Continuously Modulating Actuator In A Combustion Apparatus

Abstract

Various embodiments include a combustion apparatus comprising: a burner; a supply channel in fluid communication with the burner; an actuator affecting a supply of a fluid through the supply channel; and a control facility communicatively coupled to the actuator. The control facility is configured to: generate a first change signal from a first end value and to send the first change signal to the actuator; and generate a second change signal from a second end value and to send the second change signal to the actuator. The actuator comprises a processing unit configured to: receive the first and the second change signal; determine a first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal; and begin a first change of a speed or of a position of the actuator using the first change speed.

Claims

1. A combustion apparatus comprising: a burner; a supply channel in fluid communication with the burner; an actuator affecting a supply of a fluid through the supply channel; and a control facility communicatively coupled to the actuator; wherein the control facility is configured to: generate a first change signal from a first end value and to send the first change signal to the actuator; and generate a second change signal from a second end value and to send the second change signal to the actuator; the actuator comprises a processing unit configured to: receive the first and the second change signal; determine a first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal; and begin a first change of a speed or of a position of the actuator using the first change speed.

2. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control facility comprises a memory with a first plurality of part changes and is configured to: load the first plurality of part changes from the memory; and determine the first end value based on the first plurality of part changes.

3. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control facility comprises a memory with a second plurality of part changes and is configured to: load the second plurality of part changes from the memory; and determine the second end value based on the first and/or the second plurality of part changes.

4. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the first end value is equal to the second end value; and the control facility is configured to generate the second change signal from the second end value and to send the second change signal to the actuator.

5. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the first end value is different from the second end value; and the control facility is configured to generate the second change signal from the second end value and to send the second change signal to the actuator.

6. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: a sensor coupled to the actuator; wherein the actuator is configured to: receive a first sensor signal from the sensor; determine with the aid of the processing unit from the first sensor signal a first actual variable selected from: a first actual speed of the actuator or a first actual position of the actuator; and determine the first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal and the first actual variable.

7. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control facility is configured to: generate a third change signal from a third end value and to send the third change signal to the actuator; wherein the actuator is configured to: receive the third change signal; determine the first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second and the third change signal; and begin the first change of a speed or of a position of the actuator using the first change speed.

8. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein a third plurality of part changes is stored in the memory of the control facility and the control facility is configured to: load the third plurality of part changes from the memory; and determine the third end value based on the third plurality of part changes.

9. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second end value is equal to the third end value and wherein the control facility is configured to generate the third change signal from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the actuator.

10. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 7, wherein: the second end value is different from the third end value; and the control facility is configured to generate the third change signal from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the actuator.

11. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control facility is configured to: generate a fourth change signal from a fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the actuator; and the actuator is configured: receive the fourth change signal during the first change; determine a second change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and/or the fourth change signal; and begin a second change of the speed or the position of the actuator using the second change speed.

12. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the control facility comprises a memory with a fourth plurality of part changes and is configured to: load the fourth plurality of part changes from the memory; and determine the fourth end value based on the fourth plurality of part changes.

13. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the second end value is the same as the fourth end value; and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility is configured to: generate the fourth change signal from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the actuator; wherein the actuator is configured: determine the second change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and the fourth change signal, wherein the second change speed is zero; and begin the second change of the speed or of the position of the actuator using the second change speed.

14. The combustion apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein: the second end value is different from the fourth end value; and the control facility is configured to generate the fourth change signal from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the actuator.

15. A method for closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of a combustion apparatus including: a burner, a supply channel in fluid communication with the burner, an actuator affecting a supply of a fluid through the supply channel, and a control facility communicatively coupled to the actuator, the method comprising: generating a first change signal from a first end value and sending the first change signal to the actuator; generating a second change signal from a second end value and sending the second change signal to the actuator; receiving the first and the second change signal at the actuator; determining a first change speed based on the first and the second change signal by the actuator; and beginning a first change of a speed or of a position of the actuator using the first change speed.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Various details are accessible to the person skilled in the art with the aid of the more detailed description given below. The individual forms of embodiment are not restrictive in this description. The drawings that are enclosed with the description can be described as follows:

[0031] FIG. 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an example combustion apparatus as a system incorporating teachings of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram of an example execution sequence of a change of speed and/or position of at least one actuator, taking into account two change signals and incorporating teachings of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 3 shows a flow diagram of an example execution sequence of a change of speed and/or position of at least one actuator, additionally taking into account an actual variable incorporating teachings of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram of an example execution sequence of a change of speed and/or position of at least one actuator, taking into account further change signals incorporating teachings of the present disclosure; and

[0035] FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram of an example execution sequence of a change of speed and/or of the position of at least one actuator, taking into account further change signals that are received during a change incorporating teachings of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present disclosure thus teaches combustion apparatuses comprising at least one actuator and one closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. The at least one actuator acts on a supply of a fluid such as for example air or fuel gas through a supply channel of the combustion apparatus. The supply channel opens out into the burner of the same combustion apparatus.

[0037] A first change signal is now sent to the at least one actuator by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. The first change signal contains a first change, for example a first change of a speed of a fan or a change of a valve setting. A second change signal to the at least one actuator is further sent by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. The second change signal contains a second change, for example a second change of a speed of a fan or a change of a valve setting.

[0038] The at least one actuator receives the first change signal and the second change signal. The at least one actuator establishes a first change speed from the first and the second change signal. Finally, the at least one actuator begins an implementation of the change while taking into account the first change speed.

[0039] Thus a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator can receive a first change signal corresponding to a first change and a second change signal corresponding to a second change. The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control may be a processing unit and is local. The local open-loop control and/or closed-loop control establishes from the first change signal a first end speed and/or a first end position. The local open-loop control and/or closed-loop control establishes from the second change signal a second end speed and/or a second end position. The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator then establishes a speed of the first change, in order, on reaching the first end speed, to arrive seamlessly at the second end speed. Likewise a speed of the first change can be established, in order, on reaching the first end position, to arrive seamlessly at the second end position.

[0040] The aforementioned linkage of the first and second changes is able to be expanded to further changes.

[0041] In addition, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator can assess whether a deviation between a required speed and an actual speed is lasting too long. Likewise the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator can assess whether a deviation between a required position and an actual position is lasting too long. In such a case the local closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator can generate an error signal. The error signal is sent to a higher-ranking closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. The higher-ranking closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility receives the error signal and where necessary sends a close command to at least one fuel actuator of the combustion apparatus.

[0042] What is more the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility of the combustion apparatus can assess whether a deviation between a required speed and an actual speed is lasting too long. Likewise the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility of the combustion apparatus can assess whether a deviation between a required position and an actual position is lasting too long. In such a case the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility of the combustion apparatus can generate an error signal. The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility of the combustion apparatus where necessary sends a close command to at least one fuel actuator of the combustion apparatus.

[0043] The change in the speed and/or the valve setting can be made up of a number of part changes. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility concatenates individual part changes from a plurality of part changes and thus makes uninterrupted operation possible.

[0044] During the implementation of the first change the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility can receive one or more signals from the at least one sensor. The at least one sensor can for example be a speed sensor of a fan and/or a valve setting sensor and/or a position sensor. In particular the at least one sensor can be part of the at least one actuator. The at least one sensor can also be in the supply channel of the combustion apparatus and record a flow of the fluid.

[0045] What is more a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of the at least one actuator can assess whether the at least one actuator has already reached its end position and/or end speed. The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control may be local and is undertaken with the aid of the one or more signals. Provided the at least one actuator has not reached its end speed and/or end position and is away from its end speed and/or end position by a band, the change is continued. If on the other hand the at least one actuator is within the band around its end speed and/or end position, the change can be braked.

[0046] Before the end of the change the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility can check whether there is provision for a further change. When both changes point in the same direction, the change can be continued beyond the end speed and/or end position up to a further end speed or further end position. Thus an interruption is avoided.

[0047] Likewise, before the end of the change, the at least one actuator can check whether there is provision for a further change. For example the at least one actuator can receive a further command for a further (fourth) change from the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. That further command is then present at an input interface and/or at a receive buffer of the at least one actuator. When both changes point in the same direction the change can be continued beyond the end speed and/or end position up to a further end speed or further end position. Thus the at least one actuator avoids an interruption at the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility. The load on the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility is thus relieved.

[0048] FIG. 1 shows an example system incorporating teachings of the present disclosure and comprising a burner 1, a heat consumer 2, a fan 3 with adjustable speed and a motor-adjustable flap 4. The motor-adjustable flap 4 is arranged after the air inlet 23. The heat consumer 2 (heat exchanger) can for example be a hot water boiler. The air supply 5 can be set in accordance with FIG. 1 by the motor-adjustable flap 4 with the aid of the signal line 19 and/or by specifying the speed of the fan 3 with the aid of the signal line 18.

[0049] If this flap 4 is not present, the air supply 5 can be adjusted solely by the speed of the fan 3. Pulse width modulation can come into consideration for adjusting the speed of the fan 3 for example. In accordance with another form of embodiment the motor of the fan 3 is connected to a converter. The speed of the fan 3 is thus adjusted via the frequency of the converter.

[0050] In some embodiments, the fan 3 runs at a fixed, non-changeable speed. The air supply 5 is then determined by the position of the flap 4. Moreover further actuators are possible that change the air supply 5. These can for example involve a contact tip holder adjustment of the burner and/or an adjustable flap in the exhaust gas channel.

[0051] The supply 6 (for example particle flow and/or mass flow) of the fluid fuel through the fuel supply channel 25 can be set by a fuel flap 9. In accordance with one form of embodiment the fuel flap 9 is a (motor-adjustable) valve.

[0052] Combustible gases such as natural gas and/or propane gas and/or hydrogen can come into consideration as fuel for example. A liquid fuel such as heating oil can also come into consideration as a fuel. In this case the flap 9 is replaced by a motor-adjustable oil pressure regulator in the return of the oil nozzle. The safety shutdown function and/or close function is implemented by the redundant safety valves 7, 8. In accordance with a specific form of embodiment the safety valves 7, 8 and/or the fuel flap 9 are realized as an integrated unit or units.

[0053] Fuel is mixed with air in and/or before the burner 1. The mixture is burned in the combustion chamber of the heat consumer 2. The heat is transported further on in the heat consumer 2. For example heated water is taken away via a pump to heating elements and/or in industrial firing systems a commodity is heated (directly). The exhaust gas stream 10 is vented via an exhaust gas path 26, for example a chimney, (into the environment). The exhaust gas stream 10 can further be taken away via an exhaust gas path 26, for example a hearth, (into the environment).

[0054] A closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 automates at least one actuator of the combustion apparatus. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 automates a number of or all actuators of the combustion apparatus. Thus the correct supply 6 of fuel and/or fuel gas is set via the position of the flap 9 for the corresponding supply 5 of air for each point of delivery. This produces the desired air/fuel ratio .

[0055] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 comprises a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 is configured as a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 comprises a microprocessor. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 is configured as a microprocessor.

[0056] The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 automates the fan 3 with the aid of the signal line 18 and/or the air flap 4 with the aid of the signal line 19. Values stored in the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 can be used for this purpose. The values stored in the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 can be stored for example in the form of a characteristic curve and/or in the form of a mathematical relationship.

[0057] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 comprises a memory, for example a non-volatile memory. Stored in the memory are those values, in particular those characteristic curves and/or those mathematical relationships.

[0058] The position of the fuel flap 9 is automated via the signal line 22. During operation the safety shut-off valves 7, 8 are opened via the signal lines 20, 21. The safety shut-off valves 7, 8 are held open during operation.

[0059] During operation errors of a flap 4, 9 and/or in fan 3 can occur. Such errors can for example be uncovered in an electronic interface or control facility of the flap 4 and/or of the fan 3. The notification of errors can for example be undertaken by a safety-oriented notification of the position of the flap 4 via the (bidirectional) signal line 19 for the air flap 4. The notification of errors can further be undertaken for the fuel flap 9 by a safety-oriented notification of the position of the flap 9 via the (bidirectional) signal line 22.

[0060] A safety-oriented position message can for example be realized via redundant position sensors. If a safety-oriented notification about the speed is necessary, this can be sent via the (bidirectional) signal line 18 using (safety-oriented) speed sensors. Redundant speed sensors can be used for this for example and/or the measured speed can be compared with the required speed. The activation and confirmation signals can be transferred via different signal lines and/or via a bidirectional bus, for example a CAN bus.

[0061] A side channel 24 is attached before the burner 1. The side channel 24 has a fluid connection to the air supply channel 11 at a point 12. A small amount of outflow air 15 flows through the side channel 24 to the outside. The side channel 24 together with the burner 1 and the exhaust gas path 26 of the heat consumer 2 forms a flow divider. For a fixed flow path through burner 1 and exhaust gas path 26 for a value of air supply 5 (reversibly unique) an associated value of an air flow 15 flows out through the side channel 24.

[0062] A flow resistance element 14 is fitted in the side channel 24. The flow amount 15 in the side channel 24 depends on the passage surface of the flow resistance element 14.

[0063] With this arrangement the throughflow (particle flow and/or mass flow) through the side channel 24 is a measure for the air supply 5 to the burner 1. In this case influences due to changes in density of the air for example are compensated for by changes of the absolute pressure and/or the air temperature by the mass flow sensor 13. For notification of a signal from the mass flow sensor 13 this sensor 13 is connected via a signal line 17 to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16.

[0064] In known combustion apparatuses the re-adjustment of the speed of the fan 3 takes place in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a speed change signal to the fan 3. The fan 3 receives the speed change signal and changes its speed. After the change the fan 3 notifies a changed speed to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. A sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can further return a signal corresponding to an air supply to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The sending of the speed change signal, the change of the speed and the notification are iterated. The iteration takes place until such time as the speed of the fan 3 corresponds to a required value of the speed of the fan 3.

[0065] Likewise, in known combustion apparatuses the re-adjustment of the position of the air flap 4 takes place in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a position change signal to the air flap 4. The air flap 4 receives the position change signal and changes its position. After the change the air flap 4 notifies a changed position back to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. A sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can further return a signal corresponding to an air supply to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The sending of the position change signal, the change of position and the notification are iterated. The iteration occurs until such time as the position of the air flap 4 corresponds to an end position of the air flap 4.

[0066] Likewise, in known combustion apparatuses the re-adjustment of the position of the fuel flap 9 takes place in small steps and with interruptions. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a position change signal to the fuel flap 9. The fuel flap 9 receives the position change signal and changes its position. After the change the fuel flap 9 notifies a changed position back to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. A sensor such as for example a flow sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 can further return a signal corresponding to a fuel supply to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The sending of the position change signal, the change of position and the notification are iterated. The iteration takes place until such time as the position of the fuel flap 9 corresponds to an end position of the fuel flap 9.

[0067] The remarks made above about the fuel flap 9 apply by analogy to the re-adjustment of a fuel valve 7, 8.

[0068] FIG. 2 shows how, within the framework of a predictive closed-loop control and/or open-loop control, in a first step 27 the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a first change signal. The first change signal is sent to at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion apparatus. The at least one actuator may be selected from: [0069] a motor-driven fan 3, [0070] an actuator of an air flap 4, [0071] an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0072] an actuator of an air flap 9.

[0073] Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can for example comprise stepping motors. Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can in particular be stepping motors. All actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can comprise stepping motors in each case. Moreover all actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can be stepping motors in each case. The stepping motor or the stepping motors can have two hundred or four hundred steps. The list of steps of the stepping motors is not definitive.

[0074] The stepping motors can have rotational encoders, which record the movement of their respective axes and make available corresponding confirmation signals. The output of such a rotational encoder can be made available as a sensor signal.

[0075] Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can for example comprise hydraulic drives. Individual actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can in particular be hydraulic drives. All actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can also comprise hydraulic drives in each case. Moreover, all actuators of the fuel valve 7, 8 or of the air flap 9 can be hydraulic drives in each case.

[0076] The drives can further have multi-channel Hall sensors, which record the movement of the respective axes of the drives and make corresponding confirmation signals available. In particular the drives can have two-channel Hall sensors in each case. What is more the drives can be controlled exclusively. In this case it is sufficient for the drives to each comprise a single-channel sensor. The output of such a Hall sensor can be made available as the sensor signal.

[0077] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends the first change signal with the aid of a communication bus to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The communication bus can for example be a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol is used for the transmission of the first change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid change signals being transmitted in error.

[0078] The first change signal, which is sent by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16, can be a concatenation of a number of part change signals. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 generates a number of individual part change signals for a first change signal and concatenates them. Thus the part change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the first change signal. In this case each part change signal specifies a section of a path that is to be covered by the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 with the aid of the first change signal. Preferably each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover overall, with the aid of the first change signal. The concatenation of the part change signals to a first change signal helps to avoid the problems of a step-by-step re-adjustment stated at the outset.

[0079] In step 28 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the first change signal. In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the first change signal with the aid of a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0080] In a step 29 the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a second change signal. The second change signal is sent to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion apparatus.

[0081] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends the second change signal with the aid of a communication bus to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The communication bus can for example be a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol is used for the transmission of the second change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid change signals being transmitted in error.

[0082] The second change signal, which is sent by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16, can be a concatenation of a number of part change signals. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 generates a number of individual part change signals for a second change signal and concatenates them. Thus the part change signals are intermediate steps on the path to the second change signal. In this case each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover with the aid of the second change signal. Preferably each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover overall with the aid of the second change signal. The concatenation of the part change signals to a second change signal helps to avoid the problems of a step-by-step re-adjustment stated at the outset.

[0083] The at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the second change signal in step 30. In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the second change signal with the aid of a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0084] In response to the receipt of the first and second change signal a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, in step 31, calculates a first change speed. For example a change speed can be calculated as: [0085] a speed of the motor-driven fan 3, [0086] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 4, [0087] a setting of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0088] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 9.

[0089] The calculation is undertaken taking into account the first and the second change signal. For example the second change signal can specify the same end speed as the first change signal. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, nothing changes initially. The first change speed is thus limited so that, after the first change, no further change occurs initially.

[0090] In some embodiments, the second change signal can specify the same end position as the first change signal. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, nothing changes initially. The first change speed is thus limited so that, after the first change, no further change occurs initially.

[0091] The second change signal can further specify an end speed that points to a continuation of the change. In this case, after the implementation of the change at at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues to change. The first change speed is thus selected so that after the change initially a further change in the same direction occurs. In the case of a continued change the first change speed may be higher than in the case of a restricted change.

[0092] Moreover the second change signal can specify an end position that points to the continuation of the change. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the position continues to change. The first change speed is thus selected so that, after the change, initially a further change in the same direction occurs. In the case of a continued change the first change speed may be higher than in the case of a restricted change.

[0093] In step 32 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins the implementation of the first change. In this case the first change speed is taken into account. In particular the motor-driven fan 3 can begin a first change of its speed. The air flap 4 can further begin a first change of its flap position. Likewise the fuel valve 7, 8 or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change of their valve positions. What is more, the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change of its flap position.

[0094] It is possible for the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 to take into account an actual variable in the calculation of the first change speed. Thus, in the execution sequence in accordance with FIG. 3, the steps 37 to 40 execute in a similar way to the steps 27 to 30 from FIG. 2.

[0095] In a step 41 a sensor sends the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 a sensor signal that specifies an actual variable. The actual variable can for example be [0096] a current speed of the motor-driven fan 3, [0097] a current position of an actuator of an air flap 4, [0098] a current position of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0099] a current position of an actuator of an air flap 9.

[0100] In step 42 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal. In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal with the aid of a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol. In some embodiments, the is for a two-channel Hall sensor and is part of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. Thus the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the sensor signal directly from its sensor.

[0101] Moreover, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can convert the sensor signal into an actual variable. For example the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can comprise an analog-to-digital converter. The analog-to-digital converter has a communication connection to a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and to the sensor. In this case the analog-to-digital converter converts the sensor signal into an actual variable such as for example a speed or a position. The actual variable can be further processed by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9.

[0102] In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a Delta-Sigma converter. For example the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can comprise a Delta-Sigma converter. The Delta-Sigma converter has a communication connection to a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and to the sensor. In this case the Delta-Sigma converter converts the sensor signal into an actual variable such as for example a speed or a position. The actual variable can be further processed by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9.

[0103] The receipt of the sensor signal in step 42 can precede or come after the receipt of the first change signal in step 38. The receipt of the sensor signal in step 42 can precede or come after the receipt of the second change signal in step 40.

[0104] In response to the receipt of the first and second change signal and of the sensor signal a processing unit calculates the first change speed. For example the change speed can be calculated as [0105] a speed of the motor-driven fans 3, [0106] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 4, [0107] a setting of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0108] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 9.

[0109] The calculation is undertaken taking into account the first and the second change signal and taking into account the sensor signal. In a specific form of embodiment the calculation is undertaken exclusively taking into account the first and the second change signal and the sensor signal.

[0110] For example the processing unit of the at least one first actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can determine a first end value from a first change signal. Subsequently a difference d.sub.1 between the first end value and the actual variable is calculated. Furthermore the processing unit of the at least one first actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can determine from the second change signal a second end value. Subsequently a difference d.sub.2 between the second end value and the first end value is calculated.

[0111] Now the leading sign of the first difference d.sub.1 can be different from the leading sign of the second difference d.sub.2:

[00001]$\mathrm{sig}\left(d_1\right)\mathrm{sig}\left(d_2\right)$

[0112] Thus, when the first end value is reached, a change in direction of the change takes place. The first change speed is thus to be selected smaller than it is in a case in which the leading signs of the first difference d.sub.1 and the second difference d.sub.2 are the same:

[00002]$\mathrm{sig}\left(d_1\right)=\mathrm{sig}\left(d_2\right)$

[0113] In step 43 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins the implementation of the first change. In this case the first change speed is taken into account. In particular the motor-driven fan 3 can begin a first change of its speed. The air flap 4 can further begin a first change of its flap position. Likewise the fuel valve 7, 8 or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change of their valve positions. What is more, the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change of its flap position.

[0114] In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 may take into account more than two change signals in the establishment or calculation of the first change speed. Thus, in the execution in accordance with FIG. 4, the steps 47 to 50 execute in a similar way to the steps 27 to 30 from FIG. 2.

[0115] In a step 51 the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends a third change signal. The third change signal is sent to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion apparatus.

[0116] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends the third change signal with the aid of a communication bus to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The communication bus can for example be a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol is used for the transmission of the third change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid change signals being transmitted incorrectly.

[0117] The third change signal, which is sent by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16, can be a concatenation of a number of part change signals. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 generates a number of individual part change signals for a third change signal and concatenates them. Thus the part change signals are intermediate steps on the way to the third change signal. In this case each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover with aid of the third change signal. Preferably each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover overall with the aid of the third change signal. The concatenation of the part change signals to a third change signal helps to avoid the problems of a step-by-step re-adjustment stated at the outset.

[0118] In step 52 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the third change signal. In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the third change signal with the aid of a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0119] In response to the receipt of the first to third change signals a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 calculates a first change speed in step 53. For example a change speed of [0120] a speed of the motor-driven fans 3, [0121] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 4, [0122] a setting of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0123] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 9.
can be calculated. The calculation is undertaken taking into account the first and the second and the third change signal. In one form of embodiment the calculation is undertaken exclusively taking into account the first and the second and the third change signal.

[0124] For example the third change signal can specify the same end speed as the second change signal. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, nothing changes initially.

[0125] Furthermore for example the third change signal can specify the same end position as the second change signal. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, nothing changes initially.

[0126] The third change signal can further specify an end speed that points to a continuation of the change. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues. The first change speed is thus selected so that, after the change, first of all a further change in the same direction occurs. The first change speed, in the case of a continued change, may be higher than in the case of a restricted change.

[0127] Moreover the third change signal can specify an end position that points to a continuation of the change. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 the position continues. The first change speed is thus selected so that, after the change, first of all a further change in the same direction occurs. The first change speed, in the case of a continued change, may be higher than in the case of a restricted change.

[0128] In step 54 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins the implementation of the first change. In this case the first change speed is taken into account. In particular the motor-driven fan 3 can begin a first change of its change speed. The air flap 4 can further begin a first change of its flap position. Likewise the fuel valve 7, 8 or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a first change of their valve positions. What is more the fuel flap 9 can begin a first change of its flap position.

[0129] It is possible for the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 to take account of more than two change signals in the establishment or calculation of the first change speed. In particular a change signal can also arrive during a first change. Thus, in the execution sequence in accordance with FIG. 5, the steps 57 to 62 execute in a similar way to the steps 27 to 32 from FIG. 2.

[0130] In a step 63 the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends the fourth change signal. The fourth change signal is sent to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion apparatus. The fourth change signal is in general different from the third change signal from step 51 in FIG. 3.

[0131] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 sends the fourth change signal with the aid of a communication bus to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The communication bus can for example be a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol is used for the transmission of the fourth change signal. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid change signals being transmitted in error.

[0132] The fourth change signal, which is sent by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16, can be a concatenation of a number of part change signals. This means that the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 generates a number of individual part change signals for a fourth change signal and concatenates them. Thus the part change signals are intermediate steps on the path to the fourth change signal. In this case each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover with the aid of the fourth change signal. In some embodiments, each part change signal specifies a section of a path that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is to cover overall with the aid of the fourth change signal. The concatenation of the part change signals to a fourth change signal helps to avoid the problems of a step-by-step re-adjustment stated at the outset.

[0133] The at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the fourth change signal in step 64. In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 receives the fourth change signal with the aid of a digital communication bus and using a digital communication protocol.

[0134] In response to the receipt of the first, second and fourth change signals a processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 calculates a second change speed in step 65. For example a speed of change of [0135] a speed of the motor-driven fan 3, [0136] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 4, [0137] a setting of an actuator of a fuel valve 7, 8, and/or [0138] a setting of an actuator of an air flap 9.
can be calculated. The calculation is undertaken at least taking into account the second and the fourth change signal. The calculation may be undertaken taking into account the first, the second and the fourth change signal. The calculation is undertaken taking into account the first, the second and the fourth change signal.

[0139] In step 66 the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 begins the implementation of the second change. In this step the second change speed is taken into account. In particular the motor-driven fan 3 can begin a second change of its speed. The air flap 4 can further begin a second change of its flap position. Likewise the fuel valve 7, 8 or the fuel valves 7-9 can begin a second change of their valve positions. What is more the fuel flap 9 can begin a second change of its flap position.

[0140] For example the fourth change signal can specify the same end speed as the second change signal. In this case, after implementation of the change at at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 initially nothing changes. The second change speed is thus restricted so that, after the change, initially no further change occurs. This means that, when the end speed that corresponds to the second and fourth change signal is reached, no further change is made.

[0141] Furthermore for example the fourth change signal can specify the same end position as the second change signal. In this case, after the implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 initially nothing changes. The second change speed is thus restricted so that, after the change, initially no further change occurs. This means that, when the end speed that corresponds to the second and fourth change signal is reached, no further change is made.

[0142] The fourth change signal can further specify an end speed that points to a continuation of the change. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the speed continues to change. The second change speed is thus selected so that, after the change, initially a further change in the same direction occurs. The second change speed, in the case of a continued change, may be higher than in the case of a restricted change. The second change speed can in this case be the same as the first change speed.

[0143] Moreover, the fourth change signal can specify an end position that points to a continuation of the change. In this case, after implementation of the change at the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, the position changes further. The second change speed is thus selected so that, after the change, initially a further change in the same direction occurs. The second change speed in the case of a continued change may be higher than in the case of a limited change. The second change speed can in this case be the same as the first change speed.

[0144] During the first change of the speed and/or the position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, returns one or more signals. The at least one signal returned involves one or more first speed or position signals. Likewise at least one flow sensor, such as the mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11, can return one or more first signals. Moreover a flow sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 can return one or more first signals. The one or more first confirmation signals are sent to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 or to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The one or more first confirmation signals may be transferred with the aid of a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol is used for the transmission of the one or more confirmation signals. A digital communication protocol and a digital communication bus help to avoid speed or position signals being transmitted in error.

[0145] In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 receives the one or more first confirmation signals. In some embodiments, the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 receives the first confirmation signal or the number of first speed or position signals with the aid of a digital communication bus. In some embodiments, a digital communication protocol and/or a digital communication bus protocol are used.

[0146] As a response to the receipt of the one or more first confirmation signals the result can be a comparison with a first end value. The first end value can for example be a first end speed and/or a first end position. The first end value can further be an end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The first end value can moreover be an end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25.

[0147] The comparison may be carried out by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The comparison can further be carried out by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The first end speed and/or the first end position can be a first end speed and/or first end position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. The first end value can further be an end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The first end value can moreover be an end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25. Each first end value corresponds to the first change signal.

[0148] For example the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 can determine the first end speed and/or first end position by concatenation of the above-mentioned part change signals. The closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 can further determine the first end speed and/or first end position by summation of the above-mentioned part change signals.

[0149] In an embodiment with fan 3, each first speed signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is compared individually with the first end speed. Likewise each first flow signal of the sensor 13 can be compared individually with the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11.

[0150] The comparison or the comparisons can be carried out by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The comparison or the comparisons can likewise be carried out by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. For example a number of individual comparisons between one of the first speed signals and the first end speed can be carried out as part of the comparison. Furthermore a number of individual comparisons between one of the first signals of the flow sensor 13 and the first end value of the air supply 5 can be carried out as part of the comparison.

[0151] In some embodiments, the each first position signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is compared individually with the first end position. This relates to an air flap 4, a fuel valve 7, 8 or a fuel flap 9 for example. Likewise each first flow signal of a sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 can be compared individually with the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25.

[0152] The comparison or the comparisons can be carried out by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. The comparison or the comparisons can likewise be carried out by the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. For example a number of individual comparisons between one of the first position signals and the first end position can be carried out as part of the comparison. Likewise a number of individual comparisons between a first signal of a flow sensor in the fuel supply channel 25 and a first end value of the fuel gas supply 6 can be carried out as part of the comparison.

[0153] As a result of the comparison, the first speed signal from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can specify that the first end speed is yet to be reached. This means that the first end speed is not yet reached. Likewise the first position signal from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can specify that the first end position is yet to be reached. This means that the first end position is not yet reached. The first flow signal from the mass flow sensor 13 can further specify that the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is yet to be reached. This means that the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is not yet reached. Moreover the first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is yet to be reached. This means that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 is not yet reached.

[0154] In this case the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can change its speed locally with respect to compensating for an error.

[0155] Furthermore, as a result of the comparison, the first speed signal from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can specify that the first end speed is reached. Likewise, as a result of the comparison, the first position signal from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can specify that the first end position is reached. The first flow signal of a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can further specify that the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is reached. Moreover, the first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is reached. There is then likewise no correction made.

[0156] What is more, as a result of the comparison, each individual first speed signal can specify that the first end speed is yet to be reached. This means that the first end speed is not yet reached. Likewise, as a result of the comparison, each individual first position signal can specify that the first end position is yet to be reached. This means that the first end position is not yet reached. Each individual first flow signal of a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can specify that the first end value of the air supply 5 is yet to be reached. This means that the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is not yet reached. Moreover, each individual first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is yet to be reached. This means that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 is not yet reached.

[0157] In this case the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can change its speed locally with respect to compensating for an error.

[0158] Also, as a result of the comparison, each individual first speed signal can specify that the first end speed is reached or is reached exactly. Likewise, as a result of the comparison, each individual first position signal can specify that the first end position is reached or is reached exactly. Each individual first flow signal of a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can further specify that the first end value of the air supply 5 is reached or is reached exactly. Moreover, each individual first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is reached. What is more, each individual first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is reached exactly. In this case too no correction is made.

[0159] As a result of the comparison the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can have changed its speed and/or its position too much or too far. In this case a correction can be made. In particular the first speed signal can specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much or too far. The first position signal can also specify that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much or too far. The first flow signal of a sensor such as the mass flow sensor 13 can further specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much or too far.

[0160] Moreover, the first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much. Also the first signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 can specify that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too far.

[0161] At least one speed signal from a number of speed signals can further specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. At least one position signal from a number of position signals can also specify that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too much. At least one first flow signal of the one sensor 13 of a number of such signals can specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. In this case the sensor 13 is a sensor such as for example a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11. Moreover, at least one first signal of a flow sensor from a number of such signals can specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too much. In this case the flow sensor is a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25.

[0162] Moreover, at least one speed signal out of a number of speed signals can specify that the least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too far. At least one position signal out of a number of position signals can also specify that the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 has changed its position too far. At least one first flow signal of the one sensor 13 out of a number of such signals can further specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too far. In this case the sensor 13 is a sensor such as for example a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11. Moreover, at least one first signal of a flow sensor out of a number of such signals can specify that the at least one actuator 3 has changed its speed too far. In this case the flow sensor is a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25.

[0163] Within the framework of the correction the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 generates a correction signal. Likewise the processing unit of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can generate a correction signal. For example the second change signal can be determined from the above-mentioned first end speed and/or first end position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 of the combustion apparatus. The second change signal can further be determined from the comparison of at least one position signal of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 with an end signal. In particular the second change signal can be determined from the comparison of a last position signal received from the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 with the end signal.

[0164] For example the second change signal can be determined from the above-mentioned first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 to the burner 1. For example the second change signal can be determined from the above-mentioned first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 to the burner 1. The second change signal can further be determined from the comparison of at least one signal of a flow sensor in or on the air supply channel 11 with a corresponding end value. In this case the sensor 13 is a sensor such as for example a mass flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11.

[0165] The correction signal can moreover be determined from the comparison of at least one signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 with a corresponding end value.

[0166] From now on the correction signal can replace the first change signal. Thus the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can attempt, with the aid of the correction signal and not with the aid of the first change signal, to reach a new fan speed and/or a new position. Likewise the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can attempt, with the aid of the correction signal and not with the aid of the first change signal, to reach a new air supply 5. The at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 can further attempt, with the aid of the correction signal and not with the aid of the first change signal, to reach a new fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6.

[0167] There now follows a further comparison of the at least one second speed or position signal with the first end speed and/or first end position. Likewise a further comparison of at least one signal of a flow sensor 13 in or on the air supply channel 11 with the first end value of the air supply 5 can be made. Also a further comparison of at least one signal of a flow sensor in or on the fuel supply channel 25 with the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 can be made. The comparison can for example be carried out by the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16. Where necessary a further correction signal arises from the comparison. In one form of embodiment the process of changes, returned speed or position or flow signals, comparisons and correction iterates until such time as the first end speed and/or first end position is reached.

[0168] The above-mentioned correction of the speed or the position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 is unwanted. Likewise it is not very practicable for the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 to come to an abrupt halt when the first end speed or the first end position or the first end value is reached. Instead the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 needs time to brake.

[0169] Actually it is not very practicable for a fan 3 no longer to abruptly change its speed when it reaches its first end speed. Likewise it is not very practicable for a fan 3 abruptly no longer to change its speed when the air supply 5 reaches its end value. Instead the fan 3 needs time to slowly approach the first end speed or the first end value of the air supply 5. It is further not very practicable for an air flap 4 no longer to abruptly change its position when the air flap 4 reaches its first end position or the air supply 5 reaches its end value. Instead the actuator brakes the air flap 4 before the first end position of the air flap 4 is reached or before the first end value of the air supply 5 is reached.

[0170] Moreover it is not very practicable for a fuel valve 7, 8 no longer to abruptly change its position when the fuel valve 7, 8 reaches its first end position. Also it is not very practicable for a fuel valve 7, 8 no longer to abruptly change its position when the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 reaches its end value. Instead the actuator brakes the fuel valves 7, 8 before the first end position of the fuel valves 7, 8 is reached or before the first end value of the fuel gas supply 6 is reached. What is more it is not very practicable for a fuel flap 9 no longer to abruptly change its position when the fuel flap 9 reaches its first end position. Also it is not very practicable for a fuel flap 9 no longer to abruptly change its position when the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 reaches its end value. Instead the actuator brakes the fuel flap 9 before the first end position of the fuel flap 9 is reached or before the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 is reached.

[0171] To avoid abrupt stops a next change signal can be notified to the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 together with or after the first change signal. Such a process is described in the prior art.

[0172] The next change signal specifies a next speed or a next position of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. Likewise the next change signal can specify a next end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The next change signal can further specify a next end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25. The next speed or the next position or the next end value is to be moved to by the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 as soon as the first end speed or first end position is reached. This means that the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, after the first end speed, can move to a next end speed. Likewise the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9, after the first end position, can move to a next end position. The at least one actuator 3, after the first end value, can further be set to a next end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The at least one actuator 3, after the first end value, can further be regulated to a next end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. The at least one actuator 7-9, after the first end value, can further be set to a next end value of the fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25. The at least one actuator 7-9, after the first end value, can also be regulated to a next end value of the fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25.

[0173] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a processing unit in the form of a microcontroller. The microcontroller can for example be employed to generate and process signals such as correction signals and/or confirmation signals. In a further form of embodiment the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 comprises a processing unit in the form of a microprocessor. The microprocessor can for example be employed to generate and process signals such as correction signals and/or confirmation signals.

[0174] In one form of embodiment, based on the first change signal, an end speed or the first end speed can be determined. The first change of direction is then determined as a function of the initial speed of the at least one actuator 3 and the first end speed. Preferably the first change in direction A.sub.1 is a sign of a difference between the first end speed ED.sub.1 and the initial speed ID of the at least one actuator 3:

[00003]$A_1=\mathrm{sig}\left(E{D}_1-ID\right)$

Likewise, based on the first change signal, an end value or the end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 can be determined. The first change in direction is then determined as a function of the initial air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11. Preferably the first change in direction A.sub.1 is a sign of a difference between the first end value EWL.sub.1 of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the initial air supply 5, IL:

[00004]$A_1=\mathrm{sig}\left(EW{L}_1-IL\right)$

[0175] In a related form of embodiment, based on the first change signal, an end position or the first end position can be determined. The first change in direction is then determined as a function of the initial position of the at least one actuator 4, 7-9 and the first end position. In one form of embodiment the first change in direction A.sub.1 is a sign of a difference between the first end position EP.sub.1 and the initial position IP of the at least one actuator 4, 7-9:

[00005]$A_1=\mathrm{sig}\left(E{P}_1-IP\right)$

[0176] Likewise, based on the first change signal, an end value or the end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 can be determined. The first change in direction is then determined as a function of the initial fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 and of the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6. Preferably the first change in direction A.sub.1 is a sign of a difference between the first end value EWB.sub.1 of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 and the initial fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6, IB:

[00006]$A_1=\mathrm{sig}\left(EW{B}_1-IB\right)$

[0177] Furthermore the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor determines a second change in direction based on the further change signal. The determination is advantageously local, meaning that it is carried out by the microcontroller and/or the microprocessor of the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9. In this way the processing task load on the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 is relieved. Furthermore latencies as a result of signal transmissions between the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility 16 are avoided.

[0178] In the case of a fan 3 the second change in direction can be determined as a function of the first change signal and as a function of the further change signal. In particular, based on the first change signal, an end speed or the first end speed can be determined. From the further change signal a further end speed is determined. The second change in direction is then determined as a function of the first end speed and the further end speed. In one form of embodiment the second change in direction A.sub.2 is a sign of a difference between the further end speed ED.sub.w and the first end speed ED.sub.1:

[00007]$A_2=\mathrm{sig}\left(E{D}_w-E{D}_1\right)$

[0179] Likewise, based on the first change signal, an end value or the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 can be determined. From the further change signal an end value or the further end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 is determined. The second change in direction is then determined as a function of the first end value of the air supply 5 through the air supply channel 11 and the corresponding further end value. Preferably the second change in direction A.sub.2 is a sign of a difference between the further end value EWL.sub.w of the air supply 5 and the corresponding first end value EWL.sub.1:

[00008]$A_2=\mathrm{sig}\left(EW{L}_w-EW{L}_1\right)$

[0180] In the case of an air flap 4 or a fuel valve 7, 8 or a fuel flap 9 the determination of the second change in direction is undertaken in a corresponding way. The second change in direction is determined for example as a function of the first change signal and as a function of the further change signal. In particular, based on the first change signal, an end position or the first end position can be determined. From the further change signal a further end position is determined. The second change in direction is then determined as a function of the first end position and the further end position. In one form of embodiment the second change in direction A.sub.2 is a sign of a difference between the further end position EP.sub.w and the first end position EP.sub.1:

[00009]$A_2=\mathrm{sig}\left(E{P}_w-E{P}_1\right)$

[0181] Likewise, based on the first change signal, an end value or the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 can be determined. From the further change signal an end value or the further end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 is determined. The second change in direction is then determined as a function of the first end value of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 through the fuel supply channel 25 and of the corresponding further end value. Preferably the second change in direction A.sub.2 is a sign of a difference between the further end value EWB.sub.w of the fuel supply and/or fuel gas supply 6 and the corresponding first end value EWB.sub.1:

[00010]$A_2=\mathrm{sig}\left(EW{B}_w-EW{B}_1\right)$

[0182] The first and the second change in direction are compared with one another. If the first change in direction is not equal to the second change in direction, then the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 slows down the first change. Thus the first change speed is lowered. The first change in direction can further be opposite to the second change in direction. In particular the above-mentioned signs can be unequal and/or opposing. In this case too the at least one actuator 3, 4, 7-9 slows down the first change. Thus the first change speed is lowered.

[0183] In other words the present disclosure teaches a combustion apparatus comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion apparatus comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), that acts on a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25) to the burner (1), and a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16), which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) and communicatively couples with the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0184] to generate from a first end value a first change signal and to send the first change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0185] to generate from a second end value a second change signal and to send the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0186] wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) comprises a processing unit and is configured: [0187] to receive the first and the second change signal; [0188] with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second change signal, to determine a first change speed; and [0189] to begin a first change in a speed or a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) using the first change speed.

[0190] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured to complete the first change in the speed or the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) so that the first change takes place at the first change speed.

[0191] This means that the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) accelerates to the first change speed or brakes to the first change speed.

[0192] Preferably the first change speed is calculated by the processing unit.

[0193] Advantageously the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory in which a first end value is stored, and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0194] to load the first end value from the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16); and [0195] to generate a first change signal from the first end value.

[0196] Advantageously the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory in which a change curve is stored, and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0197] to load the change curve from the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16); [0198] to calculate the first end value from the change curve; and [0199] to generate a first change signal from the first end value.

[0200] Inter alia, the first end value can be [0201] a first end speed of a fan (3), [0202] a first end position of an air flap (4), [0203] a first end position of a fuel valve (7, 8), [0204] a first end position of a fuel flap (9), [0205] a first end value of an air supply (5) through the air supply channel (11), [0206] a first end value of a fuel supply (6) through the fuel supply channel (25).

[0207] Advantageously the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory in which a change curve or the change curve is stored, and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0208] to load the change curve from the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16); [0209] to calculate the second end value from the change curve; and [0210] to generate a second change signal from the second end value.

[0211] Inter alia, the second end value can be [0212] a second end speed of a fan (3), [0213] a second end position of an air flap (4), [0214] a second end position of a fuel valve (7, 8), [0215] a second end position of a fuel flap (9), [0216] a second end value of an air supply (5) through the air supply channel (11), [0217] a second end value of a fuel supply (6) through the fuel supply channel (25).

[0218] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a first plurality of part changes and is configured: [0219] to load the first plurality of part changes from the memory; and [0220] to determine the first end value based on the first plurality of part changes.

[0221] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0222] to calculate the first plurality of part changes from first curve support points; and [0223] to determine the first end value based on the first plurality of part changes.

[0224] The first curve support points are preferably stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16).

[0225] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a first plurality of part changes, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0226] to determine the first end value based on the first plurality of part changes by concatenation of the first plurality of part changes.

[0227] The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a second plurality of part changes and is configured: [0228] to load the second plurality of part changes from the memory; and [0229] to determine the second end value based on the first and/or the second plurality of part changes.

[0230] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a first plurality of part changes and at least one further part change and is configured: [0231] to load the second plurality of part changes from the memory; [0232] to load the at least one further part change from the memory; and [0233] to determine the second end value based on the first plurality of part changes and based on the at least one further part change.

[0234] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0235] to calculate the second plurality of part changes from second curve support points; and [0236] to determine the second end value based on the second plurality of part changes.

[0237] The second curve support points are preferably stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16).

[0238] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a second plurality of part changes, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0239] to determine the second end value based on the second plurality of part changes by concatenation of the second plurality of part changes.

[0240] The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a second plurality of part changes, wherein the first end value is equal to the second end value and wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0241] to generate the second change signal from the second end value, which is equal to the first change signal, and to send the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0242] When the first change signal is equal to the second change signal, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) remains stationary at the end. Thus, with the same change signals, the first change speed is lower than with dissimilar change signals.

[0243] Also with the same change signals two separate change signals are sent, which means that a first and a second change signal are sent. The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the combustion apparatus comprises at least one sensor and the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) communicatively couples with the at least one sensor, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured: [0244] to receive a first sensor signal from the at least one sensor; [0245] to determine from the first sensor signal with the aid of the processing unit a first actual variable, selected from [0246] a first actual speed of the at least one actuator (3) or [0247] a first actual position of the at least one actuator (4, 7-9); and [0248] with the aid of the processing unit based on the first and the second change signal and the first actual variable, to determine the first change speed.

[0249] In one form of embodiment, with the aid of the processing unit based on the first and the second change signal and the first actual variable, the first change speed is calculated.

[0250] The at least one sensor is advantageously embodied for repetitive recording of one or more signals corresponding to a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25). The at least one sensor is ideally embodied for repetitive sending of the one or more first confirmation signals for the first change. For example the one first confirmation signal or the number of first confirmation signals can be sent repetitively to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16). The one first confirmation signal or the number of first confirmation signals can further be sent repetitively to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). Furthermore the one first confirmation signal or the number of first confirmation signals can be distributed repetitively via a communication bus of the combustion apparatus to various units (3, 4, 7-9, 16) of the combustion apparatus.

[0251] The at least one sensor is ideally embodied for repetitive sending of the one or the number of further confirmation signals for the first change. For example the one further confirmation signal or the number of further confirmation signals can be sent repetitively to the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16). The one further confirmation signal or the number of further confirmation signals can further be sent repetitively to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). Furthermore the one further confirmation signal or the number of further confirmation signals can be distributed repetitively via a communication bus of the combustion apparatus to various units (3, 4, 7-9, 16) of the combustion apparatus.

[0252] The at least one sensor can for example be arranged in or on the at least one supply channel (11, 25). The at least one sensor may be different from the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16).

[0253] In a further form of embodiment the at least one sensor comprises a sensor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). In this way the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can comprise for example a speed sensor and/or a position sensor. Such a local sensor makes possible a local closed-loop control and/or open-loop control, for example by a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control facility of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0254] In a specific form of embodiment the at least one sensor is a sensor of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). In this way the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can for example comprise a speed sensor and/or a position sensor. Such a local sensor makes possible a local closed-loop control and/or open-loop control, for example by a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control facility, of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0255] Advantageously the at least one sensor is configured: [0256] during the continuous implementation of the first change of speed or of position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), to record one or more first confirmation signals for the first change and to send them to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0257] The one or more first confirmation signals for the first change can be one or more first confirmation signals with respect to the first change. The one or more further confirmation signals for the first change can be one or more further confirmation signals with respect to the first change.

[0258] In one form of embodiment the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises an analog-to-digital converter and is configured to process the one or more first confirmation signals with the aid of the analog-to-digital converter to a first return value. In a similar form of embodiment the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) can be a Delta-Sigma converter and is configured to process one or more first confirmation signals with the aid of the Delta-Sigma converter to a first return value.

[0259] Advantageously the at least one sensor is configured: [0260] if a first return value is outside a predetermined band about the first end value: [0261] during the continuous implementation of the first change of speed or of position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), to record one or more further confirmation signals for the first change and to send them to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0262] In one form of embodiment the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises an analog-to-digital converter and is configured to process the one or more further confirmation signals with the aid of the analog-to-digital converter to a further return value. In a similar form of embodiment the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a Delta-Sigma converter and is configured to process the one or more further confirmation signals with the aid of the Delta-Sigma converter to a further return value.

[0263] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: to generate a third change signal from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0264] wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured: [0265] to receive the third change signal; [0266] to establish the first change speed with the aid of the processing unit, based on the first and the second and the third change signal; and [0267] to begin the first change of speed or of a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) using the first change speed.

[0268] If need be, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can be braked to a change speed of zero.

[0269] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured to complete the first change of speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) so that the first change occurs at the first change speed.

[0270] This means that the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) accelerates to the first change speed or brakes to the first change speed.

[0271] Preferably the first change speed is calculated by the processing unit based on the first and the second and the third change signal.

[0272] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein a third plurality of part changes is stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) and the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0273] to load the third plurality of part changes from the memory; and [0274] to determine the third end value based on the third plurality of part changes.

[0275] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0276] to calculate the third plurality of part changes from third curve support points; and [0277] to determine the third end value based on the third plurality of part changes.

[0278] The third curve support points are preferably stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16).

[0279] Inter alia, the third end value can be [0280] a third end speed of a fan (3), [0281] a third end position of an air flap (4), [0282] a third end position of a fuel valve (7, 8), [0283] a third end position of a fuel flap (9), [0284] a third end value of an air supply (5) through the air supply channel (11), [0285] a third end value of a fuel supply (6) through the fuel supply channel (25).

[0286] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a third plurality of part changes, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0287] to determine the third end value based on the third plurality of part changes by concatenation of the third plurality of part changes.

[0288] The present disclosure furthermore teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a third end value, wherein the second end value is equal to the third end value and wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0289] to generate the third change signal, which is equal to the second change signal, from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0290] The present disclosure moreover teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a third end value, wherein the second end value is different from the third end value and wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0291] to generate the third change signal, which is different from the second change signal, from the third end value and to send the third change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0292] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is configured: [0293] to generate a fourth change signal from a fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0294] wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured: [0295] to receive the fourth change signal during the first change; [0296] to determine with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and/or the fourth change signal, a second change speed; and [0297] to begin a second change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) using the second change speed.

[0298] If need be, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can be braked to a change speed of zero.

[0299] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is configured to complete the second change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) so that the second change occurs at the second change speed.

[0300] This means that the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) accelerates to the second change speed or brakes to the second change speed.

[0301] Preferably the second change speed is calculated based on the second and the fourth change signal by the processing unit. Ideally the second change speed is calculated based on the first and the second and the fourth change signal by the processing unit. When more change signals are included in the calculation, the change speed is determined or calculated more in line with need.

[0302] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a fourth end value, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) comprises a memory with a fourth plurality of part changes and is configured: [0303] to load the fourth plurality of part changes from the memory; and
to determine the fourth end value based on the fourth plurality of part changes.

[0304] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is embodied: [0305] to calculate the fourth plurality of part changes from fourth curve support points; and [0306] to determine the fourth end value based on the fourth plurality of part changes.

[0307] The fourth curve support points are preferably stored in the memory of the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16).

[0308] Inter alia, the fourth end value can be [0309] a fourth end speed of a fan (3), [0310] a fourth end position of an air flap (4), [0311] a fourth end position of a fuel valve (7, 8), [0312] a fourth end position of a fuel flap (9), [0313] a fourth end value of an air supply (5) through the air supply channel (11), [0314] a fourth end value of a fuel supply (6) through the fuel supply channel (25).

[0315] The present disclosure further teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a fourth plurality of part changes, wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is embodied: [0316] to determine the fourth end value based on the fourth plurality of part changes by concatenation of the fourth plurality of part changes.

[0317] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a fourth end value, wherein the second end value is equal to the fourth end value and wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is embodied: [0318] to generate the fourth change signal, which is equal to the second change signal, from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0319] wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is embodied: [0320] with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and the fourth change signal, to establish the second change speed, wherein the second change speed is zero; and [0321] to begin the second change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) using the second change speed.

[0322] If need be, the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can be braked to a change speed of zero.

[0323] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is embodied to complete the second change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) so that the second change occurs at the second change speed.

[0324] This means that the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) accelerates to the second change speed or brakes to the second change speed.

[0325] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a fourth end value, wherein the second end value is different from the fourth end value and wherein the closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16) is embodied: [0326] to generate the fourth change signal, which is different from the second change signal, from the fourth end value and to send the fourth change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0327] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses while including a fourth end value, wherein the combustion apparatus comprises at least one sensor or the at least one sensor and the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) communicatively couples with the at least one sensor, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is embodied: [0328] to receive a second sensor signal from the at least one sensor; [0329] with the aid of the processing unit a second actual variable is selected from the second sensor signal [0330] to determine a second actual speed of the at least one actuator (3) or [0331] a second actual position of the at least one actuator (4, 7-9); and [0332] with the aid of the processing unit, based on the second and the fourth change signal and the second actual variable, to establish the second change speed.

[0333] In one form of embodiment the second change speed is calculated with the aid of the processing unit based on the second and the fourth change signal and the second actual variable.

[0334] The second sensor signal may be different from the first sensor signal.

[0335] The present disclosure also teaches one of the aforementioned combustion apparatuses, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) comprises a processing unit and wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) communicatively couples with the at least one sensor, wherein the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) is embodied: [0336] during the implementation of the first change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), to receive the one or more first confirmation signals for the first change from the at least one sensor; [0337] to process the one or more first confirmation signals to the first return value; [0338] to determine with the aid of the processing unit the first end value from the first change signal; [0339] to compare the first return value with the first end value with the aid of the processing unit; and [0340] if the first return value is outside of the predetermined band about the first end value and the first return value specifies that the first end value is yet to be reached: [0341] to continue the implementation of the first change of the speed or of the position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0342] Inter alia, the processing unit of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can comprise a microcontroller or a microprocessor. The processing unit of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) can in particular be a microcontroller or a microprocessor.

[0343] In one form of embodiment the processing unit of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) communicatively couples with the at least one sensor.

[0344] In one form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) comprises an analog-to-digital converter, which communicatively couples with the processing unit of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9). In a similar form of embodiment the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) comprises a Delta-Sigma converter, which communicatively couples with the processing unit of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9).

[0345] The present disclosure moreover teaches a method for closed-loop control and/or open-loop control of a combustion apparatus, the combustion apparatus comprising a burner (1) and at least one supply channel (11, 25) in fluid communication with the burner (1), the combustion apparatus comprising at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), which acts on a supply (5, 6) of a fluid through the at least one supply channel (11, 25) to the burner (1), and a closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility (16), which is different from the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) and communicatively couples with the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9), the method comprising the steps: [0346] generation of a first change signal from a first end value and sending the first change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0347] generation of a second change signal from a second end value and sending the second change signal to the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0348] receipt of the first and the second change signal by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); [0349] establishing a first change speed based on the first and the second change signal by the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9); and
beginning a first change of a speed or of a position of the at least one actuator (3, 4, 7-9) using the first change speed.

[0350] With the aid of the corresponding method steps the above-mentioned method can implement any embodiments of one of the above-mentioned combustion apparatuses.

[0351] What has been said relates to individual forms of embodiment of the disclosure. Various changes to the forms of embodiment can be made without deviating from the underlying idea and without departing from the framework of this disclosure. The subject matter of the present disclosure is defined by its claims. A very wide variety of changes can be made without departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

[0352] 1 Burner [0353] 2 Heat consumer (heat exchanger) [0354] 3 Motor-driven fan [0355] 4 (Motor-adjustable) air flap [0356] 5 Air supply (particle and/or mass flow) or flow through the channel [0357] 11 [0358] 6 Fluid flow of a combustible fluid (fuel supply) [0359] 7, 8 Fuel valves, in particular safety-oriented fuel valves [0360] 9 (Motor-adjustable) fuel flap [0361] 10 Exhaust gas stream [0362] 11 Air supply channel [0363] 12 Connection point [0364] 13 Mass flow sensor [0365] 14 Flow resistance element (aperture) [0366] 15 Throughflow or flow in the side channel [0367] 16 Closed-loop control and/or open-loop control and/or supervision facility [0368] 17-22 Signal lines [0369] 23 Air inlet [0370] 24 Side channel [0371] 25 Fuel supply channel [0372] 26 Exhaust gas path [0373] 27 Sending of the first change signal [0374] 28 Receipt of the first change signal [0375] 29 Sending of the second change signal [0376] 30 Receipt of the second change signal [0377] 31 Calculation of the first change speed [0378] 32 Beginning and/or implementation of the first change [0379] 37 Sending of the first change signal [0380] 38 Receipt of the first change signal [0381] 39 Sending of the second change signal [0382] 40 Receipt of the second change signal [0383] 41 Sending of the sensor signal [0384] 42 Receipt of the sensor signal [0385] 43 Calculation of the first change speed [0386] 44 Beginning and/or implementation of the first change [0387] 47 Sending of the first change signal [0388] 48 Receipt of the first change signal [0389] 49 Sending of the second change signal [0390] 50 Receipt of the second change signal [0391] 51 Sending of the third change signal [0392] 52 Receipt of the third change signal [0393] 53 Calculation of the first change speed [0394] 54 Beginning and/or implementation of the first change [0395] 57 Sending of the first change signal [0396] 58 Receipt of the first change signal [0397] 59 Sending of the second change signal [0398] 60 Receipt of the second change signal [0399] 61 Calculation of the first change speed [0400] 62 Beginning and/or implementation of the first change [0401] 63 Receipt of the fourth change signal [0402] 64 Sending of the fourth change signal [0403] 65 Calculation of the second change speed [0404] 66 Beginning and/or implementation of the second change