Air conditioning control system for controlling multiple air conditioning devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for linked device control require dedicated lines for connectivity, limiting their versatility and flexibility in controlling devices without the need for specialized equipment or infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A control system that enables linked control of devices, such as air conditioners and floor heating units, via a relay unit connected to a public communication network, allowing control signals to be transmitted wirelessly without the need for dedicated lines or equipment, using a mobile terminal or non-portable device to manage and coordinate the control processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated lines are used to connect devices for linked control, then control reliability is improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates communication between air conditioning devices. Instead of requiring direct dedicated connections between devices, the server acts as a central hub that receives control signals from one device and transmits them to other devices through public communication networks, thereby eliminating the need for complex dedicated wiring while maintaining control reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/dedicated physical connection system with an electronic communication system based on public networks. Control signals are transmitted via communication lines (such as telephone lines or internet networks) instead of dedicated control wires, substituting the mechanical connection infrastructure with a more flexible electronic communication infrastructure
2Measurement precision
If dedicated operating units are provided for each device, then control precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the operating unit universal by enabling it to control multiple different air conditioning devices through the server interface. A single operating unit can send control signals to various devices (air conditioners, floor heating systems, etc.) by having the server translate and transmit appropriate control commands to each device type, eliminating the need for device-specific operating units
Solution Approach 2:
The server acts as an intelligent intermediary that handles the complexity of device-specific control protocols. The operating unit communicates with the server using a standardized interface, and the server manages the translation and transmission of control signals to the specific target device, thereby simplifying the operating unit while maintaining control precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If devices are controlled in linked manner without dedicated lines, then versatility is improved, but control signal transmission reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The server serves as a reliable intermediary that manages communication over public networks. It handles signal transmission, error checking, and protocol conversion, ensuring that control signals are reliably transmitted between devices even when using non-dedicated communication infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the server and devices exchange status and control information. This allows for verification of signal transmission and enables corrective actions if transmission issues occur, thereby maintaining reliability in the linked control system using public communication networks
Data Source
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AI summary
A highly versatile control system which is able to control devices in a linked manner is provided. The control system is configured to condition air of a single space 9, and includes: an air conditioner 2 and a floor heating apparatus 3 which cannot directly communicate with each other; a router 4 which is able to communicate with the air conditioner 2 and the floor heating apparatus 3 via communication lines 11 and 12; and a terminal device 5 which is connectable to the Internet 10 and is able to communicate with the router 4 via a communication line 13. The air conditioner 2 and the floor heating apparatus 3 are controlled in a linked manner by a control signal sent from the terminal device 5 via the router 4.