A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HEATING, VENTILATING AND AIR CONDITIONING HVAC FIELD DEVICE, AN HVAC FIELD DEVICE AND AN HVAC SYSTEM

Abstract

A method of manufacturing an HVAC field device (1) from a plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), comprising the steps of providing a base HVAC device block (10); providing one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) and stacking the base HVAC device block (10) and the one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (10, 20.1-n), thereby mechanically connecting a connection interface (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first type to a connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second type of adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n).

Claims

1. A method of manufacturing an HVAC field device (1) from a plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), comprising the steps: a) providing a base HVAC device block (10) comprising: a housing (11); an electric motor (M) arranged within the housing (11) to drive an actuated part (80)such as a valve or damperlocated outside the housing (11) and mechanically connectable to the HVAC field device (1), and/or a sensor (S) configured to measure an environmental parameter of an HVAC system (100); a connection interface (15A) of a first-type; an electronic circuit (12) connected to the electric motor (M) and/or the sensor (S); b) providing one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n), each comprising: a housing (21.1-n); a connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type; a connection interface (25B.1-n) of a second-type, wherein the connection interfaces (15A, 25A. In) of the first-type and the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type are configured to be mechanically connectable with each other; and c) stacking the base HVAC device block (10) and the one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n), thereby mechanically connecting the connection interface (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first type to the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second type of adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a mechanical interface (17A, 27A.1-n) of a first-type and the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type comprise a mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of a second-type, configured such as to align and/or mutually interlock adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) upon the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) being stacked.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n, 27B.1-n) are configured to mutually interlock by an interface-fit upon the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) being stacked to thereby fixedly attach the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-20-n) to each other.

4. The method according to claim 2, further comprising the step of providing an adhesive and/or fastening means to the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n, 27B.1-n) for fixedly attaching the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-20-n) to each other upon being stacked.

5. The method according to claim 2, wherein: the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a protrusion, in particular a circumferential protrusion arranged on a first side (11Top, 21Top.1-n) of the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n) and the mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) a recess, in particular a circumferential recess arranged on a second side (18, 28.1-n) of the housing (21.1-21.n) of the respective HVAC device block (20.1-n), or the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a recess, in particular a circumferential recess arranged on a first side (11Top, 21Top. 1-n) of the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n) and the mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) a protrusion, in particular a circumferential protrusion arranged on a second side (28.1-n) of the housing (21.1-21.n) of the respective HVAC device block (20.1-n).

6. The method according to claim 2, wherein: the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) further comprise an electronic circuit (22.1-n); and the connection interface (15A) of the first-type of the base HVAC device block (10) and the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprise electrical interfaces (16A, 26B.1-n) electrically connected to the respective electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n), configured to be electrically connectable to each other.

7. The method according to claim 2, wherein: the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) each further comprise an electronic circuit (22.1-n); the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n, 25B.1-n) each comprise an electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) electrically connected to the respective electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n), the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n, 25B.1-n) being configured to be electrically connectable to each other.

8. The method according to claim 6, wherein stacking the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) further comprises electrically connecting the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) to each other via the electrical interfaces (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) to thereby allow transfer of data and/or electric energy therebetween.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein: the electrical interface(s) (16A, 26A.1-n) of the connection interface(s) (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first-type comprise(s) an electrical connector of a first-type arranged at a first side (11Top, 21Top. 1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n); the electrical interface(s) (26B.1-n) of the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) an electrical connector of a second type arranged at a second side (21Bot.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n).

10. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the steps of: storing configuration data in the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) of a first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) and configuring the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) to transmit configuration data through the electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n); and configuring the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) of a second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), different from the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), to receive configuration data through the electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of the second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n).

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising the step of causing configuration data of the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) to be transferred to the second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) upon the HVAC field device (1) being supplied with electrical energy.

12. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the steps: d) providing an external electrical interface (18, 28.1-n) to at least one of the HVAC device block(s) (10, 20.1-n), the external electrical interface (18, 28.1-n) being connected to the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) of the at least one of the HVAC device block(s) (10, 20.1-n); and e) configuring more than one of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) of the HVAC field device (1) to be powered with electrical energy and/or configured through the external electrical interface (18, 28.1-n) of the at least one of the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) via their respective electrical interfaces (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n).

13. The method according to claim 6, wherein the housing (21.1-n) of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprises: a first housing part (21.I.1-n) accommodating the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second-type; a second housing part (21.II.1-n) accommodating the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type, wherein the electrical interface (26A.1-n) of the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type is electrically connected to the electrical interface (26B.1-n) of the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second-type by an electrical extension link (23.1-n), in particular a flexible electrical extension link (23.1-n).

14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprise one or more functional extension device(s) (24.1-n) selected the list comprising: a processing device, such as a microcontroller for providing computing power to the HVAC field device (1); a mechanical performance device; a controller device, implementing HVAC control functions, such as a proportional P, a proportional-integral PI, a proportional-integral-derivative PID, an integral I and/or a neural network based control; a communication device, comprising a wired communication interface and/or a radio communication device; an energy storage device, comprising a capacitive storage device and/or an electro-chemical storage device; a sensor device, comprising one or more sensors for the measurement of a parameter of an HVAC system (100); an HVAC interface device, comprising an interface to a damper and/or pipe of an HVAC system (100); a position feedback device of the actuated part (80); an electrical power supply device, for providing external electrical power to the HVAC field device; a monitoring/service device, for performing specific service and data logging function(s); and/or a display device.

15. The method according to claim 2, further comprising the steps of: providing one or more connection element(s) (19, 29.1-n) carrying the mechanical interface (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type or the mechanical interface (27B.1-n) of the second-type; and assembling one or more of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) by attaching the connection element(s) (19, 29.1-n) to the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n).

16. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: f) providing a cover HVAC device block (30), comprising: a housing (31); a connection interface (35B) of the second-type; g) stacking the cover HVAC device block (30) on an outermost add-on HVAC device block (20.1-n), thereby mechanically connecting the connection interface (35B) of the second type of the cover HVAC device block (30) to the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type of the outermost add-on HVAC device block (20.1-n).

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the cover HVAC device block (30) further comprises a human interaction device HID (33) electrically connected to an electronic circuit (32) of the cover HVAC device block (30) and/or to an electronic circuit (22.1-n) of one or more of the add-on HVAC block(s) (20.1-n) and/or to the electronic circuit (12) of the base HVAC block (10).

18. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of: a1) providing a primary base HVAC sub-block (10.I), comprising the electric motor (M); a2) providing a secondary base HVAC sub-block (10.II), comprising a mechanical drive (13); and a3) connecting the primary base HVAC sub-block (10.I) and the secondary base HVAC sub-block (10.II) to thereby form the base HVAC device block (10), such that the mechanical drive (13) is arranged between the electric motor (M) and the actuated part (80).

19. An HVAC field device (1) comprising: a base HVAC device block (10) comprising: a housing (11); an electric motor (M) arranged within the housing (11) to drive an actuated part (80)such as a valve or damperlocated outside the housing (11) and mechanically connectable to the HVAC field device (1), and/or a sensor (S) configured to measure an environmental parameter of an HVAC system (100); a connection interface (15A) of a first-type; an electronic circuit (12) connected to the electric motor (M) and/or the sensor (S); one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n), each comprising: a housing (21.1-n); a connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type; a connection interface (25B.1-n) of a second-type, wherein the connection interfaces (15A, 25A. In) of the first-type and the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type are configured to be mechanically connectable with each other; and wherein, the base HVAC device block (10) and the one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) are stacked such that the connection interface (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first type are mechanically connected to the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second type of adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n).

20. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a mechanical interface (17A, 27A.1-n) of a first-type and the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type comprise a mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of a second-type, configured such as to align and/or mutually interlock adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) upon the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) being stacked.

21. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n, 27B.1-n) are configured to mutually interlock by an interface-fit upon the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) being stacked to thereby fixedly attach the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-20-n) to each other.

22. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-20-n) are fixedly attached to each other by stacking by an adhesive and/or fastening means provided to the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n, 27B.1-n).

23. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein: the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a protrusion, in particular a circumferential protrusion arranged on a first side (11Top, 21Top.1-n) of the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n) and the mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) a recess, in particular a circumferential recess arranged on a second side (21Bot.1-n) of the housing (21.1-21.n) of the respective HVAC device block (20.1-n), or the mechanical interfaces (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type comprise a recess, in particular a circumferential recess arranged on a first side (11Top, 21Top.1-n) of the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n) and the mechanical interface(s) (27B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) a protrusion, in particular a circumferential protrusion arranged on a second side (21Bot.1-n) of the housing (21.1-21.n) of the respective HVAC device block (20.1-n).

24. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein: the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) further comprise an electronic circuit (22.1-n); and the connection interface (15A) of the first-type of the base HVAC device block (10) and/or the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprise electrical interfaces (16A, 26B.1-n) electrically connected to the respective electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n), configured to be electrically connectable to each other.

25. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein: the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) each further comprise an electronic circuit (22.1-n); the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n, 25B.1-n) each comprise an electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) electrically connected to the respective electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n), the connection interfaces (15A, 25A.1-n, 25B.1-n) being configured to be electrically connectable to each other.

26. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 24, wherein the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) are electrically connected to each other via the electrical interfaces (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of adjacent HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) to thereby allow transfer of data and/or electric energy therebetween.

27. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 24, wherein: the electrical interface(s) (16A, 26A.1-n) of the connection interface(s) (15A, 25A.1-n) of the first-type comprise(s) an electrical connector of a first-type arranged at a first side (11Top, 21Top.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block (10, 20.1-n); the electrical interface(s) (26B.1-n) of the connection interface(s) (25B.1-n) of the second-type comprise(s) an electrical connector of a second type arranged at a second side (21Bot.1-n) of the respective HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n).

28. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 24, wherein: the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) of a first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) is configured to transmit configuration data stored therein through the electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n); and the electronic circuit (12, 22.1-n) of a second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), different from the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n), is configured to receive configuration data through the electrical interface (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n) of the second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n).

29. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 28, further configured to transfer configuration data of the first of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) to the second of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) upon the HVAC field device (1) being supplied with electrical energy.

30. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 24, wherein: d) at least one of the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) comprises an external electrical interface (18, 28.1-n); and e) more than one of the plurality of HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) of the HVAC field device (1) are configured to be powered and/or configurable through the external electrical interface (18, 28.1-n) of the at least one of the HVAC device blocks (10, 20.1-n) via their respective electrical interfaces (16A, 26A.1-n, 26B.1-n).

31. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 24, wherein the housing (21.1-n) of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprises: a first housing part (21.I.1-n) accommodating the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second-type; a second housing part (21.II.1-n) accommodating the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type, wherein the electrical interface (26A.1-n) of the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type is electrically connected to the electrical interface (26B.1-n) of the connection interface (25B.1-n) of the second-type by an electrical extension link (23.1-n), in particular a flexible electrical extension link (23.1-n).

32. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the one or more add-on HVAC device block(s) (20.1-n) comprise one or more functional extension device(s) (24.1-n) selected the list comprising: a processing device, such as a microcontroller for providing computing power to the HVAC field device (1); a mechanical performance device; a controller device, implementing HVAC control functions, such as a proportional P, a proportional-integral PI, a proportional-integral-derivative PID, an integral I and/or a neural network based control; a communication device, comprising a wired communication interface and/or a radio communication device; an energy storage device, comprising a capacitive storage device and/or an electro-chemical storage device; a sensor device, comprising one or more sensors for the measurement of a parameter of an HVAC system (100); an HVAC interface device, comprising an interface to a damper and/or pipe of an HVAC system (100); a position feedback device of the actuated part (80); an electrical power supply device, for providing external electrical power to the HVAC field device; a monitoring/service device, for performing specific service and data logging function(s); and/or a display device.

33. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 20, wherein: the mechanical interface (17A, 27A.1-n) of the first-type or the mechanical interface (27B.1-n) of the second-type is/are carried by one or more connection element(s) (19, 29.1-n); and the connection element(s) (19, 29.1-n) are attached to the housing (11, 21.1-n) of the one or more HVAC device block(s) (10, 20.1-n).

34. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 19, further comprising: a cover HVAC device block (30), comprising: a housing (31); a connection interface (35B) of the second-type; wherein the cover HVAC device block (30) is stacked on an outermost add-on HVAC device block (20.1-n), the connection interface (35B) of the second type of the cover HVAC device block (30) being mechanically connected to the connection interface (25A.1-n) of the first-type of the outermost add-on HVAC device block (20.1-n).

35. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 34, wherein the cover HVAC device block (30) further comprises a human interaction device HID (33) electrically connected to an electronic circuit (32) of the cover HVAC device block (30) and/or to an electronic circuit (22.1-n) of one or more of the add-on HVAC block(s) (20.1-n) and/or to the electronic circuit (12) of the base HVAC block (10).

36. The HVAC field device (1) according to claim 19, wherein the base HVAC device block (10) comprises: a primary base HVAC sub-block (10.I), comprising the electric motor (M); a secondary base HVAC sub-block (10.II), comprising a mechanical drive (13); and wherein the primary base HVAC sub-block (10.I) and the secondary base HVAC sub-block (10.II) are connected such that the mechanical drive (13) is arranged between the electric motor (M) and the actuated part (80).

37. An HVAC system (100) comprising: an HVAC field device (1) according to claim 19; and an actuated part (80), such as a valve and/or a damper, drivingly connected to the electric motor (M) of the base HVAC device block (10) of the HVAC field device (1).

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] The herein described disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which should not be considered limiting to the disclosure described in the appended claims. The drawings which show:

[0067] FIG. 1: a highly schematic cross section of an embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure;

[0068] FIG. 2: a highly schematic cross section of an embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure;

[0069] FIG. 3: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, wherein the connection interface of the first-type of the base HVAC device block and the connection interface(s) of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block(s) comprise electrical interfaces;

[0070] FIG. 4: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, wherein connection interfaces comprise electrical interfaces;

[0071] FIG. 5: a highly schematic detailed illustration of the connection interfaces of the first- and second-type;

[0072] FIG. 6: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, configured such that configuration data is exchanged between HVAC device blocks;

[0073] FIG. 7: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, comprising an external electrical interface for powering one or more of the HVAC device blocks of the HVAC field device and/or for receiving/transmitting configuration data to/from the HVAC field device;

[0074] FIG. 8: a highly schematic cross section of an embodiment of an add-on HVAC device block according to the present disclosure, comprising a functional extension device;

[0075] FIG. 9A: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure; wherein the connection interface of the first-type of the base HVAC device block is carried by a connection element;

[0076] FIG. 9B: a perspective view of the HVAC field device of FIG. 9A;

[0077] FIG. 10: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, wherein the connection interface of the second-type of an add-on HVAC device block is carried by a connection element;

[0078] FIG. 11A: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, further comprising a cover HVAC device block having a display;

[0079] FIG. 11B: a perspective view of the HVAC field device of FIG. 11A;

[0080] FIG. 12A: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, wherein the base HVAC device block comprises a primary base HVAC sub-block and a secondary base HVAC sub-block;

[0081] FIG. 12B-E: perspective views of a base HVAC device block having different variants of a secondary base HVAC sub-block;

[0082] FIG. 13A: a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, comprising an asymmetric add-on HVAC device block;

[0083] FIG. 13B: a perspective view of the add-on HVAC device block of FIG. 13A;

[0084] FIG. 13C: a highly schematic cross section of the HVAC field device of FIG. 13A as stacked;

[0085] FIG. 13D: a perspective view of the stacked HVAC field device of FIGS. 13A and C;

[0086] FIG. 14: a perspective view of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, wherein the cover HVAC device block comprises a remote extension;

[0087] FIG. 15A: a highly schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, the base HVAC device block being configured as a duct sensor;

[0088] FIG. 15B: a highly schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, the base HVAC device block being configured as a duct sensor, having a sensing element Sx arranged within a sensor probe;

[0089] FIG. 16: a highly schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device according to the present disclosure, showing an add-on HVAC device block comprising a fluid connection interface; and

[0090] FIG. 17: a schematic block diagram of an HVAC system, comprising an HVAC field device according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] Reference will now be made in detail to certain embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all features are shown. Indeed, embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Whenever possible, like reference numbers will be used to refer to like components or parts.

[0092] In the following figures, like elements of which one or more are part of embodiments disclosed herein, are denoted with a reference numeral followed by an index range, such as. 1?n, wherein n is a whole number greater than or equal to 1.

[0093] FIG. 1 shows a highly schematic cross section of an embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure. According to the embodiment shown on FIG. 1, the HVAC field device 1 comprises a plurality of stacked HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1. The plurality of stacked HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 comprises a base HVAC device block 10 and an add-on HVAC device block(s) 20.1.

[0094] The base HVAC device block 10 comprises: a housing 11; an electric motor M and/or a sensor S; a connection interface 15A; and an electronic circuit 12 connected to the electric motor M and/or the sensor S. The electric motor M is arranged within the housing 11 and arrangedupon the HVAC field device 1 being installedto drive an actuated part 80see FIG. 12A.

[0095] The sensor S of the base HVAC device block 10 is configured to measure an environmental parameter of an HVAC system 100, such as a temperature and/or humidity of an environment controlled by the HVAC system 100. Alternatively, or additionally, the sensor S of the base HVAC device block 10 is provided to measure operational parameters of various components of the HVAC system 100 such as an actuated position of the actuated part 80 and/or the operational state of the HVAC field device 1. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the sensor S is located either within the housing 11 or outside the housing 11, being communicatively connected to the electronic circuit 12.

[0096] The connection interface 15A of the base HVAC device block 10 is of a first-type and is arranged in particular on an external surface of the housing 11. As shown on the embodiment of FIG. 1, the connection interface 15A of the first-type is arranged on a first, top surface of the housing 11Top. Depending on the particular embodiment, the electronic circuit 12 of the base HVAC device block 10 is connected either to the electric motor M and/or to the sensor S. Connected to the electric motor M, the electronic circuit 12 is configured to control the electric motor M in order to implement one or more HVAC control functions. Connected to the sensor S, the electronic circuit 12 is configured to receive and/or process signals representative of operational parameter(s) of the HVAC system 100, such as a temperature and/or humidity or signals representative of operational parameters of various components of the HVAC system 100.

[0097] The add-on HVAC device block 20.1 comprises a housing 21.1 and a connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type and a connection interface 25B.1 of a second-type. As a counterpart of the connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10, the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is arranged on a second, bottom side 21Bot.1 of the housing 21.1 The connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10 and the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 are configured to be mechanically connectable with each other.

[0098] The connection interface of the first-type 25A.1 of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is arranged on a first, top side 21Top.1 of its housing 21.1, the first side 21Top.1 being essentially parallel and opposite the second side 21Bot.1. Arranging complementary connection interfaces (of a first-type 25A.1 and of a second-type 25B.1) on essentially parallel and opposite sides of the housing 21.1 of the add-on HVAC device block 21.1 enables a plurality of add-on HVAC device blocks to be stacked while maintaining a constant footprint/cross section of the resulting HVAC field device 1.

[0099] FIG. 2 shows a slightly more detailed cross-section of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure, wherein the connection interfaces 15A, 25A.1 of the first-type comprise a mechanical interface 17A, 27A.1 of a first-type and the connection interface(s) 25B.1 of the second-type comprise a mechanical interface(s) 27B.1 of a second-type. The mechanical interface(s) 17A, 27A.1 of the first-type and the mechanical interface(s) 27B.1 of the second-type are configured such as to align adjacent HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n upon the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 being stacked. For a better aligning effect, according to embodiments, the mechanical interface(s) are tapered at their outer surfaces.

[0100] As shown on the embodiment of FIG. 2, the mechanical interfaces 17A, 27A.1 of the first-type comprise a circumferential recess arranged on the first side 11Top, 21Top.1 of the housing 11, 21.1 of the respective HVAC device block 10, 20.1 and the mechanical interface(s) 27B.1 of the second-type comprise(s) a circumferential protrusion arranged on a second side 21Bot.1 of the housing 21.1 of the respective HVAC device block 20.1. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the circumferential protrusion is of a size essentially equal to the space within the recess of the connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10.

[0101] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the mechanical interface(s) 17A, 27A.1-n of the first-type and the mechanical interface(s) 27B.1-n of the second-type are configured to mutually interlock by an interface-fit upon the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n being stacked to thereby fixedly attach the plurality of HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-20-n to each other. For example, the protrusion of the mechanical interface(s) 27B.1-n of the second-type are of marginally larger dimensions than the space within the recess of the mechanical interfaces 17A, 27A.1-n of the first-type, thereby fixedly attaching upon the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n being stacked, by way or a small compression and/or a small expansion of the protrusion and the recess, respectively.

[0102] As illustrated on FIGS. 12B through 12E, in order to maximize compatibility between HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n, the connection interfaces 15A, 25A.1-n, in particular the mechanical interface(s) 17A, 27A.1-n of the first-type, are compatible (or even identical) irrespective of the geometry of the respective HVAC device block 10, 20.1-n.

[0103] FIG. 3 shows a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure, wherein the connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10 and the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 comprise electrical interfaces 16A, 26B.1 electrically connected to the respective electronic circuit 12, 22.1. Providing electrical interfaces to the connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10 and the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 allows the extension of the functionalities of the base HVAC device block 10 by electric functionalities provided by an add-on HVAC device block 20.1 comprising an electronic circuit 22.1.

[0104] In order to allow even further extension of the functionalities of the base HVAC device block 10 by electric functionalities provided by more than one add-on stacked HVAC device blocks 20.1-2, as shown on FIG. 4in addition to the connection interface 15A of the first-type of the base HVAC device block 10 and the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1the connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 also comprises an electrical interface 26A.1 electrically connected to the electronic circuit 22.1. The electrical interfaces 26A. 1 and 26B.1 of an add-on HVAC device block 20.1 are configured such as to forward data and/or electric energy between the electrical interfaces of the first-type to the electrical interfaces of the second-type, thereby allowing transfer of data and/or electric energy not only between adjacent HVAC device blocks (e.g. 10 and 20.1), but also between all HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 and 20.2 of the HVAC field device 1, even non-adjacent HVAC device blocks (e.g. between the base HVAC device block 10 and the topmost add-on HVAC device block 20.2). In other words, data and/or electric energy are passed through by the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 and 20.2.

[0105] By providing the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 with mechanical and electrical connection interfaces of both first- and second-type, the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 further extends the possibility of stacking another add-on HVAC device block 20.2, irrespective whether the further add-on HVAC device block 20.2 comprises mechanical and/or electrical function, the connection interface of the second-type 25B. 1 serving the purpose of connecting the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 while the connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type serving the purpose of receiving a further HVAC device block 20.2.

[0106] According to embodiments disclosed herein, the electrical connections (between interfaces and/or between interfaces and the electronic circuits) is of a bus type, in particular a bus suitable for both data communication and transmission of electrical energy (in particular at 24V).

[0107] FIG. 5 shows a highly schematic magnified detail of the connection interfaces of the first-type 15A and second-type 25B.1 of a base HVAC device block 10 and an add-on HVAC device block 20.1. As shown on FIG. 5, according to particular embodiments of the present disclosure, the mechanical interface 17A of the first-type and the electrical interface 16A of the first-type and the mechanical interface 27B. 1 of the second-type and the electrical interface 27B.1 of the second-type type are arranged on the same first side respectively second side of the housings of the HVAC device blocks 10, respectively 20.1.

[0108] Thereby, upon a single stacking step of the HVAC device blocks 10 and 20.1, both a mechanical and electrical connection is established between the stacked HVAC device blocks 10 and 20.1. According to the embodiment illustrated on FIG. 5, the electrical interface 16A of the connection interface 15A of the first-type comprises an electrical connector of a first-type arranged at the first side 11Top of the respective HVAC device block 10 while the electrical interface 26B.1 of the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type comprises an electrical connector of a second type arranged at the second side 21Bot.1 of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1.

[0109] Turning now to FIG. 6, showing a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1, the concept of exchanging configuration data between HVAC device blocks shall be described. In order to enable a plug-and-play manufacture/assembly of HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 into an HVAC field device 1, configuration data is stored in the electronic circuit 12 of a first HVAC device block 10 while its electronic circuit 12 is configured to transmit configuration data through the electrical interface 16A. The electronic circuit 22.1 of a second HVAC device block 20.1 is configured to receive configuration data through the electrical interface 26B.1. Configuration data of the first HVAC device block 10 is transferred to the second HVAC device block 20.1 upon the HVAC field device 1 being supplied with electrical energy. Alternatively, or additionally, the HVAC device block 10 and 20.1 are configured such as to exchange configuration data upon being stacked. As illustrated by the double block arrow, the transfer of configuration data may beaccording to embodiments disclosed hereinbidirectional, that is, configuration data may be stored in the electronic circuit 22.1 of the second HVAC device block 20.1 while its electronic circuit 22.1 is configured to transmit configuration data through the electrical interface 26B.1, the electronic circuit 12 of the first HVAC device block 10 being configured to receive configuration data through the electrical interface 16A, and configuration data of the second HVAC device block 20.1 being transferred to the first HVAC device block 10 upon the HVAC field device 1 being supplied with electrical energy.

[0110] FIG. 7 shows a highly schematic cross section of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure. In order to enable a flexible supply of the HVAC field device 1 with electrical energy, one or more of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.2 comprise an external electrical interface 18, 28.2. The external electrical interfaces 18, 28.2 are electrically connected to the electronic circuits 12, 22.2 of the respective HVAC device blocks 10, 20.2. The HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 and 20.2 of the HVAC field device 1 are configured to be powered through the external electrical interface 28.2 of one of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.2 via their respective electrical interfaces 16A, 26A.1-2, 26B.1-n. Alternatively, or additionally, the external electrical interfaces 18, 28.2 may be used to configure any of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 or 20.2 via a single interface, e.g. 28.2.

[0111] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the external electrical interface(s) 18, 28.1-n of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n are identical or at least compatible with one certain electrical connector of a configuration device, allowing a flexible (pre)configuration of any of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n or the entire HVAC field device 1 through the external electrical interface 18, 28.1-n of any HVAC device block 10. 20.1-n.

[0112] FIG. 8 shows a highly schematic cross section of an embodiment of an add-on HVAC device block 20.1 according to the present disclosure, comprising a functional extension device 24.1. The functional extension device 24.1 may comprise hardware and/or software for the extension of the mechanical and/or electrical functions of base HVAC device block 10.

[0113] In order to allow fitting various types of connection interfaces to HVAC device blocks, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the connection interfaces are provided on so-called connection elements 19, 29.1-n.

[0114] As shown on FIG. 9A, a connection element 19 is provided as frame-like structure to be arranged on a first, top side 11Top of the base HVAC device block 10, the connection element 19 carrying the mechanical interface of first-type 17A. The base HVAC device block 10 is then assembled by attaching the connection element 19 to the housing 11. FIG. 9B shows a perspective exploded view of a base HVAC device block 10, wherein the mechanical interface of first-type 17A is provided on a connection element 19 to be attached on top of the housing 11 of the base HVAC device block 10.

[0115] As illustrated on FIG. 9B, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the one or more of the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n each comprise a pair of external electrical interface(s) 18, 28.1-n and 18, 28.1-n, respectively. The pairs of two or more external electrical interfaces 18, 28.1-n and 18, 28.1-n are configured such as to allow Daisy-Chaining of multiple HVAC field devices 1. In particular, the two or more external electrical interfaces 18, 28.1-n and 18, 28.1-n are configured to communicatively and/or energetically connect a plurality of HVAC field devices using a power over data line connection such as to enable data communication between the plurality of HVAC field devices 1 and/or to enable supply of each of the plurality of HVAC field devices 1 with electrical power from a power source connected to any one of the plurality of HVAC field devices 1. According to an embodiment, the external electrical interfaces are provided with a protection against electromagnetic interference, dust, and/or water.

[0116] Similarly to the base HVAC device block, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, connection interface(s) of add-on HVAC device block(s) is/are provided on connection element(s). FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the HVAC field device 1, wherein the connection interface of the second-type 25B.1 of the add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is carried by a connection element 29.1 to be attached to the housing 21.1.

[0117] In order to avoid the outermost (on the figures the topmost) connection interface 25A.n being left exposed after the HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n have been stacked, as shown on FIG. 11A, a cover HVAC device block 30 is provided. The cover HVAC device block 30 comprises a housing 31 and a connection interface 35B of the second-type. In order to cover the connection interface 25A.n of the first-type of the outermost add-on HVAC device block 20.n, the cover HVAC device block 30 is stacked on the outermost add-on HVAC device block 20.n, thereby mechanically connecting the connection interface 35B of the second type of the cover HVAC device block 30 to the connection interface 25A.n of the first-type of the outermost add-on HVAC device block 20.n.

[0118] FIG. 11A shows a highly schematic cross section of a particular embodiment of the HVAC field device 1, wherein the cover HVAC device block 30 is fitted with a human interaction device 33, e.g. a display. The human interaction device HID 33 is electrically connected to an electronic circuit 32 of the cover HVAC device block 30 andvia the electrical connection interfacesto an electronic circuit 22.1-n of the add-on HVAC blocks 20.1-n and to the electronic circuit 12 of the base HVAC block 10. The human interaction device HID 33 is arranged to control (e.g. as a touch sensitive display or by means of buttons) and/or display operational parameters of the HVAC field device 1 or one or more of its constituent HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n and/or one or more of the operational parameters measured by the sensor S by means of a display screen, in particular a touch sensitive display, a low-power display such as an E-Ink display, or an status indicator such as an LED.

[0119] Also shown on FIG. 11A is an add-on HVAC device block 20.n comprising a communication device, in particular a communication device comprising one or more of: [0120] A wired communication interface (such as an Ethernet, in particular a Power over Ethernet PoE, Single Pair Ethernet SPE, a BUS, in particular an MP Bus, BACnet, KNX or Modbus interface); [0121] A Wide Area Network communication circuit (such as GSM, LTE, 3G, 4G or 5G mobile communications circuit); [0122] A Low Power Wide Area Network (such as Narrowband Internet of Things NB-IoT, Long Range LoRa/LoRaWAN, SigFox, or Long Term Evolution Category M1 LTECatM1); [0123] A local area network communication circuit (such as Wireless LAN); [0124] A short range wireless communication circuit (such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy BLE, Ultra-wideband UWB, Thread and/or Zigbee); and/or [0125] A close-range wireless communication circuit (such as Radio Frequency Identification RFID or a Near Field Communication NFC).

[0126] FIG. 11B shows an exploded perspective view of the HVAC field device 1 of FIG. 11A. As illustrated, the base HVAC device block 10 as well as the add-on HVAC device blocks 20.1 and 20.n comprise external electrical interfaces 18, 28.1, 28.n. electrically connected to the electronic circuits 12, 22.1 and 22.n of the respective HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 and 20.n. The HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1 and 20.n of the HVAC field device 1 are configured to be powered through the external electrical interface 28.1 connected by a corresponding connector 50 for powering/configuring the HVAC field device 1.

[0127] As shown on FIG. 12A, in order to separate mechanical and electric functions, not only amongst add-on HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n, but also within the base HVAC device block 10, the base HVAC device block 10 comprises a primary base HVAC sub-block 10.1 and a secondary base HVAC sub-block 10.II. The primary base HVAC sub-block 10.1 comprises the electric motor M and the electronic circuit 12, while the secondary base HVAC sub-block 10.II comprises a mechanical drive 13, which is arranged to be drivingly connected (shown with dotted lines) to an actuated part 80, such as a valve or damper. The primary base HVAC sub-block 10.I and the secondary base HVAC sub-block 10.II are connected to thereby form the base HVAC device block 10, such that the mechanical drive 13 is drivingly arranged between the electric motor M and the actuated part 80.

[0128] In particular, the mechanical drive 13 comprises a gearing, such as a reduction gearing, to convert the torque of the motor M to the specific requirements of actuating the actuated part 80. FIGS. 12B-E shows perspective views of base HVAC device blocks 10 having different variants of a secondary base HVAC sub-block 10.II, each having a mechanical drive 13 providing a different output torque (ranging from 1-40 Nm) to drive an actuated part 80. Parts of the mechanical drive 13 may be however part of the primary base HVAC sub-block 10.1. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the secondary base HVAC sub-block 10.II comprises a gear release, position switch(es) and/or a position feedback sensor.

[0129] FIGS. 13A to D depict a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure, comprising an asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1. An asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is characterized in that the connection interface of the first-type 25A.1 and the connection interface of the second-type 25B. 1 extend from a side of the housing 21.1. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing 21.1 of an asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1 extends beyond the plane defined by the connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type and/or the plane defined by the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type. Furthermore, the connection interfaces 25A.1 and 25B.1 are arranged in close proximity or even in direct contact to each other, thereby minimizing the height increase upon stacking the add-on HVAC device 20.1 onto the base HVAC device block 10.

[0130] FIGS. 13B and 13C show a perspective view respectively a cross-section of the asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1 of FIG. 13A, illustrating how the connection interface of first-type 25A.1 and the connection interface of the second-type 25B. 1 extend from a side of the housing 21.1.

[0131] FIG. 13D shows a perspective view of the stacked HVAC field device 1 of FIGS. 13A and C, illustrating the space-saving manner of how the asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is stacked onto the base HVAC device block 10. The asymmetric add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is advantageous when the base HVAC device block 10 has a significantly larger cross-section than required by the add-on HVAC device blocks.

[0132] In order to allow the extension of the functions of an HVAC field device even in the absence of physical space around the HVAC field device (when installed) and to allow access to add-on HVAC device blocks in HVAC systems where the HVAC field device, in particular the base HVAC device block is installed at a difficult to access location, according to embodiments disclosed herein, one or more of the add-on HVAC device blocks is/are divided into two structural parts which can be arranged offset/remote one from the other. As shown on FIG. 14, the housing 21.1 of the respective add-on HVAC device block 20.1 is divided into a first housing part 21.I and a second housing part 21.II.1. The first housing part 21.I.1 accommodates the connection interface 25B. 1 of the second-type so that the first housing part 21.I.1 can be stacked onto the base HVAC device block 10 (or onto another add-on HVAC device block). The second housing part 21.II.1 accommodates the connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type, the electrical interface 26A.1 of the connection interface 25A.1 of the first-type being electrically connected to the electrical interface 26B.1 of the connection interface 25B.1 of the second-type by an electrical extension link 23.1, in particular a flexible electrical extension link, so that further HVAC device blocksin particular a cover HVAC device block 30 having a human interaction device HID 33can be stacked onto the second housing part 21.II.1. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the first housing part 21.I.1 is configured to act as a cover of the base HVAC device block 10 (or for an add-on HVAC device block on which it is stacked).

[0133] FIG. 15A illustrates a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure, the base HVAC device block 10 being configured as a duct sensor such as a duct sensor for the measurement of temperature, relative humidity, dew point, CO.sub.2, VOC's, and/or pressure. As illustrated, the base HVAC device block 10 comprises a sensor S communicatively connected to the electronic circuit 12. The sensor S comprises a first sensor part Si and a second sensor part Se, the first sensor part Si being arranged within the housing 11 of the base HVAC device block 10, while the second sensor part Se being arranged at least partially extending from the housing 11 of the base HVAC device block 10. When the HVAC field device 1 is attached to a duct/pipe D, at least a part of the second sensor part Se, referred to as sensor probe Sp, extends into the duct/pipe D.

[0134] For the measurement of the respective measure environmental variable(s), the sensor S comprises a sensing element Sx, Sx. Depending on the measured environmental parameter(s), the sensing element Sx is arranged within the first sensor part Si within the housing 11 and fluidly connected by the second sensor part Se to the sensor probe P so that samples of a fluid flowing through the duct/pipe D are directed to the sensing element Sx.

[0135] Alternatively, or additionally, as shown on FIG. 15B, the sensing element Sx is arranged within the second sensor part Se, in particular within the sensor probe P and hence exposed to the fluid flowing through the duct/pipe D.

[0136] Optionally, the sensor S comprises a duct mounting element Sm configured to allow adjustment to different duct/pipe geometries. In particular, the duct mounting element Sm is provided to allow the HVAC field device 1 being attached to a duct or pipe such that a sensing element Sx of the second sensor part Se to be placed in a center of the duct/pipe D.

[0137] FIG. 16 shows a highly schematic perspective view of a further embodiment of the HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure, an add-on HVAC device block 20.1 comprising a fluid connection interface 28f.1 being attached to a base HVAC device block 10. A fluid connection interface 28f.1having one or more fluid connection(s)is provided to fluidly connect a sensing element Sx (of a sensor S) located within the housing 21.1 of an HVAC device block 20.1 with a measurement point. In particular, the fluid connection interface 28f. 1 comprises two or more fluid connections for fluidly connecting the sensor S with a plurality of measurement points for the measurement of pressure differential between said measurement points.

[0138] Turning now to FIG. 17, an HVAC system 100 shall be described, comprising an HVAC field device 1 according to the present disclosure. The HVAC system 100 comprises one or more external computing devices 100A-C, such as a remote server 100B communicatively connected with the HVAC field device 1 using a radio communication circuit of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) 20.1-n. Additionally, or alternatively, the HVAC field device 1 is configured to establish a communication link with a mobile computing device 100A using radio communication circuits of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) 20.1-n, in particular a Near Field Communication NFC and/or a Bluetooth Low Energy BLE and/or a Wireless Local Area Network WLAN communication circuit. The HVAC field device 1 is further connectable (using communication circuits and/or the external electrical interface 18, 28.1-n of one or more of the add-on HVAC device block(s) 20.1-n) to a control terminal 100C, such as a computer running a Building Management System BMS, either directly or via a gateway device 110 using a wired (such as a BUS connection) or a wireless connection (such as NFC).

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0139] HVAC field device 1 [0140] HVAC device blocks 10, 20.1-n [0141] base HVAC device block 10 [0142] primary base HVAC device block 10.I [0143] secondary base HVAC device block 10.II [0144] housing (of base HVAC device block) 11 [0145] first side (of housing of base HVAC device block) 11Top [0146] electronic circuit (of base HVAC device block) 12 [0147] mechanical drive (of secondary base HVAC device block) 13 [0148] connection interface of first-type (of base HVAC device block) 15A [0149] electrical interface of first-type (of base HVAC device block) 16A [0150] mechanical interface of first-type (of base HVAC device block) 17A [0151] external electrical interface (of base HVAC device block) 18 [0152] connection element (of base HVAC device block) 19 [0153] electric motor (of base HVAC device block) M [0154] sensor (of base HVAC device block) S [0155] first sensor part (of sensor) Si [0156] second sensor part (of sensor) Se [0157] duct mounting element Sm [0158] sensor probe Sp [0159] sensing element Sx, Sx [0160] duct D [0161] add-on HVAC device block 20.1-n [0162] housing (of add-on HVAC device block) 21.1-n [0163] first side (of housing of add-on HVAC device block) 21Top.1-n [0164] second side (of housing of add-on HVAC device block) 21Bot.1-n [0165] electronic circuit (of add-on HVAC device block) 22.1-n [0166] electrical extension link 23.1-n [0167] functional extension device 24.1-n [0168] connection interface of first-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 25A.1-n [0169] connection interface of second-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 25B.1-n [0170] electrical interface of first-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 26A.1-n [0171] electrical interface of second-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 26B.1-n [0172] mechanical interface of first-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 27A.1-n [0173] mechanical interface of second-type (of add-on HVAC device block) 27B.1-n [0174] external electrical interface (of add-on HVAC device block) 28.1-n [0175] connection element (of add-on HVAC device block) 29.1-n [0176] fluidic connection interface 28f.1-n [0177] cover HVAC device block 30 [0178] housing (of cover HVAC device block) 31 [0179] electronic circuit (of cover HVAC device block) 32 [0180] human interaction device HID (of cover HVAC device block) 33 [0181] connection interface of second-type (of cover HVAC device block) 35B [0182] connection interface of first-type (of cover HVAC device block) 36B [0183] remote extension 38 [0184] connector (for power supply and/or configuration) 50 [0185] actuated part 80 [0186] HVAC system 100 [0187] remote server 100B [0188] control terminal 100C [0189] gateway device 110