DE102021112827A1 - Electric surface heating with an additional function not related to heating, and method of operation - Google Patents

Abstract

An electric panel heater (100) for laying in the construction sector is described, the electric panel heater (100) having: i) an electric heating component (110), and ii) at least one control device (150) which is coupled to the electric heating component (110). and can be coupled to a power source (191), the control device (150) being set up to control and/or regulate the electric heating component (110), the control device (150) having: iia) a heating unit, and iib) a functional unit.The heating unit is configured to effect heating of the electrical heating component (110), and the functional unit is configured to effect another function, the further function not including heating.

Description

technical field

The invention relates to an electric surface heating for the construction sector with a heating component and a control device. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating an electric panel heater. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for producing the electric surface heating. In addition, the invention relates to the use of a control device which is integrated in an electric panel heater.

The invention can thus relate to the technical field of heating systems, in particular electrical panel heating systems.

Technical background

Electric surface heating systems (eFH) are known as surface resistance heating systems or systems based on heating cables. However, conventional systems usually do not offer any additional functions apart from heating. However, this can be desirable when considering the technical development, especially towards digitization functions. Keywords here are Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home.

With digitization functions in a subsurface (floor or in walls), however, there can be a supply problem for the electronic components (e.g. IoT components), especially if several of them are operated per area. Although this problem can be planned and integrated during construction, it has the disadvantage that there are currently no long-term supported (IoT) components or platforms that can be installed during the construction phase and then operated in the long term.

Conventionally, a digitization function (e.g. IoT integration) is therefore implemented at a later point in time. However, this obviously has the disadvantage that considerable construction work is necessary, such as replastering walls, laying new floors, etc.

Summary of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide an electric surface heating system that provides an additional function that is independent of heating, in particular a digitization function, efficiently and over the long term.

This object is solved with the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous configurations result from the dependent claims.

• i) eine elektrische Heizkomponente (z.B. ein Heizkabel), und
• ii) (zumindest) eine Steuervorrichtung, welche an die elektrische Heizkomponente gekoppelt ist und mit einer Stromquelle (z.B. eine Steckdose oder eine Batterie/ein Akkumulator) koppelbar ist, wobei die Steuervorrichtung eingerichtet ist, die elektrische Heizkomponente zu steuern und/oder zu regeln, wobei die Steuervorrichtung aufweist:
  • iia) eine Heizeinheit, und
  • iib) eine Funktionseinheit.

According to one aspect of the invention, an electric surface heating for laying in the construction sector is described, the electric surface heating having:

• i) an electrical heating component (eg a heating cable), and
• ii) (at least) one control device which is coupled to the electrical heating component and can be coupled to a power source (e.g. a socket or a battery/accumulator), the control device being set up to control and/or regulate the electrical heating component, wherein the control device comprises:
  • iia) a heating unit, and
  • iib) a functional unit.

The heating unit is configured to effect heating of the electrical heating component (based on the current of the power source), and the functional unit is configured (independently) to effect another function (in particular a digitizing function) (based on the current of the power source), wherein the other function has no heating.

• i) Heizen der elektrischen Heizkomponente mittels der Heizeinheit basierend auf Strom der Stromquelle; und, unabhängig davon,
• ii) Ausführen der weiteren Funktion mittels der Funktionseinheit basierend auf Strom der Stromquelle, wobei die weitere Funktion kein Heizen aufweist.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for operating an electric panel heater (in particular as explained above) is described. The method comprising:

• i) heating the electrical heating component by means of the heating unit based on current from the power source; and, regardless of
• ii) performing the further function by means of the functional unit based on current from the power source, the further function not having any heating.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a computer program product is described which, when operated on a processor or computer, is configured to carry out a method for operating an electric surface heating system as described above.

• i) Bereitstellen der Steuervorrichtung, welche mittels einer mechanischen Abdeckung geschützt ist,
• ii) Verlegen eines ersten Flächenheizmoduls, welches eine/die Heizkomponente aufweist,
• iii) Verlegen eines zweiten Flächenheizmoduls, welches eine weitere Heizkomponente aufweist, und Montieren der geschützten Steuervorrichtung und danach Entfernen der mechanischen Abdeckung.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for producing an electric panel heater (in particular as described above) is provided. The method comprising:

• i) providing the control device, which is protected by means of a mechanical cover,
• ii) Laying a first surface heating module, which has a/the heating component,
• iii) Laying a second surface heating module, which has a further heating component, and mounting the protected control device and thereafter removing the mechanical cover.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the use of a control device is described, which is integrated into an electric surface heating (in particular into a support structure of the eFH) for controlling and/or regulating a heating function and a further function, the further function having no heating.

In the context of this document, the term "electric surface heating" (eFH) can be understood in particular to mean a device which emits thermal energy when electrical energy is supplied to it. The eFH is preferably flat, ie it has two main directions of extension (length direction x and width direction y). An eFH can have a heating element, e.g. a heating wire, a heating cable, a heating foil, or a heating surface. In a simple exemplary embodiment, an eFH can be implemented by means of a flat heating wire through which current flows, so that it heats up and correspondingly emits heat to the environment. In another embodiment, a heating cable is used as the heating element. This can be arranged on or in a carrier material of a carrier structure (for example a carrier foil). In a preferred example, a heating cable, in particular in a curved, more particularly meandering arrangement, can be fitted in a carrier material or embedded in the carrier material. For example, the carrier structure can be designed as a film, which can then be transported on rollers. To lay the eFH as a wall, ceiling or floor covering, the rolls can then be unrolled and fastened. In one embodiment, the installed eFH can be covered with a floor, e.g. parquet, or with wallpaper. In particular, electric panel heating can be used in the construction sector, e.g. house construction and building construction. An eFH can have a modular structure and have a number of heating components. In one example, the term "construction" does not include industrial or aviation applications.

In the context of this document, the term "carrier structure" can be understood to mean a planar structure (e.g. in the form of a film) which is suitable for acting as a carrier for a heating element (e.g. a heating cable). The carrier structure has a carrier material in which a heating element can be embedded and/or on/on which a heating element can be arranged. The carrier material can, for example, have at least one of the following materials: i) cut Styrofoam plates (or similar insulating material), ii) insulating elastomeric foams (or inorganic structured insulating materials as a substrate) with an insertion or fastening option for the heating element, iii) polymer clips, which either directly be mounted on the floor (similar to the clamps of warm water underfloor heating), iv) flat plastic plates/foils, which are structured by means of a deep-drawing process in such a way that heating elements can be inserted, v) heat spreaders (e.g. aluminum plates, bent in such a way that heating elements can be inserted ). Also suitable are, for example, film-like and lattice-like carrier structures on which a heating element can be attached (and which can at best be transported as rolled goods). In addition to heating components/heating elements, a control device (or control units) can also be embedded or integrated in the support structure.

The term "heating component" (or array, module) as used in this document may specifically refer to one or more heating elements. In particular, the term "heating component" can refer to one or more heating elements, which can be combined as a module (or panel heating module). Such a heating element or such a module can, for example, be specifically controlled/regulated by a control device. In particular, such a heating component can be distinguished from another heating component. A heating component can particularly preferably be a module which can be controlled/regulated independently of other heating components. In this case, an eFH can (at least partially) have a modular structure, ie have a plurality of heating component modules. A heating component can, for example, be a specific section of a heating element (e.g. heating cable) or a lattice structure made up of a number of rod-shaped heating elements. In an example, a heating component can be a heating field (or heating zone) in a heating surface. A heating component can be a partitioned or separable area. In another example, a heating component can be arranged (also inseparably) together with other heating components in the same area (e.g. floor of a room), in which case each heating component can still be controlled/regulated independently of the other heating components. A heating component can represent a surface heating module or be part of a surface heating module.

In addition to the heating component, a surface heating module can also have a control device or control unit, in particular the Control device / control device is integrated into the surface heating module.

In the context of this document, the term “heating element” can in particular refer to an element which is particularly suitable for dissipating heat to the environment when electrical energy is supplied. A heating element can, for example, comprise a heating wire, a heating cable, a heating foil, or a heating surface. A heating element can also be realized, for example, by a copper track or a carbon composite. The term "heating cable" in this document can refer to a cable that is particularly suitable for dissipating heat to the environment when energy is supplied in the form of electricity or when the cable is electrically contacted. In the context of this document, the term "heating cable" can also include heating wires and heating tapes.

In the context of this document, the term "cable" can refer to an electrically conductive length conductor (or supply conductor). The term "cable" can mean a stranded wire or a solid wire. In particular, the electrically conductive linear conductor can be at least partially surrounded by an insulating material. A cable can extend in a longitudinal direction x and, viewed in cross-section, have a width direction y and a height direction z. In the case of a round cable, the width direction and height direction can be essentially the same size. In the case of a ribbon cable, the width direction can be larger (in particular significantly larger) than the height direction.

In this document, the term "control device" can in particular refer to a device, e.g. a computer, a PLC (programmable logic controller), a computer system, a processor, which is suitable for controlling the energy supply to an electric surface heating or to control (and regulate) individual heating components. In the case of electric surface heating, the term “energy supply” can refer in particular to an electric energy supply (electricity from a power source). In a simple embodiment, the energy supply is realized by a power cable, which provides electricity to the electric surface heating or to the control device of the eFH. The control device can be implemented in such a way that the amount of electrical energy provided to the eFH is controlled or regulated, e.g. by means of a control computer. In a further exemplary embodiment, a plurality of energy supply lines are controlled by a computer system and readjusted during operation by means of a sensor network. In one exemplary embodiment, the control device can be set up in such a way that the amount of energy in an energy burst can be variably adjusted. In particular, the control device can determine this amount of energy itself or can also have it specified (e.g. by a user or another control system).

The term “controller” can refer to a single device or a plurality of devices, each of which can be referred to as a “controller”. In an exemplary example, an eFH can have a control device which consists of a plurality of control units, each of which is assigned to a heating component (in particular is integrated into the respective heating component). In one example, the control device can measure the local temperature of a heating component by means of a temperature sensor system (e.g. temperature sensor) and, if necessary, determine the current energy consumption. Furthermore, the control device can be set up to provide a specific temperature characteristic(s) to a specific heating component.

In this context, the term “heating unit” can designate an area of the control device which is responsible for controlling/regulating the current of the power source with regard to the heating component. In this case, this energy supply is (essentially) used to provide heating power.

The term “functional unit” can refer to an area of the control device that is (essentially) not responsible for controlling/regulating the current of the current source with regard to the heating component. The primary task of the functional unit can therefore be to provide at least one additional function. In one example, this additional function is independent of the heating function of the heating unit. In one example, the heating unit and the functional unit are implemented in the same processor and operate (substantially) independently of each other. In another example, the heating unit and functional unit can be implemented in different processors. In a further example, the heating unit and the functional unit interact with one another, in particular in which case the functions can be dynamically coordinated. A control unit can include both the heating unit and the functional unit. In another example, one control unit has a heating function and another control unit has a functional unit. Embodiments of the further function will be discussed below.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the invention can be based on the idea that an electric surface heating can be provided which has an additional function that is independent of heating, in particular digitization function, efficiently and in the long term if a control device is integrated in the eFH, which operates a functional unit that is essentially independent of it in addition to a heating unit.

The known variants of the prior art subsequently implement (digital) additional functions, which means that it is necessary to destroy the existing subsurface. This is because the desired additional function is usually not available for long-term use at the time of construction.

However, these disadvantages can be overcome if a functional unit is integrated directly into a control device of the eFH. Such a functional unit can be matched to the heating unit of the control device and can therefore be operated over the long term. Updates and additional functions can be transmitted to the functional unit in a simple and efficient manner (in particular by cable or radio), even if this is permanently installed with the eFH in the underground. There is a high degree of design flexibility with regard to the additional function, with this function being relevant for safe and efficient operation of the eFH. In particular, an interaction with further digital components, in particular IoT components, of a building can be made possible.

In summary, a control device (controller) is used for the first time both for controlling a temperature profile and for a further (digitization) function.

Exemplary embodiments

According to one exemplary embodiment, the further function has at least one from the group consisting of: power supply, sensors, actuators, data transmission, data processing, electrical insulation, mechanical protection. This can have the advantage that a high degree of design flexibility is made possible with regard to the further function, with this function being relevant for safe and efficient operation of the eFH.

In an exemplary embodiment, components or functions integrated in the control device (e.g. power supply, electrical isolation, microprocessor system, embedded software, mechanical protection, etc.) are used at least in part for an additional digitizing function.

In another exemplary embodiment, the small thicknesses (e.g. 8 mm or less) of an eFH (especially if they can be rolled up) can make it difficult to embed electronics in a construction site-compliant manner. For this reason, the electronics can be provided with a solid protective cover, for example, which makes the eFH at least partially higher (e.g. higher than 8 mm). The protective cover can preferably be removed before it is placed in assembly fluid/adhesive.

• - einer Stromversorgung eines Drittsystems (z.B. weitere eFH, weitere Heizkomponente, Sensorik, Prozessor, Kommunikationsgerät, etc.).
• - einer Digitalisierungsfunktion. Der Begriff „Digitalisierungsfunktion“ kann in diesem Dokument eine (Zusatz-) Funktion bezeichnen, welche zumindest teilweise eine Digitalisierung verwendet, also das Umwandeln von analogen Werten in digitale Formate und/oder deren Verarbeitung, Weiterleitung, oder Speicherung.

• - einer Bereichbestimmung, insbesondere innerhalb der elektrischen Flächenheizung, wie z.B. einzelner Heizkomponenten bzw. Flächenheizmodule.
• - einer Positionsbestimmung (z.B. Positionstriangulation, iBeacon, etc.), insbesondere von Objekten, Personen, elektronischen Komponenten. In einem Beispiel kann dies umgesetzt werden aufgrund von Signalstärken und/oder Laufzeiten von elektromagnetischen Wellen. Dadurch kann sich zum Beispiel feststellen lassen, ob eine Person am Boden liegt oder weiter davon entfernt ist (insbesondere eine mobile Vorrichtung der Person wie z.B. ein Handy, ein Tag, ein Armband, etc).
• - einer Präsenzdetektion (z.B. einer Person bezüglich der eFH). In einem Beispiel gelingt dies aufgrund von einem der folgenden: Temperatur, Gewicht, elektromagnetische Interaktion, ID (z.B. MAC-Adresse via WLAN), Radarecho. Dadurch kann auch eine Personenanzahl bestimmt werden, z.B. eine Personenzählung pro Fläche.
• - einer Feuchtesensorik. Dies kann die Sicherheit deutlich erhöhen, z.B. durch eine Alarmierung bei Rohrbruch (oder bei anderen Feuchtigkeitsschäden am Gebäude). In einem Beispiel kann die Feuchte berührungslos bestimmt werden, insbesondere durch Messung der Phasenverschiebung einer Mikrowelle.
• - einer Bewegungsdetektion. In einem Beispiel aufgrund einer zeitlichen Folge von Positionsbestimmungen oder aufgrund des Dopplereffektes.
• - einer Kommunikation, insbesondere mit IoT-Komponenten und/oder weiteren Steuervorrichtungen. In einem Ausführungsbeispiel kann die eFH z.B. als WLAN-Accesspoint, -Repeater, Webserver, oder App-Partner verwendet werden. In einem weiteren Beispiel können verschiedene Übertragungsprotokolle (z.B. WLAN, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, RFID, LoRa, UWB, etc.) verwendet werden. In einem Ausführungsbeispiel kann die Kommunikation auch Einfluss auf die Heizfunktion nehmen.
• - einer Datenverschlüsselung (auf Übertragungskanälen). Hierdurch kann eine zusätzliche Sicherheit bereitgestellt werden. Beispielsweise wie folgt: durch eine Vielzahl von Kommunikationspunkten lässt sich in jedem Raum eine Position finden, welche mit tiefer oder sehr tiefer Sendeleistung betrieben werden kann, wodurch die Gefährdung durch Abhörung massiv reduziert werden kann.
• - einer Positionsbestimmung. Dies z.B. von Bohrlöchern, welche die eFH in der Dicke (Z-Richtung) durchdringen und positioniert sind, wo keine elektrische Gefährdung besteht.
• - Weiterleiten von Signalen, insbesondere Alarmsignalen. Dies kann bezogen auf die eFH, aber auch bezogen auf Personen umgesetzt werden. Alarmfunktionen können auch Sensorwerte wie Blutdruck, O₂-Sättigung oder Puls umfassen. Dadurch kann die eFH zum Sicherheitssystem für (betagte) Personen werden.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the further function has at least one from the group consisting of:

• - a power supply of a third-party system (e.g. additional eFH, additional heating components, sensors, processor, communication device, etc.).
• - a digitization function. In this document, the term "digitization function" can refer to an (additional) function that at least partially uses digitization, i.e. the conversion of analog values into digital formats and/or their processing, forwarding, or storage.

• - An area determination, in particular within the electric surface heating, such as individual heating components or surface heating modules.
• - a position determination (e.g. position triangulation, iBeacon, etc.), in particular of objects, people, electronic components. In one example, this may be implemented based on signal strengths and/or propagation times of electromagnetic waves. This can be used to determine, for example, whether a person is lying on the ground or is further away from it (in particular a mobile device of the person such as a mobile phone, a tag, a bracelet, etc.).
• - a presence detection (e.g. a person regarding the eFH). In one example, this succeeds based on one of the following: temperature, weight, electromagnetic interaction, ID (eg MAC address via WLAN), radar echo. In this way, a number of people can also be determined, e.g. a count of people per area.
• - a humidity sensor. This can significantly increase security, for example by alerting in the event of a pipe burst (or other moisture damage to the building). In one example, the humidity can be determined without contact, in particular by measuring the phase shift of a microwave.
• - a motion detection. In one example, due to a chronological sequence of position information moods or because of the Doppler effect.
• - A communication, in particular with IoT components and/or other control devices. In one embodiment, the eFH can be used, for example, as a WLAN access point, repeater, web server, or app partner. In a further example, different transmission protocols (e.g. WLAN, WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, RFID, LoRa, UWB, etc.) can be used. In one embodiment, the communication can also influence the heating function.
• - data encryption (on transmission channels). Additional security can be provided in this way. For example, as follows: a large number of communication points can be used to find a position in every room that can be operated with low or very low transmission power, which can massively reduce the risk of eavesdropping.
• - a position determination. This, for example, from boreholes that penetrate the eFH in the thickness (Z-direction) and are positioned where there is no electrical hazard.
• - Forwarding of signals, especially alarm signals. This can be implemented in relation to the eFH, but also in relation to people. Alarm functions can also include sensor values such as blood pressure, O ₂ saturation or heart rate. As a result, the eFH can become a safety system for (elderly) people.

• - Laufwegsteuerung, insbesondere von (Haushalts-) Robotern (z.B. für Desinfektion, Reinigung, Transport).
• - Erkennung von Signatur (-details). Dies kann beispielsweise umfassen:
  • Ladungsspeicherung, insbesondere Kapazitätsänderung (mittels eines kapazitiven Sensors), Echodaten (mittels Radarsensor), akustische Details (mittels Mikrofon), Gewicht (mittels Gewichts/Drucksensor), etc.

In one example, a large network of receivers is provided, which can be reached over a short distance, with particularly low transmission power and long-life batteries being able to be used.

• - Route control, especially of (household) robots (e.g. for disinfection, cleaning, transport).
• - Signature (-details) detection. This can include, for example:
  • Charge storage, in particular change in capacitance (using a capacitive sensor), echo data (using a radar sensor), acoustic details (using a microphone), weight (using a weight/pressure sensor), etc.

In particular, the combination of individual functions in turn allows new overall functions, for example individualized information (“who is where?”).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the communication includes the use of at least one from the group consisting of: separate cable, superimposition of mains voltage, bus system, analogue signal, radio signal, in particular one of WLAN, Bluetooth, BLE, WiFi, RFID, NFC, LoRaWAN, UWB. This can have the advantage that tried and tested, standardized procedures can be implemented directly.

In this document, RFID (radio-frequency identification) can designate a technology for transmitter-receiver systems for the automatic and contact-free identification and localization of objects and living beings with radio waves.

In this document, NFC (near field communication) can refer to an international transmission standard based on RFID technology for the contactless exchange of data via electromagnetic induction using loosely coupled coils over short distances of a few centimetres.

UWB (ultra-broad band) may refer to a radio technology that can use a very low power level for short-range, high-bandwidth communication over a large portion of the radio spectrum. UWB can thus refer to a technology for transmitting information spread over a large bandwidth (> 500 MHz).

LoRaWAN (Long Range wide area network) can denote a low-power wireless network.

BLE refers to the Bluetooth Low Energy Standard.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the position determination has at least one from the group consisting of: position triangulation, UWB, iBeacon, a plurality of position determination units.

The brand name iBeacon is a 2013 introduced, proprietary standard for indoor localization, based on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). However, the principle is manufacturer-neutral: the system normally provided for battery operation can be operated in one exemplary embodiment by the power supply of the control device (the functional unit). In addition, operation can also be switched off based on an additional criterion (e.g. to switch the zone to radiation-free). The additional criterion can for example be a period of time, a (manual) configuration, a remote control signal, be etc. Furthermore, by integrating iBeacon into the eFH, the iBeacon can be mechanically protected (and in particular the installation height can be limited). In one embodiment, the functionality of the iBeacon principle is implemented by a software solution within the software of the control device (the functional unit).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control unit (in particular the functional unit) is also configured to meet a safety criterion. In particular at least one from the group consisting of: password protection, data encryption, user type differentiation, temperature function protection, security function, selective updating.

• - Passwort-geschützter Zugriff auf die Steuervorrichtung,
• - Verschlüsselung der Passwörter in der Steuervorrichtung,
• - Verschlüsselung der Kommunikation mit kryptografischen Methoden,
• - Verhindern, dass die Mechanismen der Maximaltemperaturbegrenzung und der Temperaturprofilsteuerung von außen geändert werden können. (z.B. dadurch, dass dieser Teil nicht von außen aktualisiert oder sonst wie verändert werden kann),
• - Benutzer mit unterschiedlichen Rechten,
• - nicht veränderbare Updatefunktion,
• - „reset to factory settings“, so dass bei unerlaubten Fremdzugriffen immer ein Weg für ein Reset ermöglicht ist.

As a result, additional security with regard to third-party access can be implemented within an eFH for the first time. This in particular against an implicit threat from hacker attacks, which can be given with digitization functions. In order to be able to counteract this, at least one of the following measures can be implemented:

• - Password-protected access to the control device,
• - encryption of passwords in the control device,
• - Encryption of communication using cryptographic methods,
• - Prevent that the mechanisms of the maximum temperature limitation and the temperature profile control can be changed from the outside. (e.g. because this part cannot be updated or otherwise changed from the outside),
• - users with different rights,
• - unchangeable update function,
• - "Reset to factory settings", so that there is always a way for a reset in the event of unauthorized external access.

• - Updates oder Logins nur eine bestimmte Zeit nach Einschalten möglich,
• - Updates nur beim Vorliegen spezieller Schlüssel möglich,
• - Updates nur über bestimmte Kommunikationswege möglich,
• - keine Updates über Funkverbindungen möglich (z.B. nur über die Kommunikation via Versorgungsspannung),
• - Updates nur beim Vorliegen gewisser Benutzerrechte möglich.

In one exemplary embodiment, software in the functional unit can be updated, in particular by means of radio or supply voltage. This can have at least one of the following characteristics, for example:

• - Updates or logins only possible a certain time after switching on,
• - Updates only possible if special keys are available,
• - Updates only possible via certain communication channels,
• - no updates possible via wireless connections (e.g. only via communication via supply voltage),
• - Updates only possible if certain user rights are available.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control unit (in particular the functional unit) is configured to install and/or enable at least one additional function.

In particular, the additional function has at least one from the group consisting of: encryption mechanism, sensor evaluation, position determination, in particular direction of movement and/or speed of movement, radio communication, security protection, access protection, operational stability.

This can have the advantage that functionally flexible long-term operation is made possible in an efficient and safe manner. In particular, additional functions can be installed/updated/released without the need to remove the control device.

In one embodiment, certain functions are left unused when the control device (or the functional unit) is initially put into operation. Additional functions are only made possible by a subsequent software update or a subsequent activation.

• - Chiffriermechanismen zur besseren Sicherheit (analog „Sicherheitsupdates“ bei einem Betriebssystem).
• - Sensorauswertungen, welche z.B. zum Installationszeitpunkt noch nicht im Zentrum der Bedürfnisse von Kundengruppen waren.
• - Positionsbestimmung und deren angewandte Funktionen (Richtung, Geschwindigkeit, usw.). Dies ermöglich zum Beispiel eine spätere Ergänzung mit genaueren Algorithmen.
• - Kommunikations- und Funkstandards. Dies kann eine spätere Anpassung an ergänzende oder neue Übertragungsmechanismen von Daten und Programmen umfassen.
• - Sicherheits- und Zugriffsschutz. Dadurch kann bei Bedarf proaktiv ein verbesserter Hackerschutz realisiert oder zusätzliche Sicherheit bei einem Sicherheitsbruch erreicht werden.
• - Betriebsstabilität. Dadurch lässt sich z.B. bei der Temperaturprofilsteuerung ein schnelleres oder proaktives Reagieren auf äußere Einflüsse realisieren.

These additional functions, which were added or released later, can include one of the following, for example:

• - Encryption mechanisms for better security (similar to "security updates" in an operating system).
• - Sensor evaluations which, for example, were not the focus of the needs of customer groups at the time of installation.
• - Position determination and its applied functions (direction, speed, etc.). This enables, for example, later additions with more precise algorithms.
• - Communication and radio standards. This may include later adaptation to supplemental or new transmission mechanisms of data and programs.
• - Security and access protection. This means that improved hacker protection can be proactively implemented if required or additional security can be achieved in the event of a security breach.
• - Operational stability. As a result, a faster or more proactive reaction to external influences can be implemented, for example, in the case of temperature profile control.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device also has: an antenna, in particular a shield-free antenna or an antenna in a shield-free area of the eFH. More particularly, the antenna has at least one of the following features: capacitor coupling, insulation, residual current protection circuit. This can have the advantage that communication with the control device from the outside can be configured particularly efficiently and securely.

• - Netzspannungsfeste Kondensatoren in der Zuleitung der Antennen. Die sehr hohen Frequenzen der Kommunikation können ungehindert passieren, aber Frequenzen unter 100 Hertz (Netzfrequenz oder DC-Offset) werden auf ungefährlich kleine Werte reduziert.
• - Isolierendes Netzteil der Steuereinheit.
• - Doppelte Isolation nach VDE.
• - Abschaltung der Stromversorgung beim Feststellen eines Fehlerstromes (analog FI-Schalter).

The following protective measures (e.g. for people who drill into the eFH) can be taken, for example:

• - Mains voltage-proof capacitors in the feed line of the antennas. The very high frequencies of communication can pass unhindered, but frequencies below 100 Hertz (mains frequency or DC offset) are reduced to harmlessly small values.
• - Isolating power supply of the control unit.
• - Double insulation according to VDE.
• - Shutdown of the power supply when detecting a fault current (similar to FI switch).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating also has: i) a first area with a first signal attenuation, and ii) a second area with a second signal attenuation. In this case, the first signal attenuation is lower than the second signal attenuation.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device also has: a transmission functionality and/or a reception functionality, the transmission functionality and/or the reception functionality being arranged in the first area. This can result in significantly improved signal transmission (communication), e.g. using RFID.

In an exemplary embodiment, the installation of transmitter/receiver units in the eFH is provided in particular in a first area in which electromagnetic waves are only very weakly damped. In contrast to walls and their typical wall thicknesses, structures above eFH are preferably thin so that, for example, rapid heating properties come into their own. In addition, materials can often be used that cause little damping in the critical frequency range. For example, the following materials essentially "let through" a Wi-Fi signal: wood 95%, glass 75%, brick 70%, concrete 60%, sheetrock 50%. With regard to damping, wooden structures, for example, would be preferable to plasterboard.

• - Platzierung der Kommunikationsfunktionalitäten bereits während der Produktion (da ist das Wissen um die Position der signaldämpfenden Bereiche implizit gegeben).
• - Durch Kombination des Wissens über die entsprechenden Bereiche mit Registrierungsmerkmalen der eFH im Nachhinein (zum Beispiel Aufkleben von Kommunikationsfunktionalitäten (RFID tags) anhand eines Layouts der Leitungsführung in einem eFH-Modul).

In an exemplary embodiment, RFID/NFC functionalities or similar communication functionalities are used. It has been shown that very different performance values (of RFIDs) are achieved depending on the course of heating fields, supply voltage lines or shielding systems. Since the position of the signal-degrading (second) areas is no longer visible, particularly in the case of non-transparent insulation of the eFH, the communication functionalities (e.g. RFIDs) are placed with knowledge of these positions. This can be realized, for example, by the following sub-steps:

• - Placement of the communication functionalities already during production (there the knowledge of the position of the signal-dampening areas is implicitly given).
• - By combining the knowledge about the corresponding areas with registration features of the eFH afterwards (e.g. sticking on communication functionalities (RFID tags) based on a layout of the wiring in an eFH module).

According to another exemplary embodiment, the control unit is configured to react (dynamically) to distortions of an electromagnetic field. In particular, the reaction includes at least one from the group consisting of: detecting, learning, determining measured variables, in particular using these measured variables to determine position. This can have the advantage of ensuring continuous operation even with electromagnetic distortions.

• - Feststellen der Dämpfung von Signalen (sowohl von der eigenen Steuereinheit, als auch von anderen Steuereinheiten).
• - Kalibrierung nach Installation der eFH, z.B. durch Abschreiten eines Musters mit einem Handy.
• - Vermessen von Bewegungen von mobilen Geräten unter der Berücksichtigung, dass die Menge der gradlinigen Bewegungen gegenüber kurvigen Bewegungen überwiegt.
• - Tracking eines autonomen Objekts auf dem Boden (z.B. selbstfahrender Staubsauger, Desinfektionsroboter, usw.).
• - Insbesondere kann durch Berücksichtigung der ortsspezifischen Feldverzerrungen (z.B. Dämpfungswerte) die Positionsbestimmung und/oder davon abgeleitete Messgrößen verbessert werden.

An exemplary embodiment takes into account distortions in the electromagnetic field caused by the surrounding building or facility components (or people). For example, a metal foot of a bed or a bottle with liquids can disturb the homogeneity of the electromagnetic field used for interaction (communication) with the control device (see WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, etc.). This effect, in particular its spatial position, can be recognized or learned using various mechanisms:

• - Determining the attenuation of signals (both from your own control unit and from other control units).
• - Calibration after installation of the eFH, eg by following a pattern with a mobile phone.
• - Measuring movements of mobile devices taking into account that the amount of straight-line movements outweighs curved movements.
• - Tracking of an autonomous object on the ground (e.g. self-propelled vacuum cleaner, disinfection robot, etc.).
• In particular, the position determination and/or measured variables derived therefrom can be improved by taking into account the site-specific field distortions (eg attenuation values).

In an exemplary embodiment, an eFH is transmitting underground and the interference is an applied object such as an iron plate (or capacitive attenuation of a field by an object such as a shoe).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to implement a blockchain algorithm and/or an artificial intelligence algorithm. As a result, data security can be increased, or a continuous development process (by learning) of the control/regulation can be achieved. For example, positioning can be improved using artificial intelligence methods, or versions of the system software can be validated using blockchain mechanisms.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating also has a feedback device, which is set up to output an acoustic (in particular sound or infrasound) and/or haptic signal (to a user). In particular, the feedback device has at least one from the group consisting of: exciter, shaker, bone conducting transducer, handy shaker, bass exciter, loudspeaker (for transmission of structure-borne noise). This can have the advantage that a user is immediately informed about relevant events.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating also has: a further heating component, wherein the at least one control device is coupled to the heating component and to the further heating component, and wherein the at least one control device is configured to control and/or to control the heating component according to a first temperature characteristic regulate, and, independently of this, to control and/or regulate the further heating component according to a second temperature characteristic, the first temperature characteristic being different from the second temperature characteristic. Thus, an electrical surface heating can be provided, which allows selective and rapid heating, but is safe and reliable at the same time.

In this document, the term "temperature characteristic" may in particular refer to specific temperature-indicative parameters. In particular, a temperature characteristic may be a thermal profile providing desired temperatures at a specific time at a specific location. Parameters for this can in particular include thermal conductance values and heat capacity. In one example, a first controller of a first heating component includes a first thermostat, while a second controller of a second heating component includes a second thermostat. Even if the thermostat should be the same in both cases, completely independent control is still possible. Differences in the temperature characteristics can arise, for example, if a styrofoam plate is placed on one of the heating components and the corresponding thermostat then specifies a different temperature profile (a different amount of energy).

• i) eine erste Steuereinheit, welche der Heizkomponente zugeordnet ist, und eingerichtet ist eine erste Funktion durchzuführen; und
• ii) eine zweite Steuereinheit, welche der weiteren Heizkomponente zugeordnet ist, und eingerichtet ist eine zweite Funktion durchzuführen. Dadurch kann sich der Vorteil ergeben, dass zumindest einigen Heizkomponenten eine eigene Steuereinheit (wobei eine Mehrzahl von Steuereinheiten die zumindest eine Steuervorrichtung bilden können) zugeordnet ist und somit eine besonders effiziente und dynamische Steuerung/Regelung ermöglicht sein kann.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device has:

• i) a first control unit, which is assigned to the heating component and is set up to carry out a first function; and
• ii) a second control unit, which is assigned to the further heating component and is set up to carry out a second function. This can result in the advantage that at least some heating components are assigned their own control unit (whereby a plurality of control units that can form at least one control device) and thus particularly efficient and dynamic control/regulation can be made possible.

In particular, the first control unit and the second control unit are spatially spaced apart from one another. For example, a first control unit is coupled/installed with a first heating component, while a second control unit is coupled/installed with a second heating component.

In one example, each control unit has a heating unit and a functional unit. In another example, a control unit a heating unit and a further control unit has a functional unit.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the first control unit is set up to at least partially carry out the second function of the second control unit (in particular if the second function cannot be carried out at least temporarily using the second control unit), and/or the second control unit is set up to carry out the first function of the first control unit at least partially to be carried out (in particular if the first function cannot be carried out at least temporarily by means of the first control unit). This has the advantage that the control units can supplement or even replace one another, which can result in particularly stable operation.

In an example, the function can be the heating function or the other function. In one example, measured values from one control unit are passed on to another control unit (in the heating surface). As a result, an additional safety device can be implemented: a second control unit can thus monitor the first control unit and, in the event of a malfunction, intervene in the control of the energy supply. In particular, if several control units come to the same conclusion, they can switch off a control unit to be on the safe side or take over its function (redundancy).

This can be further optimized if a control unit controls only every second (or more) field. In this way, simpler redundancy monitoring can be implemented, or switching off a defective control unit is easier for the entire heating system to cope with.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the first function and/or the second function is at least one from the group consisting of: providing heating power, reducing heating power, switching off heating power, compensating for heating power, providing a signal, switching on at least one heating component, additional function (as above Are defined).

A redundant heating function can be achieved by a plurality of control units, with at least one other control unit being able to take over additional functions if one control unit fails. By coupling a number of control units, redundancy with regard to operational reliability and/or availability can thus be achieved. In one example, directly adjacent heating components (fields) can be controlled by different control units.

According to a further embodiment, the first control unit is configured to forward (or receive) temperature characteristic-associated information to the second control unit and/or an external device. According to a further embodiment, the second control unit is configured to forward (or receive) the temperature characteristic-associated information to the first control unit and/or the external device.

If the possibility of receiving a setpoint temperature and/or a room temperature is created, the control unit/control device can create a suitable temperature profile for each heating component field (or also continuously adapt this) and thus control the temperature of a field in a targeted manner.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the heating component has at least a first electrical heating element, in particular a heating cable or a heating rod. According to a further exemplary embodiment, the further heating component has at least one second electrical heating element, in particular a heating cable or a heating rod.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating also has: a heating area in which at least one heating component (or heating element) is arranged, and a free area in which no heating component (or heating element) is arranged. In particular, an extent of the free area in a main direction of extent (along the X and Y axis) of the electric surface heating is 1 cm or more, in particular 2 cm or more, further in particular 3 cm or more.

In the context of this document, the term “heating area” can in particular refer to an area within an electric surface heating system which has an electric heating component and is therefore not suitable for being processed (in particular drilled through). In an example of a heating area, a heating cable is embedded in a support structure of the electric surface heating. In the heating area, the probability of damaging the heating component (e.g. the heating cable, the heating foil) and/or its insulation when drilling through non-transparent covering material and the heating area underneath (e.g. through the support structure of the electric surface heating) can be significantly increased ( or to pierce). This probability can be so increased in the heating area that a person skilled in the art advises against piercing because the risk of damage is too great. In one example, the term “heating area” does not only refer to the heating component itself, but also the surrounding area around the heating component, in which machining or drilling would generally not be carried out because safety is jeopardized. In an example, the heating area of an electric surface heating is defined or documented.

In the context of this document, the term "free area" can in particular refer to an area within an electric surface heating system which has no electric heating component or no heating element and is therefore suitable for being processed (in particular drilled through). In an example of a free area, no heating cable is embedded in an area of the support structure of the electric surface heating. In another example, a heating foil has free areas without a heating function. In a further example, heating foil sections are used as heating areas, between which free areas are then left. The free area can have appropriate dimensions so that drilling through non-transparent covering material and the free area underneath is possible without risk. The size of the free area can be selected in such a way that the probability of missing the free area when drilling becomes negligibly small.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, a plurality of the electrical heating elements are (essentially) rod-shaped and arranged as an array (in particular as a lattice structure). According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electrical heating elements arranged as a lattice structure form the heating area and the free area is formed between the heating elements of the lattice structure. This can have the advantage that the electrical heating components are designed to be particularly stable and robust. At the same time, a particularly efficient and flexibly controllable surface heating can be made possible.

In a preferred exemplary embodiment, the electrical heating elements form a lattice structure (“grid”) as an array. In this context, a lattice structure can be an arrangement of rod-shaped or elongated (heating) elements at regular or even intervals.

The electrical heating component can be constructed by an array of interconnected (semi-rigid) heating elements in the form of rods. These rods are arranged e.g. as a grid (lattice structure). Due to their rigidity, the rods form a carrier material and, on the other hand, can also be electrically semiconductive or conductive and thus form the heating component.

In one embodiment, the rod-shaped heating elements (of the array) are immersed or coated in a liquid that forms the heating element (e.g. paint with copper or carbon particles). Special variants of this configuration use one of the known materials with a temperature-limiting effect for the coating. This temperature limitation is to be distinguished from so-called self-limiting heating cables, which achieve temperature limitation through the thermistor or PTC effect, with an increase in temperature leading to an increase in resistance and thus a reduction in energy.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electrical heating elements arranged as a lattice structure form the heating area and the free area is formed between the heating elements of the lattice structure. This can have the advantage that an efficient and robust surface heating is provided, the free areas of which can be clearly defined. On the one hand, the interior spaces of the grid or the grid structure can be used as free areas, but on the other hand, additional free areas can also be realized.

The heating system is implemented in a further embodiment using an insulating base material, to which conductive copper or carbon has been applied as a heating medium and structured accordingly. This application can take place by printing, laminating copper tracks, plasma coating, etching and/or vapor deposition and/or this application can be structured.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating also has: a support structure, which is formed along two main extension directions (x, y) and spans a support plane, with at least a section of the first heating component and/or the second heating component on and/or in the support structure is arranged. This can have the advantage that the electrical heating component can be implemented directly in an established and proven system.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is integrated or embedded in the carrier structure. This can have the advantage that the eFH can be constructed in a particularly compact manner. The control device can thus be laid and operated directly with the eFH in the construction area. This can also save workload.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is integrated into a connecting element or a connection element of the eFH.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the carrier structure is designed as a film web. In one example, heating areas and free areas are arranged alternately (in particular transversely) to the film web. As a result, the electric surface heating can be laid cost-effectively and efficiently, with the heating components (and the free areas) being able to be clearly defined. For example, heating areas (eg a heating foil) and free areas can be arranged alternately on a foil web that can be rolled out.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating (at least partially) (in particular at least one from the group consisting of: the first heating component, the second heating component, the control device) has a thickness (z) of 8 mm or less, in particular 6 mm or less, more particularly 5 mm or less. This advantageously results in a particularly small installation height.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating has, at least in sections, 10 or more, in particular 20 or more, further in particular 40 or more, free areas, in particular recesses, per square meter.

So that few mechanical forces act on the eFH, in particular on the control unit, the heating components of the eFH can be designed in such a way that they have a plurality of cut-outs which are larger than 1 cm in the x and y direction, preferably larger than 2 cm, particularly preferably greater than 3 cm. As a result, assembly fluid can pass through these openings and thus form a stable connection between the subfloor and the top covering after the mounting fluid has hardened (in certain cases, the mounting fluid can also form the top covering immediately after hardening (poured floor)).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to integrate the control and/or regulation of at least one from the group consisting of: trailing edge control, phase control, pulse width modulation, voltage control, energy surge overvoltage, phase packet control. Applications of this approach may include, for example, the following aspects.

Limitation of the maximum field temperature: In contrast to a self-limiting cable, which continuously reduces the heating output as the temperature increases, the control unit ensures the maximum temperature by means of a regulation. For this purpose, the electrical energy supplied to a field is controlled in a suitable manner. For this purpose, leading edge or trailing edge methods can be used, since a heating field essentially represents a pure resistance (without large induction or capacitance coefficients).

Furthermore, power can be controlled via phase packets. The power supply for a heating element is switched on and off again for a specific number of mains half-waves. The performance control is achieved from the ratio of free and blocked time. This can have the advantage that essentially only voltages and no currents have to be switched, which in turn leads to better EMC values.

When driving with direct current, pulse width modulation (PWM) or voltage control (power variation through voltage variation) can also take place. For rapid heating, more power can be temporarily provided for heating by means of a so-called boost overvoltage (energy surge).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to process information associated with temperature characteristics (in particular to receive, detect or forward this information).

This can have the advantage that information associated with and potentially necessary for the temperature characteristic is handled in a flexible and dynamic manner. For example, a control device (e.g. by means of a temperature sensor) can measure the information itself. In another example, the information may be provided by another controller or an external temperature sensor.

For example, a reading (of each individual heating component or as average values over heating component areas) can be provided to a receiver external to the heating surface. This can allow an external entity to perform consumption logging, statistics and monitoring functions.

According to a further embodiment, the temperature characteristic-associated information has at least one from the group consisting of: measured value, setpoint, temperature per heating component, average temperature of a plurality of heating components, power per heating component, average power of a plurality of heating components, energy per heating component, average energy a plurality of heating components.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the electric surface heating is configured to continuously supply the control device (in particular the functional unit) with current from the power source (even if no heating function is being carried out). This can have the advantage that the additional function can be executed continuously, even if the eFH is not in heating mode.

In one embodiment, the temperature control is performed by the control unit and not by the power supply lines. However, the combination of the two forms of control is also possible, with the control device (in principle) never being completely and for long periods without a power supply. The permanent supply of the control device with operating voltage can make it possible for historical data on the field temperatures and their different profiles to be recorded and transmitted to a receiver outside the eFH. Furthermore, permanent self-learning mechanisms and auto-calibration (in particular for different resistance values) of the fields outside of the heating period can be possible.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device also has an operating mode which enables at least one from the group consisting of configuring, teaching, identifying, software updating, commissioning.

In one example, the control device is operated in two different modes: on the one hand the normal mode, in which the normal heating function is active, and on the other hand a maintenance mode in which at least one of the following activities is possible: configuration, teaching, identification, software update, commissioning. Switching to this second operating mode can be limited both in terms of time and with regard to the group of users. For example, it may only be possible to switch on this second operating mode for a certain time after the power supply has been switched on, or it may require special access rights and/or mechanisms.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the heating component (and/or the associated control unit) and/or the further heating component (and/or the associated control unit) is assigned a unique identifier, the unique identifier being associated with the spatial position. As a result, particularly efficient and user-friendly operation can advantageously be made possible.

• i) Kalibrierung und Identifikation aufgrund von internen Identifikationsmerkmalen der Steuereinheit (z.B. MAC-Adresse, uniqe IDbasierend) im Rahmen des Produktetests beim Hersteller (Initalcodierung) oder Durchlaufen einer Installationssequenz beim Installieren der eFBH (Installationscodierung).
• ii) Selbstidentifizierender Algorithmus mit entweder bauformabhängiger Identifikation (z.B. via Daisychain-Leitung bei der Selbstidentifikation) oder Kollision-detektierender Mechanismus (CSMA/CD) mit nachträglicher Feldzuordnung wie er im Grundprinzip von Ethernet verwendet wird.
• iii) Manuelle Zuordnung einer ID und dadurch Identifikation der Felder (bei Konfiguration).

Since an eFH can have several control units, it is advantageous if the individual control units have an identification that describes their physical location and thus allows the heating components/panel heating modules to be uniquely addressed. For example, there are the following mechanisms:

• i) Calibration and identification based on internal identification features of the control unit (e.g. MAC address, unique ID-based) as part of product testing at the manufacturer (initial coding) or running through an installation sequence when installing the eFBH (installation coding).
• ii) Self-identifying algorithm with either design-dependent identification (e.g. via daisy chain line for self-identification) or collision-detecting mechanism (CSMA/CD) with subsequent field assignment as used in the basic principle of Ethernet.
• iii) Manual assignment of an ID and thereby identification of the fields (when configured).

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device is configured to receive a voltage from the power source (mains voltage, or also low voltage direct current), which can have a positive polarity and a negative polarity.

The positive polarity can be used to heat the electrical heating component and the negative polarity can be used to power the controller to perform the further function. Alternatively, the positive polarity can be used to heat the electrical heating component and the negative polarity can be used to power the controller to perform the further function.

In particular, the different polarities are half waves of an AC voltage. More particularly, the control device is also powered in the heating polarity.

This can have the advantage that the heating unit and functional unit can be supplied with energy in a simple manner essentially at the same time and yet independently of one another.

In particular, the total amount of heating energy can be externally controlled via a total heating thermostat, while the safety electronics to prevent overheating and for additional functions are always supplied with power. In non-heating mode, the polarity can be switched.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method includes: creating a digital Map of the heating component (and/or the associated control unit) and at least one further heating component (and/or the associated control unit), in particular a surface heating module and at least one further surface heating module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, software creates a digital map of the installed eFH (modules), in particular taking into account IDs of the control units, the position of the control units in a module, and/or a form of position triangulation. Mechanisms of position determination based on electromagnetic waves can be used, for example, to determine which side a neighboring module can attach to. In addition, the fact can be evaluated that neighboring modules are mounted without a large distance and not overlapping. Knowledge of the positioning of the control units can also be used.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the control device has a self-learning algorithm, on the basis of which the controlling and/or regulating (in particular with regard to the further function) is adapted.

According to a further exemplary embodiment, the method also includes: encapsulating the electrical surface heating at least partially with an assembly fluid, in particular after removing the mechanical cover. This can have the advantage that cost-efficient and stable laying is made possible.

Surface heating modules can be laid out and connected to each other, whereby these can contain other building materials such as insulation, protection against footsteps (during the construction period) or carrying/assembly aids. In one example, the control unit is protected by a mechanical cover and this is only removed after deployment at the destination. The control unit is protected from structural damage by removing the protective cap directly before pouring the monthly fluid.

character list

• 1 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• 2 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• 3 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• 4 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung als Heizfolie gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• 5 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung als Heizfolie gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.
• 6 zeigt eine Draufsicht auf eine elektrische Flächenheizung als Gitterstruktur gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following figures.

• 1 shows a plan view of an electric panel heater according to an embodiment of the invention.
• 2 shows a plan view of an electric panel heater according to a further embodiment of the invention.
• 3 shows a plan view of an electric panel heater according to a further embodiment of the invention.
• 4 shows a top view of an electric surface heating as a heating foil according to an embodiment of the invention.
• 5 shows a plan view of an electric surface heating as a heating foil according to a further embodiment of the invention.
• 6 shows a top view of an electric surface heating as a lattice structure according to a further embodiment of the invention.

Detailed description of the figures

Before the figures are described in detail, the following is a discussion of some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

• - Kontinuierliche Versorgung mit Strom. Diese Variante ist prädestiniert, dass die Temperaturregelung vollständig durch die Steuervorrichtung erfolgt, und nicht eine Temperaturregelung durch Ein-/Ausschalten der Stromversorgungsleitungen erfolgt.
• - Eine Minimalmenge von Spannung bleibt zur Betreibung immer eingeschaltet. Die Raumtemperaturregelung erfolgt durch Verändern dieser Spannung, jedoch schaltet die Steuervorrichtung die Felder aber erst ab einer bestimmten Minimalspannung ein.
• - Es werden einzelne Wellenpakete der Stromversorgung (z.B. Netzspannung) immer wieder eingeschaltet. Dabei wird durch die Ruhezeit zwischen den Wellenpaketen die Raumtemperatur geregelt. Ab einer bestimmten Pausenlänge zwischen Wellenpaketen aktiviert die Steuervorrichtung dann keine Heizfelder mehr, sondern bezieht die Wellenpakete nur noch zur Eigenversorgung mit Energie.
• - Nur die einen Halbwellen (z.B. die positiven) der Stromquelle werden zum Heizen verwendet, die anderen Halbwellen (z.B. die negativen) werden zur Versorgung der Funktionseinheit verwendet.
• - Kombination der obigen Verfahren.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, it may be necessary to also supply power to the control device when there is no heating. There are various implementation options:

• - Continuous supply of electricity. This variant is predestined in that the temperature is regulated entirely by the control device, and temperature regulation is not carried out by switching the power supply lines on/off.
• - A minimum amount of voltage is always left on for operation. The room temperature is regulated by changing this voltage, but the control device only switches the fields on when a certain minimum voltage is reached.
• - Individual wave packets of the power supply (e.g. mains voltage) are switched on again and again. The room temperature is regulated by the rest time between the wave packets. From a certain pause length between wave packets, the control device then no longer activates heating fields, but only uses the wave packets for self-supply with energy.
• - Only one half-wave (eg the positive) of the current source is used for heating, the other half-waves (eg the negative) are used to supply the functional unit.
• - Combination of the above methods.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in contrast to self-limiting heating cables, a surface heater realized, which is divided into a large number of small zones (heating components, surface heating modules) and the power of each of these zones can be individually controlled or regulated by means of a control device (control device, control unit). When it comes to surface heating, you usually don’t know at the time of construction what will later be placed where or attached (to the wall). Even short-term changes in objects on the heating surface or the covering over the heating surface can be compensated in this way. For example, a fluffy piece of cloth on a floor can represent thermal insulation, so that with constant power output in the floor, the heating can be too great for sensitive materials. The same problem is more evident with a baby or toddler lying on the floor.

• i) Felder, welche gegenüber anderen Feldern besonders viel Leistung pro Grad Temperaturerhöhung aufnehmen können, sind erkennbar und können für die Eigenverbrauchssteuerung und das demand-side-management entsprechend verwendet werden.
• ii) Eine Temperaturerhöhung eines Feldes ohne Heizleistung lässt sich als Indikator für einen thermisch aktiven Bereich verwenden, der nicht beheizt werden soll (z.B. wird der Boden im Sommer in den Bereichen, auf denen ein Kühlschrank steht, wärmer als die Umgebungsbereiche). So kann z.B. auf das Heizen unter einem Kühlschrank verzichtet werden. Diese Auszeichnung von speziell anzusteuernden Feldern kann manuell, durch Kalibrierung, oder durch selbständiges Einlernen erreicht werden. Insbesondere können einzelne Felder von einem Energiestoss (Boostfunktion) ausgeschlossen werden.
• iii) Erkennen von dynamischen externen Wärmeeinflüssen auf die Zone über dem Heizfeld. So kann zum Beispiel die Sonne einzelne Felder durch ein Fenster erwärmen. Diese können erkannt werden und daraufhin die Heizleistung reduziert werden, insbesondere in überproportionaler Weise, oder es kann abgeschaltet werden.
• iv) Aufzeichnen von Sensorwerten und diese für eine smarte Regelung nutzen. Zum Beispiel kann aufgrund der aufgezeichneten historischen Daten eine damalige Überheizung des Raumes oder eines Bereiches erkannt werden und durch Anpassen des aktuellen Wärmeprofils kann dies verhindert werden.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the arithmetical combination of temperature, energy and time (or temperature and power) per heating component field is used to determine how good the heat dissipation is above the field. As a result, the following additional control options can be implemented, for example:

• i) Fields which, compared to other fields, can absorb a particularly large amount of power per degree of temperature increase can be identified and can be used accordingly for self-consumption control and demand-side management.
• ii) An increase in temperature of a field without heating output can be used as an indicator for a thermally active area that should not be heated (e.g. in summer the soil in the areas where a refrigerator stands becomes warmer than the surrounding areas). For example, heating under a refrigerator can be dispensed with. This labeling of specially controlled fields can be achieved manually, through calibration, or through independent teaching. In particular, individual fields can be excluded from an energy burst (boost function).
• iii) Detection of dynamic external thermal influences on the zone above the heating panel. For example, the sun can heat individual fields through a window. These can be recognized and the heating output can then be reduced, in particular in a disproportionate manner, or it can be switched off.
• iv) Recording sensor values and using them for smart control. For example, based on the recorded historical data, overheating of the room or an area can be detected and this can be prevented by adjusting the current heat profile.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, individual heating component fields can measure how much energy flow they achieve. When placed almost directly in air, with constant heat flux, the temperature rises rapidly. If a thick stone is placed on the eFH, heat is stored, recognizable by the delayed rise in temperature. This can be recognized by learning effects, and it can thus be made dynamic. It is possible to react to electricity price and weather forecasts in such a way that cheap energy or rising, increased or reduced outside temperatures are reacted to either directly or via a storage medium.

Identical or similar components in different figures are provided with the same reference numbers.

1 shows a plan view of an electric surface heating (eFH) 100 for laying in the construction area according to an embodiment of the invention. The electric surface heating 100 has a modular structure and has a heating component 110 with a first heating element (heating cable) 111 and a further heating component 120 with a second heating element (heating cable) 121 . Furthermore, the eFH 100 has a carrier structure 130, which is formed along two main directions of extent x, y and thereby spans a carrier plane TE. The heating cables 111, 121 are arranged or embedded in a curved (meandering) manner in the carrier material of the carrier structure 130, which is designed as a carrier film.

The electric surface heating 100 also has: a heating area 102 in which heating elements 111, 121 are arranged, and a free area 104 in which the heating elements 111, 121 are not arranged. The latter serves, for example, as a free zone, for example to drill holes if the electric surface heating 100 is covered by a floor or wallpaper and is no longer visible.

The electric surface heating 100 has a first surface heating module 115 (first zone), in which the first heating component 110 (first field) is arranged, and a second surface heating module 125 (second zone), in which the second heating component 120 (second field) is arranged . Both surface heating modules 115, 125 are connected to one another via a connecting element 160.

A control device 150 is integrated into the eFH 100, integrated into the connecting element 160 in the example shown. In another version example, the control device 150 is integrated or embedded in the carrier structure 130 . The control device 150 is coupled (electrically connected) to the heating component 110 and to the further heating component 120 . The control device 150 is configured to control and/or regulate the heating component 110 according to a first temperature characteristic and, independently of this, to control and/or regulate the further heating component 120 according to a second temperature characteristic, the first temperature characteristic being different from the second temperature characteristic is.

In this case, the control device 150 has a heating unit and a functional unit (not shown), the heating unit being responsible for the heating function described, while the functional unit fulfills a further function which is not heating. The other function can be used in the same way as described for the heating function. For example, the additional function can be applied to the first surface heating module 115 and the second surface heating module 125 independently of one another.

2 shows a plan view of an electric surface heating 100 for installation in the construction sector according to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this example, each heating component 110, 120 is connected to its own power source 191. In this case, the first surface heating module 115 has a first control unit 151 (of the control device 150), while the second surface heating module 125 has a second control unit 152 (of the control device 150). In this example, each of the control units 151, 152 has a heating unit and a functional unit (not shown). The control units 151, 152 are connected between the power source 191 and the heating component 110, 120 and can provide the first and second temperature characteristics or a first and a second additional function independently of one another. The surface heating modules 115, 125 border one another laterally, but are not electrically connected to one another in this example. Nevertheless, the surface heating modules 115, 125 form a unit (the electric surface heating 100) and are manufactured, transported and installed as a unit.

3 shows a plan view of an electric surface heating 100 for installation in the construction sector according to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this example, a plurality of panel heating modules 115, 125 with respective heating components 110, 120 are laid on a floor, with corners left out. It is shown that a corresponding control unit 150 is integrated into each panel heating module. As a result, each of the modules can be controlled/regulated individually according to a respective temperature characteristic and/or respective additional function.

4 shows a plan view of an electric panel heater 100 as a heating foil 170 according to an embodiment of the invention. A plurality of heating areas 102 and a plurality of free areas 104 are arranged alternately. The carrier structure 130 is designed as a film web in the length direction x and the plurality of free areas 104 are arranged transversely to the film web in the width direction y. Length conductors 171, 172 (or supply conductors) are arranged along the film web (and also embedded in and/or arranged on the support structure 130) and supply the heating areas 102 with electrical energy. In the example shown, each heating area 102 is designed as a surface heating module 115, 125, which has a heating component 110, 120 and a control unit 151, 152 in each case.

5 shows a top view of an electric panel heater 100 as a heating foil according to a further exemplary embodiment of the invention. The structure is similar to 4 , but the free area 104, the heating area 102, and also the length conductors 171, 172 are arranged in a wavy manner.

6 shows a plan view of an electric panel heater 100 as a lattice structure 180 according to an embodiment of the invention. The eFH 100 has a plurality of electrical heating elements 181 which are essentially rod-shaped. This arrangement is implemented as an array in such a way that the rod-shaped electrical heating elements 181 form the lattice structure 180 . The electrical heating elements 181 arranged as a lattice structure 180 themselves form the heating area 102 , while the free areas 104 are each formed between the rod-shaped heating elements 181 of the lattice structure 180 . Defined along the heating elements 181 are heating components 110, 120 which are coupled to a plurality of control units 150 and temperature sensors 182, respectively. A unit (module) of heating components 110, 120 and associated control units 150 can be referred to as a surface heating module 115, 125.

In addition, it should be noted that "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. Furthermore, it should be pointed out that features or steps that have been described with reference to one of the above exemplary embodiments can also be used in combination with other features or steps of other exemplary embodiments described above. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting.

Reference List

100

Electric panel heating

102

heating area

104

free area

110

heating component

111

First heating element

115

First surface heating module

120

Additional heating component

121

Second heating element

125

Second surface heating module

130

support structure

150

control device

151

First control unit

152

Second control unit

160

connector, connecting element

170

heating foil

171

First length ladder

172

Second length ladder

180

grid array

181

heating rod

182

temperature sensor

190

connection element

191

power source

TE

carrier level

x

direction of length

y

latitude direction

e.g

height direction

Claims (37)

An electric panel heater (100) for laying in the construction sector, the electric panel heater (100) having: an electrical heating component (110); and at least one control device (150) which is coupled to the electrical heating component (110) and can be coupled to a power source (191), the control device (150) being set up to control and/or regulate the electrical heating component (110), wherein the controller (150) comprises: a heating unit, and a functional unit; wherein the heating unit is configured to cause heating of the electrical heating component (110), and wherein the functional unit is configured to effect a further function, the further function not comprising heating. The electric surface heating (100) according to claim 1 , wherein the additional function has at least one from the group consisting of: power supply, sensors, actuators, data transmission, data processing, electrical insulation, mechanical protection. The electric surface heating (100) according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the further function has at least one from the group consisting of: a power supply of a third-party system, a digitization function, a position determination, in particular of boreholes, a presence detection, a moisture sensor system, a communication, a movement detection, a data encryption, a range determination within the electric panel heating (100), forwarding of signals, in particular alarm signals, recognition of a signature, route control. The electric surface heating (100) according to claim 3 , wherein the communication involves the use of at least one from the group consisting of: separate cable, superimposition of mains voltage, bus system, analogue signal, radio signal, in particular one of WLAN, Bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, NFC, BLE, WiFi, LoRaWAN, UWB. The electric surface heating (100) according to claim 3 or 4 , wherein the position determination has at least one from the group consisting of: position triangulation, UWB, iBeacon, a plurality of position determination units. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (150), in particular the functional unit, is also configured to meet a safety criterion, in particular at least one from the group consisting of: Password protection, data encryption, user type discrimination, temperature function protection, security function, selective update. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (150), in particular the functional unit, is configured to install and/or enable at least one additional function, in particular the additional radio tion has at least one from the group consisting of: encryption mechanism, sensor evaluation, position determination, in particular direction of movement and/or movement speed, radio communication, security protection, access protection, operational stability. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (150) further comprises: an antenna, in particular a shield-free antenna, further in particular wherein the antenna has at least one of the following features: capacitor coupling, insulation, residual current protection circuit. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a first area with a first signal attenuation, a second area with a second signal attenuation, wherein the first signal attenuation is lower than the second signal attenuation, wherein the control device (150) further has: a transmission functionality and/or a reception functionality, and wherein the transmission functionality and/or the reception functionality is arranged in the first area. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (150) is configured to react to distortions of an electromagnetic field, in particular wherein the reacting comprises at least one from the group consisting of: detecting, learning, determining Measured variables, in particular the use of these measured variables for position determination. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (150) is configured to perform a blockchain algorithm and/or an artificial intelligence algorithm. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a feedback device arranged to output an acoustic and/or haptic signal, In particular, the feedback device has at least one from the group consisting of: exciter, shaker, bone conducting transducer, handy shaker, bass exciter, loudspeaker. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric panel heater (100) further comprises: another heating component (120), wherein the at least one control device (150) is coupled to the heating component (110) and to the further heating component (120), and wherein the at least one control device (150) is configured to control and/or regulate the heating component (110) according to a first temperature characteristic, and, independently of this, to control and/or regulate the further heating component (120) according to a second temperature characteristic, wherein the first temperature characteristic is different from the second temperature characteristic. The electric surface heating (100) according to Claim 13 , wherein the control device (150) has: a first control unit (151), which is assigned to the heating component (110) and is set up to carry out a first function; and a second control unit (152), which is assigned to the further heating component (120) and is set up to carry out a second function; in particular wherein the first control unit (151) and the second control unit (152) are spatially spaced apart from one another. The electric surface heating (100) according to Claim 14 , wherein the first control unit (151) is set up to carry out the second function of the second control unit (152) at least partially, in particular if the second function cannot be carried out at least temporarily by means of the second control unit (152); and/or wherein the second control unit (152) is set up to at least partially carry out the first function of the first control unit (151), in particular if the first function cannot be carried out at least temporarily by means of the first control unit (151). The electric surface heating (100) according to Claim 14 or 15 , wherein the first function and/or the second function is at least one from the group consisting of: providing heating power, reducing heating power, switching off heating power, compensating for heating power, providing a signal, switching on at least one heating component (110, 120). The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of Claims 14 until 16 , wherein the first control unit (151) is configured to send temperature characteristic-associated information to the second control unit (152) and/or an external one forward device; and/or wherein the second control unit (152) is configured to forward the temperature characteristic-associated information to the first control unit (151) and/or the external device. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating component (110) comprises at least a first electric heating element (111), in particular a heating cable or a heating rod; and/or wherein the further heating component (120) has at least one second electrical heating element (121), in particular a heating cable or a heating element. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric panel heater (100) further comprises: a heating area (102) in which at least one heating element (111, 121) is arranged; and a free area (104) in which no heating element (111, 121) is arranged, in particular with an extension of the free area (104) in a main extension direction (x, y) of the electric surface heating (100) 1 cm or more, in particular 2 cm or more, more particularly 3 cm or more. The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of electrical heating elements (111, 121) are essentially in the form of rods (181) and are arranged as an array (180), in particular as a lattice structure, more particularly wherein the electrical heating elements (111, 121) arranged as a lattice structure (180) form a heating area (102) and a free area (104) is formed between the heating elements (141) of the lattice structure (180). The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric panel heater (100) further comprises: a support structure (130) which is formed along two main extension directions (x, y) and spans a support plane (TE), at least a section of the heating component (110) and/or the further heating component (120) being arranged on and/or in the carrier structure (130). The electric surface heating (100) according to Claim 21 , wherein the control device (150) is integrated into the support structure (130). The electric surface heating (100) according to Claim 21 or 22 , wherein the carrier structure (130) is designed as a foil web (170), in particular wherein heating areas (102) and free areas (104) are arranged alternately, in particular transversely, to the foil web (170). The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric panel heater (100) at least partially has a thickness (z) of 8 mm or less, in particular 6 mm or less, further in particular 5 mm or less. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric surface heating (100) has 10 or more, in particular 20 or more, more particularly 40 or more, free areas (104), in particular recesses, at least in sections per square meter. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (150) is configured to integrate at least one of the group consisting of: trailing edge control, phase control, pulse width modulation, voltage control, energy surge overvoltage into the control and/or regulation , live packet control. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (150) is configured to process information associated with temperature characteristics, in particular to receive, detect or forward it, more particularly wherein the information associated with temperature characteristics is at least one from the group consisting of: measured value, setpoint, temperature per heating component, average temperature of a plurality of heating components, power per heating component, average power of a plurality of heating components, energy per heating component, average energy of a plurality of heating components. The electric surface heating (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric surface heating (100) is configured such that the control device (150), in particular the functional unit, can be continuously supplied with current from the current source (191). The electric panel heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (150) further comprises an operation mode which enables at least one of the group consisting of Configuring, teaching, identifying, software updating, commissioning. The electric surface heater (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating component (110) and/or the further heating component (120) is assigned a unique identifier, and wherein the unique identifier is associated with the spatial position. The electric surface heating (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (150) is configured to receive from the power source (191) a voltage which can have a positive polarity and a negative polarity, wherein the positive polarity is used to heat the electrical heating component (110) and the negative polarity is used to power the controller (150) to perform the further function; or wherein the positive polarity is used to heat the electrical heating component (110) and the negative polarity is used to power the controller (150) to perform the further function; in particular where the different polarities are half waves of an AC voltage. A method for operating an electric panel heater (100), according to any one of Claims 1 until 31 , the method comprising: heating the electrical heating component (110) by means of the heating unit based on current of the power source (191); and, independently of this, performing the further function by means of the functional unit based on current from the power source (191), the further function not including heating. The procedure according to Claim 32 , further comprising: creating a digital map of the heating component (110) and at least one further heating component (120), in particular a surface heating module (115) and at least one further surface heating module (125). A computer program product which, when operated on a processor or computer, is configured according to a method for operating an electric panel heater (100). Claim 32 or 33 to execute. A method of manufacturing an electric panel heater (100) according to any one of Claims 1 until 31 comprising: providing the control device (150) protected by a mechanical cover; Laying the first surface heating module (115), which has the heating component (110); Laying the second surface heating module (125), which has the further heating component (120); Mount the protected control device (150) and then remove the mechanical cover. The procedure according to Claim 35 , further comprising: encapsulating the electrical surface heating (100) at least partially with an assembly fluid, in particular after removing the mechanical cover. Use of a control device (150), which is integrated into an electric surface heating (100), for controlling and/or regulating a heating function and a further function, the further function having no heating.

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