Control adapter for fastening on a device of a HVAC system
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC system devices are difficult to access, making parameterization tedious for users, especially since existing control adapters are not suitable for reducing data transmission in HVAC systems and require manual alignment and power for operation.
Innovation Solution
A control adapter with a recessed near-field communication interface for alignment and a wireless communication interface for remote operation, allowing parameterization from a distance without power and reducing data transmission, featuring a Bluetooth or WLAN interface for longer range communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a control adapter is attached to an HVAC unit located in the ceiling, then the HVAC unit can be parameterized, but the user must hold the control device very close to the NFC interface making configuration cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the control adapter with extended NFC antenna) that mediates between the user's control device and the HVAC unit's NFC interface. The adapter is attached to the HVAC unit and extends the NFC communication range, allowing parameterization from a greater distance without requiring the user to hold the control device very close to the HVAC unit.
2Ease of operation
If an NFC interface is used for parameterization, then it works without power to the HVAC unit, but the HVAC unit is difficult to access requiring close proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the NFC communication capability in a spatial dimension by attaching a control adapter with an extended antenna to the HVAC unit. This creates a gradient of NFC signal strength radiating from the HVAC unit, allowing users to parameterize the unit from a greater distance along the radial dimension, effectively transforming the zero-dimensional point-contact NFC interface into a distributed field interface.
3Ease of operation
If a control adapter is used for remote parameterization, then alignment of the NFC interface is required, but manual alignment is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric visual indicators (arrows, symbols) on both the control adapter and the HVAC unit that point toward each other, creating an unambiguous correct alignment orientation. This asymmetric design guides the user to align the devices in the correct orientation without requiring complex manual adjustment, as the visual cues naturally indicate the proper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual indicators such as colored LEDs or color-coded markings on the control adapter and HVAC unit to indicate alignment status. These visual changes provide immediate feedback to the user about whether the devices are properly aligned, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual alignment adjustments and enabling quick, intuitive setup.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy alignment and remote parameterization of HVAC devices, reducing the need for manual adjustments and power supply during the construction phase, improving operational efficiency and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The control adapter can communicate with the HVAC unit via a near-field communication interface
Implementation Method 2
The control adapter can communicate with a remote control device via another wireless communication interface
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a control adapter for fastening on a HVAC device (3), comprising: a wireless communication interface (11) for communicating control signals between a remote control device (2) and the control adapter (1); a wireless near-field communication interface (12) for communicating control signals between the control adapter (1) and the HVAC device (3); a control circuit (13) for converting the control signals received from the wireless communication interface (11) into control signals of the wireless near-field communication interface (12) and for converting the control signals received from the wireless near-field communication interface (12) into control signals of the wireless communication interface (11).