User interface for an environmental control system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing environmental control systems, such as heating and hot water supply systems, have cumbersome and inflexible user interfaces that limit user convenience and flexibility in scheduling and control operations.
Innovation Solution
A method using a control device with a display and directional input element allows users to configure a control schedule by adjusting time periods and associated control information, such as temperature settings, through intuitive rotary input, enabling efficient and accurate scheduling without the need for additional devices or complex networking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical timers or digital control devices are integrated into the boiler, then scheduling functionality is provided, but the user interface becomes cumbersome and awkward to use
Solution Approach 1:
The scheduling interface is segmented into distinct operational modes (normal operation mode and schedule programming mode), allowing users to access scheduling functionality only when needed. The programming process is further divided into sequential steps (selecting day, selecting time period, adjusting parameters), making each interaction simple and focused rather than overwhelming.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides a default schedule that is pre-configured and ready to use immediately upon installation. This preliminary action eliminates the need for users to program a schedule from scratch, and allows them to later modify only the specific parameters they wish to change, rather than configuring everything manually.
2Adaptability or versatility
If web interfaces or mobile applications are used for schedule programming, then flexibility is improved, but reliance on additional devices and home networking infrastructure is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat device itself provides all necessary scheduling programming capabilities through its local display and input mechanisms. Users can program and modify schedules directly at the thermostat without needing external devices like smartphones or computers, eliminating dependency on home networking infrastructure while maintaining full programming flexibility.
3Measurement precision
If detailed schedule programming is enabled, then control precision is improved, but user interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detailed scheduling interface is segmented into discrete, manageable components: day selection, time period selection, and parameter adjustment. Each component presents only the necessary options at that stage, avoiding overwhelming the user with all possible settings simultaneously while still enabling precise control over the schedule.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A method of controlling an environmental control system is disclosed. The environmental control system is arranged to operate in accordance with a control schedule in a scheduled mode of operation. The method comprises, at a control device associated with the environmental control system: receiving a user input indicative of activation of a boost mode, wherein in the boost mode, the environmental control system disregards the control schedule and operates instead in accordance with a boost setting, the boost setting including at least a target temperature; setting the target temperature for the boost mode based on user input; and activating the boost mode based on the set target temperature, whereby the environmental control system performs environmental control based on the target temperature during activation of the boost mode.