Residential building envelope intelligent temperature adjusting system based on phase change materials

Abstract

The invention discloses an intelligent temperature adjusting system for a residential building envelope based on a phase-change material, and aims to solve the problems that in the prior art, the passive temperature adjusting capacity of the phase-change material is limited, and the phase-change material is lack of cooperation with an active temperature control system, so that the indoor temperature fluctuates, and the energy consumption is high. According to the scheme, the system is characterized by comprising a phase-change material layer laid on the inner side of the enclosure structure, a temperature sensor for monitoring the internal temperature of the phase-change material layer, an indoor temperature sensor, a control unit and a temperature adjusting module composed of a fluid circulating pipeline, a circulating pump and a fluid temperature adjuster. The control unit starts the temperature adjusting module according to the continuous deviation between the indoor temperature and a set target and accurately controls the output temperature of the fluid temperature adjuster and the flow of the circulating pump according to the real-time temperature of the phase change material layer, and therefore the thermal state of the phase change material layer is actively managed. The system is mainly used for improving the heat stability in a house and achieving intelligent regulation and control of energy conservation and comfort.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of building energy conservation and intelligent indoor environment control technology. More specifically, this invention relates to an intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of building energy conservation and indoor thermal environment control, utilizing the latent heat storage characteristics of phase change materials (PCMs) to improve the thermal inertia of building envelopes is a common technical approach. However, relying solely on passive PCM layers means that their temperature regulation behavior depends entirely on fluctuations in ambient temperature, exhibiting significant lag and passivity. When outdoor temperatures change drastically or there are sudden heat loads indoors, simply relying on the passive heat absorption and release of PCMs is often insufficient to maintain stable indoor temperatures and meet precise comfort requirements. The fundamental reason is that once the phase change process of the material itself begins or ends, its temperature regulation capability is significantly weakened, making it unable to cope with continuous or extreme heat loads.

[0003] To overcome the shortcomings of passive regulation, existing technologies combine phase change materials (PCMs) with active heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. However, these methods typically treat the two as relatively independent systems and simply superimpose them, resulting in a rather crude control strategy. A common practice is to directly control the active system's start and stop based on indoor air temperature, ignoring the real-time thermal state of the PCM layer itself. This can easily lead to the active system intervening prematurely when the PCM still has room to regulate, resulting in energy waste; or reacting late when the material's energy storage is depleted, affecting comfort. Achieving synergy and precise linkage between the heat storage and release state of the PCM and the operation of the active system remains a problem that has not yet been properly solved.

[0004] Furthermore, in attempting to achieve the aforementioned coordinated control, the formulation of the control logic faces practical difficulties. If only a slight deviation of the indoor temperature from the set value is used as the activation condition, the system will be overly sensitive to minor fluctuations caused by human activity or brief window openings, leading to frequent start-stop cycles of equipment such as water pumps and compressors. This not only increases energy consumption but also accelerates equipment wear. Conversely, setting an excessively large temperature dead zone to improve stability will result in a sluggish system response, with the indoor temperature already far from the comfortable range when real adjustment is needed. Therefore, designing a control strategy that can effectively filter interference while responding promptly to the actual heat load is a challenge in practical applications.

[0005] Furthermore, in larger residences, the heat load varies significantly between rooms facing different directions. Treating the entire residence as a homogeneous area for uniform control can lead to overheating in south-facing rooms and undercooling in north-facing rooms, resulting in poor uniformity of the indoor thermal environment. On the other hand, configuring each room with an independent, complete temperature control system presents problems such as high cost, complex piping, inconvenient installation, and a lack of coordination between systems. Therefore, how to achieve economical and reasonable zoning and coordinated control while ensuring effective regulation and meeting individual user needs is also a problem that needs to be addressed in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0006] One object of the present invention is to solve at least the above-mentioned problems and to provide at least the advantages that will be described later.

[0007] To achieve these objectives and other advantages according to the present invention, an intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelope based on phase change material is provided, comprising a phase change material layer laid on the inner surface of the building envelope, a phase change material layer temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer, an indoor temperature sensor installed in the building interior, a control unit connected to the phase change material layer temperature sensor and the indoor temperature sensor, and a temperature control module. The temperature control module includes a fluid circulation pipe, a circulation pump, and a fluid temperature regulator. The fluid circulation pipe is uniformly laid in the phase change material layer. The circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator are connected in series to the fluid circulation pipe. The control unit is signal-connected to the circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator. The control unit receives the real-time indoor temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor and compares the real-time indoor temperature with the target temperature set by the user. When the real-time indoor temperature remains higher than the target temperature for a first set duration, the control unit activates the temperature control module and, based on the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer temperature sensor, controls the fluid temperature regulator to lower the circulating fluid temperature to a first temperature set point and controls the circulating pump to drive the circulating fluid flow at a first flow rate. When the real-time indoor temperature remains lower than the target temperature for a second set duration, the control unit activates the temperature control module and, based on the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer temperature sensor, controls the fluid temperature regulator to raise the circulating fluid temperature to a second temperature set point and controls the circulating pump to drive the circulating fluid flow at a second flow rate.

[0008] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to add a temperature difference threshold to the judgment condition for activating the temperature control module; the temperature difference threshold is the absolute value of the difference between the real-time indoor temperature and the target temperature; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and reduce the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously higher than the target temperature for a first set time and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and increase the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously lower than the target temperature for a second set time and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C.

[0009] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to acquire the outdoor maximum and minimum temperatures forecasted for the next 12 to 24 hours; when the outdoor maximum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor maximum temperature occurs, precooling the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer and running it for 30 to 60 minutes; when the outdoor minimum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor minimum temperature occurs, preheating the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer and running it for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0010] Preferably, the temperature regulation range of the circulating fluid by the fluid temperature regulator is limited by the control unit; in the operation of lowering the circulating fluid temperature, the first temperature set point is not lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer minus 15°C; in the operation of raising the circulating fluid temperature, the second temperature set point is not higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer plus 15°C.

[0011] Preferably, the system includes two or more independent temperature-regulating zones, each covering room areas with different orientations or functions in the building; each temperature-regulating zone is independently equipped with the phase change material layer, the phase change material layer temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer, the indoor temperature sensor located in the zone, and the fluid circulation pipe laid in the phase change material layer; the fluid circulation pipe, the circulation pump, and the fluid temperature regulator are independently configured as one set for each temperature-regulating zone; the control unit is used to receive and process the sensor data of each temperature-regulating zone, and independently control the operation of the circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator of the corresponding zone.

[0012] Preferably, the control unit is further configured to calculate and compare the average value of the real-time indoor temperature of all the temperature-controlled zones; when the difference between the real-time indoor temperature of a certain temperature-controlled zone and the average value exceeds 3°C, and the zone is in a non-active temperature-controlled state, the control unit activates the temperature-controlled module of that zone to perform auxiliary equalization adjustment, so that the real-time indoor temperature of that zone approaches the average value.

[0013] Preferably, the phase change material layer is composed of multiple phase change material plate units spliced ​​together, and the fluid circulation pipe is fixedly laid in the back groove of the phase change material plate unit in a serpentine manner; an air gap of 5 mm to 20 mm is provided between the phase change material layer and the inner surface of the building envelope.

[0014] Preferably, the system further includes an airflow driving device disposed within the air gap; the control unit is controlled and connected to the airflow driving device; when the control unit determines that the temperature detected by the phase change material layer temperature sensor is higher than 32°C or lower than 15°C, and the indoor temperature control requirement does not require the temperature adjustment module to be activated, the control unit activates the airflow driving device to promote airflow within the air gap.

[0015] The present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: By integrating a material layer with a specific phase change temperature into the inner side of the building envelope and coupling it with an actively controllable fluid circulation temperature regulation module, a novel building envelope combining passive heat storage and release with active regulation capabilities is constructed. This structure leverages the characteristic of phase change materials to absorb or release large amounts of latent heat within their phase change temperature range, effectively mitigating temperature fluctuations caused by changes in outdoor weather or intermittent indoor heat sources, thus improving the stability of the indoor thermal environment. Based on continuously monitored indoor and outdoor temperature parameters, the system intelligently makes decisions, activating active temperature regulation only when necessary, thereby reducing the energy consumption of traditional HVAC systems that require frequent start-ups and shutdowns or continuous operation to maintain a constant temperature.

[0016] The temperature difference threshold judgment mechanism introduced into the system control logic can effectively distinguish between persistent temperature deviations and transient fluctuations. This avoids triggering system responses due to minor temperature changes caused by temporary personnel activities, door opening and closing, etc., significantly reducing the number of invalid start-stop cycles for mechanical and electrical components in the temperature control module. This helps reduce equipment wear, extend the service life of critical equipment such as water pumps and compressors, and saves the additional energy consumption caused by frequent start-stop cycles, improving the economy and reliability of system operation.

[0017] By integrating external weather forecast data and implementing proactive pre-adjustment, the system overcomes the lag inherent in traditional feedback control. Before anticipated high or low temperatures arrive, the thermal state of the phase change material layer is adjusted to a direction more conducive to handling the upcoming heat load, thereby enhancing the thermal inertia buffering capacity of the building envelope. This results in a more gradual rise or fall in indoor temperature when faced with severe external thermal disturbances, reducing peak loads and improving both living comfort and system energy efficiency.

[0018] The system has clearly defined upper and lower limits for the active temperature control range, which limits the operating temperature of the circulating fluid within a safe range. This effectively prevents extreme high or low fluid temperatures caused by control logic failures, sensor malfunctions, or incorrect parameter settings, avoiding potential safety risks such as pipe condensation, freezing damage, and accelerated material aging, thus enhancing the long-term stability and safety of the entire system.

[0019] The zonal independent control architecture allows for differentiated temperature management in areas of the residence with different orientations and functions. Each zone operates independently based on its own heat load and user settings, resolving the issue of localized overcooling or overheating that may occur under unified control. Coupled with zone-based temperature equalization adjustment, it can suppress excessive temperature differences between different areas while respecting individual needs, promoting the uniformity of the overall indoor thermal environment and achieving a better balance between comfort and refined energy consumption management.

[0020] The modular phase change material (PCM) panel units and prefabricated pipe trenches facilitate standardized production, transportation, and rapid on-site installation. The air gap between the panel and the wall creates an additional static air thermal resistance. This helps reduce direct heat conduction between the PCM layer and the building structure, allowing the system's temperature regulation to focus more effectively on the indoor environment, improving the targeted and efficient heat regulation, and also facilitating routine inspection and maintenance.

[0021] In situations where the active temperature control system is not involved, a low-power airflow drive device added within the air gap provides a supplementary regulation method. When the phase change material layer itself is in an extreme temperature range, forced convection can enhance the heat dissipation or heat storage process in this concealed space, providing a pre- or auxiliary buffering mechanism for the main system. This expands the system's regulation capabilities during transitional seasons or specific weather conditions, improving the overall system's environmental adaptability and regulation potential at a lower energy cost.

[0022] Other advantages, objectives and features of the present invention will become apparent in part from the following description, and in part from those skilled in the art through study and practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent temperature control system for the building envelope of a residential building as described in this invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fluid circulation pipeline of the present invention laid in the phase change material layer. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can implement it based on the description.

[0025] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the experimental methods described in the following embodiments are all conventional methods, and the reagents and materials described are all commercially available unless otherwise specified. In the description of this invention, the terms "lateral", "longitudinal", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0026] like Figures 1-2 As shown, the present invention provides an intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelope based on phase change material, including a phase change material layer 1 laid on the inner surface of the building envelope, a phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer 1, an indoor temperature sensor installed in the building interior, a control unit connected to the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor and the indoor temperature sensor, and a temperature control module. The temperature control module includes a fluid circulation pipe 2, a circulation pump 3, and a fluid temperature regulator 4. The fluid circulation pipe 2 is uniformly laid in the phase change material layer 1. The circulation pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4 are connected in series to the fluid circulation pipe 2. The control unit is signal connected to the circulation pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4. The control unit receives the real-time indoor temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor and compares the real-time indoor temperature with the target temperature set by the user. When the real-time indoor temperature remains higher than the target temperature for a first set duration, the control unit activates the temperature control module and, based on the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor, controls the fluid temperature regulator 4 to lower the circulating fluid temperature to a first temperature set point and controls the circulating pump 3 to drive the circulating fluid flow at a first flow rate. When the real-time indoor temperature remains lower than the target temperature for a second set duration, the control unit activates the temperature control module and, based on the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor, controls the fluid temperature regulator 4 to raise the circulating fluid temperature to a second temperature set point and controls the circulating pump 3 to drive the circulating fluid flow at a second flow rate.

[0027] Specifically, during system construction, a paraffin-based or hydrated salt-based phase change material with a phase change temperature in the range of 22℃ to 26℃ can be selected to form a sheet as the phase change material layer 1. This layer is laid on the inner surface of the building's exterior wall or roof by bonding or dry hanging. A PT100 platinum resistance thermometer or a DS18B20 digital temperature sensor can be selected as the temperature sensor for the phase change material layer 1, with its probe inserted and fixed at the center of the thickness direction of the phase change material layer 1. A wall-mounted or embedded indoor temperature and humidity sensor can be selected as the indoor temperature sensor, installed on the wall in the indoor activity area at a height of 1.5m from the ground.

[0028] A microcontroller or programmable logic controller with analog and digital input / output interfaces can be selected as the core of the control unit, which is installed in the residential electrical distribution box or a dedicated equipment box. The control unit is connected to the two temperature sensors via signal cables. In the temperature control module, PEX or aluminum-plastic composite pipes can be used as the fluid circulation pipe 2, connected in parallel or series loops, and fixed to the mounting surface of the phase change material layer 1 using pipe clamps, or pre-embedded in the prefabricated channels of the phase change material plate. A low-noise micro centrifugal pump can be used as the circulation pump 3, and a semiconductor cooling / heating module with cooling and heating functions or a small air source heat pump unit can be used as the fluid temperature regulator 4. The circulation pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4 are connected in series through pipes and jointly connected to the main loop of the fluid circulation pipe 2, typically installed in a balcony, equipment platform, or kitchen ceiling. The control unit is connected to the start / stop terminals of the circulation pump 3 and the temperature setting interface of the fluid temperature regulator 4 via control cables.

[0029] The control unit operates continuously. Every minute, it reads the voltage or digital signal from the indoor temperature sensor via its input interface and converts it into a real-time indoor temperature value, such as 24.5°C. Simultaneously, the control unit stores or receives target temperatures preset by the user via a wall-mounted panel or mobile application. These target temperatures can be set to any value between 18°C ​​and 26°C, such as 25°C. The control unit's built-in comparison program calculates the difference between the current real-time indoor temperature and the target temperature.

[0030] The system has two preset duration thresholds to determine the stability of temperature trends. The first preset duration can be set to 20 minutes to determine whether cooling is needed; the second preset duration can be set to 25 minutes to determine whether heating is needed. The control unit checks whether the real-time indoor temperature has been continuously higher than the target temperature for 20 minutes. For example, if the indoor temperature remains above 25.5℃ from 1:00 PM to 1:20 PM, while the target temperature is 25℃, the condition is considered met. Conversely, for heating, the system checks whether the temperature has remained below the target temperature for 25 minutes.

[0031] When the condition of a sustained temperature 20 minutes above the target temperature is triggered, the control unit's execution program first sends a start command to the circulating pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4. Subsequently, the control unit reads the current value from the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor, for example, 26°C. The control logic calculates the first temperature setpoint based on this value and a preset rule. This rule can be: First temperature setpoint = Current phase change material layer 1 temperature - (5°C to 8°C), for example, set to 20°C. The control unit sends this target temperature command of 20°C to the fluid temperature regulator 4 via analog output or communication protocol. Simultaneously, the control unit sends a command to the circulating pump 3 to operate at a speed of 2.5 L / min, with this flow rate within the first preset flow rate range of 0.5 L / min to 5 L / min.

[0032] In heating mode, when the condition of a temperature consistently below the target temperature for 25 minutes is triggered, the control unit also starts the device first. Next, it reads the temperature sensor data for phase change material layer 1, for example, 19°C. The control logic calculates the second temperature setpoint, which can be based on the rule: Second temperature setpoint = Current phase change material layer 1 temperature + (4°C to 7°C), for example, set to 24°C. The control unit sends this temperature command to the fluid temperature regulator 4 and controls the circulation pump 3 to operate at a second flow rate of 1.8 L / min. Based on the received setpoint, the fluid temperature regulator 4 begins to cool or heat the liquid medium (such as water or ethylene glycol solution) in the circulation pipe. The circulation pump 3 drives this temperature-controlled liquid through the pipe embedded in the phase change material layer 1, thereby achieving efficient heat exchange with the phase change material layer 1, causing the phase change material to release or store latent heat, thus indirectly regulating the indoor thermal environment.

[0033] The aforementioned technical solution, by combining the heat storage characteristics of phase change materials with active fluid circulation temperature regulation, can improve the stability of indoor temperatures in residential buildings and reduce temperature fluctuations caused by changes in outdoor weather or indoor heat sources. The system automatically judges and responds based on continuous temperature differences and time conditions, reducing manual intervention and achieving intelligent management of the thermal inertia of the building envelope. By directly controlling the temperature of the phase change material layer 1, which is closely coupled with the indoor thermal environment, this solution can more effectively utilize the latent heat of phase change, smooth out load fluctuations in heating or air conditioning systems, and help reduce system energy consumption.

[0034] Furthermore, the control unit is also configured to add a temperature difference threshold to the judgment condition for activating the temperature control module; the temperature difference threshold is the absolute value of the difference between the real-time indoor temperature and the target temperature; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and reduce the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously higher than the target temperature for a first set time and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and increase the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously lower than the target temperature for a second set time and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C.

[0035] Specifically, a fixed parameter called "Temperature Difference Threshold" with a value of 2.0℃ can be set in the control unit's program. This parameter defines the minimum temperature difference at which the system deems it necessary to initiate active temperature control. This value is stored in the control unit's non-volatile memory and can be set through the engineer's debugging interface, but the user's regular operating interface does not provide modification options to ensure the stability of the system's basic logic. Each time the control unit reads the real-time indoor temperature (e.g., 24.8℃) and the user-set target temperature (e.g., 25.0℃), it immediately calculates the difference between the two. The absolute value is used in the calculation; for example, in the above case, the difference is 0.2℃. The control unit compares the calculated real-time difference with the stored 2.0℃ threshold.

[0036] An ARM Cortex-M series microcontroller with floating-point arithmetic capabilities can be selected as the core of the control unit, with its internal firmware implementing the aforementioned difference calculation and comparison logic. This microcontroller can be soldered onto a custom main control circuit board, which, along with other power supply and communication interface modules, is installed on a DIN rail in a residential electrical distribution box or in a dedicated metal control box. The signal cables connecting the microcontroller can use shielded RVVP cables to reduce interference from the household power grid and ensure the accuracy of temperature sampling and threshold comparison.

[0037] The control unit operates according to a strict logical AND relationship. Taking cooling demand as an example, the system will only execute an action if two conditions are met simultaneously. The first condition is a time condition: the real-time indoor temperature must remain above the target temperature for a first set duration (e.g., 20 minutes). The second condition is a temperature difference condition: at any point within the judgment period, the absolute value of the real-time temperature difference calculated from the first characteristic must reach or exceed 2.0℃.

[0038] In practice, the control unit has two parallel decision threads. One thread is responsible for timing and monitoring whether the high-temperature state has lasted for 20 minutes. The other thread checks whether the current temperature difference is ≥2.0℃ every minute of sampling. Only when the timing thread confirms that the 20-minute condition is met, and the temperature difference checking thread consistently returns "yes" (i.e., the temperature difference is always ≥2.0℃) within those 20 minutes, will the control unit's integrated logic decision module output the "allow cooling" command. If, within 20 minutes, even if only one sample shows a temperature difference of 1.9℃, which does not reach the 2.0℃ threshold, the integrated decision module will not output the execution command, even if the time condition is met. For heating requirements, the logic is exactly the same, except that the judgment object changes to a continuous temperature below the target temperature for 25 minutes, and the absolute value of the temperature difference must still be ≥2.0℃.

[0039] To verify the rationality of the 2.0℃ threshold, functional testing can be conducted in a simulated room. The test subject is a standard room model equipped with the system. The experimental method simulates various temperature fluctuation scenarios in different seasons. For example, in summer testing, the indoor temperature is first stabilized at the target temperature of 25.0℃, and then the indoor temperature is slowly increased using a heating device. When the temperature reaches 26.9℃ (temperature difference 1.9℃) and is maintained for more than 20 minutes, the system's operation is observed; subsequently, the temperature is further increased to 27.1℃ (temperature difference 2.1℃) and maintained for the same time, and the system response is observed again. By repeating this type of test multiple times, the system's successful start-up rate and false start-up rate near the threshold can be recorded to evaluate the effectiveness of this threshold setting in filtering out minor temperature fluctuations and preventing frequent system start-ups and shutdowns. The test data can be used to confirm or fine-tune this threshold parameter.

[0040] By adding a temperature difference threshold and combining it with time conditions, the above technical solution can effectively prevent the system from frequently activating the temperature control module due to small and short-term fluctuations in indoor temperature (such as temperature changes caused by people briefly passing by or opening doors for ventilation). This helps reduce the number of start-ups and shutdowns of mechanical and electrical components such as the circulating pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4, reducing their wear and failure rate and extending equipment lifespan. At the same time, it reduces unnecessary system operating energy consumption, making system intervention more precise and necessary, and improving the overall economic efficiency and reliability of operation.

[0041] Furthermore, the control unit is also used to acquire the outdoor maximum and minimum temperatures forecasted for the next 12 to 24 hours; when the outdoor maximum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor maximum temperature occurs, precooling the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1 and running it for 30 to 60 minutes; when the outdoor minimum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor minimum temperature occurs, preheating the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1 and running it for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0042] Specifically, the control unit can integrate a Wi-Fi communication module or an Ethernet interface for internet access. Through this network interface, the control unit's program can send a request daily at a set time (e.g., 5:00 AM) via HTTP or MQTT protocol to a public or subscribed meteorological data service API. The requested data can be specified as weather forecast information for the system's geographical location within the next 24 hours, which must include both the outdoor maximum and minimum temperatures. The meteorological service API can return a JSON-formatted data packet. The control unit parses this packet, extracts the forecast maximum temperature (e.g., 34°C) and forecast minimum temperature (e.g., 10°C) for the next 24 hours, and stores them in internal temporary variables. This network communication module can be a surface-mount ESP8266 or similar chip, directly soldered onto the control unit's main control circuit board and connected to the control unit's microcontroller via a UART serial port.

[0043] The control unit contains pre-adjustment judgment logic. This logic takes the forecast maximum and minimum temperatures extracted from meteorological data, as well as the known phase transition temperature of phase change material layer 1 (e.g., 24°C), as input. The judgment logic is divided into two parts. The first part is for high-temperature pre-cooling: the program checks whether the forecast maximum temperature is consistently higher than the phase transition temperature of 24°C. Here, "consistently" can be defined as the maximum temperature being higher than 24°C during the forecast daytime period (e.g., 08:00 to 20:00). If the condition is met, the system sets a pre-cooling start time point. This time point is set 4 hours before the time when the forecast maximum temperature occurs (e.g., 14:00), i.e., 10:00 AM. The second part is for low-temperature pre-heating: the program checks whether the forecast minimum temperature is consistently lower than the phase transition temperature of 24°C. If this is met (e.g., the forecast minimum temperature is 10°C), the system sets the pre-heating start time point to 4 hours before the time when the forecast minimum temperature occurs (e.g., 05:00 AM), i.e., 01:00 AM.

[0044] When the system clock reaches the pre-conditioning start time, the control unit executes the corresponding pre-conditioning operation. For high-temperature pre-cooling, at 10:00 AM, the control unit sends a start command to the temperature control module. The control unit controls the fluid temperature regulator 4 to set the target temperature of the circulating liquid to 17.5°C, which is 6.5°C lower than the phase change temperature (24°C) of the phase change material layer 1. Simultaneously, the control unit starts the circulating pump 3 and operates it at a moderate flow rate (e.g., 3.0 L / min). The entire pre-conditioning process continues for a fixed period of time, such as 45 minutes, after which the system automatically stops the temperature control module. For low-temperature preheating, at 1:00 AM, the control unit starts the temperature control module and controls the fluid temperature regulator 4 to heat the circulating liquid to 30.5°C, which is 6.5°C higher than the phase change temperature, and also stops after 45 minutes. This process is independent of and takes precedence over the feedback control logic based on the real-time indoor temperature in the aforementioned technical solutions.

[0045] To verify the pre-regulation effect, a test chamber with a typical building envelope was selected as the test subject. The experimental method involved selecting a sunny day with a forecast of high temperatures in summer and deploying high-precision temperature recorders inside the phase change material layer 1, both indoors and outdoors. The control group did not use the pre-regulation function, relying solely on feedback control. The experimental group used the pre-regulation function. Starting in the morning, the indoor temperature curves of the experimental chamber and the control chamber, the temperature curve of the phase change material layer 1, and the cumulative power consumption of the air conditioning system were continuously recorded for 24 hours. By comparing the two indoor temperature curves, it was observed whether the temperature rise in the experimental chamber was more gradual and the peak value was lower during the afternoon high-temperature period. Analyzing the temperature curve of the phase change material layer 1 confirmed whether its temperature had been pre-lowered before the forecast of high temperatures, thus possessing a stronger heat storage capacity. The comparison of power consumption data could be used to assess the trend of the impact on the overall energy consumption of the system.

[0046] By introducing a weather forecast-based pre-regulation mechanism, the above technical solution enables the system to proactively manage the thermal state of the phase change material layer 1. Before anticipated high or low temperatures arrive, the phase change material is pre-regulated to a temperature point more conducive to absorbing or releasing latent heat, thereby enhancing the thermal buffering capacity of the building envelope under extreme weather conditions. This helps to more effectively slow down indoor temperature fluctuations during drastic weather changes, reduce peak heating or cooling loads, and create a more stable indoor thermal environment. This pre-regulation strategy improves the system's ability to cope with unsteady thermal processes, making system control more predictable. Furthermore, the temperature regulation range of the circulating liquid by the fluid temperature regulator 4 is limited by the control unit; in the operation of lowering the circulating liquid temperature, the first temperature set point is not lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1 minus 15°C; in the operation of raising the circulating liquid temperature, the second temperature set point is not higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer 1 plus 15°C.

[0047] Specifically, the control unit's program pre-sets a temperature limit calculation rule and protection value for the cooling mode. This rule states that the lowest permissible circulating liquid temperature (the lower limit of the first temperature setpoint) is equal to the nominal phase change temperature of phase change material layer 1 minus 15°C. For example, if the phase change temperature of phase change material layer 1 is 24°C, the calculated lowest permissible setpoint is 9°C. This calculation serves as a hard limit in the control unit's logic. A programmable controller with safety protection logic or an industrial microcontroller with a watchdog function can be used as the core of the control unit. This controller is installed in the system's electrical control cabinet and connects to the fluid temperature regulator 4 via an analog output module or a specific communication protocol (such as Modbus RTU) to send temperature setting commands. The fluid temperature regulator 4 can be a compact chiller unit equipped with a PID controller or a combined chiller and heater with cooling capabilities, possessing a wide adjustable temperature range but accepting setting commands from the control unit.

[0048] The control unit's program also pre-sets a temperature upper limit calculation rule and protection value for the heating mode. This rule states that the highest permissible circulating liquid temperature (the upper limit of the second temperature setpoint) is equal to the nominal phase change temperature of phase change material layer 1 plus 15°C. Using the previous example, when the phase change temperature is 24°C, the calculated highest permissible setpoint is 39°C. In actual operation, when the logic of the aforementioned technical solution requires temperature adjustment, the control unit performs a limiting calculation before sending the specific setpoint command. Taking cooling as an example, suppose the desired setpoint calculated by the algorithm is 5°C, while the lower limit calculated from the first feature is 9°C. The internal comparison logic of the control unit will find that 5°C is lower than 9°C, therefore it will not send 5°C to the fluid temperature regulator 4, but instead sends the lower limit value of 9°C as the final command. For heating, if the calculated desired setpoint is 42°C, and the upper limit is 39°C, the control unit will ultimately issue a command of 39°C.

[0049] To verify the effectiveness of this temperature limiting function, testing can be conducted during system commissioning or periodic maintenance. The test object is the entire temperature control system, especially its control logic. The experimental method involves simulating extreme control demands using engineer commissioning tools. For example, in a system where the phase change material layer 1 has a phase change temperature of 24°C, a simulated signal is used to force the control unit to generate an extremely low cooling demand signal, attempting to set the circulating fluid temperature to 5°C. At this time, a handheld data logger or a computer connected to the control unit's commissioning port is used to monitor the actual temperature setpoint command ultimately sent by the control unit to the fluid temperature regulator 4. Verification is made to ensure that this command is automatically corrected to be no lower than 9°C (i.e., 24°C - 15°C). Similarly, extremely high heating demands are simulated to verify that the setpoint is limited to no higher than 39°C (i.e., 24°C + 15°C). Repeating the test multiple times confirms that the limiting logic functions stably under various requested values.

[0050] By setting clear upper and lower limits for the active temperature regulation of the circulating fluid, the above technical solution adds a layer of safety protection to the system. This prevents extreme temperatures from being output by the fluid temperature regulator 4 due to control logic errors, abnormal sensor signals, or improper parameter settings. It avoids the risks of condensation on pipe surfaces and equipment freezing caused by excessively low circulating fluid temperatures, or the potential for accelerated aging of pipes and the phase change material layer 1, or even overheating safety hazards, caused by excessively high temperatures. This limitation helps keep the system's operating range within the reliable and safe operating range of the phase change material and related piping components, improving the robustness and long-term operational safety of the entire system.

[0051] Furthermore, the system includes two or more independent temperature-regulating zones, each covering room areas with different orientations or functions in the building; each temperature-regulating zone is independently equipped with the phase change material layer 1, a phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer 1, an indoor temperature sensor located in the room of the zone, and a fluid circulation pipe 2 laid in the phase change material layer 1; the fluid circulation pipe 2, the circulation pump 3, and the fluid temperature regulator 4 are independently configured as one set for each temperature-regulating zone; the control unit is used to receive and process the sensor data of each temperature-regulating zone, and independently control the operation of the circulation pump 3 and the fluid temperature regulator 4 of the corresponding zone.

[0052] Specifically, in a residence, two or more independent temperature-controlled zones can be created based on the orientation or function of the rooms. For example, one zone could encompass the south-facing living room and dining room, while another zone could encompass the north-facing bedroom and study. Within each temperature-controlled zone, a dedicated phase change material layer 1 is independently laid on the inner surface of the enclosure structure of its respective room. This phase change material layer 1 can be composed of multiple phase change material plate units, and the phase change temperature can be set between 22°C and 25°C. Inside the phase change material layer 1 of each zone, one or more PT100 temperature sensors can be independently embedded as temperature sensors for that zone's phase change material layer 1. Simultaneously, in the interior space of each zone, such as the central wall of the living room and the wall of the master bedroom, a wall-mounted temperature and humidity sensor can be independently installed as the indoor temperature sensor for that zone, at a height of 1.5m. The fluid circulation pipes 2 laid within the phase change material layer 1 of each zone are also independent and unconnected loops.

[0053] Each independent temperature-controlled zone is equipped with its own dedicated temperature control module hardware. PEX pipes can be used as the fluid circulation pipes 2 for each zone, laid in a serpentine pattern on the back of the phase change material plates in each zone. Each zone is independently equipped with a miniature centrifugal pump as its circulation pump 3, and an independent semiconductor cooling / heating unit as its fluid temperature regulator 4. For example, one set of pumps and temperature regulators for the south-facing zone can be installed in a dedicated equipment box on the living room balcony, while one set for the north-facing zone can be installed on the utility balcony or above the ceiling of the corridor. These devices are connected in series with the fluid circulation pipes 2 of their respective zones through their respective pipes, forming an independent closed-loop circulation system. The control unit can be a programmable logic controller (PLC) with multiple independent analog input / output channels, installed in the low-voltage box at the entrance of the house or in a dedicated control cabinet.

[0054] The control unit's program logic is designed to support independent operation of multiple zones. The control unit reads signals from the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor and the indoor temperature sensor in each zone periodically through its multiple input channels. For example, it reads all sensor data from the south and north zones alternately every 1 minute. Internally, the control unit maintains an independent data storage area and control logic thread for each zone. For the south zone, the control unit compares its real-time indoor temperature (e.g., 26°C) with the user-set target temperature (e.g., 25°C) and independently determines whether the aforementioned startup conditions are met. If met, the control unit sends startup and control commands only to the south zone's dedicated circulation pump 3 and fluid temperature regulator 4, controlling them to adjust the circulating fluid to the set temperature calculated for the south zone and operate at a specific flow rate. Simultaneously, the sensor data for the north zone is also independently analyzed and evaluated; its control decisions and execution are completely independent and do not interfere with each other.

[0055] To verify the effectiveness of independent zone control, a two-bedroom apartment with a north-south orientation was selected as the experimental subject. The experiment involved setting the target temperature for the south-facing zone (living room) to 25℃ and the north-facing zone (bedroom) to 26℃ on a summer day. Starting in the morning, a stable heat radiation was applied to the south-facing windows using an outdoor light simulation device, while the north-facing windows remained unaffected. A multi-channel data logger simultaneously recorded the indoor temperature, phase change material layer 1 temperature, and the start / stop status and power consumption of each temperature control module in both zones. Data analysis revealed whether the north-facing zone, with its lower load, could remain relatively static or less frequently activated during the afternoon when the south-facing zone experienced frequent or continuous cooling due to high solar load. This directly verifies the control system's ability to identify and respond to the differentiated heat demands of different zones.

[0056] By dividing the system into multiple independently controllable temperature-controlled zones, the above-mentioned technical solution enables refined and personalized management of the thermal environment in different areas of a residence. The system can independently adjust the differentiated heat load of each zone due to its orientation and usage function, avoiding localized overcooling or overheating that may occur under a unified control mode. This helps improve the temperature comfort of each room and makes system control more precise. At the same time, the zone-by-zone, time-based, and demand-driven operation avoids wasting energy in areas that do not require temperature control, thereby improving the targeted and economical energy utilization of the entire system.

[0057] Furthermore, the control unit is also used to calculate and compare the average value of the real-time indoor temperature of all the temperature-controlled zones; when the difference between the real-time indoor temperature of a certain temperature-controlled zone and the average value exceeds 3°C, and the zone is in a non-active temperature-controlled state, the control unit activates the temperature-controlled module of that zone to perform auxiliary equalization adjustment, so that the real-time indoor temperature of that zone approaches the average value.

[0058] Specifically, a background calculation task runs within the control unit, periodically integrating indoor temperature data from all active temperature-controlled zones. For example, it executes every 10 minutes. During calculation, the control unit reads the real-time indoor temperature values ​​of all zones from its internal storage. Assuming the system has three zones with temperatures of 24.0℃ (South), 26.5℃ (North), and 25.0℃ (West), the control unit's calculation logic adds these values ​​(24.0 + 26.5 + 25.0 = 75.5), then divides by the number of zones (3) to obtain an average temperature of 25.17℃. This calculated average is stored as a temporary variable for subsequent judgment. An embedded processor supporting multi-task scheduling and floating-point operations can be selected as the core of the control unit, with its internal program calling a dedicated average calculation function every 600 seconds. This processor is installed in the system's main control cabinet and continuously acquires temperature data from each zone through its multiple analog input channels or digital communication bus.

[0059] After calculating the overall average temperature, the control unit immediately initiates a cyclical comparison and judgment for each zone. The judgment logic includes two conditions that must be met simultaneously. The first is the temperature difference condition: calculating the absolute difference between the real-time indoor temperature of each zone and the overall average temperature. Taking the above data as an example, the temperature of the North Zone is 26.5℃, and the average temperature is 25.17℃, with an absolute difference of 1.33℃, which does not exceed the threshold of 3℃; however, assuming at another moment, the temperature of the North Zone is 28.5℃, and the average temperature is 25.17℃, then the absolute difference is 3.33℃, exceeding the 3℃ threshold. The second is the status condition: the control unit needs to query whether the temperature control module of the target zone (the North Zone in this example) is currently executing the main temperature control task of the aforementioned technical solution (i.e., actively running due to the temperature control needs of this zone). This is achieved by checking whether the "active temperature control flag" assigned to this zone by the control unit is "false". Only when both the temperature difference condition (difference > 3℃) and the status condition (flag is "false") are met is it determined that the zone needs to start auxiliary equalization adjustment.

[0060] When the imbalance judgment condition for a specific zone (such as the North Zone) is met, the control unit performs auxiliary balancing adjustment for that zone. First, the control unit sets the "auxiliary adjustment flag" for that zone to "true" to prevent logic conflicts. Next, the control unit sends start commands to the dedicated circulation pump 3 and fluid temperature regulator 4 for the North Zone. The target temperature setpoint is not based on the zone's own target temperature, but is directly set to the currently calculated overall average temperature value, for example, 25.17℃. The control unit sends a command to the fluid temperature regulator 4, setting its output temperature to 25.2℃, and controls the circulation pump 3 to operate at a medium flow rate, for example, 2.0 L / min. The system operates in this mode, continuously monitoring the indoor temperature of the North Zone. When the difference between this temperature and the overall average temperature decreases to within 1℃, or when the auxiliary adjustment has lasted for 30 minutes, the control unit stops the auxiliary adjustment for that zone and resets the "auxiliary adjustment flag" to "false". During this period, the independent main control logic of other zones remains unaffected and operates normally.

[0061] To verify the auxiliary balancing function, a two-zone test chamber with a significant difference in heat load can be selected as the test object. The experimental method involves setting the target temperature for both zones to 22℃ during winter, but artificially applying a continuous simulated solar radiation heat load to one zone (e.g., the south zone), while leaving the other zone (north zone) without any additional load. First, the auxiliary balancing function is turned off, and the chamber is run for several hours, recording the temperature curves of both zones and observing the degree of natural development of the temperature difference. Then, the auxiliary balancing function is turned on, and the chamber is run again under the same conditions. By comparing the temperature curves of the north zone (load zone) in the two experiments, it can be observed whether, after enabling auxiliary balancing, when the north-south temperature difference widens, the system automatically provides gentle heating to the north zone (bringing it closer to a higher average temperature), thereby effectively suppressing the temperature difference between the two zones and verifying its balancing effect.

[0062] Based on independent zone control, this technical solution provides a collaborative balancing mechanism by monitoring and adjusting the deviations of each zone from the overall average temperature. This helps alleviate the problem of uneven temperature distribution within a residence, which may be caused by independent operation and varying loads of each zone, thus promoting the uniformity of the overall indoor thermal environment. This function can gently correct areas where the temperature deviates significantly from the overall level without interfering with the main temperature control targets of each zone, thereby improving the overall thermal comfort of the living space. Furthermore, this adjustment is auxiliary and compensatory, activated only when necessary, helping to achieve a balance between ensuring comfort and reducing unnecessary system intervention.

[0063] Furthermore, the phase change material layer 1 is composed of multiple phase change material plate units spliced ​​together, and the fluid circulation pipe 2 is fixedly laid in the back groove of the phase change material plate unit in a serpentine manner; an air gap of 5mm to 20mm is provided between the phase change material layer 1 and the inner surface of the building envelope.

[0064] Specifically, the phase change material layer 1 can be assembled on-site using rectangular plate units with dimensions of 600mm wide and 1200mm long. These plate units can be made with high-density polyethylene or aluminum alloy as the encapsulation shell, filled internally with shaped paraffin phase change material with a phase change temperature of 23°C. During construction and installation, the installation area is first determined on the interior wall surface of the building. Then, starting from one corner of the room, the first phase change material plate unit is joined to the second plate unit using tongue and groove joints or special connectors along its edges. Weather-resistant silicone sealing strips can be embedded in the joints between the plate units to reduce air leakage and thermal bridging effects. This process is repeated until the entire designed wall or ceiling area is covered, forming a continuous composite phase change material layer 1 composed of multiple standardized plates. This modular design facilitates transportation, handling, and on-site installation.

[0065] On the back of the phase change material (PCM) panel unit (the side that adheres to the wall), a continuous groove with a depth of 8mm and a width of 12mm can be prefabricated during production. This groove has a serpentine, meandering layout, covering most of the panel unit's area. A 10mm outer diameter oxygen-barrier PEX pipe can be used as the fluid circulation pipe 2. During installation, the PEX pipe is embedded along the direction of the prefabricated groove. Plastic clips or heat-resistant tape can be used to fix the pipe sections within the groove, ensuring tight contact between the pipe and the bottom surface of the groove on the back of the panel unit. After multiple panel units are assembled, the pipes on adjacent panel units are connected via interfaces pre-installed on the side of the panel unit or using a dedicated manifold, ultimately forming a continuous serpentine circulation pipeline network that runs through all panel units. The collected pipe ends are connected to a circulation pump 3 and a fluid temperature regulator 4, located in a corner of the room or within the ceiling.

[0066] Before installing the phase change material (PCM) panel units, support components to form an air gap need to be pre-installed on the inner surface of the building envelope (such as concrete or block walls). 15mm thick anti-corrosion wood strips or plastic blocks can be used, vertically or horizontally glued or fixed to the wall at intervals of 400mm to 600mm. The uniform height of these blocks determines the final thickness of the air gap. The PCM panel units with pre-embedded conduits are then installed onto these blocks using screws or hangers, creating a continuous, uniformly thick air gap between the back of the panel unit and the wall surface. The thickness of this air gap is controlled within the range of 10mm to 18mm by the height of the blocks. All joints of the panel units should be aligned as closely as possible with the underlying blocks to maintain structural stability and the integrity of the cavity.

[0067] To verify the installation reliability and thermal performance of this structure, a prototype construction test can be conducted. The test object is the system installed on the inner side of a simulated exterior wall with an area of ​​3m × 2.4m. The experimental method involves measuring the outer surface temperature of the phase change material (PCM) plate unit, the air temperature within the air gap, and the wall surface temperature using a heat flow meter and temperature sensor after installation according to the above-described method. By comparing the heat dissipation rate of the PCM layer 1 on its back side during the phase change process (such as the exothermic phase) with and without a 15mm air gap, the effect of the air gap as an additional thermal resistance in reducing heat loss towards the wall can be evaluated. Simultaneously, the sealing of all pipe connections is checked to ensure no leakage under a working pressure of 0.3MPa, and it is verified whether the serpentine pipes remain fixed and without risk of detachment when the plate unit expands due to heat.

[0068] This specific construction method facilitates standardized production and rapid on-site installation. Modular panel units and pre-laid piping reduce the complexity and time required for on-site construction. Pre-designed serpentine grooves on the back ensure stable and tight contact between the piping and the phase change material, optimizing heat transfer efficiency. The air gap between the panel and the wall acts as a static air thermal barrier, reducing direct heat conduction between the phase change material layer 1 and the main building structure. This helps to direct more heat regulation within the interior space, rather than having it absorbed or dissipated by the walls, enhancing the system's targeted and effective regulation of the indoor thermal environment. Furthermore, this structure facilitates possible pipe maintenance.

[0069] Furthermore, the system also includes an airflow driving device disposed within the air gap; the control unit is controlled and connected to the airflow driving device; when the control unit determines that the temperature detected by the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor is higher than 32°C or lower than 15°C, and the indoor temperature control requirement does not require the activation of the temperature adjustment module, the control unit activates the airflow driving device to promote airflow within the air gap.

[0070] Specifically, the airflow drive device added to the system can be one or more low-noise DC12V axial flow fans. The size of the fan needs to match the thickness of the air gap, for example, an ultra-thin fan with a thickness between 15mm and 20mm should be selected. During installation, holes can be drilled in the anti-corrosion wooden strips or prefabricated keel that form the vertical support of the air gap, and the fan can be fixed in place at the drilled position with self-tapping screws or special clips, so that the air inlet or outlet of the fan faces the cavity of the air gap. The power supply and signal control lines of the fan can be RVV sheathed cables, laid along the gaps behind the keel or in a dedicated cable tray, and finally converged and connected to the electrical box where the control unit is located. The control unit can be expanded with a relay output module, the normally open contacts of which are connected in series in the power supply circuit of the fan, thereby realizing the switching control of the control unit to start and stop the fan.

[0071] The control unit's program includes independent control logic for the airflow drive device. This logic takes two data points as input: the real-time temperature value detected by the phase change material layer 1 temperature sensor, and the "temperature control module activation status" flag derived from the system's main control logic. The control unit continuously monitors the temperature of the phase change material layer 1. It sets two fixed thresholds: a high-temperature threshold of 32.0℃ and a low-temperature threshold of 15.0℃. Simultaneously, the control unit checks whether the "temperature control module activation status" flag, representing the indoor temperature control requirement, is "false" (i.e., not activated). The criteria are: if the temperature of the phase change material layer 1 remains above 32.0℃ for 30 seconds and the "temperature control module activation status" is "false"; or, if the temperature of the phase change material layer 1 remains below 15.0℃ for 30 seconds and the "temperature control module activation status" is "false". Subsequent actions are only triggered when either of these two conditions occurs.

[0072] When any of the above conditions are met, the control unit's execution program sends a high-level signal to the relay module controlling the airflow drive device. The relay coil is energized, its normally open contacts close, thus connecting the 12V DC power supply to one or more axial flow fans. The fans begin operating, forcing convection of the previously relatively still air within the air gap. This forced convection enhances heat exchange between the air and the back of the phase change material layer 1, as well as the building wall surface. For example, when the temperature of the phase change material layer 1 rises to 33°C due to solar heat storage but active cooling has not yet been triggered indoors, the operation of the fans can accelerate airflow within the gap, carrying some heat away from the back of the phase change material layer 1 through convection, thus providing some auxiliary heat dissipation. After starting the fans, the control unit continues to monitor the temperature of the phase change material layer 1. Once the temperature drops below 30°C (for high-temperature situations) or rises above 17°C (for low-temperature situations), or the system's main control logic activates the temperature control module ("temperature control module activation status" changes to "true"), the control unit immediately stops sending signals to the relays and shuts down the fans.

[0073] To verify the effectiveness of this additional function, a test environment can be set up in front of a test wall with the aforementioned structure installed. The test subject is the wall system with an air gap and airflow drive device. The experimental method involves selecting a sunny summer day, shielding the indoor space to prevent active temperature control from activating, and allowing sunlight to cause the phase change material layer 1 to heat up naturally. When the temperature exceeds 32°C, one test group keeps the fan off, while the other group automatically turns on the fan according to logic. A thermal imager and thermocouples are used to simultaneously measure and record the air temperature distribution within the air gap, the rate of temperature change on the back side of the phase change material layer 1, and the temperature of the indoor surface under both conditions. By comparing the data, the effect of forced convection on suppressing the continuous heating or cooling of the phase change material layer 1 under extreme temperatures can be analyzed, and its auxiliary temperature control capability when the main system is not involved can be evaluated.

[0074] Under specific conditions where the main temperature control system is not activated, this additional feature provides a low-power auxiliary temperature regulation method. When the temperature of the phase change material layer 1 is in an extreme range detrimental to indoor comfort, the heat exchange between this concealed space and the building structure can be passively enhanced by driving airflow within the air gap. This helps to delay further deterioration of the temperature of the phase change material layer 1 without activating the high-energy-consuming active temperature control module, providing a buffer for the indoor environment. This function expands the system's regulation capabilities during certain periods of transitional seasons or extreme weather, serving as a supplement to the main system and contributing to improved overall system environmental adaptability and energy efficiency.

[0075] Although embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed above, they are not limited to the applications listed in the specification and embodiments. They can be applied to various fields suitable for the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other modifications can be easily made. Therefore, without departing from the general concept defined by the claims and their equivalents, the present invention is not limited to the specific details and illustrations shown and described herein.

Claims

1. An intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials, characterized in that, It includes a phase change material layer laid on the inner surface of the building envelope, a phase change material layer temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer, an indoor temperature sensor installed in the building, a control unit connected to the phase change material layer temperature sensor and the indoor temperature sensor, and a temperature control module. The temperature control module includes a fluid circulation pipe, a circulation pump, and a fluid temperature regulator. The fluid circulation pipe is uniformly laid in the phase change material layer. The circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator are connected in series to the fluid circulation pipe. The control unit is signal-connected to the circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator. The control unit is used to receive the real-time indoor temperature detected by the indoor temperature sensor and compare the real-time indoor temperature with the target temperature set by the user; when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously higher than the target temperature for a first set time, the control unit activates the temperature adjustment module and controls the fluid temperature regulator to reduce the circulating liquid temperature to the first temperature set point according to the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer temperature sensor, and controls the circulating pump to drive the circulating liquid to flow at a first flow rate; When the indoor real-time temperature remains below the target temperature for a second set duration, the control unit activates the temperature adjustment module and, based on the temperature data fed back by the phase change material layer temperature sensor, controls the fluid temperature regulator to raise the circulating liquid temperature to the second temperature set point, and controls the circulating pump to drive the circulating liquid flow at a second flow rate.

2. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit is further configured to add a temperature difference threshold to the judgment condition for activating the temperature control module; the temperature difference threshold is the absolute value of the difference between the real-time indoor temperature and the target temperature; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and reduce the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously higher than the target temperature for a first set duration and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C; the control unit will only activate the temperature control module and increase the circulating fluid temperature when the real-time indoor temperature is continuously lower than the target temperature for a second set duration and the temperature difference threshold is greater than or equal to 2°C.

3. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The control unit is also used to acquire the outdoor maximum and minimum temperatures forecasted for the next 12 to 24 hours; when the outdoor maximum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor maximum temperature occurs, precooling the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer and running it for 30 to 60 minutes; when the outdoor minimum temperature forecasted by the weather is consistently lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer, the control unit actively activates the temperature control module 3 to 5 hours before the outdoor minimum temperature occurs, preheating the circulating fluid to a temperature 5°C to 8°C higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer and running it for 30 to 60 minutes.

4. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The temperature regulation range of the circulating fluid by the fluid temperature regulator is limited by the control unit; in the operation of lowering the circulating fluid temperature, the first temperature set point is not lower than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer minus 15°C; in the operation of raising the circulating fluid temperature, the second temperature set point is not higher than the phase change temperature of the phase change material layer plus 15°C.

5. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The system includes two or more independent temperature control zones, each covering room areas with different orientations or functions in the building; each temperature control zone is independently equipped with a phase change material layer, a phase change material layer temperature sensor embedded in the phase change material layer, an indoor temperature sensor located in the room of the zone, and a fluid circulation pipe laid in the phase change material layer; the fluid circulation pipe, the circulation pump, and the fluid temperature regulator are independently configured as one set for each temperature control zone; the control unit is used to receive and process the sensor data of each temperature control zone, and independently control the operation of the circulation pump and the fluid temperature regulator of the corresponding zone.

6. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit is also used to calculate and compare the average value of the real-time indoor temperature of all the temperature-controlled zones; when the difference between the real-time indoor temperature of a certain temperature-controlled zone and the average value exceeds 3°C, and the zone is in a non-active temperature-controlled state, the control unit activates the temperature-controlled module of that zone to perform auxiliary equalization adjustment, so that the real-time indoor temperature of that zone approaches the average value.

7. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelopes based on phase change materials as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The phase change material layer is composed of multiple phase change material plate units spliced ​​together, and the fluid circulation pipe is fixedly laid in the back groove of the phase change material plate unit in a serpentine manner; an air gap of 5mm to 20mm is provided between the phase change material layer and the inner surface of the building envelope.

8. The intelligent temperature control system for residential building envelope based on phase change materials as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The system also includes an airflow drive device disposed within the air gap; the control unit is controlled and connected to the airflow drive device; when the control unit determines that the temperature detected by the phase change material layer temperature sensor is higher than 32°C or lower than 15°C, and the indoor temperature control requirement does not require the temperature adjustment module to be activated, the control unit activates the airflow drive device to promote airflow within the air gap.

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