Physical prototype control system
(Summary of product development - part II)
Two prototype versions of a control system were developed and realized.
The main reasons for developing a second version of the control system were (a) uncertainties regarding the actual specific requirements of pending EU-regulations affecting the definition of “SMART controls” used in electrical water heaters to achieve a product with a learning function that is based on repetitive hot water consumption, and (b) additional costs associated with the adaptive function in form of temperature sensors, an additional heating element, cabling, assembling etc.
The control system in the second prototype functions as an advanced timer. It has electronic HW and is designed for high volume production. All electronic components have been carefully selected based on environmental requirements, estimated product life time and cost. Consequently, the achieved results from WP3 are:
• A fully functional control system optimized for volume production
• An adaptive control algorithm (energy consumption pattern adaptation)
• Design and development of a user interface (Keypad panel)
• Water heater control SW
