System and method for controlling HVAC systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to large temperature deadbands that lead to increased resource consumption during regions with significant intra-day temperature fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
A touchscreen-enabled HVAC control device allows users to set and adjust heating and cooling setpoints independently or concurrently while maintaining a predefined deadband, with programming to prevent extreme adjustments that could cause inefficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users adjust heating and cooling setpoints independently in traditional thermostats, then individual setpoint control is achieved, but the deadband may become too narrow causing competing heating and cooling functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a deadband value as an intermediary parameter that mediates between heating and cooling setpoints. Instead of directly controlling setpoints independently, users adjust the deadband value which then automatically determines both setpoints, preventing them from being too close and avoiding conflicting HVAC operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of independent setpoint adjustment with a computational system that calculates setpoints based on the deadband value. The control device computes heating setpoint as (deadband value / 2) above ambient temperature and cooling setpoint as (deadband value / 2) below ambient temperature, ensuring proper spacing automatically.
2Measurement precision
If the deadband is reduced to respond to small temperature changes, then temperature control precision is improved, but resource consumption increases due to frequent HVAC cycling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter being controlled from individual setpoints to the deadband value itself. By allowing users to directly adjust the deadband parameter, the system achieves precise temperature control while maintaining an optimal minimum deadband that prevents excessive cycling and energy consumption. The system enforces a minimum deadband of 2°F to balance precision with energy efficiency.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the deadband is increased to reduce HVAC cycling, then energy consumption is reduced, but temperature control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the deadband value dynamic rather than fixed. The system automatically adjusts the deadband based on environmental conditions, using a minimum of 2°F and a maximum of 10°F. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain precision when needed while reducing cycling and energy consumption when conditions permit larger deadbands.
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
Enhances energy efficiency by optimizing temperature control within predefined deadbands, reducing competition between heating and cooling functions and minimizing resource consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid transitioning from liquid to gas absorbs heat
Implementation Method 2
the refrigerant circulating between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers—transitioning between phases along the way—absorbs heat from one location
Implementation Method 3
a fluid transitioning from gas to liquid releases heat
Implementation Method 4
the refrigerant circulating between the indoor and outdoor heat exchangers—transitioning between phases along the way—absorbs heat from one location and releases it to the other
Implementation Method 5
the heat exchanger transferring heat with the surrounding outdoor environment
Implementation Method 6
designed to transfer heat between the circulating refrigerant and flowing ambient air
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for an HVAC system is provided. Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to control devices that facilitate adjustment of heating and cooling setpoints. In one embodiment, the control device allows for concurrent adjustment of the heating and cooling setpoints while maintaining a desired deadband value therebetween.