Air Conditioning Control Device with Predictive Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems face issues with user comfort and energy efficiency due to fluctuating user return times, leading to either incomplete temperature reach or excessive power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A control device and method that predicts the air conditioning time required to reach a set temperature, prompts the user for confirmation before the set time, and adjusts the start time based on user input, allowing for flexible control of the air conditioner.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the air conditioner automatically starts before the set time to reach the set temperature by the set time, then the user comfort is improved, but the energy consumption increases when the user returns later than the set time
Solution Approach 1:
The system sends inquiry information to the user before the set time to obtain feedback about the actual return time. Based on this feedback, the control unit adjusts the air conditioning start time dynamically, avoiding unnecessary energy consumption while ensuring comfort when the user actually returns
Solution Approach 2:
The air conditioning start time is made dynamic rather than fixed. The control unit determines the start time based on the user's actual return time feedback, allowing the system to adapt between early startup (for comfort) and delayed startup (for energy efficiency) depending on actual conditions
2Manufacturing precision
If the air conditioner automatically starts before the set time to reach the set temperature by the set time, then the set temperature can be reached by the set time, but the user comfort deteriorates when the user returns before the set time
Solution Approach 1:
The system obtains feedback from the user about their actual return time through inquiry information. This feedback allows the system to adjust the temperature control precision to match the actual need, avoiding unnecessary early cooling that would compromise user comfort
3Use of energy by moving object
If the air conditioner waits for user confirmation before starting, then the energy consumption is reduced, but the user comfort deteriorates if the user does not receive the inquiry in time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by sending inquiry information to the user well before the set time (at a predetermined time before the set time). This allows the user sufficient time to respond while still enabling energy-efficient operation, resolving the conflict between early preparation and energy savings
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is a control device for an air conditioner with which it is possible to improve user comfort and energy efficiency. This control device comprises: a setting reception unit that receives settings pertaining to a set temperature for a space being air-conditioned and to a set time at which the set temperature is to be reached; a prediction unit that predicts the time required to reach the set temperature; an inquiry unit that, before a time that precedes the set time by the prediction time, transmits inquiry information for inquiring as to whether air-conditioning based on the settings is to be executed; and a control unit that controls the air conditioner on the basis of a response to the inquiry information so that the air conditioner executes air-conditioning.