Graphical Extension Engine for HVAC Controller Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern HVAC controllers require flexibility and complex control capabilities while maintaining low manufacturing costs, but existing solutions often rely on fixed inputs and outputs, limiting their adaptability and programmability.
Innovation Solution
A graphical extension engine system that allows for flexible blocks and the ability to change the interface on the fly, utilizing a function block engine platform with a wall module bus to create configurable and programmable devices, enabling the extension of function block behavior and communication with other modules through a wall module protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed inputs and outputs are used in control systems, then manufacturing cost is reduced and device simplicity is maintained, but adaptability and programmability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic I/O configuration where the controller can change its input and output assignments during operation without requiring physical reconfiguration. The system allows runtime modification of I/O mappings, enabling the same hardware to adapt to different control scenarios dynamically, thus achieving high adaptability without proportional increase in hardware complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with universal I/O interfaces that can serve multiple functions through software configuration. The same physical I/O pins can be programmed to different functions (digital input, digital output, analog input, communication protocols) based on system requirements, allowing one device to fulfill multiple roles without requiring dedicated hardware for each function
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible blocks and on-the-fly interface changes are implemented, then programmability and adaptability are enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller architecture is segmented into modular function blocks that can be independently configured and programmed. Each I/O interface is divided into configurable segments that can be assigned to different functions through software, allowing flexible reconfiguration without redesigning the entire system. This modular approach enables programmability while managing complexity through standardized interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic change of I/O parameters such as pin assignments, data directions, voltage levels, and protocol configurations during runtime. By enabling parameter reconfiguration without hardware changes, the system achieves high programmability while the underlying hardware structure remains relatively simple and fixed
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed features are used in control solutions, then ease of manufacture is improved, but flexibility and expandability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses software-based I/O configuration that creates virtual copies of hardware interfaces. Instead of manufacturing different hardware variants for different configurations, the system uses software to create configurable representations of I/O interfaces, allowing the same manufactured device to be adapted to different applications through programming rather than physical modification
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible graphical extension engine having a function block engine combined with extensions in communications with a wall module bus to make it possible to provide fixed function, configurable function and programmable function devices which implement additional function block behavior, and provide an automated configuration approach for generating configuration files for a programmable wall module. In other words, the engine not only depends on fixed inputs and outputs (I/O's) and fixed features in a control solution, but also may allow for flexible blocks and the ability to change an interface on the fly (i.e., during operation).