Control Adapter for Remote HVAC Parameterization Without Power Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

HVAC systems are difficult to access, making parameterization laborious due to the need for close proximity or cable connection for communication, especially during the construction phase where power is not available.

Innovation Solution

A control adapter that can be fastened near HVAC devices, using a near-field communication interface for alignment and a wireless communication interface with a larger range for remote control, allowing parameterization from a distance and enabling communication without manual configuration or additional hardware.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If near-field communication interface is used for parameterization, then communication can occur without power supply, but the user must hold the operator control device very close to the HVAC device making parameterization laborious

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower supply requirementVSAvoidparameterization ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A control adapter is introduced as an intermediary device between the operator control device and the HVAC device. The control adapter includes a near-field communication interface that couples to the HVAC device and a wireless communication interface that couples to the operator control device, enabling remote parameterization while maintaining the ability to communicate without power supply to the HVAC device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If HVAC devices are placed in difficult to access locations, then system functionality is improved, but parameterization and control become laborious requiring close proximity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation location flexibilityVSAvoidparameterization ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The control adapter serves as a mediator that remains attached to the HVAC device at its installed location while providing a remote interface for parameterization. This allows HVAC devices to be placed in difficult-to-access locations such as ceilings without compromising the ease of parameterization, as the operator can communicate wirelessly from a distance through the control adapter

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Facilitates easier operator control of HVAC systems by allowing parameterization and communication from a distance, reducing labor and enabling setup during construction phases without power supply, with the control adapter ensuring correct alignment and efficient data transmission.

Implementation Method 1

The control adapter (1) has a wireless near-field communication interface (12)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear-field communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a wireless communication interface (11) for communicating control signals with a remote-control device (2)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10859285B2Control adapter for fastening on a device of an HVAC system
Publication Date: 2020.12.08 BELIMO HOLDING AG
  • US10859285B2 patent drawing
  • US10859285B2 patent drawing
  • US10859285B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A control adapter for fastening on a HVAC device includes a wireless communication interface for communicating control signals between a remote control device and the control adapter. A wireless near-field communication interface communicates control signals between the control adapter and the HVAC device. A control circuit converts the control signals received from the wireless communications interface into the control signals of the wireless near-field communication interface and converts the control signals received from the wireless near-field communication interface into control signals of the wireless communication interface.