Excitation (identification test): what it means and how to use it

Excitation is a short, controlled ON/OFF test (typically a few hours) designed to create clean data for thermal model identification. It is not normal automation, but a guided test to improve model quality.

What does excitation mean?

The idea is to create a clear change in heating power so the system can learn how the zone heats up and cools down.

ON/OFF cycling: the system toggles heating on/off in fixed cycles (for example 30 min ON, 30 min OFF).
Better data: clear transitions make identification more reliable than in steady-state operation.
Does not identify automatically: excitation generates data; identification is run separately (for example ?Identify model from last test?).

When should you run excitation?

When identification produces unrealistic parameters or values hit clamps.
When RolloutRMSE is much larger than RMSE (poor long-horizon prediction).
When history lacks clear ON/OFF periods and heating is too steady.
After changing sensor placement, heating power, or the physical setup.
To improve 2R2C identification (e.g. floor heating, high thermal mass).

Before you start (important)

Excitation temporarily changes heating behavior. Run it in a controlled way and preferably when small temperature swings are acceptable.

Safety first: do not run excitation if the load cannot handle frequent ON/OFF control or there is a risk of overheating.
Choose a good time: night often works best (fewer door openings, less sun and internal disturbances).
Sensor placement: sensor placement matters the most (not on/above heater, no drafts, no direct sun).
Heating power: set heating power as close to reality as possible.
Data quality: ensure temperature (and power, if used) updates regularly without long gaps.

How to run excitation (step by step)

You can start excitation from MPC settings under the Model Quality tab. During the test the device cycles ON/OFF to produce a clear response.

Open MPC settings Select the device and go to the Model Quality tab.
Start excitation Click ?Run identification test?. The system starts controlled ON/OFF cycling.
Monitor Make sure the temperature evolves sensibly and does not exceed your limits.
Stop if needed You can stop the test at any time.

What to do after excitation?

Excitation generates a high-quality data segment, but the model is not updated until you run identification.

Identify from the run Click ?Identify model from last test? or select the same time window and run identification manually.
Check model quality Pay attention to RolloutRMSE and whether parameters hit clamps.
Repeat if needed If results are still weak, try a longer run and verify sensor placement and heating power.

Safety and limitations

Excitation is a test and may temporarily increase or decrease heating compared to normal use.
Do not run it if there is a risk of overheating or if ON/OFF control is not acceptable for the load.
If MPC/online control is enabled, excitation is not meant to be run at the same time.
Best data comes with minimal disturbances (doors, sun, sauna, fireplace, large internal loads).

Troubleshooting

Why did identification not improve after excitation?

Common causes are sensor placement (too close to heater), incorrect heating power, or too little temperature response to ON/OFF cycles. Try a longer run and choose a calmer time window.

Can I run excitation during the day?

Yes, but quality may drop due to sunlight, door openings and other disturbances. Night is often best.

After identification, return to the MPC guide to continue setup (preview, save and enable).

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