Electrical load coordination in a structure

Abstract

A system may include a sensor to receive measurements indicative of a condition in a space conditioned by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A system may include an electrical load output to couple to an electrical load to provide control signals to the electrical load. A system may include a controller configured to: control one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received, control the electrical load output based on one or more signals received from the electrical load, wherein the controller is configured to modulate the electrical load output to be directed to the electrical load, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, or a combination thereof, and wherein the controller is configured to limit a total electrical output to the one or more loads of the HVAC system and the electrical load.

Description

ELECTRICAL LOAD COORDINATION IN A STRUCTURECROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 639,270 filed April 26, 2024, tire entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to control of electrical loads. More particularly, this disclosure relates to control of electrical loads in a building including at least a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.BACKGROUND

[0003] Many plug-in electric vehicles have been introduced into the market. These electric vehicles can be either fully electric vehicles or hybrid electric vehicles. These vehicles run on electrical energy stored in a battery. Electric vehicle owners typically charge the battery in their homes and garages using an electric vehicle charger connected to the home electrical system.SUMMARY

[0004] In some embodiments, a system includes a sensor to receive measurements indicative of a condition in a space conditioned by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In some embodiments, an electrical load output couples an electrical load to provide control signals to the electrical load. In some embodiments, a controller is configured to control one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received; control the electrical load output based on one or more signals received from the electrical load. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to modulate the electrical load output to be directed to the electrical load, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to limit a total electrical output to the one or more loads of the HVAC system and the electrical load.

[0005] In some embodiments, the electrical load includes one or more of a pool pump, pool equipment, an electric water heater, a hot tub, an electric vehicle charger, additional HVAC systems, an electric dryer, or combinations thereof.

[0006] In some embodiments, the electrical load includes an electric vehicle charger; wherein the controller is configured to be in electrical communication with the electric vehicle charger to control an operation of the electric vehicle charger.

[0007] In some embodiments, the controller is a thermostat.

[0008] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to disable the electncal load in response to controlling one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received.

[0009] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to reduce a current draw of the electrical load in response to controlling one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to modulate the electrical load output to be directed to the electrical load or the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

[0011] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to enable a current draw of the electrical load in response to disabling the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

[0012] In some embodiments, a method includes determining, by a controller, whether one or more loads are drawing electricity and determining, by the controller, whether a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is calling for heating or cooling based on a heating or cooling demand. In some embodiments, in response to determining the one or more loads are drawing electricity and the HVAC system is calling for heating or cooling, the method includes disabling the one or more loads and enabling the HVAC system.

[0013] In some embodiments, in response to determining the one or more loads are not drawing electricity and the HVAC system is calling for heating or cooling, the method includes enabling the HVAC system.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method includes determining, by the controller, whether the heating or cooling demand is met; and in response to determining the heating or cooling demand has been met, enabling the one or more loads.

[0015] In some embodiments, enabling the one or more loads includes increasing a current draw of the one or more loads.

[0016] In some embodiments, disabling the one or more loads includes reducing a current draw of the one or more loads.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method includes delaying the disabling of the one or more loads and the enabling of the HVAC system until a drift threshold is passed. In some embodiments, the drift threshold permits deviations from a heating or cooling setpoint when the one or more loads are enabled.

[0018] In some embodiments, a system includes a sensor to receive measurements indicative of a condition in a space conditioned by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; an electrical vehicle charger; and a controller. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received and control an output the electrical vehicle charger. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to modulate the output to be directed to the electrical vehicle charger, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to limit a total electrical output to the electrical vehicle charger and the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

[0019] In some embodiments, the controller is a thermostat of the HVAC system.

[0020] In some embodiments, the system includes one or more additional electrical loads, wherein the controller is configured to control the output to the electrical vehicle charger, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, and the one or more additional electrical loads.

[0021] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to modulate the output to be directed to the electrical vehicle charger by communicating with a vehicle to be charged.

[0022] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to disable the output to the electrical vehicle charger when the HVAC system is operating.

[0023] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to reduce an output to the electrical vehicle charger when the HVAC system is operating.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] References are made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of this disclosure and that illustrate embodiments in which the systems and methods described in this Specification can be practiced.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a building including a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, according to some embodiments.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a building controller, according to some embodiments.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for operating an HVAC system, according to some embodiments.

[0028] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a system, according to some embodiments.

[0029] FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of a system, according to some embodiments.

[0030] Like reference numbers represent the same or similar parts throughout.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] A typical heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system requires 30 Amps at 200-240 Volts in North America. This is the typical rating that is used by current electric vehicle chargers in the market. Embodiments of this disclosure are directed to a system that ensures that an electric vehicle and an air conditioner are not on at the same time, while still maintaining the comfort needs of the home ow ner.

[0032] Currently, a thermostat maintains the temperature in a house to a setpoint by controlling the HVAC system. In some embodiments, the control of the thermostat is extended to control an electric vehicle charger in addition to the air conditioner and furnace. Almost all electric vehicle chargers come with a communication protocol that allows remote controllability of the electric vehicle charging. The thermostat connects to the electric vehicle using the charger's communication protocol. An application programming interface (API) is a popular protocol for enabling two or more components to communicate with each other. The electric vehicle charger, thermostat, or other electrical loads can be configured to communicate with a cloud-based server or each other using a wirelessprotocol. Example wireless protocols include, but are not limited to, ZigBee, Matter, combinations thereof, or the like. By placing the control functions in a software interface, it is unnecessary to replace a main electrical panel of the structure, which can be a significant cost. In some embodiments, the thermostat or software interface accessible via a mobile device application or other cloud accessible system may be used to maximize both comfort and convenience for a home owner. Embodiments are directed to other electrical loads besides electric vehicle chargers as well. The embodiments disclosed may also minimize costs when, for example, a user is exposed to a demand charge. In some embodiments, the systems and methods described herein can also ensure that capacity is met when using a non-grid electrical source such as, but not limited to, a solar system, a backup generator or battery system, combinations thereof, or the like.

[0033] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a building 100 including a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 102, according to some embodiments. The HVAC system 102 can be configured to control one or more environmental conditions within one or more spaces (e.g., conditioned spaces) of the building 100.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the HVAC system is representative of a forced air type HVAC system. It is to be appreciated that other types of HVAC systems are within the scope of the present disclosure. Examples of other types of HVAC system include, but are not limited to, boiler systems, radiant heating systems, electric heating systems, cooling systems, heat pump systems, combinations thereof, or any other suitable type of HVAC system.

[0035] The HVAC system 102 includes one or more HVAC components 104, a system of ductwork and air vents including a supply air duct 106 and a return air duct 108, and at least one controller 110. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be referred to as the building controller, the HVAC controller, software or mobile device application, or the like. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be a thermostat, a plurality of thermostats, or the like. The one or more HVAC components 104 can include, but are not limited to, a furnace, a heat pump, an electric heat pump, a geothermal heat pump, an electric heating unit, an air conditioning unit, a ventilation unit, a humidifier, a dehumidifier, an air exchanger, an air cleaner, a damper, a valve, combinations thereof, or the like.

[0036] In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be configured to control the comfort level and, in some embodiments, the air quality conditions in the building by activating and deactivating the one or more HVAC components 104 in a controlled manner. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to control one or more other systems in the building besides the HVAC system. For example, the controller 110 can control one or more components related to security, control of appliances, control of systems such as water systems, combinations thereof, or the like. The controller 110 can be configured to control the one or more HVAC components 104 via a wired or wireless communication link 112. The controller 110 may wirelessly communicate with the one or more HVAC components 104 or other systems using a wireless protocol such as, but not limited to, cellular communication, ZigBee, Matter, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, IrDA, dedicated short range communication (DSRC). EnOcean, combinations thereof, or any other suitable wireless protocols.

[0037] In some embodiments, the controller 110 is a thermostat. In some embodiments, the thermostat can include (e.g., within a housing of the thermostat) or have access to a temperature sensor for sensing an ambient temperature at or near the thermostat. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be a zone controller, or can include multiple zone controllers each monitoring, controlling, or combinations thereof, the comfort level within a particular zone in the building.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more HVAC components 104 may provide heated air, cooled air, or a combination thereof, via the ductwork throughout the building 100. In some embodiments, the one or more HVAC components 104 can be in fluid communication with the conditioned space (e.g., each room, zone, or combination thereof) in the building 100 via the ductwork.

[0039] In some embodiments, when a heat call signal is provided by the controller 110, the one or more HVAC components 104 (e.g., forced warm air furnace) can be activated to supply heated air to the conditioned space within the building 100 via supply air duct 106. The heated air may be forced through supply air duct 106 by a blower or fan 114. In this example, the cooler air from the conditioned space can be returned to the one or more HVAC components 104 for heating via return air duct 108. Similarly, when a cool call signal is provided by the controller 110, the one or more HVAC components 104 (e.g., air conditioning unit) can be activated to supply cooled air to the conditioned space within thebuilding via the supply air duct 106. In some embodiments, the cooled air may be forced through supply air duct 106 by the blower or fan 114. In this example, the warmer air from each zone may be returned to the one or more HVAC components 104 for cooling via the return air duct 108.

[0040] In some embodiments, the system of vents or ductwork can include one or more dampers 116 to regulate the flow of air. For example, one or more dampers 116 may be coupled to the controller 110 and the controller 110 can coordinate the one or more dampers 116 with the operation of the one or more HVAC components 104. The controller 110 can actuate the one or more dampers 116 to an open position, a closed position, or a partially open position to modulate the flow' of air from the one or more HVAC components 104 to an appropriate space within the building. The one or more dampers 116 may be included in zoned HVAC systems and may be used to control which zone or zones receives conditioned air from the one or more HVAC components 104.

[0041] Additionally, in some embodiments, the one or more HVAC components 104 may exhaust stale air, supply fresh air. or combinations thereof, to the building 100 via the ductwork located throughout the building 100. For example, in some embodiments, the one or more HVAC components 104 can include a ventilation unit 118, which can draw' outside air into the building via an outside air intake 120 and expel inside air via an inside air outlet 122. In some embodiments, a heat exchanger (not shown) can be provided to exchange heat between the outgoing inside air and the incoming outside air. In some embodiments, the ventilation unit 118 can include additional fans, blow'ers, or combinations thereof to facilitate the exchange of stale air from w ithin the building 100 w ith fresh air supplied from outside the building 100.

[0042] In some embodiments, the ventilation unit 118 can include a ventilation controller (not shown), that can receive ventilation commands from, for example, the controller 110, and in response, can activate or deactivate the various components of the ventilation unit 118 to implement the received ventilation commands. In some embodiments, the ventilation unit 118 may be coupled to additional ductwork which maydraw stale air from different locations within the building 100 to be exhausted from the building via the inside air outlet 122. It is to be appreciated that these are just examples.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ventilation unit 118 can be controlled according to a schedule or setpoint stored in the controller 110. In some embodiments, the controller 110can be configured to allow a user to select time periods during which the ventilation unit 118 will operate or not operate. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to allow a user to select a speed the ventilation unit 118 will operate during each period selected. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to allow a user to specify when the ventilation unit 118 can operate at a reduced level to conserve energy while at the same time maintaining the indoor air quality within the building 100 at an acceptable level such as for example, in accordance with a user’s vacation schedule.

[0044] The one or more HVAC components 104 can also provide humidification, dehumidification, or combinations thereof within the building 100. In some embodiments, humidification or dehumidification can be provided by a humidifier unit or a dehumidifier unit, as applicable, in a controlled manner according to a schedule or setpoint stored in the controller 110. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to allow a user to select certain time periods in which the humidification unit or dehumidification unit will operate or not operate. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to allow a user to select a setpoint the humidification unit or dehumidification unit will operate during each period. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to allow a user to specify when the humidification unit or dehumidification unit may operate at a reduced level to conserve energy while maintaining the indoor air quality within the building 100 at an acceptable level such as for example, in accordance with a user’s vacation schedule.

[0045] The HVAC system 102 can include a communications gateway 124 that allows one or more of the one or more HVAC components 104 to communicate wirelessly with one another in accordance with a wireless communications protocol such as, for example, cellular communication, ZigBee, Bluetooth. Wi-Fi, IrDA, dedicated short range communication (DSRC), EnOcean, combinations thereof, or any other suitable wireless protocols, as desired. In some embodiments, the communications gateway 124 can facilitate communication between the one or more HVAC components 104 over a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet.

[0046] In some embodiments, one or more air filters 126 can be used to remove dust and other pollutants from the air inside the building 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the one or more air filters 126 are installed in the return air duct 108 and can filter the air prior to the air entering the one or more HVAC components 104. It is to be appreciated that anyother suitable location for the one or more air filters 126 can be used. The one or more air filters 126 can, in some embodiments, improve the indoor air quality and protect the one or more HVAC components 104 from dust and other particulate matter.

[0047] In some embodiments, the HVAC system 102 includes an equipment interface module (EIM) 128. In some embodiments, the EIM 128 can be configured to communicate with the controller 1 10 via, for example, a wired or wireless communication link 130. In some embodiments, the EIM 128 can be incorporated or combined with the controller 110. In some embodiments, the EIM 128 may communicate, relay, or otherwise transmit data regarding a selected parameter (e.g.. temperature, pressure, flowrate, etc.) to the controller 1 10. In some embodiments, the controller 1 10 may use the data from the EIM 128 to evaluate the system’s operation or performance.

[0048] In some embodiments, the EIM 128 can include one or more terminals that can be wired to various components in the building 100. For example, in some embodiments, the EIM 128 can be connected in electrical communication with an electronic device such as, but not limited to, a window or door sensor configured to indicate whether a door or window is opened or closed; the EIM 128 can be connected in electrical communication with a leak detector configured to indicate when a water leak is present; the EIM 128 can be connected in electrical communication with one or more air quality sensors such as, but not limited to, a carbon monoxide detector configured to indicate when an amount of carbon monoxide exceeds a threshold; combinations thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, the EIM 128 can provide information on a state of the connected electronic device to the controller 110. In some embodiments, a user or installer can customize an action taken by the controller 110 in response to the state information received from the EIM 128.

[0049] In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be connected in electronic communication with one or more electrical loads 132. In some embodiments, the one or more electrical loads 132 can include, but are not limited to, a pool pump or other pool equipment, an electric water heater, a hot tub, an electric vehicle charger, additional HVAC systems, an electric dryer, combinations thereof, or the like.

[0050] In some embodiments, electric vehicles draw a major amount of power from the power grid at around 7.2 KW and take about 6-8 hours to charge completely. The current draw for the chargers is about 30 Amps at 240 Volts. Such amounts of power draw create a heavy load on the electrical panel of the building 100.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller 110 is configured to coordinate operation of the HVAC system 102 and the one or more electrical loads 132. For example, in some embodiments the 132 is an electric vehicle charger. In such embodiments, the controller 1 10 is configured to interrupt operation of the one or more electrical loads 132 while the HVAC system 102 is operating. In some embodiments, the controller 110 is also configured to reinitiate operation of the one or more electrical loads 132 in response to the HVAC system 102 completing its operational cycle. In such embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to prioritize comfort over the operation of the one or more electrical loads 132. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be configurable such that operation of the one or more electrical loads 132 is prioritized over comfort. In such embodiments, the controller 110 may wait to initiate operation of the HVAC system 102 if the one or more electrical loads 132 is in use. As a result, the controller 110 can coordinate the operation of the HVAC system 102 and the one or more electrical loads 132 so that the combined electrical loads of the HVAC system 102 and the one or more electrical loads 132 are not being performed at the same time. In some embodiments, this can increase a likelihood that the building 100 does not require an upgrade to the main electrical panel in order to operate the HVAC system 102 and the one or more electrical loads 132. In some embodiments, this can also ensure that a breaker in the main electrical panel of the building 100 is not tripped due to overloading of a circuit.

[0052] In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be able to reduce a load on the one or more electrical loads 132 instead of disabling the load. For example, in some embodiments, an electric vehicle charger may be able to have a reduced amount of power if the HVAC system 102 is enabled.

[0053] In some embodiments, the controller 110 may prioritize cooling over the operation of the one or more electrical loads 132. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can also be configured to allow for some drift away from a heating or cooling setpoint in the heating or cooling settings when one of the one or more electrical loads 132 is in use. In some embodiments, a user may be able to configure such settings to allow for such drift (and to enter how much is acceptable relative to the setpoint) or to prevent such drift from being allowed.

[0054] In some embodiments, a uti 1 i ty company may be able to coordinate the control of the controller 110 in the building 100 with the control of the controller 110 in anotherbuilding. That is, the utility company may be able to coordinate across a street, a neighborhood, a township, or the like to reduce overall demand on the electrical grid.

[0055] In some embodiments, the controller 110 can also be configured to, for example, precool or preheat the building 100 based on, for example, a geofencing configuration. In such embodiments, the HVAC system 102 can be enabled or disabled when a device (e.g., a smartphone, smartwatch, other computing device, or the like) crosses into or out from a defined geographical area. In such embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to control the HVAC system 102 so that the HVAC system 102 operates according to a heating or cooling setting, but when the individual arrives at the building 100. the HVAC system 102 is disabled assuming that the user will enable the one or more electrical loads 132 (e.g., in the case of an electric vehicle charger). Similarly, in some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured to operate the one or more electrical loads 132 when the user is away from the building 100. In such embodiments, not meeting the heating or cooling demand may be acceptable. This may additionally be monitored and controlled according to when the building 100 is determined to be unoccupied.

[0056] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the controller 110, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can be a thermostat, software, or a mobile device aplication.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 110 includes a controller 150 (e.g., microprocessor, microcontroller, etc.), a user interface 152, and a memory 154. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can include an input / output block (I / O block) 156 for receiving one or more signals from the HVAC system 102, for providing one or more control signals to the HVAC system 102, or combinations thereof. For example, the I / O block 156 can communicate with one or more HVAC components 104 of the HVAC system 102. Additionally, in some embodiments, the I / O block 156 can communicate with another controller, which is in communication with one or more HVAC components 104 of the HVAC system 102, such as a zone control panel in a zoned HVAC system, EIM 128, combinations thereof, or any other suitable building control device.

[0058] The controller 150 can operate in accordance with an algorithm that controls or at least partially controls the one or more HVAC components 104 of the HVAC system 102. The controller 150 can, for example, operate in accordance with an algorithm that provides temperature setpoints, starting times, ending times, combinations thereof, or thelike. In some embodiments, the controller 150 can be configured to read a temperature sensed by the temperature sensor and control the one or more HVAC components 104 of the HVAC system 102 to maintain a desired temperature setpoint within the building 100 in accordance with a programmable schedule stored in the memory 1 4 of the controller 110. In some embodiments, the controller 150 can be configured to control the one or more HVAC components 104 including one or more indoor air quality units such as, for example a ventilation unit, a humidification unit, and / or a dehumidification unit, to maintain a desired indoor air quality’ within the building 100, sometimes in accordance with a programmable schedule stored in the memory 154 of the controller 110.

[0059] In some embodiments, the controller 1 10 can be programmed to control the one or more indoor air quality units according to a programmable operating schedule that includes one or more time periods. The programmable operating schedule in some embodiments the same period as the programmable operating schedule of the temperature setpoints (heating setpoints, cooling setpoints), or they may be different time periods. In some embodiments, the controller 150 can be programmed to allow a user to select at least a first period of the programmable operating schedule to control at least one of the one or more indoor air quality units (e.g., ventilation unit, humidifier unit, dehumidifier unit) differently than during at least one other of period of the programmable operating schedule. For example, the controller 150 can be programmed to allow a user to select a period in which an indoor quality’ unit will operate and a different period in which the indoor air quality unit will not operate (or will operate in a different mode, at a different speed, at a different setpoint, or at some other different setting). In some embodiments, the controller 150 can be programmed to allow a user to select which indoor air quality units will or will not operate during each period of the programmable operating schedule or during a user’s vacation schedule. In some embodiments, the controller 150 can be programmed to allow a user to select which indoor air quality units may operate at a reduced level to conserve energy while at the same time maintaining indoor air quality for a period identified by the user such as, for example, the user’s vacation schedule.

[0060] In some embodiments, user interface 152 can be any suitable user interface that permits controller 110 to display information as well as accept one or more user interactions with the controller 110. For example, the user interface 152 can permit a user to enter data such as temperature setpoints, humidity setpoints, starting times, ending times, diagnosticlimits, conditions under which diagnostic limits may be suspended, responses to alerts, requests for ventilation, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the user interface 152 can be configured to enable a user to customize an output action taken based on a particular input.

[0061] In some embodiments, user interface 152 can include a display and a separate keypad. In some embodiments, a display can include any suitable display. In some embodiments, a display can be a liquid cry stal display (LCD), and a fixed segment display, a dot matrix LCD display, combinations thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, user interface 152 can be a touch screen LCD panel that functions as both display and keypad. In some embodiments, a touch screen LCD panel may be adapted to solicit values for several operating parameters and to receive such values.

[0062] The memory 154 can be in communication with the controller 150. The memory154 can be used to store any desired information, such as the control algorithm, setpoints, schedule times, combinations thereof, or the like. Memory’ 154 can be any suitable type of storage device including, but not limited to. RAM, ROM, EPROM, flash memory, a hard drive, combinations thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, controller 150 can store information within memory’ 154 and retrieve the stored information.

[0063] In some embodiments, controller 110 includes a data port 158. Data port 158 can be a wireless port such as a Bluetooth™ port or any other wireless protocol. In some embodiments, data port 158 can be a wired port such as a serial port, a parallel port, a CATS port, a USB (universal serial bus) port, combinations thereof, or the like. In some embodiments, data port 158 can be a USB port and may be used to download and / or upload information from a USB flash drive or some other data source. Other remote devices may also be employed.

[0064] Data port 158 can be configured to communicate with controller 150 and can, if desired, be used to upload information to controller 150 or download information from controller 150.

[0065] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method 200 for operating an HVAC system (e.g., the HVAC system 102 in FIG. 1), according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the method 200 can be used to coordinate control of the HVAC system 102 and one or more electrical loads (e.g., the one or more electrical loads 132 in FIG. 1). In some embodiments,the method 200 can be implemented to reduce a likelihood of overloading an electrical panel in a building (e.g.. the building 100 in FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the method 200 can be implemented instead of requiring an upgrade to the electrical panel of the building 100.

[0066] At block 202, the method 200 includes receiving, by a controller (e.g., the controller 110 of FIG. 1) one or more comfort settings. In some embodiments, the one or more comfort settings can include a heating setpoint, a cooling setpoint, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more comfort settings can include one or more additional elements such as, but not limited to, a drift setting indicating an amount (e.g., in degrees) by which the controller 1 10 can allow the temperature detected in one or more conditioned spaces of the building 100 to go beyond the setpoint temperature (above or below). In some embodiments, the drift setting can indicate that a user does not wish to allow for the temperature to be allowed to drift beyond the programmed setpoint.

[0067] At block 204, the method 200 includes determining, by the controller 110, whether the one or more electrical loads 132 is currently drawing electricity from the main electrical panel. In some embodiments, the method 200 can determine this via one or more current sensors placed to determine whether the one or more electrical loads 132 is drawing current. In some embodiments, the method 200 can include utilizing one or more application programming interfaces (APIs) which are accessible to poll the one or more electrical loads 132 to determine whether the one or more electrical loads 132 is currently in operation.

[0068] At block 206, the method 200 includes determining by the controller 110 whether the HVAC system 102 is currently calling for heating or cooling.

[0069] At block 208, in response to determining at block 206 that the HVAC system 102 is calling for heating or cooling and at block 204 that the one or more electrical loads 132 is in operation, the controller 110 is configured to disable operation of the one or more electrical loads 132. In some embodiments, the controller 110 can reduce an electrical load of the one or more electrical loads 132 instead of fully disabling the one or more electrical loads 132. That is, in some embodiments, disabling the one or more electrical loads 132 can also include reducing a current draw of the one or more electrical loads 132.

[0070] At block 210, the controller 110 is configured to enable operation of the HVAC system 102 after the one or more electrical loads 132 is disabled at block 208.

[0071] At block 212, in response to determining at block 206 that the HVAC system 102 is calling for heating or cooling and at block 204 that the one or more electrical loads 132 is not in operation (not drawing electricity), the controller 110 is configured to enable operation of the HVAC system 102 at block 212.

[0072] At block 214, the controller 1 10 determines whether the heating or cooling demand is met.

[0073] At block 216, in response to determining the heating or cooling demand is met at block 214, the controller 110 can enable operation of the one or more electrical loads 132 if the one or more electrical loads 132 were disabled to enable operation of the HVAC system 102.

[0074] In response to determining the heating or cooling demand is met at block 214, the controller 110 does not change operation of the one or more electrical loads 132 if the one or more electrical loads 132 was not disabled to enable operation of the HVAC system 102. In such situation, the method 200 can repeat.

[0075] If at block 206 it is determined that the HVAC system 102 is calling for heating or cooling and at block 204 it is determined that the one or more electrical loads 132 is not in operation, the controller 110 continues operating the HVAC system 102 until there is a change in status (e.g., the cooling or heating demand is met).

[0076] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of a system 250. according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the system 250 includes a vehicle charger 252 and a vehicle 254. In some embodiments, the controller 110 is configured to be in electrical communication w ith the vehicle charger 252, the vehicle 254, or a combination of both the vehicle charger 252 and the vehicle 254. In some embodiments, the controller 110 is in electrical communication with the HVAC system 102. As discussed above regarding FIGS. 1-3, the controller 110 can be configured to coordinate charging of the vehicle 254 using the vehicle charger 252 with the operation of the HVAC system 102 so that the vehicle 254 can be charged to meet a user’s charging needs and the HVAC system 102 can be operated to meet the user’s comfort requirements without necessitating significant changes to themain electrical panel in the system 250 and without overloading a circuit on the main electrical panel in the system 250.

[0077] FIG. 5 illustrates a system 300, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the system 300 can be used for the method 200 and with the building 100, according to some embodiments. It is to be appreciated that the system 300 can include aspects of the HVAC system 102 (FIG. 1) and the system 250 (FIG. 4). As illustrated, the system 300 includes a server 302 in electronic communication using a network 304 with the building 100 and one or more additional buildings 306. In some embodiments, the server 302 can include the controller 110 for coordinating control of the one or more electrical loads 132 in the building 100, in the one or more additional buildings 306, or combinations thereof. As illustrated, the server 302 and the controller 110 can be used to coordinate control of electrical loads across, for example, neighborhoods, within particular zones of the electrical grid, or the like. To accomplish the control in the controller 110 of the server 302, one or more APIs or the like can be used to communicate with the one or more electrical loads 132.

[0078] In some embodiments, in addition to the controls identified above (e.g., method 200 of FIG. 3), the controller 110 can be configured to account for precooling or preheating the building 100 or the one or more additional buildings 306 using the HVAC system of the building 100 or the one or more additional buildings 306 respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the controller 110 can be configured with time-of-use rates and utility parameters so that prior to a demand response event, the HVAC system of the one or more electrical loads 132 is given priority over other electrical loads to precool or preheat the building. In such embodiments, the controller 110 can prioritize the HVAC system under the assumption that the HVAC system may be disabled or enabled on a limited basis during the higher rate period.

[0079] The terminology used herein is intended to describe embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. The terms ‘'a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural forms as well, unless clearly indicated otherwise. The terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this Specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0080] It is to be understood that changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of the construction materials employed and the shape, size, and arrangement of parts without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This Specification and the embodiments described are examples, with the true scope and spirit of the disclosure being indicated by the claims that follow.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A system comprising: a sensor to receive measurements indicative of a condition in a space conditioned by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; an electrical load output to couple to an electrical load to provide control signals to the electrical load; and a controller configured to: control one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received; control the electrical load output based on one or more signals received from the electrical load; wherein the controller is configured to modulate the electrical load output to be directed to the electrical load, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, or a combination thereof, and wherein the controller is configured to limit a total electrical output to the one or more loads of the HVAC system and the electrical load.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrical load includes one or more of a pool pump, pool equipment, an electric water heater, a hot tub, an electric vehicle charger, additional HVAC systems, an electric dryer, or combinations thereof.

3. The system of one of claims 1 or 2. wherein the electrical load includes an electric vehicle charger; wherein the controller is configured to be in electrical communication with the electric vehicle charger to control an operation of the electric vehicle charger.

4. The system of any of claims 1-3, wherein the controller is a thermostat.

5. The system of any of claims 1-4, wherein the controller is configured to disable the electrical load in response to controlling one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received.

6. The system of any of claims 1-5, wherein the controller is configured to reduce a current draw of the electrical load in response to controlling one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received.

7. The system of any of claims 1-6, wherein the controller is configured to modulate the electrical load output to be directed to the electrical load or the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

8. The system of any of claims 1-7, wherein the controller is configured to enable a current draw of the electrical load in response to disabling the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

9. A method comprising: determining, by a controller, whether one or more loads are drawing electricity; determining, by the controller, whether a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is calling for heating or cooling based on a heating or cooling demand; in response to determining the one or more loads are drawing electricity and the HVAC system is calling for heating or cooling, disabling the one or more loads and enabling the HVAC system.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: in response to determining the one or more loads are not drawing electricity and the HVAC system is calling for heating or cooling, enabling the HVAC system.

11. The method of one of claims 9 or 10, further comprising: determining, by the controller, whether the heating or cooling demand is met; and in response to determining the heating or cooling demand has been met, enabling the one or more loads.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein enabling the one or more loads comprises increasing a current draw of the one or more loads.

13. The method of any of claims 9-12, wherein disabling the one or more loads comprises reducing a current draw of the one or more loads.

14. The method of any of claims 9-13, further comprising: delaying the disabling of the one or more loads and the enabling of the HVAC system until a drift threshold is passed, wherein the drift threshold permits deviations from a heating or cooling setpoint when the one or more loads are enabled.

15. A system comprising: a sensor to receive measurements indicative of a condition in a space conditioned by a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system; an electrical vehicle charger; and a controller configured to: control one or more loads of the HVAC system based on the measurements as received; control an output the electrical vehicle charger; wherein the controller is configured to modulate the output to be directed to the electrical vehicle charger, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, or a combination thereof, and wherein the controller is configured to limit a total electrical output to the electrical vehicle charger and the one or more loads of the HVAC system.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the controller is athermostat of the HVAC system.

17. The system of one of claim 15 or 16. further comprising one or more additional electrical loads, wherein the controller is configured to control the output to the electrical vehicle charger, the one or more loads of the HVAC system, and the one or more additional electrical loads.

18. The system of any of claims 15-17, wherein the controller is configured to modulate the output to be directed to the electrical vehicle charger by communicating with a vehicle to be charged.

19. The system of any of claims 15-18, wherein the controller is configured to disable the output to the electrical vehicle charger when the HVAC system is operating.

20. The system of any of claims 15-19, wherein the controller is configured to reduce an output to the electrical vehicle charger when the HVAC system is operating.

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