System for controlling heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face challenges in accurately controlling temperature and energy usage due to variability in output and difficulty in predicting occupancy and thermal loads.
Innovation Solution
A device and system that utilize a camera to capture images with temperature data, an image analysis module to determine current and future temperatures, and a controller to adjust HVAC output based on predetermined temperature settings and occupancy data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional HVAC control systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the temperature control precision is poor and energy efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments temperature measurement across multiple zones using distributed temperature sensors throughout the space, allowing independent monitoring and control of different regions. This enables precise local temperature control while maintaining overall system manageability through modular sensor and controller units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical thermostat control with an intelligent control system that uses image analysis from cameras to detect thermal patterns and occupancy, combined with machine learning algorithms to predict future temperature conditions. This substitution enables more accurate and adaptive temperature control without relying on simple mechanical switching.
2Temperature
If HVAC systems operate continuously to maintain temperature, then thermal comfort is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses machine learning models to predict future occupancy patterns and temperature changes before they occur. Based on these predictions, the HVAC system proactively adjusts heating or cooling in advance, pre-conditioning spaces to maintain comfort during predicted occupancy periods while reducing operation during predicted unoccupied periods, thereby lowering overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where temperature sensors, occupancy detectors, and image analysis modules constantly monitor environmental conditions and occupancy status. This real-time feedback enables the control system to dynamically adjust HVAC operation to match actual thermal demands, preventing unnecessary heating or cooling and optimizing energy usage while maintaining comfort.
3Measurement precision
If the system uses multiple sensors and cameras to improve measurement accuracy, then temperature and occupancy detection precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multi-functional devices that perform multiple detection tasks simultaneously. For example, cameras serve both for visual occupancy detection and thermal pattern analysis, while image analysis modules process multiple types of data (visual, thermal, motion) to derive comprehensive occupancy information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated sensors for each measurement type, managing system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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
The system achieves precise control of HVAC systems, reducing energy consumption and maintaining optimal thermal comfort by dynamically adjusting heating or cooling outputs based on real-time occupancy and temperature data.
Implementation Method 1
a camera configured to capture a number of images of a space, the images including temperature data for the space
Implementation Method 2
The HVAC system is configured to control the temperature in the space by heating or cooling the space
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems includes a camera that captures images including temperature data for the space. An image analysis module is configured to receive the images and analyze the images to determine a current temperature in the space. A computer is configured to determine a future temperature in the space and determine an amount of heating or cooling output needed to maintain a predetermined temperature in the space. A controller is configured to communicate with a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The HVAC system is configured to control the temperature in the space by heating or cooling the space. The controller is configured to transmit the determined amount of heating or cooling output needed to maintain the predetermined temperature in the space to the HVAC system to maintain the predetermined temperature in the space.