HVAC control assemblies, and corresponding methods of determining equipment wiring harness connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Proper configuration of universal service HVAC control boards often requires manual intervention by installers, which can lead to human error and improper operation of HVAC systems.
Innovation Solution
HVAC control assemblies with multiple main system interface connectors that automatically detect the connected equipment wiring harness, allowing the controller to configure settings without installer intervention, such as determining the OEM application based on pin states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration is used to set control parameters, then the installer can customize settings, but human error occurs and improper operation results
Solution Approach 1:
The control board automatically detects the wiring harness connection type and configures control parameters without installer intervention. The system self-identifies the application (furnace, air handler, heat pump, air-conditioning) by detecting which interface connector is coupled to the equipment wiring harness, eliminating manual configuration and preventing human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The control board uses feedback from the electrical conductor states on the interface connectors to determine the correct configuration. By monitoring the electrical states (grounded vs. ungrounded) on specific pins, the system receives information about the connected equipment type and automatically adjusts control parameters accordingly.
2Extent of automation
If multiple interface connectors are provided, then automatic detection is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control board incorporates multiple interface connectors (first and second connectors) that can each accommodate different equipment wiring harnesses. Each connector serves a specific application type, allowing the single control board to universally support multiple HVAC applications (furnace, air handler, heat pump, air-conditioning) without requiring separate control boards for each application.
3Productivity
If automatic configuration is implemented, then installation time is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control board is designed with segmented interface connectors, where each connector has specific pins assigned to particular functions. The electrical conductors are strategically placed on specific pins (such as pin nine on the first connector) to enable automatic detection. This segmentation allows the manufacturing process to create a standardized board design that automatically adapts to different applications through the detection logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Exemplary embodiments are provided of HVAC control assemblies. In an exemplary embodiment, an HVAC control assembly includes an HVAC control board, a first interface connector, and a second interface connector. The first interface connector and the second interface connector each include multiple pins adapted for connection to an equipment wiring harness. The assembly also includes an electrical conductor connected between at least one of the multiple pins of the first interface connector and at least one of the multiple pins of the second interface connector, and an HVAC controller configured to determine whether an equipment wiring harness is connected to the first interface connector or the second interface connector based on a state of at least one of the multiple pins connected to the electrical conductor. Example methods of determining an equipment wiring harness connection in an HVAC control assembly are also disclosed.