HVAC Component Configuration Using Randomized Wireless Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems require manual and error-prone processes for configuring components, which can lead to mistakes in associating component IDs with physical locations, especially when advanced control systems are not accessible during installation or upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A method for configuring HVAC system components that involves assigning a unique component ID to each component before mounting, using a marking system readable by an identifier, and then pairing this ID with a system location ID using an automated process that does not require direct connection to the central control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration methods are used to assign component IDs to system location IDs, then the configuration process can be performed without advanced control systems, but the likelihood of configuration errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service configuration where the identifier device automatically reads component IDs and associates them with system location IDs without requiring manual input or advanced control systems. The component itself provides its identification information through the marking system, eliminating the need for operator intervention in the ID assignment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (writing down IDs, manual entry) with an automated optical/electronic identification system. The identifier device uses marking recognition technology to automatically read component IDs and transfer them to the control system, substituting human-operated mechanical processes with automated electronic processes that reduce errors.
2Ease of operation
If each component is configured individually with unique system location IDs, then precise control of each component is achieved, but the complexity of the configuration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple configuration steps into a single automated process. The identifier device simultaneously performs component identification, reading of component IDs, association with system location IDs, and transmission to the control system in one operation, rather than requiring separate manual steps for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The identifier device serves as an intermediary between the components and the control system. It automatically reads component IDs from markings, associates them with system location IDs, and transmits the configuration data to the control system, eliminating the need for operators to directly manage the complex configuration process.
3Ease of manufacture
If components are mounted before configuration, then installation flexibility is improved, but the risk of mounting components at wrong locations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary identification preparation by equipping each component with a readable marking containing its component ID before mounting. This preliminary action ensures that when the component is mounted, its identity is already known and can be automatically associated with the correct system location ID, preventing mounting errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The identifier device provides feedback by reading the component ID marking and verifying the association with the system location ID. This feedback mechanism ensures that components are correctly associated with their intended locations, allowing operators to detect and correct any mounting errors immediately.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates a method for configuring components in an air treatment system. The air treatment system comprises one or several components such as flow control components, sensor components or input control components. The components are connected to a central control system when they are configured and the air treatment system is in use. The components are provided with a transmitter and/or receiver for sending an input signal to and/or receiving an output signal from the central control system. Each of the components are also provided with an indicator and an Electronic Control Unit programmed to activate the indicator so as to indicate when the component has been selected by an identifier selecting one or several of the components. The configuration method comprises three main steps whereof the first is preparation in which at least one component with a unique component ID is located at its intended physical position in the air ventilation system and the identifier is provided with system location IDs for components in the air treatment system. In a second step called selection procedure is the physical location of the desired component to be configured located such that an identifying signal may be sent wireless to the desired component. There is a repeated sending of signals from the identifier until the indicating signal from the indicator is indicating a selected state and the identifier displays only the desired component to be selected. Thereafter follows a pairing event in which the component ID and the system location ID of the selected component are paired such that the desired component may be recognized by the central control system by the system location ID.