently quickly.
In some embodiments, the speed and/or the position of the actuator 3, 4, 9 is changed in such a way that the rate of change is reduced at the start of the change. Likewise, the rate of change can be reduced at the end of the change. The reason for the reduced rates of change is that in particular speed-controlled actuators 3 do not follow the empirically established rate of change accurately at the beginning and/or end.
In some embodiments with periodic feedback of speeds and/or positions, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can learn of the aforementioned deviations. This means that the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 learns that the actuator 3, 4, 9 is not following the empirically established rate of change accurately. The change in speed and/or position can, for example, take place in dependence on the magnitude of a deviation between the target speed and the actual speed and/or between the target position and the actual position. In some embodiments, the change in speed and/or position is initiated by the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 in dependence on the magnitude of the deviation. In particular, a microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus 16 can take account of the magnitude of deviations between the target speed and the actual speed and/or between the target position and the actual position.
In other words, some embodiments of the teachings of the present disclosure include a combustion device comprising a burner (1) and at least one feed duct (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion device comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and comprises a non-volatile memory and a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
to generate a request signal and send it to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9);
The request signal can comprise a request signal with respect to a rate of change, in particular with respect to a nominal or maximum rate of change. The request signal can be a request signal with respect to a rate of change, in particular with respect to a nominal or maximum rate of change.
In one embodiment, the request signal is generated and sent as part of a system start of the combustion device. In a related embodiment, the request signal is generated and sent as part of a startup of the combustion device.
The stored rate of change can in particular correspond to a stored acceleration of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). Ideally, the stored rate of change can be a stored acceleration of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The stored rate of change can in particular correspond to a stored deceleration of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The stored rate of change can ideally be a stored deceleration of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
The stored rate of change can furthermore correspond to a stored maximum rate of change of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The stored rate of change can in particular be a maximum stored rate of change of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). Therefore, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In one embodiment, the demodulation of the carrier signal comprises frequency demodulation of the carrier signal. In a special embodiment, the demodulation of the carrier signal is frequency demodulation of the carrier signal. In one embodiment the demodulation of the carrier signal comprises amplitude demodulation of the carrier signal. In a special embodiment, the demodulation of the carrier signal is amplitude demodulation of the carrier signal.
The same carrier signal is preferably used for modulation and demodulation. The same carrier signal is ideally used for modulation and demodulation.
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the combustion device comprises at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and has a non-volatile memory and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory and embodied:
In one embodiment, the modulation of the carrier signal comprises frequency modulation of the carrier signal. special embodiment, the modulation of the carrier signal is frequency modulation of the carrier signal. In one embodiment the modulation of the carrier signal comprises amplitude modulation of the carrier signal. In a special embodiment, the modulation of the carrier signal is amplitude modulation of the carrier signal.
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the combustion device comprises at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and has a non-volatile memory and a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9).
The mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can comprise a speed of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and/or a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The mechanical variable of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can be selected from:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In one embodiment incorporating an error and/or exception signal, an error and/or exception signal is stored in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating an error and/or exception signal, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In particular, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) can have an error register and infer an error and/or an exception by setting a bit in the error register of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16).
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating an invalid value, wherein the combustion device comprises at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and has a non-volatile memory and a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In one embodiment incorporating an invalid value, an invalid value for the rate of change such as, for example, zero or a negative value, is stored in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating an invalid value, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In particular, the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) can have an error register and infer an error and/or an exception by setting a bit in the error register of the microcontroller and/or microprocessor.
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a predetermined period of time, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and has a non-volatile memory, wherein a predetermined period of time is stored in the non-volatile memory of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16), wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the non-volatile memory of closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) and to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a predetermined period of time, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and has a non-volatile memory and an internal clock, wherein a predetermined period of time is stored in the non-volatile memory of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16), wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the non-volatile memory of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) and to the internal clock and to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a predetermined period of time, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and has a non-volatile memory, wherein a predetermined period of time in the form of a number of clock cycles is stored in the non-volatile memory of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16), wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) has a clock counter and is communicatively connected to the non-volatile memory of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) and to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
In addition, a difference between a second time and a first time can be calculated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16). Furthermore, a difference between a second clock count and a first clock count can be calculated by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16). A difference can be compared with the predetermined period of time by the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16). Furthermore, a difference can be compared with the number of clock cycles the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16).
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices with no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a change signal, wherein the combustion device comprises at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and has a non-volatile memory and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory and embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a change signal, wherein the combustion device comprises a closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and embodied:
The first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can comprise a first speed of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and/or a first position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The first mechanical status s1 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can be selected from:
The communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) can comprise a connection for transmitting a pulse-width modulated signal. The communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) can comprise a connection for transmitting a signal from a NAMUR encoder. In one embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
In a related embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
In a further embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
In a related embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
The analog voltage signal can, for example, assume values between zero and ten volts.
In yet a further embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
In a related embodiment, the communicative connection of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) to the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises
The analog current signal can, for example, assume values between four and twenty milliamperes.
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices with no rate of change in the memory of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In one embodiment incorporating a first time stamp, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) comprises a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and an internal clock, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the internal clock of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the (microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the) at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a change signal, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating receipt of a change signal by at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the combustion device comprises at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) which acts on a feed (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one feed duct (11, 25) to the burner (1) and has a non-volatile memory and has a microcontroller and/or microprocessor, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the memory and embodied:
The second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can comprise a second speed of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) and/or a second position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9). The second mechanical status s2 of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) can be selected from:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a change signal, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied: to receive the change signal from the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16);
In one embodiment incorporating a second time stamp, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) comprises a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and an internal clock, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is communicatively connected to the internal clock of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 9), wherein the (microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the) at least one actuator (3, 4, 9) is embodied:
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a first status signal, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
In one embodiment incorporating a first time stamp, the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) comprises a microcontroller and/or microprocessor and an internal clock, wherein the microcontroller and/or microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is communicatively connected to the internal clock of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16), wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
In addition, present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a first status signal, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The first and the second mechanical status s1, s2 can, for example, be determined by demodulating a carrier signal from the respective status signals.
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a first and second mechanical status s1, s2, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
to determine an empirically established rate of change v as a function of the first and second mechanical status s1, s2 and as a function of the first and second time stamp t1, t2.
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a first and second mechanical status s1, s2, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches a combustion device incorporating a first and second mechanical status s1, s2 and a first and second time stamp t1, t2, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The aforementioned determinations of the empirically established rate of change v can be performed by a microcontroller and/or a microprocessor of the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16).
In addition, the present disclosure teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating an empirically established rate of change v, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control apparatus and/or monitoring apparatus (16) is embodied:
The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion devices incorporating a second automation signal, wherein the closed-loop control apparatus and/or open-loop control and/or monitoring apparatus apparatus (16) is embodied:
The above relates to individual embodiments of the disclosure. Various changes to the embodiments can be made without departing from the underlying idea and scope of this disclosure. The subject matter of the present disclosure is defined by its claims. A wide variety of changes can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24151781.2 | Jan 2024 | EP | regional |
