EP2442039B1 - Conditioning plant - Google Patents
Conditioning plant Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2442039B1 EP2442039B1 EP11185062.4A EP11185062A EP2442039B1 EP 2442039 B1 EP2442039 B1 EP 2442039B1 EP 11185062 A EP11185062 A EP 11185062A EP 2442039 B1 EP2442039 B1 EP 2442039B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- fluid
- signal
- plant
- control device
- tract
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 title claims description 14
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 91
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 claims description 46
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 36
- 210000000056 organ Anatomy 0.000 claims description 36
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 claims description 24
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 22
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 16
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 230000011664 signaling Effects 0.000 claims description 13
- 238000011161 development Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000001747 exhibiting effect Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000015654 memory Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000007726 management method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004378 air conditioning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000052 comparative effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001143 conditioned effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001276 controlling effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007599 discharging Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011156 evaluation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012535 impurity Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000035945 sensitivity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012800 visualization Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/10—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
- F24D19/1006—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems
- F24D19/1009—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating
- F24D19/1015—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating using a valve or valves
- F24D19/1036—Having differential pressure measurement facilities
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/70—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
- F24F11/80—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air
- F24F11/83—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/70—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
- F24F11/80—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air
- F24F11/83—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers
- F24F11/84—Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F3/00—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems
- F24F3/06—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the arrangements for the supply of heat-exchange fluid for the subsequent treatment of primary air in the room units
- F24F3/065—Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the arrangements for the supply of heat-exchange fluid for the subsequent treatment of primary air in the room units with a plurality of evaporators or condensers
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/08—Arrangements for drainage, venting or aerating
- F24D19/082—Arrangements for drainage, venting or aerating for water heating systems
- F24D19/083—Venting arrangements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/08—Arrangements for drainage, venting or aerating
- F24D19/082—Arrangements for drainage, venting or aerating for water heating systems
- F24D19/088—Draining arrangements
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/10—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
- F24D19/1006—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems
- F24D19/1009—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating
- F24D19/1015—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating using a valve or valves
- F24D19/1021—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating using a valve or valves a by pass valve
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F2110/00—Control inputs relating to air properties
Definitions
- the invention relates to a conditioning system able to balance the circuit at every change of flow to the users.
- the conditioning system can be used for heating, cooling, or more generally for public environment climate control.
- conditioning plants exist that are equipped with systems for adjusting a pressure and/or flow rate internally of a circuit.
- a first example, described in application WO2008029987 concerns a conditioning system for temperature control in a determined environment.
- the system has a control unit directly connected to the users and to the delivery manifold.
- the control unit receives a signal from the sensors installed in the environment and automatically sends the signal to flow control valves to enable a selective control of the temperature in a plurality of areas into which the environment is divided.
- the described system requires a control circuit that controls the individual valves, and a corresponding sensor system. The system is therefore extremely complex and expensive.
- a second example, in application WO201074921 shows a method for balancing a hydraulic network.
- Users are connected to the hydraulic network, which users are each provided with the respective valves, positioned at each user.
- a balancing valve is located upstream of the users.
- the balancing valve is set to maintain certain setting parameters.
- the balancing valve is also able to detect the differential pressure across the valve and/or the flow rate, and to keep these values constant.
- a third example discloses a regulating system of a conditioning plant, which regulating system includes a mechanical valve.
- the valve is installed downstream of the users and is also hydraulically connected to a portion of the circuit which is located upstream of the users.
- the valve is able to balance the pressure on the upstream portion of the circuit of the users with the pressure at the point where it is installed.
- the regulating system described is able to balance the system while maintaining a predetermined pressure differential between upstream and downstream of the users of the plant. This system is extremely rigid as it is limited by the mechanical characteristics of the valve.
- WO2008/039065 discloses a device for controlling heat supplied to a heating system.
- the device has a heat meter connected to feed conduit and/or to return conduit of the system.
- a fluid flow adjusting unit is adapted to control fluid supply based on the detections of the heat meter.
- a first aim of the present invention is to obviate one or more of the limitations and drawbacks described above.
- a further aim is to create a programmable automatic balancing system such as to ensure optimum flexibility.
- An additional aim is to provide the fluid control with a fine degree of sensitivity.
- an aim of the invention is to provide a system of simple manufacture that is easily controllable and therefore easy and inexpensive to install.
- At least one of the specified aims is attained by a plant according to one or more of the appended claims.
- a first aspect includes a control valve for fluid systems, in particular conditioning systems, comprising: at least a valve body exhibiting at least an inlet, at least an outlet and at least a channel which sets the inlet in fluid communication with the outlet, at least a check element of fluid operating in the channel and forming the regulating organ together with the valve body, the fluid check element defining, in cooperation with the valve body, a passage opening for fluid between the inlet and the outlet of a variable size, according to positions assumed by the check element in relation to the valve body along a predetermined operating path, the check element being configured such as:
- the check element configured such as to rotate with respect to a rotation axis which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent axis of development of the channel.
- control device is configured such as to move the check element among a plurality of distinct operating positions which are angularly offset to one another.
- the angular positions are separate and at each distinct angular position the control device is configured such as to evaluate, on the basis of the output signal, whether an additional angular displacement is required or not.
- An angular step is defined between an operating position and a next angular operating position. In practice a step is understood to mean the angular distance between the distinct positions of the check element and is configured such as to perform the said evaluation.
- the angular step at least for a predetermined tract of the operative path, is less than 1° (one degree).
- the angular step, at least for the predetermined tract of the operative path is less than 0.5 ° (half a degree).
- the angular step at least over a predetermined tract of the operating path, is less than 1°, optionally less than 0.5%; and/or wherein the angular step is not constant over the operating path, optionally wherein the tract in which the step is not constant comprises at least 10% of the operating path.
- the size of the angular step is a function of the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section and the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section of the plant.
- the control device regulates the angular step as a function of the measurements, for example of pressure, in the two sections.
- the control device is configured such as to reduce the angular step progressively on reduction of a difference between a reference value and a real value given by a difference of intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section and the intensity of the same physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section.
- the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises an initial tract of the operating path, the initial tract being in turn comprised between an initial position of complete closure of the passage opening and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 40%.
- the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises an initial tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between a final position of complete opening of the passage and an intermediate position 47 in which the passage opening is open to not more than 30%.
- the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises a final tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between a final position of complete opening of the passage and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 50%.
- the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises a final tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between an final position of complete closure of the passage opening and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 40%.
- the check element has an external surface rotating about the axis which exhibits a substantially spherical or cylindrical conformation.
- the valve body 36 exhibits at least a wall located transversally of the prevalent development axis of the channel and respectively exhibiting a passage opening, the wall being arranged upstream and/or downstream of the check element such as to define the shape of that passage opening.
- the wall is a shaped diafragm and in cooperation with the opening of the check element defines the shape of the passage opening.
- the passage opening is conformed such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, wherein the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening comprises the ratio between the variation of the passage area following a displacement of the check organ and a reference area, and wherein the percentage displacement comprises the ratio between the displacement of the check element and the operating path.
- the passage opening is shaped such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5.
- the passage opening is shaped such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 1.5.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the initial tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the initial tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 2.5.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the final tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the final tract, comprising not more than 40% of the operating path exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 2.5.
- the incremental ratio between percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value which is substantially constant over an intermediate tract of the operating path comprised between the initial tract and the final tract, and wherein the intermediate tract comprises between 20% and 40% of the operating path.
- said first and second signal are related to the intensity of the fluid pressure in said first and second section of the plant.
- generating an output signal comprises determining a control differential signal comprising a difference or a ratio between the intensity of the first signal and the second signal.
- generating the output signal comprises determining a control differential signal comprising a difference or a ratio between the intensity of the first signal and the second signal, wherein the control differential signal comprises the difference or ratio between the intensity of the fluid pressure in the first section and the intensity of the fluid pressure in the second section, optionally wherein the control device comprises a pressure differential gauge which receives in input the first signal and the second signal and generates in output the control differential signal.
- control device is configured to:
- control device comprises an actuator, for example an electrical actuator, acting on the check element the actuator enabling displacement of the check element along the operating path.
- control device is connected with the actuator, the control device further being configured such as to command a movement of the check element as a function of the output signal and to position the check element according to the plurality of positions along the operating path.
- control device controls the size of the angular step according to which the actuator moves the check element in accordance with the value of the control differential signal and a reference value, optionally wherein the control device controls the size of the angular step according to which the actuator moves the check element in accordance with the difference between the control differential signal and the reference value.
- the regulating valve and/or the plant comprises: acoustic signalling means and/or optical signalling means, the acoustic signalling means and/or the optical signalling means being connected to the control device which is configured such as to command the acoustic signalling means and/or optical signalling means to provide:
- control device is configured to control a movement of the check element thereby enabling a reduction in the difference between the reference value and the value of the control differential signal.
- said control device includes setting means, said setting means being connected to the control device, the control device being configured such as to enable a setting of a predetermined number of control parameters that define the working conditions of the valve.
- control parameters comprising at least a parameter selected from the group having:
- the second control parameter comprises bottom scale values of the pressure differential gauge.
- the function comprises a link of a proportional or integral or derivate type, or a combination thereof.
- the fourth control parameter specifies a convergence time defined as a time transitory in which the value of the control differential signal converges to the reference value.
- the setting means enable memorisation of a predetermined number of configurations relating to values of the control parameters which are useful for managing the control device, optionally wherein the setting means comprise micro switches.
- the regulating valve further comprises a temperature sensor positioned on the valve body, the temperature sensor enabling detection of the temperature at the second section.
- control device further comprises input means, the input means enabling setting at least a reference value, optionally enabling setting a reference pressure differential between the first section and the second section.
- control device comprises a memory and is configured such as to enable memorising a plurality of predetermined reference values and for enabling selection of at least one of those values on the part of a user.
- the check element has a lateral surface of rotation of cylindrical or spherical shape.
- the passage opening comprises a frontal shaping exhibiting two substantially symmetrical parts wherein each of the parts exhibits a first portion shaped as an arc of a circle, a second portion shaped as an arc of a circle having a smaller radius than the arc of the first portion, a connecting inflection which connects the first portion with the second portion.
- the passage opening comprises a longitudinal shaping relating to a longitudinal section with respect to the prevalent development axis of the channel, exhibiting a progressively growing section from the inlet to the outlet of the valve body.
- control device is configured such as to receive the control parameters and, depending on the value thereof, adjust the rotation direction of the check element according to the axis which extends transversally to the axis of the prevalent development axis.
- the first section is defined at the valve body, the regulating valve 1 comprising a passage which places the channel in fluid communication with the differential pressure gauge.
- the check element operating in the channel of the valve body is configured such as to rotate according to a movement angle with respect to a rotation axis which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent development axis of the channel, optionally in which the check element exhibits a lateral rotation surface having a cylindrical or spherical conformation.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element, for the initial tract comprised between 20 % and 30% of the operating path falls within a range of between 0 and 1.5.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element, for the final tract comprised between 20 % and 30% of the operating path falls within a range of between 0 and 1.5.
- a 49th aspect relates to a fluid distribution system to a plurality of users, in which the system uses one or more of the valves according to any one of aspects 1 to 48 .
- a 50th aspect according to the claimed invention relates to a conditioning plant comprising: at least a general inlet, at least a general outlet, a circuit which sets the general inlet in fluid communication with the general outlet, a plurality of users arranged on the circuit, at least a balancing system of the flow acting on the circuit, the balancing system comprising:
- the plant comprises a first detecting line which places a first point of the circuit situated upstream of each user in fluid communication with the sensor of the balancing system and in which the plant comprises a second detection line which sets a second point of the circuit situated downstream of each user in fluid communication with the sensor of the balancing system.
- the second point is situated substantially on the regulating organ, the regulating organ being situated downstream of each user, directly connected on the circuit and in fluid communication with the sensor.
- the senor is a differential sensor, which enables detecting the intensity difference between upstream and downstream of the users of the physical parameter of the fluid, and wherein the sensor detects a difference between a first real value relative to the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point of the circuit, and a second real value relative to the intensity of the physical parameter relative to the second point of the circuit.
- the senor comprises a first sensor, which is in fluid connection with the first detecting line and enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point of the circuit, and a second sensor which is in fluid connection with the second detecting line and enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at the second point of the circuit.
- each user comprises a respective delivery channel emerging from the circuit, a respective return channel in fluid connection with the delivery channel and arranged such as to return fluid into the circuit, at least a user device hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel and the return channel.
- each user comprises a respective delivery channel emerging from the circuit, a respective return channel in fluid connection with the delivery channel and arranged such as to return fluid into the circuit, at least a user device hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel and the return channel, and wherein each user exhibits at least a respective closing organ, partial or total, arranged either on the delivery channel or on the return channel .
- the plant comprises at least a delivery manifold arranged upstream of the users, at least a return manifold arranged downstream of the users, the delivery manifold and the return manifold being respectively connected to the general inlet for the distribution of the fluid to the users and to the general outlet for collecting the fluid in outlet from the users.
- the regulating organ is engaged to a line interposed between an outlet of the return manifold and the general outlet.
- the regulating organ and the control device are part of a regulating valve operating downstream of the users, wherein the regulating valve.
- the regulating valve has the characteristics of any one of the aspects from the first to the forty-eighth.
- 1 denotes in its entirety a conditioning plant comprising a general inlet 2, a general outlet 3, a circuit 4 placing the general inlet in fluid communication with the general outlet 3.
- a conditioning plant comprising a general inlet 2, a general outlet 3, a circuit 4 placing the general inlet in fluid communication with the general outlet 3.
- Both the general inlet and the general outlet avail of an inlet valve 2a and an outlet valve 3a, for example of a sphere or shutter type, which regulate the general flow internally of the circuit 4.
- the circuit supplies a fixed number of user units 5 (herein indicated as users), for example, each comprising one or more heat exchangers and related groups of ventilation (fan coil), which are arranged at or near areas to be conditioned. Heat exchange takes place inside the users, enabled by the fluid supply from the general inlet 2.
- users for example, each comprising one or more heat exchangers and related groups of ventilation (fan coil), which are arranged at or near areas to be conditioned.
- Heat exchange takes place inside the users, enabled by the fluid supply from the general inlet 2.
- the circuit exhibits at least two main channels: a delivery channel 6, for sending the fluid to the users, and a return channel 7 in connection with the delivery channel 6 and arranged such as to receive the fluid downstream of the users.
- the users 5 are hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel 6 and the return channel 7. Before being distributed to the various utilities the fluid is intercepted by a filter 8 which prevents impurities from reaching the users.
- the delivery channel 6 and the return channel 7 are respectively connected to a delivery manifold 10 upstream of the users 5 and a return manifold 11 downstream of the users 5.
- the delivery manifold 10 and the return manifold 11 are connected respectively to the general inlet 2, for the distribution of the fluid to the users 5, and the general outlet 3, for the collection of the fluid in outlet from the users 5.
- the conditioning plant also includes, for each user, at least one respective delivery line 6a exiting from the delivery manifold, and leading to the users; a respective partial or total closing organ 9 acts on each delivery line 6a.
- the closing organs 9 intercept the fluid in inlet to the users 5.
- the organs 9 are activated such as to vary the supply parameters of a determined user; in particular each closing organ can comprise an on/off valve which closes or opens supply to each user 5.
- the return manifold 7 receives from each user a respective return line 12; on each return line a balancing valve 13 is placed whose function is to regulate the flow in outlet from the users as a function of temperature requirements required for each environment in which the user 5 is installed.
- the plant of fig. 1 also has a connecting circuit 14, which sets the delivery manifold 10 in fluid communication with the return manifold 11, bypassing the users.
- a shut-off valve 15 of the manifold 10 and a shut-off valve 16 of the return manifold 11 are arranged on the connecting circuit 14.
- the connecting circuit 14 is in turn in fluid connection with a discharge 17 interposed between the respective closing valves of the delivery manifold closing valve and return valve.
- the discharge 17 exhibits a general discharge valve 18 configured for discharging excess fluid present in the connecting circuit 14 after the circuit 4 setting.
- the drain circuit 17 exhibits a breather valve 19, positioned in a higher position than the manifolds and useful for eliminating any air bubbles inside the circuit 4.
- the air conditioning system 1 comprises a flow balancing system 20, active on the circuit 4.
- the balancing system 20 comprises at least a sensor 21 for detecting a real value which is dependent on the difference of intensity that a same physical parameter, such as a pressure or flow, assumes between a first section 22 upstream of the users 5 and a second section 23 downstream of the users. More specifically, the sensor can measure for example a difference or ratio between the real pressure in the section 22 and the pressure in the section 23, providing an output signal that is proportional to said difference or ratio between the pressures in the two above-cited sections.
- the balancing system further exhibits a flow regulating device 24 and a control device 25 connected to the sensor 21 and active on the flow regulating organ 24.
- the control device comprises a control unit, for example a microprocessor, capable of receiving the input signal from the sensor/s 21 and acting on the regulating organ as a function of the signal.
- the balancing system 20 is placed in connection with two detecting lines.
- a first detecting line 26 places in fluid communication a first point 27, part of the first section 22 of the circuit 4 and located upstream of each user 5, with the sensor 21 of the balancing system 20; a second detecting line 26 places in fluid communication a second point 28, part of the second section 23 of the circuit 4 and located downstream of each user 5, with the sensor 21 of the balancing system 20.
- the sensor 21 for example a differential sensor, is configured such as to detect the difference in intensity between upstream and downstream of the users 5, the physical parameter of the fluid.
- the sensor 21 detects a difference between a first real value related to the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point 27 of the circuit 4, and a second real value of the intensity of the same physical parameter related to the second point 29 of the circuit 4.
- the second point 29 is for example located substantially on the regulating organ, which is arranged downstream of each user 5, directly connected to the circuit 4 and in fluid connection with the sensor 21.
- the sensor 21 includes a pressure differential sensor which generates an output signal proportional to the intensity or a function of the pressure difference between points 27 and 29.
- a differential sensor a different configuration of the circuit can be realised in which the sensor 21 comprises a first sensor 30, in fluid connection with the first detecting line 26, which enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point 27 of the circuit 4, and a second sensor 31, which is in fluid connection with the second detecting line 28, which detects the intensity of the same physical parameter at the second point 29 of the circuit 4.
- the return channel 7 can comprise a line 32, interposed between a general outlet 33 of the return manifold 11 and the general outlet 3 of the plant 1, on which the regulating organ 24 is engaged.
- the first point 27 is located upstream of the users 5, in particular, the first point 27 can be located substantially on the delivery manifold 10, while the second detecting point 29 is located on the regulating organ 24.
- the control device 25 it is connected to the above-described sensor/s and with the regulating organ.
- the control device is configured such as to enable a memorising of a reference value for the physical parameter of the fluid being measured with the described sensors.
- the control device may comprise one or more microprocessor unit/s and associated memories capable of storing a code which when executed by the microprocessor unit/s makes the control device capable of performing the procedures described below.
- the control device is also configured such as to compare the reference value with the real value in relation to the same physical parameter, and such as to control the regulating organ 24 via an output signal such as to regulate the flow of fluid within the circuit 4 such as to maintain the value substantially aligned with the reference value.
- the control device is configured to determine the real value as the difference between the values of the physical parameter measured in the first and second section by the sensor/s 21 (for example the difference in pressure between the two sections) and such as to compare the difference with a reference value stored by the control device.
- the control device does not exert any action up until a subsequent control cycle that can be activated manually or determined periodically by the control device or determined by the control device on reaching a threshold of maximum deviation between the real value and the reference value.
- the plant also has available a visualization tool 34 connected to the control device 25.
- the control device 25 is configured to control a visualising on the display instrument 34 of the real value (for example, the real difference between the pressures measured in sections 22 and 23), the reference value (for example, a reference pressure difference) or both the values of said physical parameter of the fluid.
- the regulating organ 24 and the control device 25 are part of a control valve 35 operating downstream of the users 5.
- the control valve 35 includes: a valve body 36 exhibiting at least an inlet 37, an outlet 38 and a channel 39 which sets the inlet 37 in fluid communication with the outlet 38.
- the valve body 36 exhibits connecting organs 40 arranged at the inlet 37 and the outlet 38 of the valve which enabling fixing the valve on the circuit 4.
- the connecting organs can be, for example, threading or rapid attachments.
- the channel 39 exhibits a seating 41 capable of accommodating a valve element 42 which in cooperation with the valve body 36 forms the regulating body 24 and defines a passage opening 43 between the inlet 37 and outlet 38.
- the passage opening 43 has variable amplitude as a function of the positions assumed by the check element 42 with regard to the valve body 36.
- the check element 42 is configured such as to act along a predetermined travel path which includes a predetermined number of operating positions that are angularly distinct or translationally staggered to one another: in practice, the control device is configured such as to move the check element between an operating position and a next operating position in a next step controlled by the control device 25 itself, as is described in more detail below.
- the movement of the check element 42 may be rotary or translational. In the first case the movement takes place by rotation in an angle of movement around an axis of rotation 44 which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent development axis 50 of the channel 5. In the second case, the movement can take place in a straight direction.
- the check element 42 performs a rotary movement: to perform a rotary movement, the check element 42 must have an outer surface that is substantially spherical or cylindrical, as can be seen in the accompanying figures.
- the various operative positions of the element 42 are angularly offset by one or more angular steps of amplitude that are controlled by the control device: at each angular step the control device is programmed to periodically re-verify the difference between the real value and the reference value, and if this difference is not acceptable, the control device will command a new angular step.
- control device can be configured such that along at least part of the operating path (such as a tract greater than or equal to 10% of the operating path), the pitch angle has a value of less than 1° (one degree), optionally less than 0.5 ° (half a degree) in order to avoid destabilisation in the control of the valve.
- the control device can also be made to adjust the angular pitch in order to maintain this constant pitch along the operating path.
- the control device can adjust the pitch so that the amplitude thereof is variable along a tract (for example, for a distance greater than or equal to 10% of the operative path) or along the entire operating path.
- a step can be included that is a function of the deviation between the real value of the physical parameter detected by the sensors and the reference value of the physical parameter itself: for example, the step can be relatively large (for example one or more degrees) if the difference between the real value and the reference value is greater than a certain threshold and may be relatively small (e.g. less than one degree) if the difference between the real and the reference values is below a certain threshold.
- the angular pitch can be reduced progressively during the opening or closing of the valve: optionally the step may for example be reduced gradually, exponentially as the valve is opened.
- the tract of the operating path where the pitch is variable and possibly less than one degree includes an initial tract 45 between an initial position 46 of complete closure of the passage opening 43 and an intermediate position 47 in which the passage opening 43 is open no more than 50%, optionally not more than 40%.
- the tract of the path in which the pitch is variable and possibly less than a degree also includes a final section 48 between a final position of complete opening of the passage opening 43 and the intermediate position 47 in which the passage opening 43 is open no more than 40%, optionally not more than 30%.
- the passage opening 43 is shaped such that, following a movement of the check element 42 over a first and/or final tract (which may coincide with the lines 45, 48 of figure 12 ) of the operating path, the incremental relationship between the percentage change of the area of the passage opening 43 and the percentage displacement of the check element 42 exhibits an absolute value that is variable along the path but comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5.
- the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the passage opening 32 area and the percentage displacement of the check element 42 exhibits an absolute value variable along the path but always comprised between 0 and 4, for example between 0 and 2.5. More specifically, the incremental ratio falls in a range between 0 and 1.5 in the initial tract that is between 20 and 30% of the operating path.
- the ratio between incremental percentage change of the passage opening 43 and the percentage displacement of the check element 42 exhibits an absolute value that is variable but comprised between 0 and 4, for example between 0 and 2.5.
- percentage displacement is defined as the ratio between the displacement of the check element 42 and the operating path.
- the percentage change of the passage opening 43 is defined as the ratio between the change in the passage area following a displacement of the check element 42 and a reference area, for example the area of complete opening of the passage opening 43.
- the interception element 42 is operating internally of the channel 39 of valve body 36, and is configured to vary the passage opening 43 through its movement.
- the check element 42 is configured to rotate at an angle of motion with respect to an axis of rotation 44 which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent development axis 50 of the channel 39.
- the check element 42 can be configured such as to perform a displacement that will reduce or increase the passage area 43.
- the passage opening 43 is characterized by a front profiling 51 presenting two substantially symmetrical parts in which each part has a first portion 52, shaped as an arc of a circle, a second portion 53, shaped as an arc of a circle having a smaller radius than that of the first portion 52, a connecting curve 54 which connects the first portion 52 with the second portion 53.
- the passage opening 61 has a longitudinal shape, which is characterized by a progressively increasing section from the inlet 37 to the outlet 38 of the valve body 36. In the example shown, although the section progressively grows, the outline of this section in the front view can remain constant and equal to what described above and shown in figure 4 .
- the movement of the regulating organ and therefore the check element 42 is, as mentioned, regulated by the control device 25 which is in particular configured such as to receive at least a first input signal relating to the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section of the plant and a second signal relating to the intensity of the same physical parameter of a fluid circulating in the second section of the plant, and then generate an output signal according to the first and second signal.
- the first and second signals are related to the intensity of fluid pressure respectively in the first and second section of the plant.
- the output signal is control differential signal comprising a difference or ratio between the intensity of the first and second signal; for example the control differential signal includes the difference or the ratio between the intensity of fluid pressure in the first section and the intensity of fluid pressure in the second section.
- the intensity of the output signal is used to control the position of the check element 42 with a cyclically executed control loop.
- a differential pressure gauge 55 can be used which receives in input the first and second signal and generates in output a control differential signal.
- the differential pressure gauge 55 is disposed on the body 36 of the regulating valve 35 and receives the first signal from the first point 27 and the second signal corresponding to the second point of the system 29.
- the second point is located substantially at the outlet of the control valve, and is therefore placed after the check element 42, according to the flow direction.
- the output 38 of the valve and the pressure differential gauge 55 are in fluid connection via a fluid passage 62.
- the intensity of the value measured by the differential pressure gauge 55 is either proportional to or a function of the pressure difference between the first and second points 27, 29.
- the physical parameter can also be the delivery; in this case the differential sensor may be a differential between the flow rate in the first and the second segment.
- a temperature sensor can also be present which measures the temperature of the fluid in outlet from the valve.
- the control device 25 is also configured to allow the setting of at least one reference value, compare the reference value with the value of the differential signal control and generate the output signal as a function of the comparison.
- the comparison of the signals influences the displacement of the moving element 42, which is moved directly by an actuator 56, active on the check element 42, along the operating path.
- the actuator 56 can be electric or mechanical.
- the case analyzed shows an actuator 56 of an electrical type that enables placing the check element 42 in a plurality of positions along the operating path.
- the control device 25 regulates the movement of the check element 42, thereby reducing the difference between the reference value and the value of the control differential signal.
- the control device 25 includes a memory which enables storage of a plurality of predetermined reference values and allows the selection thereof by a user.
- the controller 25 further comprises setting means 57.
- the setting means 57 are connected to the control device 25 and enable setting a fixed number of control parameters which define working conditions.
- the control device 25 further comprises inlet means 58, which enable a reference value to be set, for example by enabling the setting of a reference differential pressure between the first and second sections.
- the control parameters include: a first control parameter on the type of check element 42, a second control parameter relating to an maximum increase in the values of the first and second signal or in the value of the difference between the first and second signals, a third control parameter relating to the type of function which links the outlet signal to the first and the second signals , a fourth control parameter relative to the velocity of convergence between the real value and the reference value.
- the first parameter determines the direction of rotation of the valve 42.
- the second parameter comprises the bottom-scale values of the pressure differential switch 55 thus defining a range of predetermined values.
- the third control parameter specifies the type of control function that links the output signal to said first and second signal: for example, this function includes a link of a proportional or integral or derivative type, or a combination of these.
- the fourth control parameter regulates the speed of convergence of the real value of the reference value set to the control device 25.
- the setting means 57 also enable memorisation of a predetermined number of configurations relating to values of the control parameters useful for the management of the control device 25.
- the setting means are micro-switches which have only two values for each parameter setting control.
- the control valve 35 enables monitoring the real value and the reference value by means of an acoustic signal 59 and/or optical signal means 60.
- These signalling devices are connected to the control device 25 which is configured to control the acoustic and/or optical means 59, 60 such as to provide: an optical and/or an instantaneous value of the output signal, and/or an optical and/or an acoustic displacement of an instantaneous value of the output signal with respect to a reference value.
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Description
- The invention relates to a conditioning system able to balance the circuit at every change of flow to the users. The conditioning system can be used for heating, cooling, or more generally for public environment climate control.
- As is known conditioning plants exist that are equipped with systems for adjusting a pressure and/or flow rate internally of a circuit.
- A first example, described in application
WO2008029987 , concerns a conditioning system for temperature control in a determined environment. The system has a control unit directly connected to the users and to the delivery manifold. The control unit receives a signal from the sensors installed in the environment and automatically sends the signal to flow control valves to enable a selective control of the temperature in a plurality of areas into which the environment is divided. The described system requires a control circuit that controls the individual valves, and a corresponding sensor system. The system is therefore extremely complex and expensive. - A second example, in application
WO201074921 - A third example discloses a regulating system of a conditioning plant, which regulating system includes a mechanical valve. The valve is installed downstream of the users and is also hydraulically connected to a portion of the circuit which is located upstream of the users. The valve is able to balance the pressure on the upstream portion of the circuit of the users with the pressure at the point where it is installed. The regulating system described is able to balance the system while maintaining a predetermined pressure differential between upstream and downstream of the users of the plant. This system is extremely rigid as it is limited by the mechanical characteristics of the valve.
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WO2008/039065 discloses a device for controlling heat supplied to a heating system. The device has a heat meter connected to feed conduit and/or to return conduit of the system. A fluid flow adjusting unit is adapted to control fluid supply based on the detections of the heat meter. - A first aim of the present invention is to obviate one or more of the limitations and drawbacks described above.
- A further aim is to create a programmable automatic balancing system such as to ensure optimum flexibility.
- An additional aim is to provide the fluid control with a fine degree of sensitivity. Lastly, an aim of the invention is to provide a system of simple manufacture that is easily controllable and therefore easy and inexpensive to install.
- At least one of the specified aims is attained by a plant according to one or more of the appended claims.
- Further aspects are described below.
- A first aspect includes a control valve for fluid systems, in particular conditioning systems, comprising: at least a valve body exhibiting at least an inlet, at least an outlet and at least a channel which sets the inlet in fluid communication with the outlet, at least a check element of fluid operating in the channel and forming the regulating organ together with the valve body, the fluid check element defining, in cooperation with the valve body, a passage opening for fluid between the inlet and the outlet of a variable size, according to positions assumed by the check element in relation to the valve body along a predetermined operating path, the check element being configured such as:
- to receive in input at least a first signal relating to an intensity of a physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section of the plant and a second signal relating to the intensity of a physical parameter of a fluid circulating in the second section of the plant,
- to generate the output signal as a function of the first signal and the second signal, said output signal being used to control the angular position of the check element.
- In a 2nd aspect in accordance with the 1st aspect the check element configured such as to rotate with respect to a rotation axis which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent axis of development of the channel.
- In a 3rd aspect in accordance with the 2nd aspect the control device is configured such as to move the check element among a plurality of distinct operating positions which are angularly offset to one another. The angular positions are separate and at each distinct angular position the control device is configured such as to evaluate, on the basis of the output signal, whether an additional angular displacement is required or not. An angular step is defined between an operating position and a next angular operating position. In practice a step is understood to mean the angular distance between the distinct positions of the check element and is configured such as to perform the said evaluation.
- In a 4th aspect in accordance with the previous aspect, the angular step, at least for a predetermined tract of the operative path, is less than 1° (one degree).
- In a 5th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding third or fourth aspects, the angular step, at least for the predetermined tract of the operative path, is less than 0.5 ° (half a degree).
- In a 6th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from the third to the fifth, the angular step, at least over a predetermined tract of the operating path, is less than 1°, optionally less than 0.5%; and/or wherein the angular step is not constant over the operating path, optionally wherein the tract in which the step is not constant comprises at least 10% of the operating path.
- In a 7th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from the third to the sixth, where the angular step reduces progressively, optionally exponentially, for a stretch that includes at least 10% of the operating path.
- In an 8th aspect according to any of the above aspects from 3 to 7, the size of the angular step is a function of the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section and the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section of the plant. In practice, the control device regulates the angular step as a function of the measurements, for example of pressure, in the two sections. For example the control device is configured such as to reduce the angular step progressively on reduction of a difference between a reference value and a real value given by a difference of intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section and the intensity of the same physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section.
- In a 9th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from 3 to 8, the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises an initial tract of the operating path, the initial tract being in turn comprised between an initial position of complete closure of the passage opening and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 40%.
- In a 10th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from 3 to 9, the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises an initial tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between a final position of complete opening of the passage and an
intermediate position 47 in which the passage opening is open to not more than 30%. - In a 11th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from 3 to 10, the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises a final tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between a final position of complete opening of the passage and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 50%.
- In a 12th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects from 3 to 11, the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises a final tract of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between an final position of complete closure of the passage opening and an intermediate position in which the passage opening is open to not more than 40%.
- In a 13th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects, the check element has an external surface rotating about the axis which exhibits a substantially spherical or cylindrical conformation.
- In a 14th aspect in accordance with any of the above aspects, the
valve body 36 exhibits at least a wall located transversally of the prevalent development axis of the channel and respectively exhibiting a passage opening, the wall being arranged upstream and/or downstream of the check element such as to define the shape of that passage opening. In practice, the wall is a shaped diafragm and in cooperation with the opening of the check element defines the shape of the passage opening. - In a 15th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the passage opening is conformed such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4,
wherein the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening comprises the ratio between the variation of the passage area following a displacement of the check organ and a reference area, and wherein the percentage displacement comprises the ratio between the displacement of the check element and the operating path. - In a 16th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the passage opening is shaped such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5.
- In a 17th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the passage opening is shaped such that following a movement of the check element over an initial tract and/or a final tract of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 1.5.
- In a 18th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects from 15 to 17, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the initial tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4.
- In a 19th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects from 15 to 18 the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the initial tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 2.5.
- In a 20th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects from 15 to 19 the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the final tract comprising not more than 30% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4.
- In a 21 st aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects from 15 to 20, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element over the final tract, comprising not more than 40% of the operating path, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 2.5.
- In a 22nd aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects from 15 to 21 the incremental ratio between percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element exhibits an absolute value which is substantially constant over an intermediate tract of the operating path comprised between the initial tract and the final tract, and wherein the intermediate tract comprises between 20% and 40% of the operating path.
- In a 23rd aspect in accordance with any of the preceding aspects said first and second signal are related to the intensity of the fluid pressure in said first and second section of the plant.
- In a 24th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects generating an output signal comprises determining a control differential signal comprising a difference or a ratio between the intensity of the first signal and the second signal.
- In a 25th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, generating the output signal comprises determining a control differential signal comprising a difference or a ratio between the intensity of the first signal and the second signal, wherein the control differential signal comprises the difference or ratio between the intensity of the fluid pressure in the first section and the intensity of the fluid pressure in the second section, optionally wherein the control device comprises a pressure differential gauge which receives in input the first signal and the second signal and generates in output the control differential signal.
- In a 26th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device is configured to:
- enable setting at least a reference value,
- compare the reference value with the value of the control differential signal, generate the output signal as a function of the comparison.
- In a 27th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device comprises an actuator, for example an electrical actuator, acting on the check element the actuator enabling displacement of the check element along the operating path.
- In a 28th aspect in accordance with the preceding aspect, the control device is connected with the actuator, the control device further being configured such as to command a movement of the check element as a function of the output signal and to position the check element according to the plurality of positions along the operating path.
- In a 29th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding
aspects - In a 30th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the regulating valve and/or the plant comprises: acoustic signalling means and/or optical signalling means, the acoustic signalling means and/or the optical signalling means being connected to the control device which is configured such as to command the acoustic signalling means and/or optical signalling means to provide:
- an optical and/or acoustic representation of an instant value of the output signal, and/or
- an optical and/or acoustic representation of displacement of an instant value of the output signal with respect to a reference value.
- In a 31 st aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device is configured to control a movement of the check element thereby enabling a reduction in the difference between the reference value and the value of the control differential signal.
- In a 32nd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, said control device includes setting means, said setting means being connected to the control device, the control device being configured such as to enable a setting of a predetermined number of control parameters that define the working conditions of the valve.
- In a 33rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control parameters comprising at least a parameter selected from the group having:
- a first control parameter relating to a type of movement of the check element,
- a second control parameter relating to a maximum excursion of the values of the first signal and the second signal or of the value of the difference between the first signal and the second signal,
- a third control parameter relating to the type of function connecting the output signal and the first signal and the second signal,
- a fourth control parameter relating to a velocity of convergence between the real value and the reference value.
- In 34th aspect in accordance with preceding
aspect 33, the second control parameter comprises bottom scale values of the pressure differential gauge. - In a 35th aspect in
accordance preceding aspects - In a 36th aspect in accordance with the 33rd or 34th or 35th aspects, the fourth control parameter specifies a convergence time defined as a time transitory in which the value of the control differential signal converges to the reference value.
- In a 37th aspect in accordance with 33rd or 34th, 35th or 36th aspects, the setting means enable memorisation of a predetermined number of configurations relating to values of the control parameters which are useful for managing the control device, optionally wherein the setting means comprise micro switches.
- In a 38th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the regulating valve further comprises a temperature sensor positioned on the valve body, the temperature sensor enabling detection of the temperature at the second section.
- In a 39th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device further comprises input means, the input means enabling setting at least a reference value, optionally enabling setting a reference pressure differential between the first section and the second section.
- In a 40th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device comprises a memory and is configured such as to enable memorising a plurality of predetermined reference values and for enabling selection of at least one of those values on the part of a user.
- In a 41 st aspect in accordance with one of the preceding aspects, the check element has a lateral surface of rotation of cylindrical or spherical shape.
- In a 42nd aspect in accordance with any of the one of the preceding aspects, the passage opening comprises a frontal shaping exhibiting two substantially symmetrical parts wherein each of the parts exhibits a first portion shaped as an arc of a circle, a second portion shaped as an arc of a circle having a smaller radius than the arc of the first portion, a connecting inflection which connects the first portion with the second portion.
- In a 43rd aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects the passage opening comprises a longitudinal shaping relating to a longitudinal section with respect to the prevalent development axis of the channel, exhibiting a progressively growing section from the inlet to the outlet of the valve body.
- In a 44th aspect in accordance with any one of the preceding aspects, the control device is configured such as to receive the control parameters and, depending on the value thereof, adjust the rotation direction of the check element according to the axis which extends transversally to the axis of the prevalent development axis.
- In a 45th aspect in accordance with any with any one of the preceding aspects, the first section is defined at the valve body, the regulating valve 1 comprising a passage which places the channel in fluid communication with the differential pressure gauge.
- In a 46th aspect in accordance with any with any one of the preceding aspects, the check element operating in the channel of the valve body is configured such as to rotate according to a movement angle with respect to a rotation axis which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent development axis of the channel, optionally in which the check element exhibits a lateral rotation surface having a cylindrical or spherical conformation.
- In a 47th aspect in accordance with the preceding aspect, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening and the percentage displacement of the check element, for the initial tract comprised between 20 % and 30% of the operating path, falls within a range of between 0 and 1.5.
- In a 48th aspect according to any of
aspects - A 49th aspect relates to a fluid distribution system to a plurality of users, in which the system uses one or more of the valves according to any one of aspects 1 to 48 .
- A 50th aspect according to the claimed invention relates to a conditioning plant comprising: at least a general inlet, at least a general outlet, a circuit which sets the general inlet in fluid communication with the general outlet, a plurality of users arranged on the circuit, at least a balancing system of the flow acting on the circuit, the balancing system comprising:
- at least a sensor for detecting at least a real value depending on a difference of intensity between a first section upstream of the users and a second section downstream of the users, of at least a physical parameter of the fluid,
- at least a flow regulating organ, downstream of the users and connected with the sensor,
- at least a control device connected to the sensor, acting on the flow regulating organ and configured for:
- enabling memorisation of at least a reference value of a same physical parameter of the fluid, comparing the reference value with the real value, commanding the regulating organ via an output signal in order to regulate the fluid internally of the circuit such as to maintain the real value substantially aligned with the reference value, or such as to reduce a difference between real value and reference value.
- In a 51st aspect according to the 50th aspect, the plant comprises a first detecting line which places a first point of the circuit situated upstream of each user in fluid communication with the sensor of the balancing system and in which the plant comprises a second detection line which sets a second point of the circuit situated downstream of each user in fluid communication with the sensor of the balancing system.
- In a 52nd aspect according to
aspect 51, the second point is situated substantially on the regulating organ, the regulating organ being situated downstream of each user, directly connected on the circuit and in fluid communication with the sensor. - In a 53rd aspect according to
aspects - In a 54th aspect according to
aspects - In a 55th aspect according to any of the preceding aspects from 50 to 54 , each user comprises a respective delivery channel emerging from the circuit, a respective return channel in fluid connection with the delivery channel and arranged such as to return fluid into the circuit, at least a user device hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel and the return channel.
- In a 56th aspect according to any of the above aspects from 50 to 55, each user comprises a respective delivery channel emerging from the circuit, a respective return channel in fluid connection with the delivery channel and arranged such as to return fluid into the circuit, at least a user device hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel and the return channel, and wherein each user exhibits at least a respective closing organ, partial or total, arranged either on the delivery channel or on the return channel .
- In a 57th aspect according to any one of the preceding
aspects - In a 58th aspect according to the preceding aspect, the regulating organ is engaged to a line interposed between an outlet of the return manifold and the general outlet.
- In a 59th aspect according to any of the above aspects from 50 to 57 , the regulating organ and the control device are part of a regulating valve operating downstream of the users, wherein the regulating valve.
- In a 60th aspect according to preceding
aspect 59, the regulating valve has the characteristics of any one of the aspects from the first to the forty-eighth. - Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described in the following with reference to the accompanying figures of the drawings, provided by way of non-limiting example, in which:
-
Figure 1 illustrates a first conditioning plant not part of the claimed invention; -
Figure 2 illustrates a second conditioning plant; -
Figure 2a illustrates a third conditioning plant; -
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a valve used in the plants offigures 2-2a ; -
Figure 4 is a front view of the regulating valve offigure 3 in a first use condition; -
Figure 5 is a section view of the regulating valve offigure 3 ; -
Figure 6 is a front view of the regulating valve offigure 3 in a second use condition; -
Figure 7 is a front view of the regulating valve offigure 3 in a third use condition; -
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the valve body of the valve offigure 3 ; -
Figure 9 is a view from above of an alternative embodiment of a control valve; -
Figure 10 is a front view of the valve offigure 9 ; -
Figure 11 is a section along line XI-XI offigure 10 ; and -
Figure 12 is a comparative diagram relating to the characteristics of two valves that relates the percentage area of the passage opening with the percentage displacement of the check element. - With reference to the accompanying figures of the drawings, 1 denotes in its entirety a conditioning plant comprising a
general inlet 2, ageneral outlet 3, acircuit 4 placing the general inlet in fluid communication with thegeneral outlet 3. Both the general inlet and the general outlet avail of aninlet valve 2a and anoutlet valve 3a, for example of a sphere or shutter type, which regulate the general flow internally of thecircuit 4. - The circuit supplies a fixed number of user units 5 (herein indicated as users), for example, each comprising one or more heat exchangers and related groups of ventilation (fan coil), which are arranged at or near areas to be conditioned. Heat exchange takes place inside the users, enabled by the fluid supply from the
general inlet 2. - The circuit exhibits at least two main channels: a
delivery channel 6, for sending the fluid to the users, and areturn channel 7 in connection with thedelivery channel 6 and arranged such as to receive the fluid downstream of the users. Theusers 5 are hydraulically interposed between thedelivery channel 6 and thereturn channel 7. Before being distributed to the various utilities the fluid is intercepted by afilter 8 which prevents impurities from reaching the users. - The
delivery channel 6 and thereturn channel 7 are respectively connected to adelivery manifold 10 upstream of theusers 5 and areturn manifold 11 downstream of theusers 5. Thedelivery manifold 10 and thereturn manifold 11 are connected respectively to thegeneral inlet 2, for the distribution of the fluid to theusers 5, and thegeneral outlet 3, for the collection of the fluid in outlet from theusers 5. - The conditioning plant also includes, for each user, at least one
respective delivery line 6a exiting from the delivery manifold, and leading to the users; a respective partial ortotal closing organ 9 acts on eachdelivery line 6a. Theclosing organs 9 intercept the fluid in inlet to theusers 5. Theorgans 9 are activated such as to vary the supply parameters of a determined user; in particular each closing organ can comprise an on/off valve which closes or opens supply to eachuser 5. - The
return manifold 7 receives from each user arespective return line 12; on each return line a balancingvalve 13 is placed whose function is to regulate the flow in outlet from the users as a function of temperature requirements required for each environment in which theuser 5 is installed. - The plant of
fig. 1 also has a connectingcircuit 14, which sets thedelivery manifold 10 in fluid communication with thereturn manifold 11, bypassing the users. A shut-offvalve 15 of the manifold 10 and a shut-offvalve 16 of thereturn manifold 11 are arranged on the connectingcircuit 14. The connectingcircuit 14 is in turn in fluid connection with adischarge 17 interposed between the respective closing valves of the delivery manifold closing valve and return valve. Thedischarge 17 exhibits ageneral discharge valve 18 configured for discharging excess fluid present in the connectingcircuit 14 after thecircuit 4 setting. In addition to thegeneral discharge valve 18, thedrain circuit 17 exhibits abreather valve 19, positioned in a higher position than the manifolds and useful for eliminating any air bubbles inside thecircuit 4. - The air conditioning system 1 comprises a
flow balancing system 20, active on thecircuit 4. Thebalancing system 20 comprises at least asensor 21 for detecting a real value which is dependent on the difference of intensity that a same physical parameter, such as a pressure or flow, assumes between afirst section 22 upstream of theusers 5 and asecond section 23 downstream of the users. More specifically, the sensor can measure for example a difference or ratio between the real pressure in thesection 22 and the pressure in thesection 23, providing an output signal that is proportional to said difference or ratio between the pressures in the two above-cited sections. - The balancing system further exhibits a
flow regulating device 24 and acontrol device 25 connected to thesensor 21 and active on theflow regulating organ 24. In practice, the control device comprises a control unit, for example a microprocessor, capable of receiving the input signal from the sensor/s 21 and acting on the regulating organ as a function of the signal. According to one embodiment, the balancingsystem 20 is placed in connection with two detecting lines. More specifically, a first detectingline 26 places in fluid communication afirst point 27, part of thefirst section 22 of thecircuit 4 and located upstream of eachuser 5, with thesensor 21 of thebalancing system 20; a second detectingline 26 places in fluid communication asecond point 28, part of thesecond section 23 of thecircuit 4 and located downstream of eachuser 5, with thesensor 21 of thebalancing system 20. Thesensor 21, for example a differential sensor, is configured such as to detect the difference in intensity between upstream and downstream of theusers 5, the physical parameter of the fluid. In more detail, thesensor 21 detects a difference between a first real value related to the intensity of the physical parameter at thefirst point 27 of thecircuit 4, and a second real value of the intensity of the same physical parameter related to thesecond point 29 of thecircuit 4. Thesecond point 29 is for example located substantially on the regulating organ, which is arranged downstream of eachuser 5, directly connected to thecircuit 4 and in fluid connection with thesensor 21. If the detected parameter is the pressure, thesensor 21 includes a pressure differential sensor which generates an output signal proportional to the intensity or a function of the pressure difference betweenpoints sensor 21 comprises afirst sensor 30, in fluid connection with the first detectingline 26, which enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at thefirst point 27 of thecircuit 4, and asecond sensor 31, which is in fluid connection with the second detectingline 28, which detects the intensity of the same physical parameter at thesecond point 29 of thecircuit 4. - The
return channel 7 can comprise aline 32, interposed between ageneral outlet 33 of thereturn manifold 11 and thegeneral outlet 3 of the plant 1, on which the regulatingorgan 24 is engaged. - As previously mentioned, the
first point 27 is located upstream of theusers 5, in particular, thefirst point 27 can be located substantially on thedelivery manifold 10, while the second detectingpoint 29 is located on the regulatingorgan 24. As for thecontrol device 25, it is connected to the above-described sensor/s and with the regulating organ. The control device is configured such as to enable a memorising of a reference value for the physical parameter of the fluid being measured with the described sensors. For example, the control device may comprise one or more microprocessor unit/s and associated memories capable of storing a code which when executed by the microprocessor unit/s makes the control device capable of performing the procedures described below. The control device is also configured such as to compare the reference value with the real value in relation to the same physical parameter, and such as to control the regulatingorgan 24 via an output signal such as to regulate the flow of fluid within thecircuit 4 such as to maintain the value substantially aligned with the reference value. For example, the control device is configured to determine the real value as the difference between the values of the physical parameter measured in the first and second section by the sensor/s 21 (for example the difference in pressure between the two sections) and such as to compare the difference with a reference value stored by the control device. Following the comparison, if the difference between the pressures in the two above-mentioned sections is equal to or close to the set reference value, the control device does not exert any action up until a subsequent control cycle that can be activated manually or determined periodically by the control device or determined by the control device on reaching a threshold of maximum deviation between the real value and the reference value. - The plant also has available a
visualization tool 34 connected to thecontrol device 25. Thecontrol device 25 is configured to control a visualising on thedisplay instrument 34 of the real value (for example, the real difference between the pressures measured insections 22 and 23), the reference value (for example, a reference pressure difference) or both the values of said physical parameter of the fluid. - In the example of realization shown, the regulating
organ 24 and thecontrol device 25 are part of acontrol valve 35 operating downstream of theusers 5. Thecontrol valve 35 includes: avalve body 36 exhibiting at least aninlet 37, anoutlet 38 and a channel 39 which sets theinlet 37 in fluid communication with theoutlet 38. Thevalve body 36exhibits connecting organs 40 arranged at theinlet 37 and theoutlet 38 of the valve which enabling fixing the valve on thecircuit 4. The connecting organs can be, for example, threading or rapid attachments. The channel 39 exhibits aseating 41 capable of accommodating avalve element 42 which in cooperation with thevalve body 36 forms the regulatingbody 24 and defines apassage opening 43 between theinlet 37 andoutlet 38. Thepassage opening 43 has variable amplitude as a function of the positions assumed by thecheck element 42 with regard to thevalve body 36. Thecheck element 42 is configured such as to act along a predetermined travel path which includes a predetermined number of operating positions that are angularly distinct or translationally staggered to one another: in practice, the control device is configured such as to move the check element between an operating position and a next operating position in a next step controlled by thecontrol device 25 itself, as is described in more detail below. - The movement of the
check element 42 may be rotary or translational. In the first case the movement takes place by rotation in an angle of movement around an axis ofrotation 44 which extends transversally with respect to aprevalent development axis 50 of thechannel 5. In the second case, the movement can take place in a straight direction. - Considering the case where the
check element 42 performs a rotary movement: to perform a rotary movement, thecheck element 42 must have an outer surface that is substantially spherical or cylindrical, as can be seen in the accompanying figures. The various operative positions of theelement 42 are angularly offset by one or more angular steps of amplitude that are controlled by the control device: at each angular step the control device is programmed to periodically re-verify the difference between the real value and the reference value, and if this difference is not acceptable, the control device will command a new angular step. - In the case of a rotary valve, the control device can be configured such that along at least part of the operating path (such as a tract greater than or equal to 10% of the operating path), the pitch angle has a value of less than 1° (one degree), optionally less than 0.5 ° (half a degree) in order to avoid destabilisation in the control of the valve.
- The control device can also be made to adjust the angular pitch in order to maintain this constant pitch along the operating path.
- Alternatively, the control device can adjust the pitch so that the amplitude thereof is variable along a tract (for example, for a distance greater than or equal to 10% of the operative path) or along the entire operating path. For example, a step can be included that is a function of the deviation between the real value of the physical parameter detected by the sensors and the reference value of the physical parameter itself: for example, the step can be relatively large (for example one or more degrees) if the difference between the real value and the reference value is greater than a certain threshold and may be relatively small (e.g. less than one degree) if the difference between the real and the reference values is below a certain threshold. Alternatively, in case of variable pitch, the angular pitch can be reduced progressively during the opening or closing of the valve: optionally the step may for example be reduced gradually, exponentially as the valve is opened.
- As shown in
figure 12 , the tract of the operating path where the pitch is variable and possibly less than one degree includes aninitial tract 45 between aninitial position 46 of complete closure of thepassage opening 43 and anintermediate position 47 in which thepassage opening 43 is open no more than 50%, optionally not more than 40%. The tract of the path in which the pitch is variable and possibly less than a degree also includes afinal section 48 between a final position of complete opening of thepassage opening 43 and theintermediate position 47 in which thepassage opening 43 is open no more than 40%, optionally not more than 30%. - In an embodiment, illustrated in
figures 4 ,6 ,7 and10 , thepassage opening 43 is shaped such that, following a movement of thecheck element 42 over a first and/or final tract (which may coincide with thelines figure 12 ) of the operating path, the incremental relationship between the percentage change of the area of thepassage opening 43 and the percentage displacement of thecheck element 42 exhibits an absolute value that is variable along the path but comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5. Thanks to this type of variation the increase in area upon the movement of the check element is not excessive and thus enables an efficient control of the pressure fall (and flow) through the valve, enabling better management of the plant balance (again, a curve characteristic of a profiled-opening valve is represent infigure 12 - see the curve with the continuous tract with reference triangles). - As can be seen in
figure 12 , over theinitial tract 45 that includes no more than 30% of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the passage opening 32 area and the percentage displacement of thecheck element 42 exhibits an absolute value variable along the path but always comprised between 0 and 4, for example between 0 and 2.5. More specifically, the incremental ratio falls in a range between 0 and 1.5 in the initial tract that is between 20 and 30% of the operating path. In turn, over thefinal tract 48 that includes no more than 40% of the operating path, the ratio between incremental percentage change of thepassage opening 43 and the percentage displacement of thecheck element 42 exhibits an absolute value that is variable but comprised between 0 and 4, for example between 0 and 2.5. More specifically this quotient falls in a range between 0 and 1.5 in a final tract that is between 20 and 30% of the operating path. Finally, still with reference tofigure 12 , over anintermediate section 47 of the operating path between theinitial tract 45 and thefinal tract 48 comprising between 20% and 40% of the operating path, the incremental ratio between percentage change of the area of thepassage opening 43 and the percentage displacement of thecheck element 42 exhibits a substantially constant absolute value. - Note that the percentage displacement is defined as the ratio between the displacement of the
check element 42 and the operating path. - In turn, the percentage change of the
passage opening 43 is defined as the ratio between the change in the passage area following a displacement of thecheck element 42 and a reference area, for example the area of complete opening of thepassage opening 43. - As previously described the
interception element 42 is operating internally of the channel 39 ofvalve body 36, and is configured to vary thepassage opening 43 through its movement. As can be seen from the figures, thecheck element 42 is configured to rotate at an angle of motion with respect to an axis ofrotation 44 which extends transversally with respect to aprevalent development axis 50 of the channel 39. In particular, thecheck element 42 can be configured such as to perform a displacement that will reduce or increase thepassage area 43. According to a front view, as can be seen infigure 4 , thepassage opening 43 is characterized by afront profiling 51 presenting two substantially symmetrical parts in which each part has afirst portion 52, shaped as an arc of a circle, asecond portion 53, shaped as an arc of a circle having a smaller radius than that of thefirst portion 52, a connectingcurve 54 which connects thefirst portion 52 with thesecond portion 53. According to the longitudinal view, thepassage opening 61 has a longitudinal shape, which is characterized by a progressively increasing section from theinlet 37 to theoutlet 38 of thevalve body 36. In the example shown, although the section progressively grows, the outline of this section in the front view can remain constant and equal to what described above and shown infigure 4 . - The movement of the regulating organ and therefore the
check element 42 is, as mentioned, regulated by thecontrol device 25 which is in particular configured such as to receive at least a first input signal relating to the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section of the plant and a second signal relating to the intensity of the same physical parameter of a fluid circulating in the second section of the plant, and then generate an output signal according to the first and second signal. The first and second signals are related to the intensity of fluid pressure respectively in the first and second section of the plant. - The output signal is control differential signal comprising a difference or ratio between the intensity of the first and second signal; for example the control differential signal includes the difference or the ratio between the intensity of fluid pressure in the first section and the intensity of fluid pressure in the second section.
- The intensity of the output signal is used to control the position of the
check element 42 with a cyclically executed control loop. As a sensor adifferential pressure gauge 55 can be used which receives in input the first and second signal and generates in output a control differential signal. Thedifferential pressure gauge 55 is disposed on thebody 36 of the regulatingvalve 35 and receives the first signal from thefirst point 27 and the second signal corresponding to the second point of thesystem 29. The second point is located substantially at the outlet of the control valve, and is therefore placed after thecheck element 42, according to the flow direction. Theoutput 38 of the valve and the pressuredifferential gauge 55 are in fluid connection via afluid passage 62. - The intensity of the value measured by the
differential pressure gauge 55 is either proportional to or a function of the pressure difference between the first andsecond points - On the section where the valve body is placed a temperature sensor can also be present which measures the temperature of the fluid in outlet from the valve.
- The
control device 25 is also configured to allow the setting of at least one reference value, compare the reference value with the value of the differential signal control and generate the output signal as a function of the comparison. The comparison of the signals influences the displacement of the movingelement 42, which is moved directly by anactuator 56, active on thecheck element 42, along the operating path. Theactuator 56 can be electric or mechanical. The case analyzed shows anactuator 56 of an electrical type that enables placing thecheck element 42 in a plurality of positions along the operating path. Thecontrol device 25 regulates the movement of thecheck element 42, thereby reducing the difference between the reference value and the value of the control differential signal. - The
control device 25 includes a memory which enables storage of a plurality of predetermined reference values and allows the selection thereof by a user. - The
controller 25 further comprises setting means 57. The setting means 57 are connected to thecontrol device 25 and enable setting a fixed number of control parameters which define working conditions. - The
control device 25 further comprises inlet means 58, which enable a reference value to be set, for example by enabling the setting of a reference differential pressure between the first and second sections. - The control parameters include: a first control parameter on the type of
check element 42, a second control parameter relating to an maximum increase in the values of the first and second signal or in the value of the difference between the first and second signals, a third control parameter relating to the type of function which links the outlet signal to the first and the second signals , a fourth control parameter relative to the velocity of convergence between the real value and the reference value. - Going into further detail it can be specified that, in the case where the moving
element 42 is of the circular type, the first parameter determines the direction of rotation of thevalve 42. Instead the second parameter comprises the bottom-scale values of the pressuredifferential switch 55 thus defining a range of predetermined values. The third control parameter specifies the type of control function that links the output signal to said first and second signal: for example, this function includes a link of a proportional or integral or derivative type, or a combination of these. The fourth control parameter regulates the speed of convergence of the real value of the reference value set to thecontrol device 25. The setting means 57 also enable memorisation of a predetermined number of configurations relating to values of the control parameters useful for the management of thecontrol device 25. - In the case shown in the figures the setting means are micro-switches which have only two values for each parameter setting control.
- The
control valve 35 enables monitoring the real value and the reference value by means of anacoustic signal 59 and/or optical signal means 60. These signalling devices are connected to thecontrol device 25 which is configured to control the acoustic and/oroptical means
Claims (15)
- A conditioning plant (1) comprising:at least a general inlet (2),at least a general outlet (3),a circuit (4) which sets the general inlet (2) in fluid communication with the general outlet (3),a plurality of users (5) arranged on the circuit (4),at least a balancing system (20) of the flow acting on the circuit (4), the balancing system (20) comprising:at least a sensor (21) for detecting at least a real value depending on a difference of intensity between a first section (22) upstream of the users (5) and a second section (23) downstream of the users, of at least a physical parameter of the fluid,at least a flow regulating organ (24) ;at least a control device (25) connected to the sensor (21), acting on the flow regulating organ (24) and configured for:enabling memorization of at least a reference value of a same physical parameter of the fluid,comparing the reference value with the real value,commanding the regulating organ (24) via an output signal in order to regulate the fluid internally of the circuit (4) such as to maintain the real value substantially aligned with the reference value, or such as to reduce a difference between real valueand reference value, characterised in that the flow regulating organ is arranged downstream of the users (5) and connected with the sensor (21).
- The plant of claim 1, comprising a first detecting line (26) which places a first point (27) of the circuit (4) situated upstream of each user (5) in fluid communication with the sensor (21) of the balancing system (20) and in which the plant (1) comprises a second detection line (28) which sets a second point (29) of the circuit (4) situated downstream of each user (5) in fluid communication with the sensor (21) of the balancing system (6), optionally wherein the second point (29) is situated substantially on the regulating organ (24), the regulating organ (24) being situated downstream of each user (5), directly connected on the circuit (4) and in fluid communication with the sensor (21),
and wherein either the sensor (21) is a differential sensor, which enables detecting the intensity difference between upstream and downstream of the users (5) of the physical parameter of the fluid, and wherein the sensor (21) detects a difference between a first real value relative to the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point (27) of the circuit (4), and a second real value relative to the intensity of the physical parameter relative to the second point (29) of the circuit (4),
or wherein the sensor (21) comprises a first sensor (30), which is in fluid connection with the first detecting line (26) and enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at the first point (27) of the circuit (4), and a second sensor (31) which is in fluid connection with the second detecting line (28) and enables detecting the intensity of the physical parameter at the second point (29) of the circuit (4). - The plant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each user (5) comprises a respective delivery channel (6) emerging from the circuit (4), a respective return channel (7) in fluid connection with the delivery channel (6) and arranged such as to return fluid into the circuit (4), at least a user device hydraulically interposed between the delivery channel (6) and the return channel (7),
wherein each user (5) exhibits at least a respective closing organ, partial or total, arranged either on the delivery channel (6) or on the return channel (7),
wherein the plant comprises at least a delivery manifold (10) arranged upstream of the users (5), at least a return manifold (11) arranged downstream of the users (5), the delivery manifold (10) and the return manifold (11) being respectively connected to the general inlet (2) for the distribution of the fluid to the users (5) and to the general outlet (3) for collecting the fluid in outlet from the users (5),
and wherein the regulating organ (24) is engaged to a line (32) interposed between an outlet of the return manifold (11) and the general outlet (3). - The plant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the regulating organ (24) and the control device (25) are part of a regulating valve (35) operating downstream
of the users (5), wherein the regulating valve (35) comprises:at least a valve body (36) exhibiting at least an inlet (37),at least an outlet (38) and at least a channel (39) which sets the inlet (37) in fluid communication with the outlet (38),at least a check element (42) of fluid operating in the channel (39) and forming the regulating organ (24) together with the valve body,wherein the fluid check element (42) defines, in cooperation with the valve body (36), a passage opening (43) for fluid between the inlet (37) and the outlet (38) of a variable size, according to positions assumed by the check element (42) in relation to the valve body (36) along a predetermined operating path, the check element (42) being configured such as to rotate with respect to a rotation axis (44) which extends transversally with respect to a prevalent axis of development (50) of the channel (39). - The plant of claim 4, wherein the command stage comprises moving the check element (42) among a plurality of distinct operating positions which are angularly offset to one another, and wherein an angular step is defined between an operating position and an angularly subsequent operating position, the control device, following each angular step, being configured to cyclically repeat the stages of comparison and command.
- The plant of claim 5, wherein the angular step, at least over a predetermined tract of the operating path, is less than 1°, optionally less than 0.5%; and/or wherein the angular step is not constant over the operating path, optionally wherein the tract in which the step is not constant comprises at least 10% of the operating path.
- The plant of one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the size of the angular step is a function of the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section (22) and the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section (23) of the plant, in particular wherein the angular step reduces progressively on reduction of a difference between a reference value and a real value given by a difference of intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section (22) and the intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in a second section (23).
- The plant of claim 6 or 7, wherein the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises an initial tract (45) of the operating path, the initial tract being in turn comprised between an initial position (46) of complete closure of the passage opening (43) and an intermediate position (47) in which the passage opening (43) is open to not more than 40%, optionally not more than 30%; and/or wherein the tract of the operating path in which the step is not constant and/or is less than 1° comprises a final tract (48) of the operating path, the final tract being in turn comprised between a final position (49) of complete opening of the passage (43) and an intermediate position in which the passage opening (43) is open to not more than 50%, optionally no more than 40%.
- The plant of any one of claims from 4 to 8, wherein the passage opening (43) is shaped such that following a movement of the check element (42) over an initial tract and/or a final tract (45, 48) of the operating path, the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage opening (43) and the percentage displacement of the check element (42) exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5.
- The plant of claim 9, wherein the incremental ratio between the percentage variation of the area of the passage (43) opening and the percentage displacement of the check element (42), over the initial tract (45) which comprises not more than 30% of the operating run, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5, still more optionally the incremental ration falling within a range of between 0 and 1.5 in an initial tract which is comprised between 20% and 30% of the operating path; and wherein the incremental ratio between percentage variation of the area of the passage (43) opening and the percentage displacement of the check element (42), over the final tract (48) which comprises not more than 40% of the operating run, exhibits an absolute value comprised between 0 and 4, optionally between 0 and 2.5, and still more optionally, the incremental ratio falling in a range of between 0 and 1.5 in a final tract which is comprised between 20% and 30% of the operating run;
wherein the incremental ratio between percentage variation of the area of the passage (43) opening and the percentage displacement of the check element (42) exhibits an absolute value which is substantially constant over an intermediate tract (47) of the operating path comprised between the initial tract (45) and the final tract (48), and wherein the intermediate tract (47) comprises between 20% and 40% of the operating path,
and wherein the percentage variation of the area of the passage (43) opening comprises the ratio between the variation of the passage (43) area following a displacement of the check organ (42) and a reference area, and wherein the percentage displacement comprises the ratio between the displacement of the check element (42) and the operating path. - The plant of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (25) is configured for:receiving in input at least a first signal relating to an intensity of the physical parameter of the fluid circulating in the first section (22) of the plant and a second signal relating to the intensity of the physical parameter of a fluid circulating in the second section (23) of the plant,generating the output signal as a function of the first signal and the second signal;wherein the first signal and the second signal relate to an intensity of the fluid pressure in the first section (22) and the second section (23) of the plant (1),and wherein generating the output signal comprises determining a control differential signal comprising a difference or a ratio between the intensity of the first signal and the second signal, wherein the control differential signal comprises the difference or ratio between the intensity of the fluid pressure in the first section (22) and the intensity of the fluid pressure in the second section (23), optionally wherein the control device (25) comprises a pressure differential gauge (55) which receives in input the first signal and the second signal and generates in output the control differential signal.
- The plant of claim 11, wherein the control device (25) is configured to:enable setting at least a reference value,compare the reference value with the value of the control differential signal,generate the output signal as a function of the comparison,the control device (25) comprising an actuator (56), for example an electrical actuator, acting on the check element (42) the actuator (56) enabling displacement of the check element (42) along the operating path,the control device (25) being connected with the actuator (56), the control device (25) further being configured such as to command a movement of the check element (42) as a function of the output signal and to position the check element (42) according to the plurality of positions along the operating path;the control device (25) comprising a memory and being optionally configured such as to enable memorisation of a plurality of predetermined reference values and a selection of at least one of the values by a user.
- The plant of claim 12, wherein the control device controls the size of the angular step according to which the actuator moves the check element in accordance with the value of the control differential signal and a reference value, optionally wherein the control device controls the size of the angular step according to which the actuator moves the check element in accordance with the difference between the control differential signal and the reference value.
- The plant of any one of claims from 4 to 13, wherein the regulating valve (35) and/or the plant comprises:acoustic signalling means (59) and/or optical signalling means (60), the acoustic signalling means (59) and/or the optical signalling means (60) being connected to the control device (25) which is configured such as to command the acoustic signalling means (59) and/or optical signalling means (60) to provide:an optical and/or acoustic representation of an instant value of the output signal, and/oran optical and/or acoustic representation of displacement of an instant value of the output signal with respect to a reference value,setting means (57), the setting means (57) being connected to the control device (25) and enabling, via control of the device, setting of a predetermined number of control parameters which define working conditions, the control parameters comprising at least a parameter selected from the group having:a first control parameter relating to a type of movement of the check element,a second control parameter relating to a maximum excursion of the values of the first signal and the second signal or of the value of the difference between the first signal and the second signal,a third control parameter relating to the type of function connecting the output signal and the first signal and the second signal,a fourth control parameter relating to a velocity of convergence between the real value and the reference value,wherein the second control parameter comprises bottom scale values of the pressure differential gauge, wherein in relation to the third parameter the function comprises a link of a proportional or integral or derivate type, or a combination thereof, andwherein the fourth control parameter specifies a convergence time defined as a time transitory in which the value of the control differential signal converges to the reference value,wherein the setting means (57) enable memorisation of a predetermined number of configurations relating to values of the control parameters which are useful for managing the control device (25), optionally wherein the setting means (57) comprise microswitches,and wherein the control device (25) further comprises input means (58), the input means (58) enabling setting at least a reference value, optionally enabling setting a reference pressure differential between the first section and the second section.
- The plant of any one of claims from 4 to 14, wherein the passage opening (43) comprises a frontal shaping (51) exhibiting two substantially symmetrical parts wherein each of the parts exhibits a first portion (52) shaped as an arc of a circle, a second portion (53) shaped as an arc of a circle having a smaller radius than the arc of the first portion (52), a connecting inflection (53) which connects the first portion (52) with the second portion (53),
and/or wherein the passage opening (43) comprises a longitudinal shaping (61) relating to a longitudinal section with respect to the prevalent development axis (50) of the channel (39), exhibiting a progressively growing section from the inlet (37) to the outlet (38) of the valve body (36).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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SI201130739T SI2442039T1 (en) | 2010-10-14 | 2011-10-13 | Conditioning plant |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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ITMI2010A001880A IT1402031B1 (en) | 2010-10-14 | 2010-10-14 | AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM |
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EP2442039B1 true EP2442039B1 (en) | 2015-12-16 |
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WO2023110361A1 (en) * | 2021-12-14 | 2023-06-22 | Danfoss A/S | Heating system with automatic differential pressure setting |
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DE102004017593B3 (en) * | 2004-04-07 | 2005-11-03 | Albert Bauer | Cooling and / or heating device |
WO2008029987A1 (en) | 2006-09-06 | 2008-03-13 | Metachem Inc. | Home automation system |
NL1032598C2 (en) * | 2006-09-29 | 2009-02-25 | Kamstrup B V | Device, system and method for controlling a heating system. |
EP2706425B1 (en) * | 2008-06-26 | 2020-09-23 | Belparts | Flow control system |
US8109289B2 (en) | 2008-12-16 | 2012-02-07 | Honeywell International Inc. | System and method for decentralized balancing of hydronic networks |
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WO2023110361A1 (en) * | 2021-12-14 | 2023-06-22 | Danfoss A/S | Heating system with automatic differential pressure setting |
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SI2442039T1 (en) | 2016-03-31 |
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