Building Automation Shade Control Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building automation systems face challenges in coordinating blind/shade control with HVAC systems to enhance HVAC efficiency and energy savings, as current methods lack an automated and efficient way to manage sunlight impact on building temperature.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that determine an optimal active shading strategy by integrating HVAC and shading systems, using processing circuitry to access control programs and configure blinds and awnings based on room operating modes and shading strategy configurations, balancing energy efficiency and glare protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If building automation systems use centralized control stations to monitor and control dispersed HVAC and shading devices, then system coordination capability is improved, but communication complexity and response time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized control system into distributed controller units located at each zone or room level. Each controller independently manages local HVAC and shading devices, segmenting the monolithic centralized system into modular autonomous units that reduce communication overhead while maintaining coordination capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hierarchical control architecture that adds a intermediate control layer between centralized stations and field devices. This dimensional change creates multiple levels of control (centralized planning, zonal execution, device operation) that distribute communication loads across different organizational dimensions.
2Loss of energy
If building automation systems coordinate HVAC and shading systems centrally, then energy efficiency is improved, but communication bandwidth and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pre-calculated shading strategies and HVAC setpoint schedules that are determined in advance based on historical weather data, occupancy patterns, and building performance metrics. These pre-computed control actions are stored locally in controllers and executed automatically, eliminating the need for real-time centralized computation while maintaining energy optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables local controllers to autonomously adjust shading devices and HVAC systems based on local sensor inputs (temperature, sunlight intensity, occupancy) without requiring continuous centralized processing. Each zone serves itself by making real-time control decisions locally, reducing overall system processing requirements while maintaining energy efficiency.
3Area of stationary object
If building automation systems use multiple communication networks for dispersed devices, then system coverage is improved, but system reliability and integration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication protocol and standardized interface architecture that allows a single communication network infrastructure to support multiple device types (HVAC, lighting, shading, security) and functions. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated networks for each system type, reducing integration complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for coordinating and controlling a building automation system (such as building HVAC system) and a building shading system so as to provide efficient energy management and other benefits are provided.