Building Controller Control Loops for Easier User Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Small and medium-sized businesses lack intuitive and easy-to-use solutions for programming building controllers, such as HVAC, lighting, and security systems, which often require specialized knowledge and complex configuration tools.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device application that guides users through an intuitive, step-by-step process to configure building controllers, allowing configuration of control loops and schedules, with support for various building equipment types and communication with cloud-based servers for enhanced functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional configuration tools are used for building controllers, then control functionality and reliability are improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
A mobile device application serves as an intermediary between the user and the building controller configuration process. The application provides an intuitive graphical user interface that guides users through configuration steps, automatically generates control logic, and communicates with the building controller, thereby simplifying the programming process while maintaining reliable control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration by allowing end-users to program building controllers themselves without requiring specialized training. The configuration tool automatically processes user inputs, generates appropriate control logic, and configures the controller, eliminating the need for professional programmers
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized professionals are used for configuration, then programming precision and control logic quality are improved, but loss of time and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration tool performs preliminary actions by automatically generating control logic and configuration parameters based on user inputs. The system pre-configures standard control scenarios and provides template-based solutions that eliminate the need for manual programming, thereby maintaining high control logic quality while significantly reducing configuration time
Solution Approach 2:
The system empowers end-users to independently configure building controllers with professional-quality results. The automated configuration process maintains high precision by incorporating validation rules and best practices directly into the user interface, eliminating the need for specialized professionals while reducing configuration time
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive configuration options are provided, then adaptability and control capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration process is segmented into distinct, manageable steps presented through a structured workflow in the user interface. Users progress through sequential stages such as equipment selection, parameter configuration, and validation, with each step focusing on a specific aspect of configuration. This segmentation makes the system adaptable to various equipment types while keeping the user interface simple and manageable
Data Source
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AI summary
A first building equipment to be controlled by a building controller is selected via a user interface from a plurality of predefined building equipment options and a first control loop for controlling the first building equipment is defined via the user interface by selecting from a plurality of predefined first control loop parameter options and one or more terminals of the building controller are assigned to the first control loop. A second building equipment to be controlled by the building controller is selected via the user interface from the plurality of predefined building equipment options and a second control loop for controlling the second building equipment is defined via the user interface by selecting from a plurality of predefined second control loop parameter options. One or more terminals of the building controller are assigned to the second control loop.