WO2018097783A1

WO2018097783A1 - A water and sewage anti-freezing system

Info

Publication number: WO2018097783A1
Application number: PCT/SE2017/051131
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ingemar Andersson
Original assignee: Ingemar Andersson
Priority date: 2016-11-28
Filing date: 2017-11-15
Publication date: 2018-05-31
Also published as: SE1651556A1; SE540353C2; EP3545142A4; EP3545142A1

Abstract

The present invention regards a water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) comprising a water pipe arrangement (3) and a sewage pipe arrangement (5) arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing (9), the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) further comprises a control unit (11) for controlling the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) when it is used. The water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a water feed pipe (13) coupled to a water return pipe (15) for circulation of water therethrough, and the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a feed pump device (17) coupled to and controlled by the control unit (11) for producing said circulation. The present invention also regards to method for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system and involves a data medium storing program and a data medium storing program product.

Description

A water and sewage anti-freezing system

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a water and sewage anti-freezing system comprising a water pipe arrangement and a sewage pipe arrangement arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing, the water and sewage anti-freezing system further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating of the water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system when it is used.

The water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe coupled to a water return pipe for circulation of water therethrough, and the water pipe arrangement comprises a feed pump device coupled to, and controlled by, the control unit for producing said circulation. The present invention also relates to a method for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to claim 6. The present invention further relates to a data medium storing program and a data medium storing program product.

The present invention concerns the industry producing water and sewage anti-freezing systems and other providers providing various kinds of water and sewage systems.

BACKGROUND ART

Current water and sewage systems used in areas that become cold and freeze are subject to development. A frozen sewer line may cause major damage. Besides high inspection and restore costs, it can close down the entire system.

The applicant of the present invention manufactures and provides a well-arranged water and sewage anti-freezing system that uses electrically heated wires that run along an insulated elongated housing comprising water and sewage pipes. The applicant has now developed a new and cost-effective water and sewage anti-freezing system that uses the water per se of the water pipe arrangement as a heating source, for providing a yet more cost-efficient solution.

There are also provided other types of water line systems or anti-freezing systems that use the circulation of water for avoiding that a pipe would freeze.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

There is an object to provide a water and sewage anti-freezing system that is cost-effective to install and to operate.

Yet a further object is to provide a water and sewage anti-freezing system that is reliable and that can be applied in areas where you are obliged to arrange the water pipe arrangement and the sewage pipe arrangement shallow or even directly on the ground. A further object is to provide a water and sewage anti-freezing system comprising pre-fabricated insulated module units that can be coupled to each other.

Yet a further object is to provide a water and sewage anti-freezing system that does not need to be connected to a plurality of electrical power feed cables and that is not being dependent upon a plurality of different subscriber's cable arrangements and subscription fees.

There is an object to provide a water and sewage anti-freezing system that can be monitored and controlled by a user in using a display with a touch screen or a display with or connected to a key board or similar.

This or at least one of said objects has been achieved by a water and sewage anti-freezing system comprising a water pipe arrangement and a sewage pipe arrangement arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing, the water and sewage anti-freezing system further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating of water in the system when it is used, wherein the water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe coupled to a water return pipe for circulation of water therethrough, and the water pipe arrangement comprises a feed pump device coupled to and controlled by the control unit for producing said circulation.

In such way is achieved that the use of circulated water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system provides an advantageously robust and versatile method, while also eliminating or minimizing the need for electrical heating elements mounted in the insulated elongated housing otherwise requiring several wiring connections, which in turn would require several subscriptions and cable

arrangements.

Suitably, the water pipe arrangement comprises a water return pipe arranged adjacent the sewage pipe arrangement, both of which being separately arranged within the insulated elongated housing.

Alternatively, the water pipe arrangement comprises a water return pipe arranged adjacent the water feed pipe, both of which being separately arranged within the insulated elongated housing. Preferably, the heating of the circulated water is achieved by partly arranging the water and sewage anti-freezing system above ground and partly below frost depth.

Thereby, the portion of the water and sewage anti-freezing system positioned below ground will make use of the geothermal energy and will transfer energy from the ground to the circulated water.

Thereby is achieved that a portion of the water and sewage anti-freezing system can be positioned above ground in frostless manner in areas exposed to frost.

Suitably, the water and sewage anti-freezing system comprises water and sewage module units,

In such way is achieved a modular water and sewage anti-freezing system comprising water and sewage module units which are connectable to each other in a cost-effective manner and covering a large piece of land. Preferably, each water and sewage module unit comprises end couplings arranged to fit

corresponding end couplings of an adjacent water and sewage module unit.

Suitably, the end coupling comprises a water feed pipe connection, a water return pipe connection, a sewage pipe connection and a joint connection of the insulated elongated housing.

Preferably, the joint connection of the insulated elongated housing comprises a socket member arranged for welding to a corresponding socket member of an adjacent insulated elongated housing.

Suitably, the water pipe arrangement comprises a heating device for heating the circulated water.

In such way is achieved that a sudden drop in outdoor temperature will not affect the operation of the water and sewage anti-freezing system.

Thereby is achieved that the entire water pipe and a sewage pipe arrangement arranged in the insulated elongated housing may be positioned above ground.

Preferably, the sensor device comprises at least two sensors.

In such way is achieved a reliable operation of the water and sewage anti-freezing system.

Suitably, the heating device comprises a circulation heater apparatus.

Preferably, the heating device comprises an immersion heater or other heating device.

Suitably, the water pipe arrangement comprises a sensor device for measuring the temperature of the circulated water.

Preferably, the sewage pipe and/or the water feed pipe and/or the water return pipe is/are provided with a sensor device for detecting the temperature of fluid.

The sensor device may comprise an electrical temperature sensor, such as a thermostat or other temperature sensing sensor device.

Preferably, the sensor device is mounted in the insulated elongated housing.

Suitable, the sensor device may comprise any type of electrical temperature sensor and/or a flowmeter apparatus and/or a pressure sensor.

Preferably, the feed pump device is mounted in the water return pipe.

Suitably, the water feed pipe is coupled to the water return pipe at a first end of the water pipe arrangement and sewage pipe arrangement and the water feed pipe is coupled to the water return pipe at a second end of the water pipe arrangement and sewage pipe arrangement.

In such way is achieved that no traps are present in the water and sewage anti-freezing system for preventing that water is caused to freeze.

Preferably, the first end is positioned at an outermost end of the water and sewage anti-freezing system and the second end is positioned at an opposite end of the water and sewage anti-freezing system. Alternatively, a non-return valve is arranged close a water supply system and is configured to permit that water can be fed into the water and sewage anti-freezing system, but not from the water and sewage anti-freezing system.

Preferably, the feed pump device and/or the control unit being equipped with a processor, being coupled to a power supply, such as an electricity network or a battery.

Suitably, the control unit is coupled to the sensor device and to the heating device.

Preferably, the sensor device is adapted to generate a first signal indicative of the temperature of said circulated water.

Suitably, the water and sewage anti-freezing system further comprises a first electronic network device.

Preferably, the control unit being coupled to the sensor device to receive the first signal and comprises a signal port for delivery of signals and being adapted to forward the first signal, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, to a first communication port of a first electronic network device of the water and sewage anti-freezing system, the first electronic network device having a user interface including a display and a processor device, adapted for communication with the user interface and for communication with the first communication port and adapted to deliver said first signal to the user interface for presentation to a user.

In such way is achieved a user friendly water and sewage anti -freezing system. Preferably, the first electronic network device comprises an electronic user device embodied by a personal computer applied in an office network environment.

Thereby, the water and sewage anti-freezing system can be installed over a large land area for a municipal purpose and can be monitored in an efficient manner by a local municipal worker.

Suitably, the water and sewage anti-freezing system may be provided with the sensor device arranged to obtain sensor signals related to the functionality of the water and sewage anti-freezing system.

Preferably, the water and sewage anti-freezing system may further be provided with a digital interface for communication with a user.

Suitably, the water and sewage anti-freezing system may have a local control element arranged for communication with the digital interface.

Preferably, the local control element may be arranged to receive the obtained first signal, to calculate at least one state parameter related to the operation of the water and sewage anti-freezing system based on the obtained first sensor signal and to feed the at least one calculated state parameter to the digital interface. Suitably, the digital interface may be arranged to transmit the received state parameter to the first electronic network device of the water and sewage anti-freezing system. Preferably, the local control element is arranged to receive the obtained first signal and to determine a control signal adapted to control the heating device for increasing or decreasing the temperature of the circulated water based on the obtained first signal.

Alternatively, the control unit comprises and/or is associated with the local control element.

Suitably, the first electronic network device comprises a user interface. The user interface may comprise a display arranged to present information related to the obtained sensor signals.

Preferably, the display may be a display with input means.

Suitably, the first electronic network device comprises a smartphone or tablet app messaging system associated with software that provides information about the actual temperature of circulated water.

The term "display with input means" may be intended to include displays with a touch screen or displays with or connected to a key board. The display may be a mobile device with a display such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

Suitably, the display may be coupled to the digital interface. The digital interface is then arranged to transfer the state parameter to the display.

Preferably, the first electronic network device comprises an electronic user device embodied by a mobile smart phone or a tablet or other devices having dedicated smart phone or tablet application software adapted to display the temperature of the circulated water.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system may comprise a user interface for operator monitoring and/or controlling of the temperature of water and sewage anti-freezing system. The user interface may be arranged to communicate with a digital interface.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system may comprise a communication channel adapted to feed a first signal or operator control signals to the digital interface. The channel may be a digital channel and may be a wireless channel. The first signal is received by the control unit. The communication over the digital channel, or data bus, may be performed in accordance with a communication protocol. For example, the communication may be by way of CAN (Controller Area Network).

This is also solved by a method for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti- freezing system, the water and sewage anti-freezing system comprises a water pipe arrangement and a sewage pipe arrangement arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing, the water and sewage anti-freezing system further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating of water fed by the water and sewage anti-freezing system; wherein the water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe coupled to a water return pipe for circulation of water therethrough and comprises a feed pump device coupled to and controlled by the control unit for producing said circulation, the method comprises the steps of circulating the water by means of the feed pump device; sensing the temperature of the circulated water; and heating the circulated water by controlling the feed pump device in regard to the sensed temperature. Suitably, the step of heating the circulated water is performed by means of a heating device.

Preferably, the step of sensing the temperature of the circulated water is performed by a sensor device coupled to the control unit.

Suitably, the method comprises the steps of; heating of the circulated water by means of the heating device in correspondence with a pre-determined water temperature value; sensing an actual water temperature value of the circulated water; comparing the pre-determined water temperature value with the actual water temperature value; controlling the heating of the circulated water by means of the control unit in accordance with said comparing for adjusting the actual water temperature toward the pre-determined water temperature.

Preferably, the method comprises the step of sending an alarm signal by means of the control unit in case said comparing, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, reveals that the actual water temperature is close to freezing point.

Alternatively, the method comprises the step of sending an alarm signal by means of the control unit in case said comparing, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, reveals that the actual water temperature is different from a desired or predetermined temperature of the circulated water or differs from the pre-determined water temperature.

This is also solved by a control unit configured to control the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system, wherein the control unit is coupled to a feed pump device for circulation of water through a water pipe arrangement according to any of claims 1-7, and is configured to control the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system according to any of the method claims 8 to 12.

This is also solved by a data medium storing program adapted for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system by means of a control unit according to claim 13, wherein said data medium storing program comprises a program code stored on a medium, which is readable on a computer, for causing the control unit to perform the method steps of; circulating the water by means of the feed pump device; sensing the temperature of the circulated water; and heating the circulated water by controlling the feed pump device in regard to the sensed temperature.

This is also solved by a data medium storing program product comprising a program code stored on a medium, which is readable on a computer, for performing the method steps according to the method claims 8 to 12, when a data medium storing program according to claim 14 is run on the control unit.

Thereby is achieved an electronic user device, which may comprise a mobile smart phone device having dedicated smart phone application software adapted to display the operation of the water and sewage anti-freezing system.

In such way is provided that a user is notified about the status of the water and sewage anti-freezing system and that the user can operate the water and sewage anti-freezing system in a user friendly manner. The freezing temperature may be defined as the freezing temperature at which water freeze. The digital interface may also be defined as the user interface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will now be described by way of examples with references to the

accompanying schematic drawings, of which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a first example of the invention;

Figs. 2a to 2e illustrate a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a second example of the invention;

Figs. 3a to 3i illustrate cross-sections of a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a third, fourth and fifth example of the invention;

Fig. 4 illustrates a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a sixth example of the invention; Figs. 5a to 5b illustrate a respective flow chart according to further aspects of the invention;

Fig. 6 illustrates a control unit of a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to an example of the invention;

Fig. 7 illustrates a further example of a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to the invention, making use of so called cloud computing; Figs. 8a to 8b illustrate an embodiment of a service unit; and

Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a control and circulation unit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein for the sake of clarity and understanding of the invention some details of no importance may be deleted from the drawings. Same reference may indicate similar detail, even though it refers to another embodiment.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates a water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 comprising a water pipe arrangement 3 and a sewage pipe arrangement 5 comprising a sewage pipe 7. The water pipe arrangement 3 and a sewage pipe arrangement 5 are arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing 9. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 further comprises a control unit for 11 (alternatively outside the insulated housing 9) controlling the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 when it is used. The water pipe arrangement 3 comprises a water feed pipe 13 coupled to a water return pipe 15 for circulation of water therethrough. The water pipe arrangement 3 comprises a feed pump device 17 coupled to and controlled by the control unit 11 for producing said circulation. A branch pipe unit 14 is arranged to be used for coupling the main part of the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 to a service unit 16. A respective connection 18 is provided for coupling to a service line (not shown). The water pipe arrangement 3 may comprise a heating device 19 for heating the circulated water.

Alternately, a portion of the water pipe arrangement 3 and a sewage pipe arrangement 5 being arranged deeper in the ground (deeper than frost depth). This will provide heat (geothermal energy) to the circulated water by the shallow portion of the water pipe arrangement 3 and a sewage pipe arrangement 5 will be prevented from freezing. The water pipe arrangement 3 may comprise a sensor device 21 for measuring the temperature of the circulated water. The control unit 11 may be coupled to the sensor device 21 and to the heating device 19 for controlling the heat of the circulated water.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 is adapted to be coupled to a connection point 25 comprising a water supply pipe connection and a sewage water pipe connection (not shown). The water fed from connection point 25 enters the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 via a shunt member 23 (e.g. a non-return valve or other type of suitable valve) into the water pipe arrangement 3 and is circulated by means if the feed pump device 17. The feed pump device 17 is configured to continuously propel the water for circulation. The heating device 19 may heat the water to a temperature value that is pre-determined. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 is coupled to an electrical supply 27.

Figs. 2a to 2e illustrate a modular water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a second example of the invention.

The modular water and sewage anti-freezing system comprises modular units that can be coupled to each other by means of e.g. welding or other methods. Fig. 2a shows an end unit 25 comprising a U- shaped pipe 27 comprising a first portion coupled to the water feed pipe 13 and a second portion coupled to the water return pipe 15. The end unit 25 is provided with end cap fittings E and may be used as a flush unit.

Fig. 2b shows a service unit 16 comprising a first connection part 26 provided for connection between the water feed pipe 13 and a service water pipe 31 and a second connection part 28 provided for connection between the sewage pipe 7 and a service sewage pipe 33. Fig. 2c shows a control and circulation unit CCU, which comprises a sewage pipe disposal connection 35 and a water supply connection 37. The control and circulation unit CCU comprises a pump 39, a temperature sensor 40, and a heater 41, which are coupled to a control unit 11 and configured to be coupled to an electrical supply (not shown). Fig. 2d shows an insulated main water and sewage pipe unit 43 which is used for building- up the water and sewage anti-freezing system main part, and which may feature an extension to another insulated main water and sewage pipe unit.

Fig.2e shows a branch unit 14 to be used for coupling the main part of the water and sewage anti- freezing system to the service unit 16. In such way is achieved a modular water and sewage anti- freezing system comprising water and sewage module units, which are connectable to each other in a cost-effective manner and that may cover a large piece of land. Preferably, each water and sewage module unit comprises end couplings arranged to fit corresponding end couplings of an adjacent water and sewage module unit.

Figs. 3a to 3c illustrate cross-sections of a water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 according to a third, fourth and fifth example of the invention. Fig. 3a shows an example wherein the water return pipe 15 is arranged adjacent the sewage pipe 7. A continuous leak detection sensing cable 51 is arranged in an insulated elongated housing 9 and along the water return pipe 15. Of course, the water feed pipe 13 may be arranged close to the sewage pipe 7 or other arrangements are possible. Fig. 3b shows one example wherein the water feed pipe 13 is arranged within and coaxial with the water return pipe 15. Fig. 3c shows one example wherein the water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe 13 connected to two water return pipes 15', 15" at the end portion of the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1.

Figs. 3d to 3i schematically illustrate further embodiments of the water and sewage anti-freezing system. Fig. 3d shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising the water feed pipe 13 and the water return pipe 15. Fig. 3e shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising the water feed pipe 13 and the water return pipe 15 in a way similar to Fig. 3b. Fig. 3f shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising a water feed pipe 13 connected to two water return pipes 15', 15". Fig. 3g shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising the water return pipe 15 and a sewage pipe 7. Fig. 3h shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising two water return pipes 15', 15" and a sewage pipe 7 without any detection sensing cable 51. Fig. 3i shows an insulated elongated housing 9 comprising the water return pipe 15 and a sewage pipe 7 of the same diameter.

Of course, a continuous leak detection sensing cable may be arranged for each example described above.

Fig. 4 illustrates a water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 according to a sixth example of the invention. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 comprises a second circulation pump 61 arranged in the water return pipe 15 for reliable circulation of water.

An alarm signal unit 63 is coupled to a temperature sensor 65 and associated with a control unit (not shown). The alarm signal unit 63 is configured to send an alarm signal if the actual water temperature differs from desired temperature of the circulated water or if the circulated water is close to its freezing point.

A water supply line 67 is coupled to the water feed pipe 13 of the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 and comprises a non-return valve 69 configured to permit that water can be fed into the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 but not from the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 back into the water supply line 67. A plurality of service lines 68 being coupled to the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1, preferably coupled to the water feed pipe 13 and/or the water return pipe 15.

Figs. 5a to 5b illustrate a respective flow chart according to further aspects of the invention. Fig. 5a illustrates an embodiment of a method for controlling the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1, wherein the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 comprises a water pipe arrangement and a sewage pipe arrangement arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 further comprises a control unit for controlling the heating of water fed by the system, wherein the water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe coupled to a water return pipe for circulation of water therethrough and comprises a feed pump device coupled to and controlled by the control unit for producing said circulation. The method comprises a first starting step 501.

A second step 502 comprises the method of heating the sewage pipe arrangement. A third step 503 is the stop of the method. The second step comprises the step of circulating the water by means of the feed pump device; sensing the temperature of the circulated water; and heating the circulated water by controlling the feed pump device in regard to the sensed temperature.

Fig. 5b illustrates a further embodiment of a method for controlling the heating of water in the water and sewage ant-freezing system 1. Step 5001 comprises a starting procedure of the method. A second step 5002 comprises heating of the circulated water by means of a heating device. A third step 5003 comprises sensing of the temperature of the circulated water by means of a sensor device coupled to the control unit. A fourth step 5004 comprises heating of the circulated water by means of the heating device in correspondence with a pre-determined water temperature value and a fifth step 5005 comprises sensing of an actual water temperature value of the circulated water. A sixth step 5006 comprises comparing the pre-determined water temperature value relative the actual water temperature value and a seventh step 5007 comprises controlling of the heating of the circulated water by means of the control unit in accordance with said comparing for adjusting the actual water temperature toward the pre-determined water temperature. An eighth 5008 step is stop of the method.

Preferably, the method comprises the step of sending an alarm signal by means of the control unit in case said comparing, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, reveals that the actual water temperature is close to the freezing point or differs from a desired or predetermined water temperature.

Fig. 6 illustrates a control unit 11 of a water and sewage anti-freezing system according to a further example. The control unit 11 may be configured to control the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1, wherein the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 comprises a water pipe arrangement 3 and a sewage pipe arrangement 5 arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing 9, wherein the control unit 11 is used for controlling the heating of water fed by the water and sewage anti-freezing system. The water pipe arrangement comprises a water feed pipe coupled to a water return pipe for circulation of water therethrough and comprises a feed pump device coupled to and controlled by the control unit for producing said circulation. A computer may comprise the control unit 11. The control unit 11 further comprises a non-volatile memory NVM 620, which is a computer memory that can retain stored information even when the computer is not powered. The control unit 11 further comprises a processing unit 610 and a read/write memory 650. The NVM 620 comprises a first memory unit 630. A computer program (which can be of any type suitable for any operational data) is stored in the first memory unit 630 for controlling the functionality of the control unit 11.

Furthermore, the control unit 11 comprises a bus controller (not shown), a serial communication left (not shown) providing a physical interface, through which information transfers separately in two directions. The control unit 11 may comprise any suitable type of I/O module (not shown) providing input/output signal transfer (e.g. adapted for a computing cloud), an A/D converter (not shown) for converting continuously varying signals from the temperature sensor device (not shown) into binary code suitable for the computer. The control unit 11 may also comprise an input/output unit (not shown) for adaptation to time and date. The control unit 11 may comprise an event counter (not shown) for counting the number of event multiples that occur from independent events in operation of the water and sewage anti-freezing system. The NVM 620 also includes a second memory unit 640 for external controlled operation.

A data medium storing program P may comprise routines for automatically adjusting the

temperature of the circulated water. The data medium storing program P comprises a program code stored on a medium, which is readable on the computer, for causing the control unit 11 to perform the method. The data medium storing program P further may be stored in a separate memory 660 and/or in the read/write memory 650. The data medium storing program P, in this embodiment, is stored in executable or compressed data format. It is to be understood that when the processing unit 610 is described to execute a specific function, this involves that the processing unit 610 may execute a certain part of the program stored in the separate memory 660 or a certain part of the program stored in the read/write memory 650. The processing unit 610 is associated with a data port 666 for communication via a first data bus 615. The non-volatile memory NVM 620 is adapted for communication with the processing unit 610 via a second data bus 612.

The separate memory 660 is adapted for communication with the processing unit 610 via a third data bus 611. The read/write memory 650 is adapted to communicate with the processing unit 610 via a fourth data bus 614. The data port 666 is preferably connectable to data links of the computing cloud. When data is received by the data port 666, the data will be stored temporary in the second memory unit 640. After that the received data is temporary stored, the processing unit 610 will be ready to execute the program code, according to the method.

Preferably, the signals (received by the data port 666) comprise information about the actual temperature of the circulated water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system. According to one aspect, signals received by the data port 666 may contain information about actual flow of water.

The received signals at the data port 666 can be used by the control unit 11 for controlling and monitoring of an automatic adaptation of the temperature of the circulated water in regard to the temperature of the ground temperature surrounding the water and sewage anti-freezing system. The signals received by the data port 666 may be used for automatically temperature adjustment of the circulated water. The signals can be used for different operations of the water and sewage anti- freezing system. The information and/or pre-determined input vales regarding the desired temperature of the circulated water may also be manually fed to the control unit 11 via a suitable communication device, such as a personal computer or a touchscreen device.

The method can also partially be executed by the control unit 11 by means of the processing unit 610, which processing unit 610 runs the data medium storing program P being stored in the separate memory 660 or the read/write memory 650. When the control unit 11 runs the data medium storing program P, suitable method steps disclosed herein will be executed. A data medium storing program product comprising a program code stored on a medium is also provided, which data medium storing program product is readable on the computer, for performing said control and monitoring, when the data medium storing program P is run on the control unit 11.

Fig. 7 illustrates a further example of a water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 according to one aspect making use of a computing cloud 71. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 is provided with a digital interface 73 of an electronic user device 74 for communication with a user 75.

The computing cloud 71 is associated with at least a first and second memory unit (not shown) and a control unit 711. The computing cloud 71 is also configured to receive information about the actual temperature of the circulated water in the water pipe arrangement 3 and to store control-related information in the first and second memory units.

The computing cloud 71 is furthermore configured to analyze the control-related information and may instruct the electronic user device 74 embodied by a mobile smart phone 77 having dedicated smart phone application software adapted to display the temperature of the circulated water. The computing cloud 71 may be configured to instruct the electronic user device 74 on a type of data to be cached by the electronic user device 74. Also, the electronic user device 74 may be associated with a local environment 79 and may be configured to provide all temperatures detected by a sensor device 721 (detecting the actual temperature of the circulated water in the water pipe arrangement 3) to the computing cloud. The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 is thus provided with the sensor device 721 arranged to obtain sensor signals related to the functionality of the water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 and related to the temperature of the circulated water.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system 1 may be provided with an alarm functionality (not shown) associated with the control unit 711, which sends an alarm signal in the case an executed temperature comparing (comparing a desired temperature with an actual temperature) processing, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, reveals that the actual water temperature is different from a desired or pre-determined temperature of the circulated water.

Fig. 8a shows a service unit 16 comprising a curved connection line 88 arranged between the water feed pipe 13 and the water return pipe 15 configured for the supply of circulated water. A three way valve 99 is arranged at the connection point between the curved connection line 88 and the water return pipe 15. A sewage valve A and a water feed valve B are open, wherein the three way valve 99 is closed. In Fig. 8b is shown that the sewage valve A and the water feed valve B are closed, wherein the three way valve 99 is open.

Fig. 9 shows a control and circulation unit CCU, which comprises a control unit (not shown) positioned remote from the control and circulation unit CCU. A temperature sensor 40 is arranged for being in contact with the circulated water in the water return pipe 15. A feed pump 39 is arranged at a distance from the envelope surface S of the insulated elongated housing 9 and is coupled to the water return pipe 15 via a first connection pipe 95a and is coupled to the water feed pipe 13 via a second connection pipe 95b.

The present invention is of course not in any way restricted to the preferred embodiments described above, but many possibilities to modifications, or combinations of the described embodiments, thereof should be apparent to a person with ordinary skill in the art without departing from the basic idea of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

A water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) comprising a water pipe arrangement (3) and a sewage pipe arrangement (5) arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing (9), the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) further comprises a control unit (11) for controlling the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) when it is used, wherein the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a sensor device (21) for measuring the temperature of the circulated water, characterized by that:

-the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a water feed pipe (13) coupled to a water return pipe (15) for circulation of water therethrough, wherein a portion of the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) being positioned below ground making use of the geothermal energy, and

-the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a feed pump device (17) coupled to and controlled by the control unit (11) for producing said circulation.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a heating device (19) for heating the circulated water.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the water feed pipe (13) and/or the water return pipe (15) being provided with a sensor device for detecting the temperature of fluid.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit (11) is coupled to the sensor device (21) and to a heating device (19, 41).

The water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to claim 4, wherein the sensor device (21,40, 65) is adapted to generate a first signal indicative of the temperature of said circulated water.

The water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the control unit (11, 711) being coupled to the sensor device (21, 40, 65) to receive the first signal and comprises a signal port (666) for delivery of the first signal and being adapted to forward the first signal, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, to a first communication port of a first electronic network device (74) of the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1), the first electronic network device (74) having a digital interface including a display and a processor device, adapted for communication with a user interface (73) and for communication with the first communication port (79) and adapted to deliver said first signal to the user interface (73) for presentation to a user (75).

The water and sewage anti-freezing system according to claim 6, wherein the first electronic network device (74) comprises an electronic user device embodied by a mobile smart phone (77) having dedicated smart phone application software adapted to display the temperature of the circulated water.

8. A method for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system (1), the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) comprises a water pipe arrangement (3) and a sewage pipe arrangement (5) arranged adjacent to each other within an insulated elongated housing (9), the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) further comprises a control unit

(11) for controlling the heating of water fed by the system; wherein the water pipe arrangement (3) comprises a water feed pipe (13) coupled to a water return pipe (15) for circulation of water therethrough therethrough, wherein a portion of the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) being positioned below ground making use of the geothermal energy, and comprises a feed pump device (17) coupled to and controlled by the control unit

(11) for producing said circulation, the method comprises the steps of:

-circulating the water by means of the feed pump device (17);

-sensing the temperature of the circulated water; and

-heating the circulated water by controlling the feed pump device (17) in regard to the sensed temperature.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the step of heating the circulated water is

performed by means of a heating device (19).

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the step of sensing the temperature of the circulated water is performed by a sensor device (21) coupled to the control unit (11).

11. The method according to any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the method comprises the steps of:

-heating of the circulated water by means of the heating device (19) in correspondence with a pre-determined water temperature value;

-sensing an actual water temperature value of the circulated water;

-comparing the pre-determined water temperature value with the actual water temperature value;

-controlling the heating of the circulated water by means of the control unit (11) in accordance with said comparing for adjusting the actual water temperature toward the predetermined water temperature.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the method comprises the step of:

-sending an alarm signal by means of the control unit (11) in case said comparing, being the result of a comparing procedure or at least a part result of a comparing procedure, reveals that the actual water temperature is close to freezing point or differs from the predetermined water temperature.

13. A water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) comprising a control unit (11, 711) configured to control the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1), the control unit (11) is coupled to a feed pump device (17) for circulation of water through a water pipe arrangement (3) according to any of claims 1-7, and is configured to control the heating of water in the water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) according to any of the method claims 8 to 12.

14. A data medium storing program (P) adapted for controlling the heating of water in a water and sewage anti-freezing system (1) by means of the control unit (11, 711) according to claim 13, wherein said data medium storing program (P) comprises a program code stored on a medium, which is readable on a computer, for causing the control unit (11, 711) to perform the method steps of:

-circulating the water by means of the feed pump device (17);

-sensing the temperature of the circulated water; and

15. A data medium storing program product comprising a program code stored on a medium, which is readable on a computer, for performing the method steps according to the method claims 8 to 12, when a data medium storing program (P) according to claim 14 is run on the control unit (11, 711).