System and method for controlling HVAC systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to large temperature fluctuations in regions, leading to increased resource consumption as they maintain a wide deadband to reduce energy usage, which can result in competitive heating and cooling functions when setpoints are set too close.
Innovation Solution
A touchscreen HVAC control device allows users to set and adjust both heating and cooling setpoints concurrently, maintaining a predefined deadband value, with programming to prevent the deadband from being too narrow to avoid inefficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a large deadband is used to reduce energy consumption in regions with large temperature fluctuations, then resource consumption is reduced, but the temperature control precision deteriorates and competitive heating/cooling functions may occur when setpoints are too close
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic deadband adjustment where the deadband width is not fixed but adapts based on current operating conditions. The controller dynamically modifies the deadband parameter to optimize between energy savings and temperature control precision, preventing competitive heating/cooling while reducing unnecessary HVAC cycling in regions with large temperature fluctuations
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the deadband parameter based on detected temperature patterns and operational context. By monitoring temperature fluctuations and adjusting the deadband parameter accordingly, the system achieves energy reduction during stable periods while maintaining precise control during transitional periods, directly resolving the contradiction between energy use and control precision
2Measurement precision
If heating and cooling setpoints are set close together to improve temperature control precision, then temperature control precision is improved, but competitive heating and cooling functions occur leading to increased energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors the relationship between heating and cooling setpoints and the actual system response. When competitive heating/cooling conditions are detected (i.e., both functions active simultaneously), the feedback loop triggers deadband adjustment to prevent further competition, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining acceptable temperature control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the deadband parameter based on real-time detection of competitive heating/cooling conditions. When setpoints are too close and cause simultaneous heating and cooling operation, the controller dynamically expands the deadband to separate the operational zones, preventing energy waste while allowing tight control when conditions permit
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
This solution enables efficient HVAC operation by maintaining a stable deadband, reducing resource consumption and preventing competitive heating and cooling functions, while allowing for flexible adjustments to suit different usage scenarios.
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.