Adaptive HVAC Interface Using Proximity-Based Display Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building controllers, such as HVAC controllers, often lack intuitive user interfaces that adapt to user position and environment, leading to suboptimal user experience and functionality.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a proximity sensor and display controller to dynamically adjust the position and size of display elements on an electronic display based on user proximity, and using a flexible electronic display that can be mounted to curved surfaces, with a color sensor to match the display background with the surrounding environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed display interface is used in HVAC controllers, then the device structure is simple, but the user experience is suboptimal and the interface cannot adapt to different user positions
Solution Approach 1:
The display interface dynamically adjusts its characteristics based on detected user position. The system transitions from a static, fixed display to a dynamic interface that modifies element position, size, and other attributes in real-time based on proximity sensor data and user interaction patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors (proximity, ambient light, touch) that continuously monitor user interaction and environmental conditions, feeding this information back to the display controller which adjusts the interface accordingly. This creates a closed-loop system where the display adapts based on real-time feedback about user position and preferences.
2Ease of operation
If display elements are made large and prominent for readability, then user accessibility improves, but the display space utilization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Display element size is dynamically adjusted based on detected user proximity. When a user is near, elements are enlarged for easy viewing and interaction. When no user is present or the user is far away, elements return to their original size, maximizing display space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes display parameters (element size, position, brightness) based on user proximity and interaction state. This allows the interface to optimize for readability when needed while maintaining efficient space utilization during normal operation.
3Shape
If the HVAC controller is mounted on curved surfaces for aesthetic integration, then the visual appearance improves, but the manufacturing and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display component uses a flexible form factor that can be bent and conform to curved mounting surfaces. This flexible display technology allows the HVAC controller to be installed on non-planar surfaces such as curved walls or architectural features while maintaining display functionality and aesthetic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to accommodate curved mounting surfaces rather than requiring flat installation planes. The flexible display and housing can be formed to match curved architectural surfaces, transforming the constraint of curved mounting into an aesthetic advantage.
4Shape
If the display background color is changed to match the surrounding environment, then the aesthetic integration improves, but the energy consumption for color sensing and adjustment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The display system automatically senses the surrounding environment using color sensors and autonomously adjusts its background color to match or complement the mounting surface. This self-adjusting capability eliminates the need for manual configuration and allows the device to adapt to different installation environments automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The display background color is dynamically changed based on environmental sensing. The system uses color sensors to detect the surrounding surface color and adjusts the display background accordingly, allowing the HVAC controller to blend aesthetically with different wall colors and environments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user experience by providing a customizable and aesthetically integrated interface that is easily readable and accessible, improving the functionality and usability of building controllers.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor for sensing a position of a user relative to the electronic display
Implementation Method 2
A color sensor operatively coupled to the display controller faces the mounting side of the user interface for sensing a color
Implementation Method 3
The flexible electronic display transitions to a second profile away from the control module, wherein the second profile is different from the first profile
Data Source
AI summary
A user interface for an HVAC controller includes an electronic display and a proximity sensor for sensing a position of a user relative to the electronic display. A display controller is operably coupled to the electronic display and the proximity sensor and is configured to display one or more display elements on the electronic display. In some embodiments, a location of one or more of the display elements on the electronic display may be based, at least in part, on the position of the user sensed by the proximity sensor. In some embodiments, a size of one or more of the display elements on the electronic display may be based, at least in part, on the position of the user sensed by the proximity sensor.