WO2021140251A1

WO2021140251A1 - Heating system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2021140251A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/050405
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jessy #34SARPEDON; Jean Pierre GUGUIN; Jean Davy RIMPER
Original assignee: #34Sarpedon Jessy
Priority date: 2020-01-10
Filing date: 2021-01-11
Publication date: 2021-07-15
Also published as: FR3106196A1; FR3106196B1

Abstract

The invention relates to a heating system (1) comprising: - a water tank (2); - an electric heating device (3) for heating the water stored in the tank; - a control module (5) configured to control the heating system (1) between a powered mode in which the heating device (3) is electrically powered, and a non-powered mode in which the heating device (3) is not electrically powered; - a water outlet (6) delivering water to the outside of the tank (2), at a chosen set temperature, and - a water inlet (7) receiving water at an initial temperature inside the tank (2), making it possible to store a constant amount of water in the tank (2). The system (1) further comprises a temperature probe (4) configured to measure the temperature at a chosen location (41) inside the tank (2). The control module (5) comprises processing means (52) configured to record and store the temperature thus measured in the tank (2); and to compare it with a chosen high set value C(+h) and with a chosen low set value C(-h) so as to establish temperature profiles for the water in the tank (2) over time and to associate them with heating commands the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the temperature profiles thus established, and the processing means (52) are capable of delivering heating commands in powered mode as soon as the measured temperature of the tank (2) is lower than the low set value C(-h) according to the parameters associated with the temperature variation profile corresponding to the current situation of the heating system (1) and without altering the high and low set values, and with non-heating commands as soon as the measured temperature reaches the high set value C(+h).

Description

Title of the invention: [Water heating system and method]

[001] [The present invention relates to a water heating system and a heating method implemented by said water heating system, in particular but not limited to domestic water heating installations.

[002] Much progress has been made in the field of domestic water heating. However, the known solutions are generally costly in terms of energy, and do not allow the temperature of the sanitary water to be maintained at a target temperature so that the user does not suffer from a lack of hot water supply during current use. , combined with a low and controlled energy balance.

[003] Water heater systems are known comprising a water tank, a heating device, and a thermostat capable of activating / deactivating the heating device. These systems generally only have one mode of supplying the heating device, without controlling energy expenditure.

We know the documents US 2016 / 0178239A1 and WO 2012 / 162763A1, teaching a heating system configured to activate the heating means when the current temperature reaches a given minimum temperature, and configured to deactivate the heating means when the temperature current reaches a maximum limit temperature. The drawback of such prior systems is that they do not take into account the variation profiles of the current temperature in the tank, and therefore do not allow a suitable response to maintain the temperature of the water without limiting the electrical consumption of the tank. system.

Document US 2007 / 0108187A1 is also known, modifying the low and high setpoint temperature according to the periods of hot water consumption detected, to maintain the temperature. current between these low and high setpoint temperatures by a heating means activation / deactivation system.

[006] Such a system has the drawback of reacting to a high consumption of domestic hot water by modifying the low and high setpoint value, and thus of heating the domestic water to higher temperatures, thus causing greater wear. of the heater.

[007] Other systems offer heating device activation / deactivation sequences, but generally suffer from a lack of thermal efficiency leading the user to have a limited volume of hot water depending on the use. , and only the manual activation of a forced heating system allows the user to increase the volume of hot water available. As users are reluctant to handle an electrical panel to activate the forced heating, it is rarely used.

[008] These prior systems also have the drawback of affecting the durability of the electric heating elements and of the water tanks, which are worn out by the current operating conditions, and therefore require frequent maintenance, on site, and often costly for the user, as well as the intervention of a specialist.

The present invention advantageously overcomes these drawbacks.

It relates to a heating system comprising a water tank; a device for electric heating of the water stored in the tank; a control module configured to drive the heating system between a powered mode, in which the heater is electrically powered, and an unpowered mode in which the heater is not electrically powered; a water outlet delivering water to the outside of the tank at a chosen set temperature, and a water inlet receiving water at the initial temperature inside the tank, making it possible to keep a volume of water constant, the system further comprising a temperature probe configured to measure the average temperature at a selected location within the tank. [010] According to a general definition of the invention, the control module comprises processing means configured to record, store the average temperature thus measured in the tank, and compare it with a selected high setpoint C (+ h), and at a chosen low setpoint value C (-h); so as to establish temperature profiles of the water in the tank over time and to associate them with heating commands, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the temperature profiles thus established, and the treatment means are suitable for deliver heating orders in powered mode as soon as the measured average tank temperature is lower than the low setpoint C (-h) according to the parameters associated with the temperature variation profile corresponding to the current situation of the heating system, while keeping the value of the low C (-h) and high C (+ h) set points fixed, and delivering unpowered heating orders as soon as the average temperature measured reaches the high set point C (+ h).

[011] In other words, the powered and non-powered water heating modes are optimally ordered thanks to the average water temperature thus measured instantly and continuously at a chosen location of the tank, thanks to the profiles setpoint values thus established in relation to low and high setpoint values, and also thanks to the fact that the heating orders are delivered without making any modification to the value of the low and high setpoints (value kept fixed), which allows the user to control the energy expenditure associated with the system.

[012] Thus, the heating system makes it possible to react immediately to a need for heating without modifying the low and high setpoint value according to the periods of hot water consumption detected, which makes it possible to greatly limit energy consumption, and by guaranteeing a constant hot water volume during hot water distribution phases without additional user intervention. The heating system is finely regulated so as to limit the wear of the heating and measuring elements, thus making it possible to limit the necessary maintenance, and allows a reduction of production costs by minimizing the number of elements used.

[013] The subject of the invention is also a heating method applied to a heating system comprising a water tank; an electric heater; a temperature sensor configured to measure the temperature inside the tank, and emit in real time a signal representative of the temperature measured in the tank; and a control module configured to drive the heating system between a powered mode, in which the heater is electrically powered and heats the water in the tank, and a non-powered mode in which the heater is not electrically powered, and does not heat the water in the tank.

[014] According to a general definition of the invention, the operating mode heating process comprises the following steps:

[015] S1) instantly and continuously measure the average temperature of the water contained in the tank with a temperature probe placed at a chosen location inside the tank;

[016] S2) recording and storing the average temperature thus measured in the tank; and compare it with a chosen high setpoint value C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint value C (-h);

[017] S3) establish variation profiles of the mean temperature of the water in the reservoir over time;

[018] S4) associate heating orders, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the variation profiles thus established;

[019] S5) order the control means to supply the heating device with electricity according to the parameters associated with the current average temperature variation profile as soon as the measured average temperature of the tank is lower than the low set value C (- h) while retaining the fixed value of the low and high set points; and

[020] S6) cut the power supply to the heating means as soon as the measured average temperature reaches the high set value C (+ h). [021] The heating process therefore makes it possible to obtain a fine regulation of the energy consumption, while satisfying the hot water needs of the user without lowering the temperature of the hot water thus distributed, and without any specialist intervention.

[022] Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will become apparent on examination of the description and the drawings in which:

- [Fig 1] shows the heating system according to the invention;

- [Fig 2] shows the control module according to the invention;

- [Fig 3] schematically shows a first alternative embodiment of the heating system according to the invention;

- [Fig 4] shows schematically the control module of the heating system of the first alternative embodiment according to the invention;

- [Fig 5] shows schematically the stages of starting / stopping the heating system of the heating process according to the invention;

- [Fig 6] schematically shows a second alternative embodiment of the heating system according to the invention;

- [Fig 7] schematically shows a third alternative embodiment of the heating system according to the invention;

[Fig 8] schematically shows an alternative embodiment of the heating system according to the invention with a mixer;

- [Fig 9] schematically shows an alternative embodiment of the control module of the heating system according to the invention; - [Fig 10] represents the network environment of the heating system according to the invention;

- [Fig 11] shows schematically the steps of temperature regulation by the heating system according to the invention;

- [Fig 12] shows schematically the main stages of the heating process according to the invention;

- [Fig 13] schematically represents the steps and sub-steps of the heating process according to the invention;

- [Fig 14] represents a graph of the change in the average temperature of the device in use as a function of time;

- [Fig 15] shows schematically the renovation of a standard heating system for the implementation of the process according to the invention;

- [Fig 16] shows a mode incorporating a heat exchanger;

- [Fig 17] schematically shows a particular embodiment comprising an integrated plate of the heating system according to the invention; and

- [Fig 18] schematically represents the architecture of the control and management means of a group of heating system according to the invention.

[023] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the heating system 1 according to the invention comprises several functional groups including a tank 2, a water inlet 7 allowing the routing of water from the network of '' domestic water supply to tank 2, a water outlet 6 allowing water to be routed from tank 2 to the domestic hot water distribution network, a heating device 3 and a temperature sensor 4 arranged in the tank 2, and a control module 5, able to control the heating device 3.

[024] The heating system 1 comprises a tank 2 capable of containing and storing the water coming from the water inlet 7, and of delivering water. heated to a selected setpoint temperature, via water outlet 6, to the domestic water distribution network. The tank 2 is fed constantly from the water inlet 7 so as to maintain a constant volume of water in the tank.

[025] In practice, the tank is insulated so as to limit the loss of heat from the stored water being heated or being heated.

[026] The heating system 1 comprises a heating device 3 immersed in the tank 2, able to be supplied electrically and to heat the water contained in the tank 2 by thermal transfer.

[027] According to a particular embodiment according to the invention, the heating device 3 comprises an electric heating resistor, and is arranged so that the heating resistor protrudes from the lower part of the tank 2, in order to allow heating the water contained in the low position, which is generally of low temperature hereinafter called the initial temperature, and coming directly from the water inlet 7. The position of the heating device 3 then makes it possible to improve the distribution of heated water in the tank by convection effect.

[028] In practice, the heating device 3 belongs to the group formed by immersion heater, soapstone resistance.

[029] The heating system 1 according to the invention comprises a temperature probe 4, said temperature probe 4 being able to instantly and continuously measure the average temperature of the water contained in the tank 2, and to transmit in real time a signal representative of the average temperature measured.

[030] According to an embodiment according to the invention, the temperature probe 4 is disposed at a chosen location 41 in the tank 2 to measure the average temperature of the water contained.

[031] By way of example, the temperature probe is arranged at a chosen location 41 such as the center of the tank 2, and at a height corresponding to two thirds of the total height of the tank 2, thus making it possible to stand at a sufficient height so that the measured temperature corresponds to the average temperature of the water contained in the tank 2.

[032] In practice, the temperature probe 4 may be of the variable ohmic resistance type, said probe being sealed and arranged in a copper sleeve so as not to be in direct contact with water. This particular arrangement also makes it possible to minimize the wear of the temperature sensor, while limiting lime deposits and corrosion.

[033] The heating system 1 further comprises a control module 5, connected to the temperature sensor 4, to the heating device 3, as well as to a power supply 11.

[034] The control module 5 is configured to control the heating system 1 between a powered mode, in which the heating device 3 is electrically powered, and a non-powered mode in which the heating device 3 is not electrically. powered, and does not heat the water in tank 2.

[035] According to one embodiment according to the invention, the control module 5 comprises control means 51 capable of controlling the power supply to the heating system 1, and more particularly to the heating device 3, as well as processing means 52 configured to record, and store using storage means 521 integrated with processing means 52, the average temperature data measured in tank 2 by temperature probe 4.

[036] The processing means 52 are also able to compare the average temperature thus recorded with a chosen high setpoint temperature value C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint temperature value C (-h) so as to establish profiles of the average temperature of the water in the tank 2 over time, and to associate them with heating orders, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the profiles thus established.

[037] The setpoint temperature C is defined as the average target temperature of the water intended for the domestic water distribution network. The high C (+ h) and low C (-h) setpoint values correspond to the value setpoint C to which is added (+ h), or subtracted (-h) a value h corresponding to a chosen margin.

[038] According to a normal operating mode, the processing means 52 of the control module 5 are able to order the control means 51 to supply the heating device 3 electrically as soon as the measured average temperature of the tank 2 is less than the low setpoint C (-h), according to the parameters associated with the average temperature profile corresponding to the current situation of the heating system 1.

[039] The processing means 52 are also able to order the cutting of the power supply to the heating device 3 as soon as the measured average temperature reaches the high setpoint C (+ h).

[040] In practice, the average temperature profiles of the water in tank 2 correspond to the processing of recorded data of the average temperature measured in real time, so as to identify an index of temperature drop in tank 2.

[041] The temperature drop index in the tank 2 allows on the one hand the identification of a heat loss linked to the thermal insulation limits of the insulated tank 2, also called natural dissipation, and on the other hand part, the identification of a heat dissipation caused by the discharge of hot water from the tank 2 to the water outlet 6, generally synonymous with hot water consumption by the user.

[042] In practice, the temperature drop index in tank 2 linked to natural dissipation is generally low and depends mainly on the quality of insulation of tank 2.

[043] By way of nonlimiting example, this index is from 0.05 to 0.30 ° C / hour. The temperature drop index for induced heat dissipation is usually much higher, and greater than 1 ° C / h.

[044] The processing means 52 associate the established temperature variation profiles with heating commands, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the temperature profiles thus established, and identified during normal operation of the heating system 1. [045] The heating commands issued by the processing means 52 make it possible, in response to a drop in temperature beyond a low set value C (-h), to supply the heating device 3 with sufficient power so that the average temperature inside tank 2 reaches a value greater than the high setpoint C (+ h), while limiting the electrical consumption associated with the strictly necessary use and also without making any modification to the high setpoint values and low.

[046] In practice, the parameters of the heating orders associated with the average temperature profiles in the tank belong to the group formed by: power delivered by the heating device 3, duration of the power supply to the heating device 3.

[047] The duration of the power supply to the heating device 3 associated with the temperature profile by the processing means 52 takes into account the heat given off by the heating device 3 between the interruption of the power supply thereof, and its total cooling.

[048] In the event of hot water distribution to the outside of tank 2, use is detected by an increasing temperature drop index, the return to the high set temperature C (+ h) in use must therefore be do this over a short period, and at high power so as to meet the volumetric need for hot water associated with use, while keeping the high C (+ h) and low C (-h) setpoint temperature values fixed .

[049] On the other hand, if the temperature drop is due to natural dissipation, a longer heating time for a lower power delivered will allow the average temperature inside the tank 2 to return to the high set temperature C (+ h) while limiting energy consumption and keeping the high C (+ h) and low C (-h) set point temperature values fixed.

[050] According to one embodiment of the invention, the heating device 3 comprises a sensor, hereinafter called energy sensor 31, arranged outside the tank 2 and connected to the control module 5. [051] The energy sensor 31 is able to record and transmit to the processing means without limitation the voltage of the network, the current applied to the heating device 3, the power factor of the heating device 3, the active power of the heating device 3, as well as the power consumption.

[052] Referring to Figures 3, 4, and 5, the heating system 1 further comprises means forming a pressure switch 8, capable of continuously detecting any change in pressure between the water outlet 6 of the tank 2 and the circuit. hot water supply, a pressure change indicating the change from a state without hot water flow to the outside of the heating system 1, to the establishment of a hot water flow to the outside of the heating system 1, generally associated with the use of hot water by the user.

[053] The means forming a pressure switch 8 are connected to the control module 5, and make it possible to transmit to the processing module 52 of the control module 5 the status of real-time detection of a flow of water leaving the tank 2 .

[054] If the establishment of a flow is measured, the processing module 52 orders the operation in a normal mode of the heating system 1.

[055] If a flow establishment is not measured for a period T, the processing module 52 orders the deactivation of the heating sequence, and the placing of the heating system 1 on standby by temporarily deactivating the heating device 3 .

[056] By way of nonlimiting example, the period T can be 24 or 48 hours.

[057] According to a particular embodiment according to the invention, the heating system 1 comprises an electronic display device 54 connected to the control module 5, and able to display the operating parameters of the heating system 1.

[058] The operating parameters of the displayable heating system 1 belong to the group formed by: the setpoint temperature selected, the average temperature of the water in the tank 2, the power supply state of the heating device 3, the flow establishment state.

[059] In practice, the display device 54 comprises adjustment means (not shown) allowing the user to transmit instructions to the heating system 1, such as the selection of the setpoint temperature, or of the selection. System 1 operating mode (Normal, Standby, Off).

[060] Referring to Figures 6 and 7, the heating system 1 presents an alternative embodiment according to the invention comprising auxiliary heating means 9 forming a closed loop water circulation with the tank 2.

[061] The auxiliary heating means 9 comprise an auxiliary circuit, having an auxiliary water outlet 91 capable of conveying the water from the tank 2 to the auxiliary heating means 9, and a make-up water inlet 92 delivering inside the tank 2 a water having a temperature higher than the initial temperature. The auxiliary heating means 9 allow the heating of the circulating water by means of heating elements, and the rerouting of the water thus heated to a temperature above the initial temperature.

[062] For example, the auxiliary heating means 9 belong to the group formed by solar heating, fireplace or wood stove incorporating a heat exchanger system.

[063] As a variant, the heating system 1 comprises a twilight switch 10, connected to the control module 5, and capable of triggering an automatic control to put the heating system 1 on standby when a decreasing brightness, associated with a phase night time is detected, and an automatic command to return to normal operating mode when increasing brightness associated with a daytime phase is detected.

[064] Referring to Figure 16, according to another particular embodiment of the invention, the heating system comprises means of auxiliary heater 9 of solar type, having a closed loop circuit in which a heat transfer liquid circulates. The circulation of said heat transfer liquid is controlled by the associated control system 5, pumps (not shown), at least one calorimetric probe 94, as well as at least two solenoid valves EV1 and EV2.

[065] Said closed loop circuit comprises a first calorimetric injection pipe 931 capable of circulating the coolant from the auxiliary heating means 9 to the tank 2, the first pipe 931 once in the tank describing an exchanger of heat 93 in a coil, capable of allowing a heat supply, and a second return duct 932 from the tank 2 to the auxiliary heating means 9 in order to allow the return of the coolant having partially lost its thermal energy (depleted coolant ).

[066] The auxiliary heating system 6 according to the embodiment thus presented comprises a control mechanism comprising two operating modes including a sunny operating mode and a cold weather operating mode.

[067] In operation in sunny weather, when the temperature of the solar auxiliary heating means 9 is greater than the setpoint temperature C, the heat supply to the tank 2 is effected by the circulation of the heat transfer liquid through the exchanger 93 actuated by at least one pump and valves EV1 and EV2.

[068] In operation in cold weather: when the temperature of the solar auxiliary heating means 9 is lower than the set point temperature C, the module stops the pump and closes the valves to stop the loss of heat to the outside of the unit. tank 2 via the exchanger 93 and activates the electric powered / non-powered operating mode described above.

[069] Referring to Figure 8, according to an alternative embodiment according to the invention, the heating system 1 comprises a mixer 16 capable of transferring the hot water accumulated in the upper part of the tank 2, and reinject this hot water into the lower part of the tank. Such a water transfer makes it possible to mix the water heated from the top of the tank 2, with the water at the bottom of the tank 2 at initial temperature coming from the inlet 7, in order to equalize the general temperature of the tank. water in the entire tank 2.

[070] The mixer 16 comprises a suction pipe 162 in which the hot water accumulated in the upper part of the tank 2 is sucked, a solenoid valve 161 connected to the control module 5, capable of pumping and controlling the flow of the mixer 16 , and an ejection duct 163 capable of allowing the ejection of the hot water thus sucked into the lower part of the tank 2.

[071] The mixer 16 is activated by the control module 5, and operates synchronously with the heating device 3. The mixer is therefore active only when the heating device 3 is powered.

[072] The mixer 16 can be integrated into any embodiment according to the invention.

[073] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the control module 5 comprises communication means 53 capable of establishing a connection between the control module 5 and other elements of the heating system 1 advantageously equipped with transmitter / receiver means (not shown).

[074] By way of nonlimiting example, the temperature probe 4, the pressure switch 8, the heating device 3 can be equipped with transmitter / receiver means (not shown), and able to establish a connection with the control module 5, so as to transmit data, and operating instructions.

[075] In practice, the connections are of the wireless type, and belong to the group formed by WiFi, Bluetooth, radio, and the like. [076] According to one embodiment, the control module 5 can establish a connection to a network 13 via the communication means 53 via a router 15.

[077] In practice, the establishment of a connection with the network 13 allows the control module 5 to transmit all the processed and recorded data to a remote server 14, or cloud. The connection of the control module 5 to the network 13 also allows the establishment of a connection with at least one external communication device 12.

[078] By way of example, the external communication device 12 belongs without limitation to the group formed by smartphone, tablet, computers, and the like.

[079] The establishment of a communication between the control module 5, and an external communication device 12 allows the user to have access to the data recorded and transmitted in real time to the remote server, while allowing the sending remote operating instructions to the control module 5 such as the selection of the setpoint temperature, or the selection of the operating mode of the system 1 (Normal, standby, off), the control module 5 of the heating system 1 comprising a unique identifier.

[080] Access via the external communication device 12 allows the user to have access to a management platform configured to allow access to data belonging without limitation to the group formed by setpoint temperature, internal temperature of the 'water, grid voltage, actual intensity, active and reactive power, and real-time energy consumption.

[081] Referring to Figure 18, the management platform also allows a management mode by group of installations, thus allowing remote management and configuration of a group of heating systems 1.

[082] The management platform can be hosted on a remote server 14, and allows the user to consult all the installations using a drop-down menu. [083] The management platform makes it possible to highlight anomalies and the actual consumption of the heating systems installed, but also to readjust the setpoint temperatures if necessary.

[084] In practice, by using a CE00 function, defined as a master code, the user can control a group of heating systems 1, and thus modify their settings simultaneously.

[085] According to a particular embodiment, the adjustment of the setpoint temperature C is possible within the limit of 5 ° C.

[086] Referring to Figure 17, according to a particular embodiment of the invention, the heating system 1 comprises a tank 2 having an opening made to accommodate a plate 21 configured to be mounted hermetically at the base of the tank 2, and incorporating a case 42 hollow longitudinal probe holder capable of accommodating the temperature probe 4 and projecting inside the tank 2, the heating device 3 defines by a longitudinal electrical resistance also projecting inside the tank 2, and a thermostat 100 arranged substantially next to the heating device 3 also projecting inside the tank 2.

[087] The thermostat 100 is also calibrated at 85 ° C, therefore acting as additional safety when the temperature in the tank 2 increases too greatly and reaches a temperature greater than or equal to 85 ° C.

[088] In practice, the plate also incorporates an anti-corrosion element EAC, capable of limiting corrosion inside tank 2.

[089] The temperature probe 4, the heating device and the thermostat 100 are connected to the control module 5 in order to be able to record, analyze and report their operating statuses.

[090] In practice, such an arrangement makes it possible to facilitate the wiring of the heating system 1 thanks to the proximity of the various elements.

[091] According to another embodiment according to the invention, the tank 2 comprises an internal mixer (not shown) capable of homogenizing the temperature inside the tank 2. [092] With reference to Figures 11 to 13, the subject of the invention relates to a heating method applied to the heating system 1 thus described with reference to Figures 1 to 10.

[093] According to a first step S1, the average temperature of the water contained in the tank 2 is measured continuously in real time with a temperature probe 4.

[094] Advantageously, the temperature measurement is carried out at a chosen location 41 inside the tank 2 so as to obtain an average temperature representative of the temperature of the water contained in the tank 22.

[095] According to a second step S2, the measurements of the average temperature in the tank 2 thus obtained are recorded and stored, then compared with a chosen high setpoint value C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint value C (-h ).

[096] According to a step S3, variation profiles of the mean temperature of the water in the reservoir over time are established.

[097] With reference to FIG. 14, the profiles of variation of the mean temperature of the water in the reservoir correspond to the processing of the data of the mean temperature measured in real time and recorded, so as to identify a falling index of temperature in tank 2.

[098] The temperature drop index in tank 2, on the one hand, allows the identification of heat loss. In FIG. 13, a first temperature drop profile can be distinguished with temperature drop indices X1, X2, X3 and a second temperature drop profile Y1, Y2, Y3.

[099] In practice, the temperature drop index in tank 2 of the first profile X1, X2, X3 is low, and linked to natural dissipation. By way of nonlimiting example, this index is 0.05 to 0.15 ° C / hour.

[100] The temperature drop index of the second profile of temperature drop index Y1, Y2, Y3 is more important, and denotes a profile characteristic of an induced heat dissipation greater than 1 ° C / h. [101] According to a step S4, the association of the heating commands, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the variation profiles thus established.

[102] The processing means 52 associate the temperature variation profiles established with heating commands are chosen and adapted to the variation profiles thus established and identified during normal operation of the heating system 1 according to the selected parameters.

[103] The heating commands emitted by the processing means 52 make it possible, in response to a drop in temperature beyond a low set value C (-h), to supply the heating device 3 with sufficient power so that the average temperature inside the tank 2 reaches a value greater than the setpoint value C (+ h), while limiting the electrical consumption associated with the strictly necessary use.

[104] In practice, the parameters of the heating orders associated with the average temperature variation profiles in the tank belong to the group formed by: power delivered by the heating device 3, duration of the power supply to the heating device 3.

[105] The duration of the power supply to the heating device 3 associated with the temperature variation profile by the processing means 52 takes into account the heat given off by the heating device 3 between the cut of the power supply to the latter. ci, and its total cooling.

[106] According to a step S5, the control means 5 are ordered to supply the heating device 3 electrically according to the parameters associated with the current average temperature variation profile as soon as the average temperature measured in the tank 2 is lower than the average temperature. low setpoint C (-h).

[107] According to a step S6, the power supply to the heating device 3 is cut off as soon as the measured average temperature reaches the high set value C (+ h).

[108] According to one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the step of instantaneously and continuously measuring the average temperature of the water contained in the tank 2 with a temperature probe 4 arranged at a location chosen inside the tank 2 is preceded by an initialization step 200 of the heating system 1 which comprises the following substeps:

201) start the control module 5 and initialize the temperature probe 4;

202) Start the real-time measurement of the average temperature of tank 2;

203) heat the water in tank 2, from an initial temperature, to a chosen set point temperature C + h; and

204) automatically cut the power supply to the heating means when the average temperature measured is greater than a set value C (+ h).

[109] In practice, the method according to the invention, when the heating system implementing the method has means forming a pressure switch, comprises the following steps:

- detecting the establishment or not of a water flow at the outlet of tank 2; and

- turn off the heating when no flow establishment is measured by the means forming a pressure switch 8 for a selected time period T.

[110] With reference to FIG. 15, the heating method according to the invention can be applied advantageously and alternatively to a standard (pre-existing) heating system 200, hereinafter called a renovated heating system 200, comprising a tank 201 , and an electric heater 202 and to which slight modifications are made to apply the optimum heating method described above.

[111] The changes made consist in practice of removing the thermostat from the pre-existing installation and inserting the probe 4 into a case at the location of the thermostat thus removed to measure the temperature at the chosen location 41.

[112] The refurbished heating system control subsystem 200 further includes a control module configured to drive the heater 202 of the refurbished heating system 200 between a powered mode, in which the heater 202 is fed electrically and heats the water of the tank 201, and a non-powered mode in which the heater 202 is not electrically powered, and does not heat the water of the tank 201.

[113] The control module 5 is installed in the electrical panel of a home, and is connected to the temperature sensor 4, as well as to the heater 202 already preinstalled in the renovated heating system 200.

[114] According to one embodiment according to the invention, the control module 5 comprises control means 51 capable of controlling the power supply to the heating system 200, and more particularly to the heating device 202, as well as processing means 52 configured to record and store the average temperature thus measured in the tank by the temperature probe 4 by means of storage means 521 integrated into the processing means 52.

[115] The processing means 52 are also able to compare the average temperature thus recorded with a chosen high setpoint temperature C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint temperature value C (-h) so as to establish profiles of variation of the average temperature of the water in the reservoir 201 over time and to associate them with heating orders, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the variation profiles thus established.

[116] According to a normal operating mode, the processing means 52 of the control module 5 are able to order the control means 51 to supply electric power to the heating device 202 as soon as the measured average temperature of the tank 201 is less than the low setpoint value C (-h), according to the parameters associated with the average temperature variation profile corresponding to the current situation of the renovated heating system 200 and to cut the power supply to the heating device 202 as soon as the temperature measured average reaches the high setpoint C (+ h). )

Claims

[Claim 1] [Heating system (1) comprising a water tank (2); an electric heater (3) for the water stored in the tank; a control module (5) configured to control the heating system (1) between a powered mode, in which the heater (3) is electrically powered, and a non-powered mode in which the heater (3) is is not electrically powered; a water outlet (6) delivering water to the outside of the tank (2), at a chosen set point temperature, and a water inlet (7) receiving to the inside of the tank (2) a water at initial temperature, making it possible to maintain a constant volume of water in the tank (2), the system (1) further comprising a temperature probe (4) configured to measure the average temperature at a chosen location (41) at the interior of the tank (2), characterized in that the control module (5) comprises processing means (52) configured to record, and store the average temperature thus measured in the tank (2); and compare it with a chosen high setpoint value C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint value C (-h); so as to establish temperature profiles of the water in the tank (2) over time and to associate them with heating orders, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the temperature profiles thus established, and in that the processing means (52) are able to deliver heating orders in powered mode as soon as the measured temperature of the tank (2) is lower than the low setpoint value C (-h) according to the parameters associated with the variation profile of the temperature corresponding to the current situation of the heating system (1), while keeping the low and high setpoint value fixed ((C (-h), C (+ h)), and to non-heating orders as soon as the measured temperature reaches the high set point C (+ h).

[Claim 2] A system according to claim 1, in which the processing means (52) are able to instruct the control module (5) to initialize the heating up to the selected high set point value C (+ h).

[Claim 3] A heating system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it further comprises auxiliary heating means (9) comprising a make-up circuit, having a make-up water outlet (91) able to convey from the tank (2) to the make-up heating means, and a make-up water inlet (92) delivering inside the tank (2) a water having a temperature higher than the initial temperature.

[Claim 4] Heating system (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the make-up circuit (9) comprises a closed loop circuit in which a heat transfer liquid circulates on command of a control system

(5) associated, pumps, at least one calorimetric probe (94), as well as at least two solenoid valves (EV1 and EV2).

[Claim s] Heating system (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the auxiliary heating means (9) belong to the group formed by solar heating, fireplace or wood stove incorporating a heat exchanger system .

[Claim 6] Heating system (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises means forming a pressure switch (8), capable of detecting a flow of water at the water outlet (6 ) of the tank (2).

[Claim 7] A heating system (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the processing means (52) are connected to the pressure switch means (8) and are able to instruct the control means (51) to deactivate the heater (3) when no build-up of flow is measured by the pressure switch means

(8) during a chosen time period T.

[Claim s] Heating system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises an energy sensor (31), arranged outside the tank (2) and connected to the control module (5), capable of recording and transmitting to the processing means (52) the network voltage, the current applied to the heating device (3), the power factor of the heating device (3), the power active heating device (3), as well as the power consumption.

[Claim 9] Heating system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a mixer (16) capable of transferring the hot water accumulated in the upper part of the tank (2) , and reinjecting this hot water into the lower part of the tank (2) so as to mix in order to equalize the temperature of the water in the tank (2), said mixer (16) comprising a suction pipe (162) ) in which the hot water accumulated in the upper part of the tank

(2) is sucked in, a solenoid valve (161) connected to the control module (5), capable of pumping and controlling the flow of the mixer (16), and an ejection duct (163) capable of allowing the ejection of the hot water thus sucked into the lower part of the tank (2).

[Claim 10] A heating system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the reservoir (2) comprises an opening formed to receive a plate (21) configured to be hermetically mounted to the base. of the tank (2), and incorporating a case (42) hollow longitudinal probe holder suitable for receiving the temperature probe (4) and projecting inside the tank (2), the heating device (3) defined by a longitudinal electrical resistance also projecting inside the tank (2), and a thermostat (100) disposed substantially next to the heating device (3) also projecting inside the tank (2).

[Claim 11] A heating method applied to a heating system (1) comprising a tank (2) of water; a heater

(3) electric water stored in the tank; a temperature probe

(4) configured to measure the temperature inside the tank (2); a control module (5) configured to control the heating system (1) between a powered mode, in which the heater (3) is electrically powered, and a non-powered mode in which the heater (3) is is not electrically powered; characterized in that in operating mode, it comprises the following steps: S1) instantaneously and continuously measuring the average temperature of the water contained in the tank (2) with a temperature probe (4) arranged at a chosen location inside the tank (2);

52) recording and storing the average temperature thus measured in the tank (2); and comparing it with a chosen high setpoint value C (+ h) and with a chosen low setpoint value C (-h);

53) establish variation profiles of the mean temperature of the water in the reservoir (2) over time;

54) associate heating orders, the parameters of which are chosen and adapted to the variation profiles thus established;

55) order the control means (51) to supply the heating device (3) with electricity according to the parameters associated with the current average temperature variation profile as soon as the measured average temperature of the tank (2) is lower than the value low setpoint C (-h), while keeping the low and high setpoint value (C (-h), C (+ h)) fixed; and

56) cut the power supply to the heating means as soon as the measured average temperature reaches the high set point C (+ h).

[Claim 12] A heating method according to claim 11, characterized in that the step of instantaneously and continuously measuring the average temperature of the water contained in the tank (2) with a temperature probe (4) arranged at a location chosen inside the tank (2) is preceded by an initialization step (200) of the heating system (1) which comprises the following substeps:

201) start the control module (5) and initialize the temperature probe (4);

202) Start the real-time measurement of the average temperature of the tank (2);

203) heat the water in the tank (2), from an initial temperature, to a selected high set point temperature C (+ h); and

204) automatically cut the power supply to the heating means when the average temperature measured is greater than a high set point C (+ h).

[Claim 13] A heating method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, characterized in that it further comprises the following steps:

- detecting the establishment or not of a water flow at the outlet of the reservoir (2); and

- turn off the heating when no flow establishment is measured by the means forming a pressure switch (8) for a selected time period T.

[Claim 14] A heating method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that it further comprises a step of remote management and parameterization of a group of heating systems (1) comprising a function (CE00), defined as a master code, allowing to control the group of heating systems, and thus modify their settings simultaneously. ]