Air Conditioner App Interface Using Installed Function Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of air conditioning systems face inconvenience due to the need to frequently update the air conditioning management program every year, even when they continue to use the same air conditioner for several years, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An air conditioning system with a mobile terminal and information intermediation devices that store installed function information, allowing the air conditioning management program to generate a management screen image based on the actual functions of the air conditioner, eliminating the need for frequent updates by using this information to adapt the program.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the air conditioning management program is updated annually to support new equipment, then compatibility with new air conditioners is improved, but user time and effort for updates increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the management program adapt to new air conditioner models through updates, the patent inverts the approach by having the air conditioner transmit its model information and capability data to the management program. The program then dynamically configures itself based on the received device information, eliminating the need for annual updates while maintaining compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The management program performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the air conditioner model and adapting its interface and functions based on the device's capabilities. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual updates, as the program autonomously adjusts to support new equipment types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the management program is designed to support multiple air conditioner models, then versatility is improved, but program complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The management program employs dynamic configuration where the user interface and operational parameters are not fixed but adapt in real-time based on the connected air conditioner's model and capabilities. This dynamic approach allows a single program to support multiple models without requiring complex pre-programming for each variant.
Solution Approach 2:
The program changes its operational parameters and interface structure based on the detected air conditioner model. By receiving model information from the device and adjusting its configuration accordingly, the program maintains simplicity while achieving broad compatibility across different air conditioner types.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an air conditioning system with which the time and effort imposed on users by the task of updating the air conditioning management program may be minimized, equipped with air conditioners having multiple functions, a smartphone (50), an adaptor (20a), and a server (40). The smartphone (50) is carried by a user of the air conditioners, and has an air conditioning management application (54). Using a public network (80), the adaptor (20a) and the server (40) carry out exchange of information between the air conditioners and the smartphone (50). The air conditioners store installed function information (18a) which is information relating to the functions installed in the units themselves. The air conditioning management application (54) reads out the installed function information (18a) via the adaptor (20a) and the server (40), and in accordance with the information (18a) generates an air conditioner management screen image displayed on a touch panel (55) of the smartphone (50).