Distributed HVAC Alarm Diagnostics with Decoupled Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional HVAC systems lack advanced control and data acquisition techniques, making them less flexible, more difficult to install and maintain, and less efficient in terms of energy use and diagnostic capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A distributed-architecture HVAC system with a data processing and communication network that allows components to share identity, capability, status, and operational data via a data bus, enabling more flexible installation, easier operation, improved temperature and humidity control, enhanced energy efficiency, and simplified diagnostics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional HVAC systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the control capability and diagnostic function are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The HVAC system is divided into multiple independent functional modules including terminal devices, subsystem controllers, and central management controllers. Each module can operate independently while communicating through standardized interfaces, enabling enhanced control capabilities without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs universal communication protocols and standardized interfaces that allow different components to perform multiple functions. The central management controller can handle both operational control and diagnostic functions, while subsystem controllers manage both local control and data acquisition, reducing the need for specialized dedicated components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of repair

If conventional HVAC systems are used, then the installation is straightforward, but the maintenance and diagnostics are difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovediagnosticsVSAvoiddata processing network
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system incorporates comprehensive feedback mechanisms where terminal devices continuously report operational status, energy consumption, and fault conditions to subsystem controllers, which then relay this information to the central management controller. This multi-level feedback structure enables real-time monitoring and simplified diagnostics without requiring complex manual inspection procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Subsystem controllers act as intermediaries between terminal devices and the central management controller. They aggregate data from multiple terminal devices, perform preliminary diagnostic analysis, and present consolidated information to the central controller, thereby simplifying the overall diagnostic process and reducing the complexity burden on the central system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If conventional HVAC systems are used, then the energy consumption is high, but the control efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddata acquisition system
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters based on real-time environmental conditions and load requirements. Terminal devices can modulate their operation continuously rather than switching between fixed states, enabling optimized energy consumption. The central management controller continuously receives feedback and adjusts setpoints dynamically to maintain energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces traditional mechanical control methods with electronic data acquisition and communication. Sensors and digital communication protocols substitute for mechanical linkages and manual adjustments, enabling more precise and energy-efficient control of HVAC operations while reducing mechanical wear and energy losses.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP2241833B1Alarm and diagnostics system and method for a distributed-architecture heating, ventilation and air conditioning network
Publication Date: 2015.11.04 LENNOX IND INC
  • EP2241833B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2241833B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2241833B1 patent drawingFigure 5~6

AI summary

The disclosure provides an HVAC data processing and communication network and a method of manufacturing the same. In one embodiment, the HVAC data processing and communication network includes a system device, a subnet controller and a user interface. The system device is configured to receive a control message from a data bus and operate according to a control setting communicated thereby. The system device is further configured to generate an alarm message in the event that the device enters an alarm state in response to an alarm condition. The user interface is configured to receive the alarm message and display alarm information in response to the message. The subnet controller is configured to provide operational control of the system device via the control message. The operational control is decoupled from the alarm message.