Centralized control unit, equipment control system, and control method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing centralized management apparatuses for air-conditioning systems face layout limitations that prevent the connection of expansion boxes, restricting the addition of extension functions.
Innovation Solution
A centralized management apparatus with a main unit having basic functions and multiple interfaces on various sides for connecting extension units, allowing flexible installation and enabling the addition of extension functions without layout constraints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a connection interface is arranged for side-by-side connection at the side of the centralized management apparatus, then the expansion box can be connected to extend functions, but the apparatus cannot be installed in locations with insufficient lateral space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by arranging connection interfaces not only on the left and right sides but also on the top and bottom surfaces of the main body. This multi-dimensional interface distribution allows the expansion box to be connected from any direction, transforming a single-dimension (side-by-side) connection limitation into a multi-dimensional connection solution that adapts to various installation spaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If all functions are installed in the centralized management apparatus, then complete functionality is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the system into a main body with basic functions and separate expansion boxes with additional functions. The main body includes essential air-conditioning control capabilities, while extension functions (display, communication, etc.) are segmented into optional expansion boxes that can be selectively added. This modular segmentation allows customers to pay only for the functionality they need, reducing overall system cost while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality through the design of a standardized connection interface on the main body that can accommodate various types of expansion boxes. The main body serves as a universal platform that can be configured with different function combinations by selecting appropriate expansion boxes, making the system adaptable to diverse application scenarios without requiring complete functionality in every installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the main body includes all functions, then no additional devices are needed, but the apparatus cannot be reduced to basic functions only for cost reduction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the system into a standardized main body and optional expansion modules. The main body contains only basic air-conditioning control functions and a standardized connection interface, while additional functions are segmented into separate expansion boxes. This segmentation simplifies the main body design and reduces its complexity, while the modular expansion boxes can be added only when needed, maintaining system completeness without forcing complexity on every installation.
Data Source
AI summary
An air-conditioning centralized management apparatus (10) for controlling air conditioners including an outdoor unit and an indoor unit includes a main unit (100) that has basic functions for controlling the air conditioners. The main unit (100) includes extension I/Fs (160) that each are connectable to an extension unit (200) that has an extension function for controlling the air conditioners. The extension I/Fs (160) are arranged on, for example, at four locations of the air-conditioning centralized management apparatus (10), on a top side, lower side, left side, and right side thereof, to improve flexibility in connection of the extension unit (200).