Programmable controllers and schedule timers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current programmable controllers for devices like HVAC systems are complex and time-consuming to program, especially for multi-day and multi-zone schedules, leading to user frustration and inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
A simplified graphical user interface (GUI) using a dial-type display with touch-sensitive segments allows users to easily select and program time periods for schedules, with features like color coding for cost awareness and remote access via web or mobile devices, enabling efficient programming of multiple schedules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical timers are used, then the device is straightforward to operate with visible indication, but the scheduling accuracy is poor and the pins can easily be lost or broken
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical timer system with a digital controller featuring a graphical user interface. Instead of mechanical pins and analog dials, the system uses a microprocessor-based digital interface with visual display elements, eliminating mechanical wear and pin loss issues while maintaining user-friendly operation through graphical representation of time schedules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If digital controllers with copy settings feature are used, then the user can copy settings from one day to another, but a number of steps are required to establish a program, adding to the complexity of the interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing pre-configured schedule templates and automatic copy functions that allow users to establish complete weekly schedules with minimal input. The system automatically copies settings across days and applies programs without requiring users to manually configure each day individually, reducing the number of steps needed while maintaining adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If programmable controllers with multi-day and multi-zone capabilities are used, then the scheduling functionality is comprehensive, but the time and complexity associated with programming increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple schedule configurations into a unified graphical interface where users can visually configure and apply multi-day, multi-zone schedules simultaneously. The system combines zone management, time scheduling, and temperature setpoint configuration into an integrated visual display, allowing comprehensive scheduling to be established in a single operational sequence rather than requiring separate programming steps for each zone and day.
4Ease of manufacture
If mechanical timers with 24-hour analog dial are used, then the basic functionality is provided, but the time setting can be confusing and not very accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the analog mechanical dial with a digital graphical user interface that provides precise time setting through digital display and input mechanisms. The system eliminates the ambiguity of analog dial positioning by using digital time selection, allowing accurate time and temperature settings to be established without the confusion inherent in mechanical analog systems.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a user interface system and method for programming a schedule of a programmable device. The system comprises processor means and a display unit coupled to the processor means, whereby the processor means is configured to provide a graphical display on the display unit for displaying a time select region for programming at least one time period for the schedule. The time select region is displayed on the display unit as a dial divided into a plurality of segments and each segment represents a period of time in a day, such as fifteen minutes, for an operating parameter, such as a temperature setting for the device. The time select region is interactively operable to enable a user to select one or more segments on the dial to correspond to a selected time period for the schedule. The present invention is directed to a user interface system and method that allows adjustment of multiple schedules in an easy and efficient manner allowing a user to easily view and switch between schedules.