CO2 Sensor Auto-Calibration via Ambient Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional CO2 sensors in HVAC systems require frequent manual recalibration, which is time-consuming and difficult, especially in occupied buildings or hard-to-reach locations, due to the need for periodic access to ambient CO2 readings.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a computer server communicating with uncalibrated and calibrated sensors, utilizing a calibration module that creates an aging model to output unique calibration data to uncalibrated sensors based on environmental conditions and sensor data, allowing for auto-calibration or remote calibration when local conditions are insufficient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional CO2 sensors are used in HVAC systems, then the sensors can monitor environmental conditions, but they require frequent manual recalibration which is time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system performs self-calibration by automatically accessing ambient CO2 readings from the environment to reset its baseline, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The sensor monitors its own performance and initiates calibration procedures autonomously when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs calibration actions in advance by periodically checking ambient conditions and proactively resetting the baseline before significant drift occurs. This prevents the need for reactive manual calibration and maintains continuous accuracy.
2Reliability
If manual recalibration is performed in occupied buildings, then the sensor can be calibrated, but access to ambient readings is difficult and the process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor automatically determines when calibration is needed by monitoring its own performance degradation and initiates the calibration process autonomously, eliminating the need for operator intervention even in hard-to-reach or occupied locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors sensor performance and environmental conditions, using this feedback to trigger calibration procedures at optimal times. The sensor reads ambient CO2 levels and compares them against expected values to determine when recalibration is necessary.
3Area of stationary object
If sensors are installed in hard-to-reach locations, then the HVAC system can cover more areas, but manual calibration becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor performs self-calibration autonomously in remote locations by accessing ambient CO2 readings from the surrounding environment, eliminating the need for technicians to physically access difficult-to-reach sensor installations for manual calibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs calibration actions automatically at the time of installation or when triggered by performance degradation, before manual intervention would be required. This preliminary automated calibration ensures the sensor is ready for operation without requiring subsequent manual calibration visits.
4Reliability
If traditional hard-wired systems are used, then the system is reliable, but the costs of cabling and installation are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical hard-wiring with wireless communication technology, allowing sensor data to be transmitted without physical cable infrastructure. This substitution maintains system reliability while dramatically reducing installation costs and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless sensor system serves multiple functions including environmental monitoring, data collection, and self-calibration, eliminating the need for separate dedicated calibration equipment or manual intervention processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for calibrating sensors includes at least one computer server configured to be in communication with at least one uncalibrated sensor and at least one calibrated sensor, and a calibration module stored on the server. The calibration module may be configured to receive calibrated sensor data from the at least one calibrated sensor, and output calibration data to the at least one uncalibrated sensor.