U.S. patent application number 14/340359 was filed with the patent office on 2015-01-15 for hot water control systems.
The applicant listed for this patent is Larry K. Acker, Gabriel Ayala, Robert Jones, Derek Zobrist. Invention is credited to Larry K. Acker, Gabriel Ayala, Robert Jones, Derek Zobrist.
Application Number | 20150019027 14/340359 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47021946 |
Filed Date | 2015-01-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150019027 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Acker; Larry K. ; et
al. |
January 15, 2015 |
Hot Water Control Systems
Abstract
An energy management system and method for water heater system
is arranged for control of the water heater system based on user
demand, and control the of water distribution base on demand and
water temperature of the recirculation loop. The energy management
system includes a control center collecting operational parameter
of the water heater system and real time information of hot water
usage at each of user points, and a management center for managing
operational parameter of the water heater system. and real time
information of hot water usage, wherein the management center is
preset for automatically turning each of a motorized unit and a
water heater unit of the water heater system in an on and off
manner in responsive to hot water demand at user point so as to
optimize energy saving of the water heater system.
Inventors: |
Acker; Larry K.; (Newport
Beach, CA) ; Jones; Robert; (Costa Mesa, CA) ;
Zobrist; Derek; (Venice, CA) ; Ayala; Gabriel;
(Venice, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Acker; Larry K.
Jones; Robert
Zobrist; Derek
Ayala; Gabriel |
Newport Beach
Costa Mesa
Venice
Venice |
CA
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47021946 |
Appl. No.: |
14/340359 |
Filed: |
July 24, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13066752 |
Apr 21, 2011 |
|
|
|
14340359 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
700/282 ;
700/300 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G05D 23/19 20130101;
F24D 19/1051 20130101; G05D 23/1917 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/282 ;
700/300 |
International
Class: |
G05D 23/19 20060101
G05D023/19; G05B 15/02 20060101 G05B015/02 |
Claims
1. An energy management system for a water heater system which
comprises a water heater unit for heating up water and a motorized
unit circulating said hot water in a recirculation loop to define
one or more user points thereat, wherein said energy management
system comprises: a control center for collecting operational
parameter of said water heater system and for collecting real time
information of hot water usage at each of said user points; and a
management center operatively linked to said control center for
managing said operational parameter of said water heater system and
said real time information of said hot water usage, wherein said
management center is preset for automatically turning each of said
motorized unit and said water heater unit in an on and off manner
in responsive to hot water demand at said user point so as to
optimize energy saving of said water heater system.
2. The energy management system, as recited in claim 1, wherein
said control center comprises one or more temperature sensors being
located at predetermined locations of said water heater system for
obtaining temperature data of said water heater unit and along said
recirculation loop so as to enable said management center
operatively controlling said motorized unit and said water heater
unit.
3. The energy management system, as recited in claim 1, further
comprising a diagnostic center operatively linked to said control
center for diagnosing said operational parameter of said water
heater system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation
of said water heater system in a real time basis.
4. The energy management system, as recited in claim 2, further
comprising a diagnostic center operatively linked to said control
center for diagnosing said operational parameter of said water
heater system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation
of said water heater system in a real time basis.
5. The energy management system, as recited in claim 3, wherein
said diagnostic center comprises a temperature diagnostic module
for tracking the water heater runtime by means of water temperature
throughout said water heater system to determine whether said water
heater system is working properly, a motor diagnostic module for
tracking an on-off status of said motorized unit of said water
heater system by means of electrical energy consumption to
determine whether said motorized unit is working properly, a water
flow diagnostic module for detecting water flow along said
recirculation loop to track hot water being demanded at each user
point and to provide water leak detection; and a meter diagnostic
module for tracking data from a source meter of said water heater
system.
6. The energy management system, as recited in claim 4, wherein
said diagnostic center comprises a temperature diagnostic module
for tracking the water heater runtime by means of water temperature
throughout said water heater system to determine whether said water
heater system is working properly, a motor diagnostic module for
tracking an on-off status of said motorized unit of said water
heater system by means of electrical energy consumption to
determine whether said motorized unit is working properly, a water
flow diagnostic module for detecting water flow along said
recirculation loop to track hot water being demanded at each user
point and to provide water leak detection; and a meter diagnostic
module for tracking data from a source meter of said water heater
system.
7. The energy management system, as recited in claim 1, further
comprising a user interface operatively linked to said control
center for configuring said operational parameter of said water
heater system and said real time information of hot water usage at
each of said user points in a digitalized manner so as to enable
said management center being selectively configured to optimize the
operation of said water heater system.
8. The energy management system, as recited in claim 3, further
comprising a user interface operatively linked to said control
center for digitalizing and displaying said operational parameter
of said water heater system and said real time information of hot
water usage at each of said user points so as to enable said
management center being selectively configured to optimize the
operation of said water heater system.
9. The energy management system, as recited in claim 6, further
comprising a user interface operatively linked to said control
center for digitalizing and displaying said operational parameter
of said water heater system and said real time information of hot
water usage at each of said user points so as to enable said
management center being selectively configured to optimize the
operation of said water heater system.
10. The energy management system, as recited in claim 7, wherein
said user interface comprises a communication unit communicatively
linking to said control center to enable said management center
being remotely controlled through said communication unit.
11. The energy management system, as recited in claim 8, wherein
said user interface comprises a communication unit communicatively
linking to said control center to enable said management center
being remotely controlled through said communication unit.
12. the energy management system, as recited in claim 9, wherein
said user interface comprises a communication unit communicatively
linking to said control center to enable said management center
being remotely controlled through said communication unit.
13. The energy management system, as recited in claim 10, wherein
said communication unit comprises a remote web-server for
dissemination and storage of said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of hot water
usage, and a graphical converter for converting said operational
parameter of said water heater system and said real time
information of hot water usage into customizable and viewable graph
display to be monitored through said web-server.
14. the energy management system, as recited in claim 11, wherein
said communication unit comprises a remote web-server for
dissemination and storage of said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of hot water
usage, and a graphical converter for converting said operational
parameter of said water heater system and said real time
information of hot water usage into customizable and viewable graph
display to be monitored through said web-server.
15. The energy management system, as recited in claim 12, wherein
said communication unit comprises a remote web-server for
dissemination and storage of said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of hot water
usage, and a graphical converter for converting said operational
parameter of said water heater system and said real time
information of hot water usage into customizable and viewable graph
display to be monitored through said web-server.
16. A method of energy management for a water heater system which
comprises a water heater unit and a motorized unit circulating hot
water through a recirculation loop, comprising the steps of: (a)
collecting operational parameter of said water heater system and
collecting real time information of hot water usage at each of user
points of said water heater system; and (b) managing said
operational parameter of said water heater system and said real
time information of said hot water usage for automatically turning
said motorized unit and said water heater unit in an on and off
manner in responsive to hot water demand at said user point so as
to optimize energy saving of said water heater system.
17. The method, as recited in claim 16, wherein the step (a)
further comprises the step of obtaining temperature data of said
water heater unit and along said recirculation loop.
18. the method as recited in claim 17 wherein, in the step (a),
said water heater unit is controlled for automatically lowering
down the water temperature of said water heater unit during periods
of low or no demand of hot water thereof, and is modulated back to
a normal preset water temperature during high usage periods of how
water.
19. The method as recited in claim 18 wherein, in the step (b),
said motorized unit is controlled in condition that: (i) said
motorized unit is turned on when there is hot water demand at said
user point; (ii) said motorized unit is turned on when there is not
sufficient hot water along said recirculation loop; and (iii) said
motorized unit is turned off when hot water is circulated back to
said water heater unit through said recirculation loop.
20. The method, as recited in claim 16, further comprising a step
of diagnosing said operational parameter of said water heater
system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation of said
water heater system in a real time basis.
21. The method, as recited in claim 19, further comprising a step
of diagnosing said operational parameter of said water heater
system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation of said
water heater system in a real time basis.
22. the method, as recited in claim 20, wherein the diagnosing step
comprises the steps of: tracking the water heater runtime by means
of water temperature throughout said water heater system to
determine whether said water heater system is working properly;
tracking an on-off status of acid motorized unit of said water
heater system by means of electrical energy consumption to
determine whether said motorized unit is working properly;
detecting water flow along said recirculation loop to track hot
water being demanded at each user point and to provide water leak
detection; and tracking data from a source meter of said water
heater system.
23. The method, as recited in claim 21, wherein the diagnosing step
comprises the steps of: tracking the water heater runtime by means
of water temperature throughout water heater system to determine
whether said water heater system is working tracking an on-off
status of said motorized unit of said water heater system by means
of electrical energy consumption to determine whether said
motorized unit is working properly; detecting water flow along said
recirculation loop to track hot water being demanded at each user
point and to provide water leak detection; and tracking data from a
source meter of said water heater system.
24. The method as recited in claim 16, further comprising a step of
selectively configuring said operational parameter of said water
heater system and said real time information of hot water usage at
each of said user points in a digitalized manner so as to enable
said management center being selectively configured to optimize the
operation of said water heater system.
25. The method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising a step
of selectively configuring said operational parameter of said water
heater system and said real time information of hot water usage at
each of said user points in a digitalized manner so as to enable
said management center being selectively configured to optimize the
operation of said water heater system.
26. The method, as recited in claim 24, wherein the configuring
step comprises the steps of: converting said operational parameter
of said water heater system and said real time information of hot
water usage into customizable and viewable graph display; and
remotely configuring said operational parameter of said water
heater system and said real time information of hot water usage via
a web-server.
27. The method, as recited in claim 25, wherein the configuring
step comprises the steps of: converting said operational parameter
of said water heater system and said real time informational of hot
water usage into customizable and viewable graph display; and
remotely configuring said operational parameter of said water
heater system and said real time information of hot water usage via
a web-server.
28. A central water heater arrangement, comprising: one or more
water heater system, each comprising a water heater unit for
heating up water, a motorized unit circulating said hot water in a
recirculation loop to define one or more user points thereat; and
an energy management system which comprises: a control center for
collecting operational parameter of said water heater system and
for collecting real time information of hot water usage at each of
said user points; a management center operatively linked to said
control center for managing said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of said hot
water usage; and a user interface operatively linked to said
control center for configuring said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of hot water
usage at each of said user points in a digitalized manner so as to
enable said management center being selectively configured to
optimize the operation of said water heater system.
29. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 28,
wherein said user interface comprises a communication unit
communicatively linking to said control center to enable said
management center being remotely controlled through said
communication unit.
30. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 29,
wherein said communication unit comprises a remote web-server for
dissemination and storage of said operational parameter of said
water heater system and said real time information of hot water
usage and a graphical converter for converting said operational
parameter of said water heater system and said real time
information of hot water usage into customizable and viewable graph
display to be monitored through said web-server.
31. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 28,
further comprising a diagnostic center operatively linked to said
control center for diagnosing said operational parameter of said
water heater system for generating an alert when a faulty event is
detected in a real time basis.
32. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 30,
further comprising a diagnostic center operatively linked to said
control center for diagnosing said operational parameter of said
water heater system for generating an alert when a faulty event is
detected in a real time basis.
33. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 31,
wherein said diagnostic center comprises a temperature diagnostic
module for tracking the water heater runtime by means of water
temperature throughout said water heater system to determine
whether said water heater system is working properly, a motor
diagnostic modulator tracking an on-off status of said motorized
unit of said water heater system by means of electrical energy
consumption to determine whether said motorized unit is working
properly, a water flow diagnostic module for detecting water flow
along said recirculation loop to track hot water being demanded at
each user point and to provide water leak detection; and a meter
diagnostic module for tracking data from a source meter of said
water heater system.
34. The central water heater arrangement, as recited in claim 32,
wherein said diagnostic center comprises a temperature diagnostic
module for tracking the water heater runtime by means of water
temperature throughout said water heater system to determine
whether said water heater system is working properly a motor
diagnostic module for tracking an on-off status of said motorized
unit of said water heater system by means of electrical energy
consumption to determine whether said motorized unit is working
properly, a water flow diagnostic module for detecting water flow
along said recirculation loop to track hot water being demanded at
each user point and to provide water leak detection; and a meter
diagnostic module for tracking data from a source meter of said
water heater system.
Description
SPECIFIC REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/066,752, filed Apr. 21, 2011, which is
hereby specifically incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to an energy management
system, and more particularly to an energy management system and
method for monitoring and controlling the water heater system and
the delivery of hot water to the point of use so as to optimize
energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption while increasing
reliability and durability of the water heater system.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Arts
[0005] Energy crisis has called people's attention to energy
availability and hence energy consumption and efficiency.
Conventional hot water arrangement, such as water heater or boiler,
is an essential household appliance for supplying hot water.
However, much concern is paid to the energy management of the
conventional hot water arrangement or heater. The heat insulation
of the boiler or the heating device is mainly concerned for
improvement of energy efficiency while the related pumping or
transportation of water is greatly neglected. That is, conventional
water heaters fail to provide a cohesive energy management approach
in view of energy saving purpose.
[0006] Another major cause of energy loss of the water heater is
poor maintenance or lack of alerts. For examples, hot water leakage
or pump malfunction problem won't be detected easily, probably not
until the water heater is malfunctioned or the leakage is severe,
enough to cause flooding. In view of the widely use of water heater
in every single household, much energy is wasted, just because of
poor management, lack of detection and alert mechanism.
[0007] Another problem related to maintenance of water heater is
its dependency on on-site inspection. The fact that the water
heater is scattered everywhere in every single family property
structure, apartment structure, small and large commercial building
structures makes it really impossible to have a centralized
manageable system. There is no simple or easy way for central
maintenance.
[0008] There exists management system for a commercial building for
tracking and controlling HVAC and lighting. However, this kind, of
system is very expensive and involves heavy construction, building
design and wiring concerns. It is only cost effective and energy
efficient for commercial building having a certain size. In other
words, there is no such kind of energy management system designed
for residential or small scale commercial building.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0009] The invention is advantageous in that it provides a central
hot water system which monitors, controls and provides diagnostics
features to different components of the water heater system in a
cohesive manner so as to optimize the overall efficiency and
functionality of the water heater system while minimize energy
consumption with enhanced reliability and durability.
[0010] Another advantage of the invention is to provide a central
hot water system which is cost effective for a small scale
commercial, multi-family and single-family building structure,
wherein the water heater system. includes a control system for
monitoring, controlling and diagnosis different components of the
water system, such that the water system is operated in a cohesive
manner.
[0011] Another advantage of the invention is to provide a central
hot water system which includes a control system arranged for
off-site communications such that remote access and control of the
water system are achieved.
[0012] Another advantage of the invention is to provide a central
hot water system which includes a control system comprising a
control center having a plurality of standard set points
operatively communicated with a plurality of sensor units, and a
communication unit adapted for two-ways communications with an
off-site user terminal, such that fault detection through the
on-site sensor units and the central unit is made available for
alert generation to the off-site user terminal and hence proper
operation of the water system is monitored on a real-time
basis.
[0013] Additional advantages and features of the invention will
become apparent from the description which follows, and may be
realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations
particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
[0014] According to the present invention, the foregoing and other
objects and advantages are attained by an energy management system
for water heater system, wherein the water heater system comprises
a water heater unit for heating up water and a motorized unit
circulating hot water in a recirculation loop to define one or more
user points thereat. The energy management system comprises a
control center and a management center.
[0015] The control center is arranged for collecting operational
parameter of the water heater system and for collecting real time
information of hot water usage at each of the user points.
[0016] The management center is operatively linked to the control
center for managing the operational parameter of the water heater
system and the real time information of the hot water usage,
wherein the management center is preset for automatically turning
each of the motorized unit and the water heater unit in an on and
off manner in responsive to hot water demand at the user point so
as to optimize energy saving of the water heater system.
[0017] The energy management system further comprises a diagnostic
center for diagnosing the operational parameter of the water heater
system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation of the
water heater system in a real time basis, and a user interface for
configuring the operational parameter of the water heater system
and the real time information of hot water usage at each of the
user points in a digitalized manner so as to enable the management
center being selectively configured to optimize the operation of
the water heater system.
[0018] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the
present invention further comprises a method of energy management
for a water heater system which comprises the steps of:
[0019] (a) collecting operational parameter of the water heater
system and collecting real time information of hot water usage at
each of user points of the water heater system;
[0020] (b) managing the operational parameter of the water heater
system and the real time information of the hot water usage for
automatically turning the motorized unit and the water heater unit
in an on and off manner in responsive to hot water demand at said
user point so as to optimize energy saving of said water heater
system;
[0021] (c) diagnosing the operational parameter of the water heater
system for promptly and accurately optimizing an operation of the
water heater system in a real time basis; and
[0022] (d) selectively configuring the operational parameter of
said water heater system and the real time information of hot water
usage at each of said user points in a digitalized manner.
[0023] Still further objects and advantages will become apparent
from a consideration of the ensuing description. and drawings.
[0024] These and other objectives, features, and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent from the following detailed
description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a water heater
system incorporating with an energy management system according to
the preferred example of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the energy management system
according to the above preferred example of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the energy management system
according to the above preferred example of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of the energy management system
according to the above preferred example of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EXAMPLES
[0029] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawings, a water heater
system 10 with an energy management system according to the
preferred example of the present invention is illustrated, wherein
the water heater system can be embodied as a central domestic hot
water system (CDWN) in a commercial or multifamily building.
[0030] In particular, the water energy management system is
arranged for monitoring, controlling and maintaining different
components of the water heater system 10 through such that both
water temperature reset based on demand and hot water delivery on
demand are monitored and controlled, so as to save energy
consumption. The water energy management system can be incorporated
into an existing' water heater system 10 or integrally embodied
into a new water heater system 10 to form a central water heater
arrangement.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 1, the water heater system 10 which is
adapted for connecting to a water source to obtain water is
arranged for providing heated water at a predetermined temperature.
The water heater system 10 generally comprises a water heater unit
11 for heating up a predetermined amount of water, and a motorized
unit 12 circulating the hot water in a recirculation loop to define
one or more user points thereat. The motorized unit 12 generally
comprises a booster pump, a boiler pump, and a recirculation pump
in the water heater system 10. The boiler pump is located in the
water heater system 10 where the boiler and storage tank of the
water heater unit 11 are separate that the boiler pump circulates
the water from the storage tank back to the storage tank through
the boiler.
[0032] The recirculation pump is located at the recirculation loop
to circulate the water back to the water heater unit 11.
Accordingly, the hot water is circulated through a pipe to define a
delver line of the recirculation loop to deliver hot water to the
use points and a return line of the recirculation loop to return
water back to the water heater unit 11.
[0033] According to the preferred example, the energy. management
system will basically implement, two primary control strategies to
achieve energy saving in the water heater system 10, wherein the
energy management system can be incorporated with an existing water
heater system or can be integrated with the new water heater system
to form an integrated structure. The two primary control strategies
are: control of the water heater unit 11 based on user demand, and
control the hot water distribution base on demand and water
temperature of the recirculation loop. There is a significant
improvement on the existing control systems as there is no other
control system currently using both two control strategies in the
energy management system as a central unit. Having the energy
management system, the efficiencies of the water heater system can
be maximized.
[0034] In addition to the control capabilities of the present
invention, the energy management system further incorporates fault
detection and diagnostic and automatically sends a notification to
the user (an operator) once the energy management system detects
that the sequence of operation is out of alignment. This ensures
proper operation and a persistence of energy savings. The energy
management system further provides users with monitoring feature to
view statistical data of the water heater system 10 for any set
period of time.
[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the energy management system comprises a
control center 20, a management center 30, a diagnostic center 40,
and a user interface 50.
[0036] The control center 20 is arranged for collecting operational
parameter of the water heater system 10 and for collecting real
time information of hot water usage at each of the user points.
[0037] The management center 30 is operatively linked to the
control center 20 for managing the operational parameter of the
water heater system 10 and the real time information of the hot
water usage, wherein the management center 30 is preset for
automatically turning each of the motorized unit 12 and the water
heater unit 11 in an on and off manner in responsive to hot water
demand at the user point so as to optimize energy saving of the
water heater system 10.
[0038] According to the preferred example, the control center 20
comprises one or more temperature sensors being located at
predetermined locations of the water heater system 10 for obtaining
temperature data of the water heater unit 11 and along the
recirculation loop so as to enable the management center 30
operatively controlling the motorized unit 12 and the water heater
unit 11. The temperature sensors at the recirculation loop will
indicate whether hot water is in the pipe, especially at the return
line of the recirculation loop.
[0039] According to the preferred example, in order to achieve the
first primary control strategy of controlling of the water heater
unit 11 based on user demand, the management center 30 will
automatically turn down the temperature of the water heater unit 11
during periods of low or no demand (preferably based on weekly load
profiles) in order to save on gas consumption (or other fuel used
for water heating). Water temperature will modulate back up to
normal temperatures during high usage periods to ensure occupant
satisfaction.
[0040] In order to achieve the second primary control strategy of
controlling the hot water distribution base on demand and water
temperature of the recirculation loop, the management center 30
will automatically turn the recirculation pump of the motorized
unit 12 on and off according to demand after the control center 20
detects and collects real time hot water usage at the user point in
the building, The recirculation pump will only run where there is a
simultaneous signal for hot water demand, and a signal that there
is not sufficient hot water in the pipes. Once hot water has
circulated through the recirculation loop, the management center 30
will shut the recirculation pump off once again.
[0041] The diagnostic center 40 is operatively linked to the
control center 20 for diagnosing the operational parameter of the
water heater system 10 for promptly and accurately optimizing an
operation of the water heater system 10 in a real time basis.
Accordingly, the diagnostic center 40 will detect when problems
arise in the water heater system 10.
[0042] The user interface 50 is operatively linked to the control
center 10 for configuring the operational parameter of the water
heater system 10 and the real time information of hot water usage
at each of the user points in a digitalized manner so as to enable
the management center 30 being selectively configured to optimize
the operation of the water heater system 10.
[0043] It is worth mentioning that the management center 30
comprises one or more controllers (or relays) for switching the
components of the water heater system 10 on and off. Examples of
the components would be the water heater unit 11 or the
recirculation pump of the motorized unit 12. By controlling the
water heater system 10, the temperature setpoint can be managed by
the management center 30. Flow of hot water throughout the building
can be controlled with the pump. The management center 30 can be
programmed to activate based upon real-time data from the control
center 20 and calculations based on the collected data. The
management center 30 can be programmed to activate on a timed basis
or on a schedule. Programming is expected to be dependent on the
site and the components that are at the site. The purpose of the
programming is the optimize system lifetime and minimize system
energy usage.
[0044] Preferably, the temperature data of the water heater system
10 will be obtained and collected by various temperature sensors
and the operational parameter of the water heater system 10 will be
obtained and collected by various sensing devices as illustrated
below. Accordingly, the temperature sensors are placed at the
recirculation loop (for example, the piping structure) or near the
exhaust or flames. Information such as system diagnostic and health
can be tracked using the temperature data. Water heater runtime can
be also tracked using temperature data. Based on the temperature
data analysis, the diagnostic center 40 will know if all the
components of the water heater system 10 are working properly, what
is wrong if the components of the water heater system 10 are not
working properly, and which component of the water heater system 10
is at fault. Also, energy information can be deduced by temperature
data. Finally, any change of the configuration of the water heater
system 10 can be tracked, for example someone has turned up the
system temperature setpoint.
[0045] Temperature sensor input 1 is arranged for obtaining water
temperature at cold water supply of the water heater system 10.
Data of supple temperature from the temperature sensor input 1 will
be captured with time stamp. Interval set as 10 minutes.
[0046] Temperature sensor input 2 is arranged for obtaining boiler
temperature, which desires to use existing boiler/tank temperature
sensor/thermocouple for temperature monitoring. User is able to set
the desired boiler temperature via the user interface 50. The
desired temperature will be communicated to the control center 20.
When the boiler temperature drops below a preset temperature, the
management center 30 will activate a relay 1 to turn on the water
heater unit 11. Once the temperature rises a preset temperature
deadband, for example, 5 degree deadband, the relay 1 will be
deactivated by the management center 30.
[0047] Temperature sensor input 3 is arranged for obtaining boiler
temperature, which desires to use existing boiler/tank temperature
sensor/thermocouple for temperature monitoring. The temperature
setting as mentioned of the temperature sensor input 3 will apply
to this temperature also, wherein the temperature sensor input 2
and the temperature sensor input 3 are not set independently. When
the boiler temperature drops below the preset temperature, the
management center 30 will activate a relay 2 to turn on the water
heater unit 11. Once the temperature rises a preset temperature
deadband, for example, 5 degree deadband, the relay 2 will be
deactivated by the management center 30. Accordingly, the relay 1
and the relay 2 will work independently based on the inputs from
the temperature sensor input 2 and the temperature sensor input 3
respectively.
[0048] Temperature sensor input 4 for obtaining water temperature
at the return of the recirculation loop, wherein the temperature
sensor input 4 mainly controls the recirculation pump of the
motorized unit 12. Accordingly, the recirculation pump is
controlled by the management center 30 in condition that:
[0049] (i) If the return temperature is the setpoint (default is
100 degrees F.) or greater for both temperatures from temperature
sensor input 4 and temperature sensor input 5, the recirculation
pump is not turned on, even with detection of supply line water
flow.
[0050] (ii) If the return temperature is less than lockout setpoint
for either the temperature from temperature sensor input 4 or
temperature sensor input 5, the recirculation pump is turned on
when supply line (Hall Effect input 1) detects water flow. Then,
the recirculation pump is turned off when the return temperature
for the lower temperature sensor reading from either temperature
sensor input 4 or 5 increases by temperature differential (default
differential is 6 degrees per second) if water flow is no longer
detected. If water flow continues, the recirculation pump remains
on until the lockout, temperature is reached.
[0051] (iii) The recirculation pump is activated, only when water
flow is detected and the return temperature is below the lockout
temperature. The recirculation pump is shut off only when water
flow has stopped and return temperature has risen by the
differential, or when water flow continues and return temperature
reaches the lockout temperature.
[0052] (iv) if the water flow is detected below the lockout
temperature, but within the differential temperature range, the
recirculation pump will continue to run until the return
temperature has risen the differential amount. For example, the
lockout temperature is 100 degrees, the differential temperature is
6 degrees, water flow begins when the return temperature is 98
degrees. The recirculation pump will run until the return
temperature is 104 degrees.
[0053] (v) Once the recirculation pump has been turn off due to the
return temperature reaching the lockout temperature, supply line
monitor (Hall Effect input 1) must cycle (detect no flow) off for
the recirculation pump to be turned on again with the detection of
water flow.
[0054] Temperature sensor input 5 is set for secondary return loop,
as same as the temperature sensor input 3. The energy management
system would be controlled by the lower of two input temperatures.
This work in parallel to Temperature sensor input 4 as it is
mentioned above.
[0055] Temperature sensor inputs 6 and 7 are arranged for
monitoring burner activity, wherein the temperature sensor inputs
6, 7 would be mounted close to the burner itself to detect heat
rise when burner active.
[0056] Hall effect input 1 is arranged for supply line flow
detection and has control functionality to turn on the
recirculation pump. The recirculation pump is turned on with
detection water flow unless the return temperature (temperature
sensor input 4 or 5) are both at setpoint or greater. Otherwise,
the recirculation pump is turned on until the return temperature is
increased by 6 degrees per second, or until the setpoint is
reached, whichever comes first.
[0057] Hall effect input 2 is arranged for detecting and monitoring
a vent damper between an open status and a closed status.
[0058] A motor detector, which is preferably a magnetic motor
detector, is arranged for detecting the status of the motorized
unit 12. Accordingly, the motor detector is placed next to the
motorized unit 12, such as water pump or recirculation pump) for
tracking the one-off status of the motorized unit 12 to obtain
electrical energy consumption and to determine when the motorized
unit 12 fails or is operating abnormally.
[0059] Proximity sensor will detect when a magnet is closed by.
This sensor is placed into the flow of water and can detect water
flow. The proximity sensor will also be placed on the vent damper
(flap) and tracker when the vent damper is opened or closed.
Tracking flow allows the control center 20 to know when there is
hot water usage at the user point as well as provide water leak
detection.
[0060] Pulse counter is adapted to connect to a third party meter
allowing for the flexibility to tract data from a source meter,
such as gas meter, water meter, or any meter with pulse output. The
user is able to track additional data by connecting the pulse
counter to record and track the data remotely.
[0061] It is worth mentioning that the relay of the management
center 30 is selectively programmable in various manners. For
example, the relay is programmed in such a manner that the relay is
capable of being activated based upon real-time data collected
and/or calculated by the management center 30 through the
temperature sensors and pulse counter to control the on/off or the
open/close status of the corresponding components of the water
heater system 10 respectively. Alternately, the relay is programmed
in such a manner that the relays are activated on a scheduled time
basis or for a particular time frame respectively. Preferably, the
relay is programmed to meet the need of a user based on the precise
structure of the water heater system 10 and the peculiarity and
usage of the particular location or building structure such that
the system of the present invention is optimized with increased
lifespan and lowered energy consumption.
[0062] After the operational parameter of the water heater system
10 and the real time information of hot water usage at each the
user point are collected, the control center 20 will send the
operational parameter of the water heater system 10 and the real
time information to the diagnostic center 40 for system
diagnostic.
[0063] The diagnostic center 40 comprises a plurality of diagnostic
modules to track different components of the water heater system
10. A temperature diagnostic module 41 is arranged for tracking the
water heater runtime by means of water temperature throughout the
water heater system 10 via the above mentioned temperature sensor
inputs to determine whether the water heater system 10 is working
properly. A motor diagnostic module 42 is arranged for tracking an
on-off status of the motorized unit 12 of the water heater system
10 via the motor sensor by means of electrical energy consumption
to determine whether the motorized unit 12 is working properly. A
water flow diagnostic module 43 is arranged for detecting water
flow along the recirculation loop via the proximity sensor to track
hot water being demanded at each user point and to provide water
leak detection. A meter diagnostic module 44 is arranged for
tracking data from the source meter of the water heater system 10
via the pulse counter. The diagnostic center 40 comprises an alert
module 45 for generating an alert when a faulty event is detected
in a real time basis.
[0064] Preferably, the diagnostic center 40 will ensure that proper
operation will persist by altering the operator when events fall
out of sequence. Alerts will be sent if (i) the temperature is too
high; (ii) the water temperature is too low; (iii) the pump runs
without ever shutting off; and (iv) the pump never runs. In other
words, when any pump of the motorized unit 12 fails to operate or
is operated under an abnormal condition, the fail or abnormal
condition will be reflected by the data in relation to operation
status and electrical energy consumption of the pumps. It is worth
mentioning that the magnetic motor sensor can also be replaced by
position or motion sensor of any kind to serve the above
purpose.
[0065] The user interface 50 comprises a communication unit 51
communicatively linking to the control center 20 to enable the
management center 30 being remotely controlled. through the
communication unit 51.
[0066] The communication unit 51 comprises a remote web-server for
dissemination and storage of the operational parameter of the water
heater system 10 and the real time information of hot water usage,
and a graphical converter for converting the operational parameter
of the water heater system 10 and the real time information of hot
water usage into customizable and viewable graph display to be
monitored through the web-server.
[0067] According to the preferred example, the communication unit
51, which acts as a gateway for the management center 30, is
arranged for sending and receiving signals to and from the
management center 30. Preferably, the communication unit 51 enables
a two-way communication via cellular, WIFI and/or wired Internet
transmission for transmitting signals from the management center 30
to a user terminal 52. The communication unit 51 is arranged for
transmitting signals containing data from the management center 30
to the user terminal 52, which can be a computer, a server, a
central processing machine, a cellular phone, a handheld device or
the like, such that the use can remotely obtain the data, monitor
and control the system on a real-time basis. Accordingly, the user
can remotely monitor the water heater 10, see the temperatures of
different locations of the pipe and obtain the on/off status of the
pumps of the motorized unit 12.
[0068] Preferably, the web sever can be a complimentary web
application adapted for being installed on the user terminal 52 for
receiving and translating signals from the management center 30
through the communication unit 51 for visually displaying the data
of the control center 20, and for generating and sending command to
the management center 30 through the communication unit 51. For
example, the web application may include basic system status
information and alert logs viewable and remotely accessible by the
user in an off-site location. The web application may also be
arranged to include a plurality of alerts which are sent through
email or SMS message to the user for alerting the user. For
example, when the data representing an out of correct sequence of
operation is received from the management center 30, an email or a
SMS message is sent to the user to alert the user of the failure of
the system. In other words, through the web application and the
energy management system incorporating into the water heater system
10, fault notifications are able to be detected and sent to the
user promptly on an approximately real-time basis.
[0069] The web server further acts as a digital interface for the
water heater system 10 such that different components of the water
heater system 10 which are mechanical in nature are now
programmable. In particular, the web server enables commands
generation and transmission to the management center 30 through the
communication unit 51 for remotely controlling the temperature of
the water heater unit 11 and adjusting the on/off status of the
motorized unit 12. In other words, the user can remotely adjust the
temperature of the water heater unit 11 or switch on or off the
motorized unit 12 through the web server through the user terminal
52. For example, when the user wants to decrease the temperature of
the water heater unit 11 while away home, he or she can just make
use of his or her cellular phone to remotely control the
temperature of the water heater unit 11.
[0070] Moreover, the provision of the web server on the user
terminal 52 not only provides a web-based monitoring feature for
the user to view statistical data of a particular energy management
system for a water heater system 10 at a particular period of time,
but also provides a user friendly interface showing data of the
energy management system graphically for the user to perceive
easily.
[0071] In other words, the user can monitor the water heater system
10 through the management center 30 communicating with the user
terminal 52 at which the user terminal 52 is located. Since the
user terminal 52 can be located at an on-site location or an
off-site location, the physical location of the user terminal 52 is
not restricted by the location of the water heater system 10 and
the management center 30.
[0072] It is worth mentioning that the water energy management
system of the present invention can facilitate central management
of two or more water heater systems 10 of which each water heater
system 10 is equipped with one management center 30. Therefore, a
management company specialized in hot water management can make use
of the water energy management system of the present invention to
centralizing the monitoring and control of the water heater systems
10 at different locations, irregardless of the geographical
locations of the water heater systems 10.
[0073] It is worth mentioning that the water energy management
system according to the preferred example of the present invention
incorporates both a water temperature reset based on demand and hot
water delivery on demand for lowering the energy consumption, while
allowing remote control and monitoring of the system.
[0074] In particular, energy consumption is reduced due to reducing
energy consumption by allowing water temperature to be decreased
during periods of non-use; minimizing heat loss during hot water
delivery in the pipe through the provision of circulation loop
which is operated on demand; and reducing energy consumption of the
pump which is operated on demand through delivery of hot water only
on user's demand. Moreover, the provision of alerts to the user can
timely notify the user and hence ensure the proper operation and
maintenance of the system, hence continuously monitoring the energy
consumption at a controlled and low level.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 4 of the drawings, the present invention
also provides a management method for energy management system to
reset water temperature and demand controlled distribution, for
detecting fault representing improper operation, collect and store
data and provide remote access. In particular, the method comprises
the following steps.
[0076] (1) Collect operational parameter of the water heater system
10 and real time information of hot water usage at each of user
points of the water heater system 10. Accordingly, temperature data
of the water heater unit 10 and along the recirculation loop will
be obtained by the temperature sensors of the control center
20.
[0077] (2) Manage the operational parameter of the water heater
system 10 and real time information of the hot water usage for
automatically turning the motorized unit 12 and the water heater
unit 11 in an on and off manner in responsive to hot water demand
at the user point so as to optimize energy saving of the water
heater system 10.
[0078] (3) Provide fault detection and diagnosis through the
management center 30.
[0079] (4) Provide remote control and two-ways communications for
the management center 30.
[0080] According to the preferred example, the energy management
system can be preprogrammed or pre-run to obtain a set of reference
data by the control center 20, wherein the preset method comprises
the following steps.
[0081] (A) Preprogram the management center 30 and preset a
plurality of set-points for a preset number of parameters of the
water heater system 10, wherein the parameters include at least a
temperature parameter and a pump status parameter. Accordingly, the
water energy management system is set up for monitoring and
collecting setting data for a preset period of time through the
management center 30. The set-points of the water heater system 10
are based on the setting data. Preferably, the preset period of
time is about one week. In step (a), the set-points can be
sensor-based set-points and/or time-based set-points. The
sensor-based set-points provide `if-then` commands while the
time-based set points provide time-setting commands such as "time
of the day", "day of the week", "week of the month", "month of the
year" and "season of the year" commands.
[0082] (B) Adjust the temperature parameter of the water heater
unit 11 based on the set-point, for temperature parameter of the
water heater system 10 and hot water demand through the control
center 20.
[0083] (C) Adjust the pump status parameter of the pump of the
motorized unit 12 based on the hot water demand through the control
center 20.
[0084] Preferably, in step (B), the temperature parameter of the
water heater unit 11 is automatically turned down from the preset
standard level when the hot water demand falls below a preset level
of hot water demand such that energy consumption for heating water
is controlled and lowered, and the temperature parameter of the
water heater unit 11 is automatically modulated up to the preset
standard level when the hot water demand increases to the preset
level of hot water demand so as to fulfill the need of hot water
demand to ensure sufficient hot water supply.
[0085] Preferably, the pump status parameter includes an on/off
status for the motorized unit 12. When the motorized unit 12 has an
on status, the motorized unit 12 is running to deliver and
circulate heated water in the recirculation loop. When the
motorized unit 12 has an off status, the motorized unit 12 stops
running.
[0086] In particular, the hot water demand is determined through
the control center 20. The temperature sensors are arranged to
detect the presence or absence of hot water demand and to detect a
returned loop temperature, which is the temperature of the
recirculation loop at a position proximal to the heated water
inlet. The returned loop temperature indicates whether hot water is
in the pipe to determine the sufficiency of hot water supply. When
the control center 20 detects that the hot water demand is present
and the hot water supply is not sufficient, the management center
30 then sends out a pump command to the pump, which is the
recirculation pump in this case, to turn on the recirculation pump.
In the absence of simultaneous existence of the conditions that the
hot water demand is present and the hot water supply is sufficient,
the recirculation pump is controlled to shut off.
[0087] In other words, the motorized unit 12 is controlled in
condition that:
[0088] (i) the motorized unit 12 is turned on when there is hot
water demand at the user point;
[0089] (ii) the motorized unit 12 is turned on when there is not
sufficient hot water along the recirculation loop; and
[0090] (iii) the motorized unit 12 is turned off when hot water is
circulated back to the water heater unit 11 through the
recirculation loop.
[0091] In the step (3), the fault detection and diagnosis is
arranged to ensure the proper operation and persistent energy
savings over time. In particular, the sequence of operation of the
water heater unit 11 and the motorized unit 12 are maintained and
monitored. When a faulty event is detected, the diagnostic center
40 will generate an alert which is then sent to the user terminal
52 for alerting the user in a real time basis. The faulty event
includes temperature parameter falling out of range, improper
functioning of the pump or the like.
[0092] For example, when a faulty event is detected, such as when
the water temperature is too high or too low, or when the pump
keeps running without ever shutting off or never runs, an alert
will be generated by the diagnostic center 40 and transmitted to
the user terminal 52 to alert the user such that immediate
attention to the faulty event is timely diagnosis and fixed, if
required.
[0093] In particular, the diagnosing step comprises the following
steps.
[0094] (3.1) Track the water heater runtime by means of water
temperature throughout the water heater system 10 to determine
whether the water heater system 10 is working properly.
[0095] (3.2) Track an on-off status of the motorized unit 12 of the
water heater system 10 by means of electrical energy consumption to
determine whether the motorized unit 12 is working properly;
[0096] (3.3) Detect water flow along the recirculation loop to
track hot water being demanded at each user point and to provide
water leak detection; and
[0097] (3.4) Track data from the source meter of the water heater
system 10.
[0098] According to the preferred example, the operational
parameter of the water heater system and the real time information
of hot water usage are useful for dissemination and analysis in
relation to the functionality of the system. Preferably, the
operation data is stored on a remote web-server which is arranged
to covert into customizable graphs viewable on the user terminal
52. This is important for providing a continuously monitoring of
the system.
[0099] In the step (4), the operational parameter of the water
heater system and the real time information of hot water usage at
each of the user points can be selectively configured in a
digitalized manner so as to enable the management center 30 being
selectively configured to optimize the operation of the water
heater system 10.
[0100] The management center 30 is adapted for communicating with
the user terminal 52, in which a web application is installed for
establishing communicative connection via the communication unit
51. Preferably, the web application is capable of providing a
digital interface such as a web-based front end graphical interface
which is viewable on the user terminal 52. Accordingly, the user
can make use of the user terminal 52 to communicate with the
management center 30 to control, monitor, and configure the
operation of the water heater system 10. This feature is particular
important for property management. For example, when an occupant of
an apartment unit turns up the temperature parameter of the water
heater unit 11, the manager of the apartment unit will be able to
remotely control and adjust the temperature parameter of the water
heater unit 11 in the apartment through the user terminal 52, so as
to optimize the cohesive operation of water heater system 10.
[0101] Accordingly, the method further comprises the following
steps.
[0102] (5) Generate an overriding command through the user terminal
52 to electrically controlling the water heater unit 11, the
ventilation unit and the motorized unit 12 to switch between an on
or off status respectively.
[0103] It is worth mentioning that the management center 30 is
preset with a plurality of fault settings corresponding to
indications of a plurality of fault events respectively, wherein
the fault settings are based on the temperature parameter and the
on and off status of the water heater unit, the ventilation unit
and the motorized unit 12, wherein the diagnostic center 40 will
generate an alert to the user terminal 52 when a fault event
occurs.
[0104] In other words, through the continuously and persistence
monitoring of the water heater system 10 in a cohesive manner which
puts the water heater unit 11, the recirculation loop and the
motorized unit 12 into considerations, the method the present
invention prevents excessive energy consumption in heating water,
prevents abuse or unwise adjustment of parameters only taking one
single component into account, and facilitate central and remote
control over the water heater system 10.
[0105] It is worth mentioning that the water heater system 10 with
energy management system of the present invention can also be used
in a multi-family unit or in a multi-unit building structure such
as apartment building or commercial complex as long as the capacity
of the water heater unit 11 is sufficient to meet the demand of hot
water in the multi-family unit. Moreover, it is also possible to
include more than one water heater unit 11 under the water system
10.
[0106] In addition, one user terminal 52 can be used to communicate
with a plurality of management centers 30 connecting to a plurality
of water heater systems 10 respectively in other words, the user
terminal 52 can be a central server for a plurality of management
centers 30, and is arranged to communicate with other user
terminals 52 as desired.
[0107] An exemplary illustration of the water energy management
system installed in a multi-family building unit residential
building structure having four units comprises a water heater
system 10 and a management center 30, which are basically of the
same construction and design as described above and are further
described as follows.
[0108] The management center 30 contains a plurality of parameter
settings for controlling the operation of the recirculation pump in
relation to temperature parameters. In particular, a default
setpoint point temperature, a lockout temperature which is the
maximum return temperature, and a differential temperature which is
the temperature increase, per second required to turn the
recirculation pump off are defined. The recirculation pump is
controlled to or stayed at the off status when the return
temperature detected is or greater than the setpoint temperature.
The recirculation pump is controlled to the on status only when a
water flow is detected and the return temperature detected is below
the lockout temperature. The recirculation pump is controlled to
the off status when the water flow is not detected and the return
temperature detected has reached the differential temperature, or
when the water flow is detected and the return temperature reaches
the lockout temperature.
[0109] For example, when the default setpoint temperature is
100.degree. F., the lockout temperature is 100.degree. F., the
differential temperature is 6.degree. F., and the water flow is
detected when the return temperature detected is 98.degree. F.,
then the recirculation pump 133 will be controlled to run until the
return temperature is 104.degree. F.
[0110] The proximity sensor on the vent damper which detects the
open/close status and runtime of the vent damper is arranged to
provide data in relation to transition event with a time stamp,
which is important for monitoring functionality of the management
system.
[0111] In other words, instead of the sole consideration. of the
boiler out temperature, the management center 30 is capable of
making use of temperature at different location of the water heater
unit 11 and the pipe, and the status of the motorized unit 12 and
vent damper to monitor the water heater system 10 in a cohesive
manner, such that comprehensive consideration for the whole water
heater system 10 is taken into accounts for achieving energy
saving.
[0112] In addition, the operation of communication unit 51 and the
relay, which provides remote access and control flexibility, has
further realized real-time alerts generation and transmission.
[0113] The diagnostic center 40 contains a plurality of fault
settings adapted for alerting a user on a timely basis when a
faulty event, occurs. The alert settings are based on the
temperature at different positions of the water heater system 10
and the status of the motorized unit 12 and the vent damper to
define the faulty event, which will be timely reported to the user.
The fault settings are adjustable according to the actual work
conditions of the water heater system 10 and the faulty events
includes the temperature detected at a particular location of the
water heater system 10 falling out of range, the status of the
motorized unit 12 or the vent damper is inconsistent with other
components of the water heater system 10. For examples, the faulty
events may include situations where the supply temperature as
detected is above the default setpoint level, the return
temperature is higher or lower than a particular level, the
recirculation pump is not turned on for a particular period of time
or is running continuously for more than a particular period of
time, the water flow of water supply is not detected for a period
of time or the water flow of water supply is detected continuously
for a period of time, and the vent damper is detected to have no
motion for a period of time. The above faulty events are useful for
control and monitoring, and are particularly useful for detecting
improper functioning or water leakage. Accordingly, the continuous
monitoring of different components of the water heater system 10 is
vital for persistent energy management, both for minimizing energy
consumption and energy loss for improper functioning.
[0114] The relay of the management center 30 and the communication
unit 51 work together to provide remote access and control to the
user. The overriding property of the switches of the relay through
remote access and control can effectively enable central management
of the water heater system 10. In particular, the real-time data of
the different components of the water heater system 10 is
transmitted to the user terminal 52 through the communication unit
51, the user is capable of having an overview of the whole picture
of the system and remotely control the switches of the relay to
correct any improper functioning, or is capable of identifying a
failed part to be fixed by a technician.
[0115] It is worth mentioning that the on and off status of the
motorized unit 12 and the ventilation unit, and the temperature at
different locations of the water heater system 10 are clearly shown
through graphical representation. Accordingly, the user can easily
obtain an overview picture of the water heater system 10 through
the digital interface in the remotely located user terminal 52.
[0116] One skilled in the art will understand that the example of
the present invention as shown in the drawings and described above,
is exemplary only and not intended to be limiting.
[0117] It will thus be seen that the objects of the present
invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. It examples
have been shown and described for the purposes of illustrating the
functional and structural principles of the present invention and
is subject to change without departure from such principles.
Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed
within the spirit and scope of the following claims.
* * * * *