Motorised Radiator Valve Harvests Thermal Energy for Battery Free Operation

German manufactures Micropelt are producing an intelligent thermostatic radiator valve (iTRV) that uses a thermogenerator chip to convert thermal energy (heat) into electricity.  This allows them to create a battery-free self powering unit that, in condjuction with its build in EnOcean radio, becomes part of a smart home heating control system. Check out the video below…
Smart valve with multiple features - The Micropelt thermogenerator chip MPG-D65x converts the temperature difference between the radiator and the ambient room temperature into electrical energy. The thermo voltage is stabilized, managed and stored by our efficient power management circuitry, which drives the actuator as well as the wireless communication.

The energy-friendly actuator design including gear and motor as well as the ultra-low power electronics keep the energy consumption at a minimum. Therefore the iTRV delivers multiple adjustments per day and CAN communicate regularly with the room controller.
The smart valve is equipped with a rechargeable storage element to accumulate surplus energy for the transition months in spring and fall. In summer the iTRV automatically enters sleep mode but wakes up again routinely as soon as the heating is turned back on.



Functions

Battery and maintenance free operation
Communicates bi-directional with EnOcean radio
Compact design 60x70x50mm
Easy retro-fit to existing radiators
Status information to visualize energy-management
Energy-friendly valve gear allows multiple adjustments per day
Exact valve position guarantees precise room temperature
Thermal optimized housing maximizes operation
Self-starting system, also with low inlet temperatures and during transition periods
Automatic sleep mode during summer period