DE102011015659A1 - System for controlling thermostatic valve of heating body in room of building, has transducer device for controlling valve based on control signals, where control signals are transmitted from transmitter device to transducer device - Google Patents

Abstract

The system (10) has a signal transducer device (12) connected to an electrical network (14) and comprising a transmission and/or receiving unit (16) for receiving control signals. The device is electrically connected with a thermostatic valve (20) over a cable (18). A transmitter device (26) is spatially separated from the transducer device. The transducer device controls the thermostatic valve based on the signals, where the signals are transmitted from the transmitter device to the transducer device. The transmitter device is coupled with a central computer-controlled control unit (27). An independent claim is also included for a method for controlling a thermostatic valve of a heating body.

Description

The invention relates to a system for controlling a thermostatic valve of at least one radiator according to the preamble of claim 1, 4 and 7, and a method according to the preamble of claim 21.

In order to save heating energy, technologies are used in building automation with which the heating of a room or a building is adapted to the requirements of use as part of a so-called individual room control. As a result, it is avoided that the rooms or the building will be heated when nobody is in it.

To save heating energy by way of a single room control devices are known, which are formed in the simplest case as battery-operated programmable thermostatic valves. In such devices, an operator may set desired target temperatures for a predetermined time or predetermined time phases. The energy supply of the above-mentioned thermostatic valves by means of batteries can be problematic in the commercial sector and / or in public areas, because the batteries may be removed without permission or even the entire device is stolen. In addition, batteries cause high maintenance costs as a result of their discharge and are also harmful to the environment.

DE 10 2009 023 282 B3 shows a valve control for a thermostatic valve. This thermostatic valve comprises a heating valve with a valve stem whose functional position via a drive device, for. B. an electric motor with a gearbox can be adjusted. For controlling the operating position of the valve stem via the electric motor, a control unit is provided to control the room temperature in response to a window ventilation of a room. As soon as a window of a room is opened, the setpoint for the room temperature is changed or reduced, in order to avoid an opening of the heating valve and thus an unnecessary heating of the room. The drive motor can be controlled via radio or via a permanently installed signal cable. The valve control after the DE 10 2009 023 282 B3 is disadvantageous insofar as that the adjustability of the valve stem of the heating valve via the electric motor because of the intermediate transmission is mechanically complex, and this does not allow retrofitting by simple means.

Radiators with thermostatic valves are known in the art, which recognize by radio an open position of a window. In 10 a radiator is shown with such a thermostatic valve, which corresponds to a radio transmitter, which is integrated in a window handle corresponds. Upon actuation of the window handle, a control signal is sent to the thermostatic valve of the radiator. As a result, when the window is open, the temperature of the radiator is lowered to limit or prevent unnecessary heating.

For individual room control and thermostatic valve heads are known, which can be remotely controlled by wire or. Such thermostatic valve heads may have a built-in electrically heated liquid sensor - when applying a control current through the cable, a temperature reduction can be achieved, for. B. control of a plurality of radiators or thermostatic valve heads mounted thereon is usually star-shaped by a central control unit, which is associated with a high installation cost. When using fieldbus systems, the wiring of a room temperature sensor is usually added, which provides the actual temperature and is occasionally used to change the setpoint temperature. Overall, the installation of such a single room control consuming and can not be done easily by retrofitting because of the above-mentioned necessary wiring.

Out EP 2 141 396 A1 a device for controlling a radiator is known which comprises a valve and a control and drive device. The valve has an axially adjustable valve tappet for opening and closing the valve. In the control and drive device, an electric motor with a drive shaft for axially adjusting the valve stem is arranged. The valve stem is designed as a threaded spindle, which is mounted axially adjustable in the valve and is rotatably driven by the electric motor. By appropriate controls settings of the valve z. As a time programming, are made. In principle, it is possible to determine a specific flow rate value for installation of the valve even after installation of the radiator and to adjust, for example by means of remote control by infrared or radio. However, it is not known for the device according to this document that a radio control of the valve takes place according to a predetermined schedule. Furthermore, the mechanical controllability of the valve by the electric motor is comparatively expensive.

EP 0 805 311 A2 shows a control device for a heating system according to the preamble of claim 1 and of claim 25. In this case, a transmitter device in the form of a remote control device is provided in a respective space to be heated, the control signal wirelessly, z. B. via a radio link to a Signaling device in the form of a control box sends. The control box is connected to the standard mains voltage supply with a power cord and has a receiver for the control signal sent by the remote control unit. The control box is connected via a cable connection to an electrically controllable drive of a radiator, so that the energy supplied to the radiator can be regulated by the control box, taking into account the control signal sent by the remote control unit to the control box. A disadvantage of such a control device is that a respective control box is cable connected only with a radiator and receives control signals only from a single remote control device. Furthermore, it is not possible to network several control devices and thus also several rooms with each other.

The invention has for its object to provide a system and a method for controlling a thermostatic valve at least one radiator, which ensures a low cost means a large variability in the temperature control and, if necessary, can also be retrofitted.

This object is achieved by a control system having the features of claims 1, 4 and 7 and by a method having the features of claim 21. Advantageous developments of the invention are defined in the dependent claims.

An inventive control system for controlling at least one thermostatic valve of a radiator comprises a signaling device which is connected to an electrical line network and has a receiver for wirelessly receiving a control signal. The signaling device is electrically connected via a cable to the thermostatic valve. Furthermore, the control system comprises at least one transmitter device spatially separated from the signal generator device for generating a control signal which can be sent to the signal transmitter device. In response to a control signal, which the signaling device receives from at least one transmitter device, the signaling device controls the thermostatic valve.

Essential features of the invention are that the signaling device is electrically connected via a cable to the thermostatic valve and its power supply via the electrical line network. For controlling the thermostatic valve, at least one transmitter device generates at least one control signal, which is transmitted wirelessly to the receiver of the signaling device. After receipt of this control signal or in dependence thereon, the signaling device then controls the thermostatic valve. An undesired influence of the transmitter device by the heating element is avoided by the fact that the transmitter device is arranged spatially separated from the signaling device. The transmission of the control signal from the transmitter device to the signaling device in a wireless manner, z. B. by radio, infrared or ultrasound, has the advantage that the laying of cables between the transmitter device and the signaling device is unnecessary

According to one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of transmitter devices are provided, wherein a control signal is emitted in each case by a transmitter device consisting of the plurality of transmitter devices to the signaling device, preferably via a wireless communication link. This has the advantage that the signaling device generates a respective control signal from several sides, ie. H. received by a corresponding transmitter device, for. B. depending on different changing situations or boundary conditions of the room or rooms, or are to be heated. Furthermore, there is no need here to lay signal lines to the signaling device for their control.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the at least one transmitter device may consist of a central computer-controlled control unit which can be controlled via a data network. Conveniently, the central control unit can be configured such that it can be controlled via the Internet by means of a browser. This makes it possible for an operator to carry out a data input for the central control unit in a simple and intuitive manner and in this case to change or adapt the settings for the central control unit.

According to another embodiment of the invention, it is possible that predetermined data relating to the temperature control of the radiator can be entered directly into the signaling device. This can be done either via a suitable input or operating device, which is in communication with the signaling device or may be provided directly on the signaling device. Alternatively, a control of the signaling device via a data network is possible, for. B. via a wireless communication link. The aforementioned predetermined data include z. B. data relating to the target temperatures of the room in which the radiator is located, and / or data relating to the heating and energy demand, which was currently or last measured in the room with the radiator. Also this is a To ensure adequate heating of the room, to achieve an optimized use of energy.

The invention is also directed to a method which serves for controlling a thermostatic valve of at least one radiator, and wherein at least one control signal is transmitted from at least one transmitter device to at least one signaling device, which is spatially removed from the transmitter device and connected to an electrical line network. In this case, the signaling device controls the thermostatic valve as a function of the at least one control signal which the signaling device receives from at least one transmitter device. The at least one control signal can be transmitted to the signaling device by a transmitter device consisting of a plurality of transmitter devices. Thus, a change of different boundary conditions of the space to be heated by the plurality of transmitter devices by means of a respective control signal that is sent to the signaling device, be taken into account.

The connection of the signaling device to the electrical network makes the use of batteries unnecessary and thus reduces the maintenance. The control of the thermostatic valve via the cable can z. B. by a control current, wherein the thermostatic valve may have a thermoelectric drive. When applying such a control current to the thermostatic valve, a predetermined temperature reduction is achieved for the radiator.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a plurality of signaling devices from the same transmitter means are supplied with a control signal, for. B. via a radio link or other suitable wireless communication link. This is particularly advantageous in large rooms, so that cable connections, which are necessary between the signaling devices and sockets for the power supply, are reduced to a minimum.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the transmitter device can be coupled to a central computer-controlled control unit, and is designed in particular as such a central computer-controlled control unit. It is possible to set a schedule for the radiator on the central control unit. In response to such a schedule, the control unit generates appropriate control signals that are wirelessly sent to the signaling device. As a result, then the signaling device controls the thermostatic valve as desired, z. B. by means of a suitable control current which is applied via the cable to the thermostatic valve.

Expediently, the transmitter device in the form of the central computer-controlled control unit can comprise an electronic controller. If the electronic controller receives information about the temperature of the room to be heated, the control of the thermostatic valve and thus the room temperature can be precise. For this purpose, it is advantageous if the signaling device has a temperature sensor with which an actual temperature of the room can be measured. An integration of the temperature sensor in the signaling device has the advantage that additional effort for a separate temperature sensor, z. B. by necessary laying of lines o. Ä., Eliminated. The signaling device may comprise a transmitter, so that a signal, for. B. for the measured by the temperature sensor room temperature, can be sent to the central control unit wireless, z. B. over a radio link.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the central control unit and / or the signaling device can be controlled via a data network. Preferably, such a control of the central control unit via the Internet, for. B. by means of a browser. This allows an operator to set the control unit and enter data accordingly in a comfortable manner. The control of the central control unit z. B. via a web browser allows a change of data even at short notice from any place that has access to the respective data network.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the transmitter device can be coupled to a window handle of a window. In this case, the transmitter device can be integrated into the window handle of the window in such a way that upon actuation of the window handle, a control signal is emitted, which is sent in particular via a radio link to the signaling device. In other words, in this embodiment, the window handle is equipped with a transmitter device in the form of a radio transmitter, the signal transmitter device "listening" to a control signal generated by this radio transmitter. If a window is opened or tilted, this information is sent to the signaling device by a correspondingly generated radio signal, thereby lowering the target temperature of the room by a predetermined amount, for. B. 7 K. Subsequently, the thermostatic valve is suitably controlled by the signaling device, namely to reduce the set heating energy of the radiator. The lowering is canceled as soon as the window is closed again. In this way, rooms with multiple windows and multiple radiators can be operated.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the transmitter device may also be coupled to a presence detector installed in a room, wherein in the presence of a person in the room, a control signal is emitted, which is sent wirelessly to the signaling device. For example, the transmission of this control signal from the presence detector to the signaling device via a radio link. In the presence of a person in the room, the control signal sent to the signaling device causes activation of the thermostatic valve in such a way that the temperature of the radiator is raised, provided that the radiator had previously been in the cooling down mode or was set to a low temperature. The presence detector may also be designed such that it sends a control signal to the signaling device only if a person who is in the room is also active and in motion. Conversely, the presence detector generates no control signal if the person in the room has taken a complete rest position, eg. B: in the sleeping state.

If a transmitter device of the control system is coupled to a window handle and / or to a presence detector, then it can be provided that a signal of the window handle and / or the presence detector in the central control unit can be further processed so that an alarm state is triggered on the basis of this control signal can. The triggering of an alarm condition fulfills a safety function. For example, the window handle signal may be a "window open signal." In the same way, the signal of the presence detector can be a "person-in-space signal". If such signal types z. B. be correlated with a predetermined time of day, so for example occur after 22:00 clock, then an alarm signal is triggered by the central control unit. This alarm signal can then be forwarded to a suitable location, eg. B. by SMS to a caretaker, owner or similar authorized persons, and / or authorities, such. The police.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the signal of the window handle or the presence detector can be sent either directly to the central control unit. Alternatively, it is possible that this signal from the window handle or the presence detector is first sent to the signaling device to be subsequently forwarded by the signaling device to the central control unit.

In an advantageous development of the invention, an electronic controller can be integrated in the signaling device. Expediently, an operating device is also provided on the signaling device via which programming by the operator of the electronic controller can be carried out, and / or via which a display of data is possible. In this embodiment, a temperature temperature schedule may be set up on the electronic controller of the signaling device, such that such signaling device need not communicate with a central control unit that may be provided for an entire house. The signaling device can communicate with a radio transmitter, which is provided on a window handle and / or on a presence detector, wherein, as explained above, the radio transmitter on the window handle or on the presence detector sends a control signal to the receiver of the signaling device, so that on the basis of then the thermostatic valve of the radiator is controlled by the signaling device.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the electronic controller of the central control unit and / or the signaling device can be set up such that the space in which the radiator is located is kept at a predetermined low temperature, starting from this low temperature within a be heated to a desired target temperature with a predetermined time and energy with an optimized use of energy. In this embodiment, it is essential that the space is not completely cooled when not in use, but kept at a predetermined low temperature. Starting from this low temperature, the space can be heated by the control system according to the invention within a predetermined time, which is desired by an operator, and in particular in an energy-optimized manner to the desired temperature. In this way, an empty room with the minimum required temperature can be heated and thereby save considerable amounts of energy without causing a loss of comfort for the user or the operator.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the electronic controller information on the outside temperature of a house in which the room is located with the radiator, in the control of the temperature of this room is transmitted. For this purpose, an outside temperature sensor is provided outside the house, which communicates suitably with the signaling device or with the central control unit, for example via a radio link or the like. In general, the outside temperature has unavoidable heat losses of the house influence on the heating characteristics of the rooms of the house. In that regard, it is advantageous if the electronic controller of the central control unit or the signaling device, the outside temperature of the house when generating a control signal considered for the signaling device or when driving the thermostatic valve.

As explained above, the transmission of signals between the transmitter device and the signaling device takes place wirelessly, which eliminates the effort to install signal lines. The wireless receiving of signals by the signaling device can, for. B. via radio, ultrasound and / or infrared. The same applies to a transmission from the signaling device to a central control unit, z. B. for a temperature signal of a temperature sensor, which may be integrated into the signaling device.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the signaling device may be formed as an intermediate connector, which can be plugged into a mains voltage socket. In this embodiment, the adapter plug has a mains voltage additional socket, so that the power plug of another consumer can be plugged into this mains voltage additional socket. Due to the configuration as an adapter, the signaling device can be plugged in a very simple manner and without specialist knowledge of an electrician in the socket of an electrical network, so that in this way the power supply of the signaling device is guaranteed. The socket should be located near a radiator so that the electrical cable leading from the transducer to the thermostatic valve has only a small length.

In the above-mentioned embodiment of the signaling device as an intermediate plug, the mains voltage additional socket can be switched in response to a control signal which is generated by at least one transmitter device. This means that stand-by consumers, whose power plug is plugged into the mains voltage auxiliary socket, can be switched off when the radiator is in the lowering mode and persons are either not in the room or z. B. sleep at night. This logic can, for. B. in stereos, fans, televisions or the like are used, the operation in the absence or passivity of a user is not required.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, thermostatic valves of a plurality of radiators may be connected via a cable to the signaling device, so that these thermostatic valves are controlled by the same signaling device. In particular, in a large space in which a plurality of radiators is arranged, thus a single signaling device can take over the control of the plurality of radiators or their thermostatic valves.

The invention is characterized in that in a simple manner, the criteria "window open" and "leave room / unused" in the control of a thermostatic valve of a radiator are taken into account in order to achieve a desired reduction in the energy that is supplied to the radiator , The same applies to a schedule which defines predetermined heating / cooling phases for a room with the controlled radiator when this schedule is set up on an electronic controller of a central control unit or the signaling device itself.

It is understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below can be used not only in the particular combination given, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The invention is illustrated schematically below with reference to an embodiment in the drawing and will be described in detail with reference to the drawing.

Show it:

1 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a first embodiment,

2 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a second embodiment,

3 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a third embodiment,

4 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a fourth embodiment,

5 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a fifth embodiment,

6 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a sixth embodiment,

7 a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to a seventh embodiment,

8th a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention according to an eighth embodiment,

9 a simplified perspective view of a signaling device of a control system according to the invention, and

10 a simplified schematic diagram of a battery-operated thermostatic valve head according to the prior art, which can be remotely controlled by a window handle radio transmitter.

An inventive control system is used to control a thermostatic valve at least one radiator via a cable, wherein via the cable to the thermostatic valve, a control current is applied. For this purpose, the thermostatic valve on a thermoelectric drive, the z. B. can be realized in the form of an electrically heatable liquid sensor with zero position. For the purposes of the present invention, however, any drive for a thermostatic valve is possible in which an operating position of the thermostatic valve and thus the temperature of the radiator is variable by the application of an electrical control current.

Below are with reference to the 1 - 9 various embodiments of a system and a method according to the invention explained in detail.

1 shows a simplified schematic diagram of a control system according to the invention 10 according to a first embodiment. The control system 10 is in a building 11 with at least one room 11a accommodated. The control system 10 comprises a signaling device 12 connected to an electrical mains 14 connected. By connecting to the electrical mains 14 is the power supply for the signaling device 12 guaranteed. The signaling device 12 includes a transmitting / receiving unit 16 , which serves, inter alia, as a receiver for wirelessly receiving at least one control signal. The signaling device 12 is over a cable 18 with a thermostatic valve 20 a radiator 22 electrically connected.

The signaling device 12 and the radiator 22 are inside the same room 11a of the building 11 arranged. Conveniently, the signaling device 12 near the radiator 22 positioned so that the cable 18 has only a relatively short length. The cable 18 can either be free in the space between the thermostatic valve 20 and the signaling device 12 run, or be installed in the wall area under plaster.

Furthermore, it is understood that the signaling device 12 is positioned in the vicinity of a power outlet of the electrical wiring, so that a mains voltage cable 24 that is from the signaling device 12 leads to a mains voltage socket, also has to have only a relatively short length.

The control system 10 further comprises a first transmitter device 26 in the form of a central computerized control unit 27 in another room of the building 11 can be positioned or positioned. Accordingly, the central control unit 27 from the signaling device 12 spatially separated. The control unit 27 includes an electronic controller (not shown) on the control unit 27 at least one schedule with a predetermined temperature profile for the room in which the radiator is located 22 is set up. Deviating from the illustration according to 1 can the control unit 27 also in the same room 11a like the signaling device 26 and the radiator 22 be positioned.

The signaling device 12 further comprises a transformer (not shown) which serves to down-convert the mains voltage (typically 230 V), e.g. B. to a voltage of 12 V or 24 V. This reduced voltage, also referred to as low voltage, it can be DC or AC, then via the cable 18 to the thermostatic valve 20 is applied and as a control current for the thermostatic valve 20 serves. By means of the control current, it is possible to the operating point of the thermostatic valve 20 to change in both directions, ie the temperature of the radiator 22 increase or decrease. Finally, the signaling device comprises 12 a processor (not shown) by which the generation of the low voltage control current in response to a control signal generated by the central control unit 27 to the signaling device 12 is sent, is guaranteed. This will be explained in detail below.

The invention now works as follows:
Based on the timetable on the central control unit 27 is set, becomes a control signal 28 generated, the z. B. via a radio link from the control unit 27 to the signaling device 12 is sent. The frequency of this radio link is chosen so that the signal 28 also passes through closed walls or partition ceilings of a building. The control signal 28 is z. B. generated when, according to the schedule of the room with the radiator 22 to take a lower target temperature. The transmitter / receiver unit 16 the signaling device 12 receives this signal 28 and applies it to appropriate signal processing. After receiving the control signal 28 That is, in response to this signal then controls the signaling device 12 the thermostatic valve 20 over the cable 18 by applying a low-voltage Control current, with z. B. 12 V or 24 V. Thus, the switching pulse of the signaling device 12 from the central control unit 27 generated and by the control signal 28 from the control unit 27 to the signaling device 12 transfer.

As a result of the control current supplied by the signaling device 12 to the thermostatic valve 20 is applied changes the thermostatic valve 20 its operating point, so that the temperature of the radiator 22 is lowered to a required target temperature of the room. If the on the central control unit 27 set central schedule after a certain time a new set temperature for the room with the radiator 22 prescribes, so again a control signal 28 from the central control unit 27 to the signaling device 12 Posted. Following this then controls the signaling device 12 over the cable 18 the thermostatic valve 20 on, leaving the radiator 22 adapted to the new target temperature.

With reference to 1 explained control system 10 needed for the signaling device 12 no separate battery, as the signaling device 12 connected to the electrical mains. By receiving the control signals 28 from the central control unit 27 is a control of the thermostatic valve 20 of the radiator 22 via a local area network (LAN or W-LAN), which can be set up in a building for a central heating control.

The signaling device 12 Can be used in conjunction with a suitable thermostatic valve 20 , the Z. B. has a thermoelectric drive and therefore can be controlled with a control current, in a simple manner in conventional radiators 22 be retrofitted. The power supply of the signaling device 12 via the mains voltage cable 24 and the electrical connection between the signaling device 12 and the thermostatic valve 20 over the cable 18 do not require any further installation work, in particular no complicated laying of cables or the like.

2 shows a second embodiment of the control system according to the invention 10 in a simplified schematic diagram. As far as this second embodiment, the same elements as the first embodiment according to 1 have the same reference numerals are used, to avoid repetition to the explanation of 1 is referenced.

The second embodiment of the control system according to the invention 10 corresponds substantially to the first embodiment of 1 , and additionally has a second transmitting device 26 ' on that with a window handle 30 a window 32 is coupled. In other words, the second transmitter device 26 ' in the window handle 30 integrated. The window handle 30 can be designed as a radio transmitter. This means that every operation of the window handle 30 a control or radio signal 28 ' generated to the signaling device 12 is sent.

The operation of the control system 10 according to the second embodiment of 2 corresponds substantially to the embodiment of 1 so that reference is made to avoid repetition. In addition to this, the control of the thermostatic valve takes place 20 of the radiator 22 depending on the position of the window 32 , If the window 32 is opened or tilted starting from a closed position and in this case the window handle 30 is actuated, becomes a control signal 28 ' From the window handle 30 to the signaling device 12 Posted. The signaling device 12 "Hears" the control signal 28 the window handle 30 , whereby the signaling device 12 an information about the open position of the window 32 receives. The target temperature of the room or radiator 22 will be automatically lowered. As a result, the signaling device controls 12 the thermostatic valve 20 suitable to the energy to the radiator 22 is fed to reduce and reduce its temperature. This is especially the case when the window 32 is opened or tilted in a time phase while for the room 11a a raised or raised target temperature is predetermined. This will unnecessarily heat the room in which the radiator is 22 is with the window open 32 prevented. When closing the window 32 or on a renewed actuation of the window handle 30 will again be a control signal 28 ' from the window handle 30 to the signaling device 12 sent, so that subsequently the signaling device 12 the thermostatic valve 20 suitable for heating or raising the temperature drives.

The consideration of the control signal 28 ' that from the window handle 30 when changing the position of the window 32 to the signaling device 12 is sent, in particular, in the phases in which the room with the radiator 22 is heated. Lowering the temperature of the radiator 22 by a suitable control of the thermostatic valve 20 occurs whenever at least one of the control signals 28 . 28 ' from the central control unit 27 or the window handle 30 to the signaling device 12 is sent, ie according to a schedule or depending on the position of the window 32 , In an open position of the window 32 is the energy input for the radiator 22 interrupted, so as not to waste energy unnecessarily.

In 3 is a third embodiment of the control system according to the invention 10 shown in a simplified schematic diagram. Same elements as in the embodiment of 1 are here provided with the same reference numerals, to avoid repetition to the explanation of 1 is referenced.

The third embodiment of 3 corresponds substantially to the embodiment of 1 , and includes a second transmitter device 26 '' in the form of a so-called presence detector 34 , A presence detector is a signal detector that sends a control signal when a person is present in a room. Such a control signal can expediently be sent out as a radio signal.

The presence detector 34 is in the same room 11a positioned like the signaling device 12 , where the range of the presence detector 34 generated radio signal to at least to the signaling device 12 enough. The control system 10 according to the embodiment of 3 works in relation to the presence detector 34 such that when a person is present in the room, a control signal 28 '' is generated, which is to the signaling device 12 is sent. As a result, the signaling device receives 12 an information that a person is in the room, so that the thermostatic valve 20 for heating the radiator 22 is suitably controlled. This may be particularly important when a person enters the room, if based on a schedule that is on the central control unit 27 is set, previously the room temperature of the room has already been lowered, ie the target temperature of the room 11a gives a low value. By that of the presence detector 34 generated control signal becomes the central schedule of the control unit 27 bridged to some extent, since the presence of a person in the room is an unforeseen event. As soon as the person has left the room, the presence detector generates 34 a new control signal 28 '' connected to the signaling device 12 is sent.

As a result, then the temperature of the radiator 22 - in accordance with the on the control unit 27 set schedule - lowered to the low target temperature of the room.

The consideration of the control signal 28 '' of the presence detector 34 can be coupled to a period of time within which a person in the room with the radiator 22 located. This prevents the electronic controller's schedule from being bypassed if a person is in the room for a brief moment or enters the room.

4 shows a fourth embodiment of the control system according to the invention 10 , In this embodiment, it is a combination of the second and third embodiments of 2 respectively. 3 , In other words, the control system includes 10 According to the fourth embodiment, a total of three transmitter devices 26 . 26 ' and 26 '' in the form of the central control unit 27 , the window handle 30 and the presence detector 34 , For the operation of these individual transmitter devices is to the explanations above with respect to 1 - 3 directed. It is understood that the signaling device 12 in this embodiment of the control system 10 suitable can also be controlled via a control signal, which is exclusively from the central control unit 27 , the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 is sent out. Alternatively, in the fourth embodiment, it is also possible that the signaling device by a respective control signal 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' is controlled by at least one transmitter device or a plurality of transmitter devices formed from the group of the central control unit 27 , the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 to the signaling device 12 is sent out.

In the embodiment according to 3 and 4 it is understood that the transmitter means in the form of the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 within the same room as the radiator 22 are arranged. Nevertheless, both the window handle 30 as well as the presence detector 34 spatially from the signaling device 12 spaced. The transmission of control signals from the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 to the signaling device 12 takes place wirelessly, in particular via a radio link. Accordingly, the installation of cables, lines or the like between said transmitter means and the signaling means 12 not mandatory.

In the second to fourth embodiments, it is possible for one of the window handle 30 transmitted signal (eg "window open signal") and / or one of the presence detector 34 emitted signal (eg "person-in-room signal") to the central control unit 27 to trigger an alarm if necessary. Here, the signal from the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 either directly to the central control unit 34 be sent or to the central control unit 34 over the signaling device 12 to get redirected. After receiving this signal, the central control unit checks 34 a predetermined condition. If this predetermined condition is met -. For example, if the signal occurs in a time window between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, an alarm is triggered. This alarm triggering fulfills a safety criterion whereby a suitable alarm signal is sent to a authorized person or authority (eg police).

With reference to the 5 - 7 are other embodiments of the control system 10 explained in which no central control unit 27 is provided. Instead, in the signaling device 12 an electronic controller integrated on which at least a schedule for a temperature profile of the room with the radiator 22 is set up. The signaling device 12 has an operating device in the form of a display 35 via which an operator inputs for the signaling device 12 can make and data or information can be displayed. Alternatively, it is also possible that the signaling device 12 with an external operating device 35 is in communication, for. B. via a cable connection or a wireless link, such. B. radio or infrared. By means of the operating device 35 may be predetermined data in the signaling device 12 be entered, for. B. with respect to a schedule for predetermined target temperatures of the room 11a , This data entry can be done via the Diplay 35 done manually. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible that the signaling device 12 via a data network, preferably via the Internet by means of a browser, is controlled, wherein the input or the change of predetermined data in the signaling device 12 to be stored or to be processed in it, takes place via this control.

If a schedule on the electronic controller of the signaling device 12 is set up, lowering the temperature of the room with the radiator 22 is provided, as explained above by the signaling device 12 a suitable signal stream over the cable 18 to the thermostatic valve 20 created so that the temperature of the radiator 22 is reduced in accordance with the reduced target temperature.

In the fifth embodiment of the control system 10 according to 5 is a second transmitter device 26 ' in the form of the window handle 30 intended. When operating the window handle 30 becomes a signal 28 ' to the signaling device 12 emitted, in the same manner as in the embodiment of 2 , For the further operation of the control system 10 according to this embodiment in interaction with the window handle 30 and the built-in radio transmitter is explained in the explanation of 2 directed.

In a sixth embodiment of the control system 10 according to 6 is in addition to the signaling device 12 a third transmitter device 26 '' provided, namely in the form of a presence detector 34 , The operation of this embodiment of the control system 10 in interaction with the presence detector 34 corresponds to the embodiment of 3 , to avoid repetition to the explanation of 3 is referenced.

In the embodiment of 7 it is a seventh embodiment of the control system according to the invention 10 which corresponds to a combination of the fifth and sixth embodiments. This is next to the signaling device 12 both a radio transmitter in the form of the window handle 30 as well as a radio transmitter in the form of the presence detector 34 intended. Their operation has already been described above with reference to the 2 and 3 explained, so that a new discussion is unnecessary.

8th shows an eighth embodiment of the control system 10 , This embodiment is based on the embodiment of FIG 1 , wherein like elements are each provided with the same reference numerals. In addition to the embodiment of 1 are in the embodiment of 8th two radiators 22 over a cable 18 with the signaling device 12 electrically connected. This means that the thermostatic valves 20 these two radiators 22 each from the signaling device 12 be controlled to set a desired target temperature. Thus, the two radiators 22 in temperature together from the signaling device 12 controlled. This is done on the basis of control signals 28 coming from the central control unit 27 to the signaling device 12 be sent out as with reference to 1 already explained.

With respect to the eighth embodiment of the control system 10 in 8th It is understood that the radiator 22 in the same room 11a of the building 11 are set up. The set temperature can be used for both radiators 22 be chosen equal. Alternatively, it is also possible to use the room in which the two radiators 22 are divided into zones, with a respective radiator 22 assigned to a particular zone. The temperature profile for the set temperature of the room may differ according to the respective zones, so that the radiators 22 each different from the signaling device 12 be controlled.

In addition to the presentation of 8th It is also possible in the eighth embodiment of the control system 10 three or more radiators 22 to the signaling device 12 connect, with the respective thermostatic valves 20 then via a separate cable 18 with the signaling device 12 are electrically connected. The majority of radiators 22 can be either uniform from the signaling device 12 be driven, or but, provided the radiator 22 are assigned to a respective zone of the room with a different temperature profile - are driven accordingly different.

At a schedule on the electronic controller of the central control unit 27 or the signaling device 12 is set, it is a temporal profile for the target temperature of a room in which the radiator 22 is set up. This temporal profit can be configured as a daily, weekly or even annual program. The central control unit 27 or the signaling device 12 can be controlled via a data network, which z. B. via the Internet via a browser.

9 shows a simplified symbolic representation of the signaling device 12 in one embodiment as an intermediate plug. In this case, the signaling device comprises 12 a plug 40 which is in a mains voltage electrical outlet 14 can be inserted. As related to the 1 explained, by the mains voltage, the power supply for the signaling device 12 guaranteed. In addition, in a housing of the signaling device 12 a mains voltage additional socket 42 provided to which a further electrical load can be connected. The additional socket 42 can in response to a control signal 28 a transmitter device, for. B. from the central control unit 27 , be switched. This means that the additional socket 42 can be switched on and off as a function of the control signal of a corresponding transmitter device. When switched off, the additional socket 42 no voltage supplied. Switching off the additional socket 42 is especially recommended for the period when the heater 22 is in the lowering mode or in the low-temperature mode. As a result, an electric stand-by consumer, z. As stereos, TVs or the like, the additional socket 42 is connected, completely shut down, resulting in further energy savings.

Analogous to the eighth embodiment of 8th in which a plurality of radiators 22 to the signaling device 12 is connected, with respect to the embodiments according to the 2 - 7 in that also in this case a plurality of radiators 22 to the signaling device 12 can be connected. Here, it is the same as in the embodiment of 8th possible, the majority of radiators 22 uniform, or with regard to different room zones with different temperature profiles, different control.

In all of the above-mentioned embodiments of the control system 10 is it possible for the signaling device 12 via a temperature sensor 36 features. In 1 is this temperature sensor 36 Exemplary for all other embodiments according to the 2 - 8th symbolically represented. With the help of the temperature sensor 36 becomes a temperature of the room 11a captured in which the radiator 22 located. The signaling device 12 is sufficiently far from the radiator 22 spaced so that the temperature sensor 36 relatively accurately detects the prevailing actual temperature of the room. Knowledge of the actual temperature of the room is required in order to compare the setpoint temperature with the actual temperature by means of a controller operating either within the central control unit 27 or within the signaling device 12 is intended to regulate the room temperature as constant as possible. Provided the controller in the central control unit 27 is set, a signal of the temperature sensor 36 from the transmitter / receiver unit 16 the signaling device 12 to the central control unit 27 sent and processed there. Unless the electronic controller is directly in the signaling device 12 is integrated (cf. 5 - 7 ), the signal of the temperature sensor can 36 get directly to the controller as both the temperature sensor 36 as well as the controller on or in a housing of the signaling device 12 are provided. The setpoint temperature of the room is via the controller of the signaling device 12 or the central control unit 27 specified. Actuator is in this arrangement a simple actuator, which is supplied by the controller with the appropriate signals.

The temperature control of the room can be further enhanced by having an outside temperature of the building 11 is taken into account. For this purpose, an outside temperature sensor 38 be provided outside the building, with the signaling device 12 is communicated or logically connected. The outside temperature sensor 38 is exemplary in 1 in the same way also in the embodiments according to the 2 - 8th be provided. The outside temperature sensor 38 Its signals can be sent over a radio link to the signaling device 12 to transfer. The information about the outside temperature is then provided by the controller operating in the signaling device 12 or in the central control unit 27 is provided, suitable in the control of the signaling device 12 processed or considered.

The provision of a temperature sensor 36 and an outside temperature sensor 38 for the control system 10 has the advantage that the electronic controller operating in the central control unit 27 or in the signaling device 12 is set up, depending on the outside temperature, the time stores the space with the radiator 22 required to get from a low temperature (eg a cooling temperature) to a desired higher set temperature. The electronic controller can be configured such that the space with the radiator 22 is not completely cooled when not in use, but is kept at a predetermined low temperature. This predetermined low temperature is determined by the user's desired time, which may pass until the room reaches a predetermined set temperature. About the predetermined low temperature an energy-optimal operating point is defined, from which starting a heating of the room to a predetermined target temperature with as little energy and within a predetermined time is possible.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, it is in a modification of the embodiments of the 1 . 2 . 3 . 4 and 8th possible that a central control unit 27 also with a plurality of signaling devices 12 , which are each set up in different rooms of a building, communicates. It is possible that on the central control unit 27 Each room has its own schedule with possibly different temperature profiles. Accordingly, the signaling devices 12 of each room from the central control unit 27 also with different control signals 28 driven. However, depending on the room, the parameters of the controller may differ to achieve optimum energy efficiency and controller performance. The central control unit 27 has the option of using the temperature sensor 36 a respective signaling device 12 linked individual parameter of a room for an optimization of the controller.

The control signals coming from the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 to the signaling device 12 can be sent, in addition to the temperature control of the room can also be evaluated for alarm purposes. For example, the signaling device 12 after getting the control signals from the window handle 30 or the presence detector 34 received corresponding information to the central control unit 27 where an alert may be triggered based on appropriate data evaluation.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102009023282 B3 [0004, 0004]
• EP 2141396 A1 [0007]
• EP 0805311 A2 [0008]

Claims (22)

Control system ( 10 ) for controlling at least one thermostatic valve ( 20 ) of a radiator ( 22 ), comprising a signaling device ( 12 ) connected to an electrical network ( 14 ) and a receiver ( 16 ) for wirelessly receiving at least one control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ), wherein the signaling device ( 12 ) via a cable ( 18 ) with the thermostatic valve ( 20 ) is electrically connected, at least one of the signaling device ( 12 ) spatially separated transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) for generating the signal to the signaling device ( 12 ) transmitted control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ), the signaling device ( 12 ) in dependence of the control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) from the transmitter equipment ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ), the thermostatic valve ( 20 ), characterized in that a plurality of transmitter devices ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ) is provided, wherein a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) each from a transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) consisting of the plurality of transmitter devices ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) to the signaling device ( 12 ) is send out. Control system ( 10 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) with a central computer-controlled control unit ( 27 ), preferably that the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) as a central computer-controlled control unit ( 27 ) is trained. Control system ( 10 ) according to claim 2, characterized in that the central control unit ( 27 ) is controllable via a data network, preferably that the central control unit ( 27 ) via the Internet by means of a browser is controlled. Control system ( 10 ) for controlling at least one thermostatic valve ( 20 ) of a radiator ( 22 ), comprising a signaling device ( 12 ) connected to an electrical network ( 14 ) and a receiver ( 16 ) for wirelessly receiving a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ), wherein the signaling device ( 12 ) via a cable ( 18 ) with the thermostatic valve ( 20 ) is electrically connected, at least one of the signaling device ( 12 ) spatially separated transmitter device ( 26 . 26 . 26 '' ) for generating a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) connected to the signaling device ( 12 ), the signaling device ( 12 ) in response to a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) from the at least one transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ), the thermostatic valve ( 20 ), characterized in that the at least one transmitter device ( 26 ) a central computerized control unit ( 27 ), which is controllable via a data network, preferably via the Internet by means of a browser. Control system ( 10 ) according to claim 4, characterized in that a plurality of transmitter devices ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ) is provided, wherein the control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) each from a transmitter ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) consisting of the plurality of transmitter devices ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) to the signaling device ( 12 ) is send out. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the signaling device ( 12 ) predetermined data regarding the temperature control of the radiator ( 22 ) can be entered. Control system ( 10 ) for controlling at least one thermostatic valve ( 20 ) of a radiator ( 22 ), comprising a signaling device ( 12 ) connected to an electrical network ( 14 ) and a receiver ( 16 ) for wirelessly receiving at least one control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ), wherein the signaling device ( 12 ) via a cable ( 18 ) with the thermostatic valve ( 20 ) is electrically connected, at least one of the signaling device ( 12 ) spatially separated transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) for generating at least one control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) connected to the signaling device ( 12 ), the signaling device ( 12 ) in response to a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) transmitted by at least one transmitter ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ), the thermostatic valve ( 20 ), characterized in that in the signaling device ( 12 ) predetermined data regarding the temperature control of the radiator ( 22 ) can be entered. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the signaling device ( 12 ) a transmitter ( 16 ), so that a signal from the signaling device ( 12 ) to the central computerized control unit ( 27 ) is routable wirelessly, in particular via a radio link. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ) with a window handle ( 30 ) of a window ( 32 ), wherein upon actuation of the window handle ( 30 ) a control signal ( 28 ' ) is delivered in particular in the form of a radio signal. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ) with a presence detector ( 34 ), in a room ( 11a ) is installed, wherein in the presence of a person in the room ( 11a ) a control signal ( 28 '' ) is delivered in particular in the form of a radio signal. Control system ( 10 ) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that a signal from the window handle ( 30 ) and / or the presence detector ( 34 ) to the central control unit ( 27 ) or by means of the signaling device ( 12 ) to the central control unit ( 27 ), based on this signal in the central control unit ( 27 ) in a predetermined condition an alarm is triggered. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an operating device ( 35 ) with the signaling device ( 12 ) is coupled to data in the signaling device ( 12 ) and / or data of the signaling device ( 12 ), preferably that the operating device ( 35 ) in the signaling device ( 12 ) is integrated. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the signaling device ( 12 ) and / or in the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) an electronic controller is integrated. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signaling device ( 12 ) a temperature sensor ( 36 ), with which an actual temperature of a room is measurable. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that the electronic controller of the central control unit ( 27 ) or the signaling device ( 12 ) is configured such that the space in which the radiator ( 22 ) is maintained at a predetermined low temperature to be heated from a low temperature within a predetermined time and with an optimized use of energy to a desired target temperature. Control system ( 10 ) according to claim 15, characterized in that the electronic controller an outside temperature of a house ( 11 ), in which the room with the radiator ( 22 ) is taken into account in the regulation of the temperature of the room. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signaling device ( 12 ) as an intermediate plug ( 40 ) is formed, which is plugged into a mains voltage socket and a mains voltage auxiliary socket ( 42 ), wherein the mains voltage auxiliary socket ( 42 ) in dependence on one of at least one transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ) generated control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) is switchable. Control system ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the thermostatic valve ( 20 ) is designed as a passive valve, which has an electrically heatable liquid sensor. Control system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signaling device ( 12 ) with a plurality of radiators ( 22 ) or their thermostatic valves ( 20 ) via a cable ( 18 ), so that the thermostatic valves ( 20 ) of several radiators ( 22 ) from the signaling device ( 12 ) are jointly controllable. Control system according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a valve head of the thermostatic valve ( 20 ) is thermoelectrically driven. Method for controlling at least one thermostatic valve ( 20 ) of a radiator ( 22 ), in which at least one control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) of at least one transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) to a signaling device ( 12 ) transmitted by the transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) is spatially removed and connected to an electrical line network, is transmitted, wherein the signaling device ( 12 ) in dependence on the at least one control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ), the signaling device ( 12 ) of at least one transmitter device ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 ' ), the thermostatic valve ( 20 ), characterized in that a control signal ( 28 . 28 ' . 28 '' ) from a transmitter ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) consisting of a plurality of transmitter devices ( 26 . 26 ' . 26 '' ) to the signaling device ( 12 ) is sent out. A method according to claim 21, characterized in that a space in which the radiator ( 22 ) is maintained at a predetermined low temperature to be heated to a desired target temperature from a low temperature within a predetermined tent and with an optimized use of energy.

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