Cloud-Based HVAC Control to Eliminate Local Server Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current building HVAC systems require local server devices for control logic and installation, which is time-consuming and expensive, and there is a need for a method to wirelessly control residential HVAC systems using a network of remote servers without the need for a local server device.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a cloud network to receive environmental data, generate applications, and provide control signals to HVAC equipment based on user preferences and utility data, eliminating the need for local server devices by using remote servers hosted on a network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If local server devices are used for HVAC control logic, then control functionality is achieved, but installation cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control logic from local server devices and relocates it to a cloud-based platform. The thermostat communicates directly with HVAC equipment through a wireless network, eliminating the need for local server infrastructure. This extraction principle resolves the contradiction by maintaining control functionality while removing installation complexity associated with local servers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless network as an intermediary between the thermostat and HVAC equipment, replacing the traditional local server mediator. This allows control signals to be transmitted wirelessly without requiring physical server infrastructure, thereby maintaining control functionality while reducing installation complexity and cost.
2Reliability
If local server devices are installed, then control logic is provided, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control logic is extracted from expensive local server devices and moved to a cloud-based platform that can be accessed remotely. This eliminates the need to purchase and install costly server hardware, thereby maintaining control logic functionality while significantly reducing installation costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having each location require its own physical server, the patent uses a cloud-based copy of the control logic that can be accessed by multiple thermostats simultaneously. This virtualization approach maintains full control functionality while eliminating the need for duplicate hardware installations, reducing overall cost.
3Device complexity
If wireless control without local servers is used, then installation cost and time are reduced, but control capability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a wireless network as an intermediary to transmit control signals between the thermostat and HVAC equipment, replacing the traditional wired connection through local servers. This maintains control capability while enabling simpler wireless installation without requiring physical infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/wired system of local servers and physical connections with a wireless electronic communication system. This substitution maintains full control capability while eliminating the need for complex physical installation of server racks, wiring, and hardware components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system in a building. The method includes receiving environmental data of the HVAC system via a cloud network and generating an application based on the received environmental data of the HVAC system. The method further includes providing the application to a user interface via the cloud network. The application receives control instructions via the user interface and provides control signals to a plurality of HVAC equipment in the building to satisfy the control instructions.