Distributed HVAC Control Units with Concurrent Network Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional HVAC systems lack advanced communication capabilities and interoperability, relying heavily on internet connectivity and centralized control, which limits user connectivity and scalability, and forces homeowners to manage multiple HVAC units independently.
Innovation Solution
A distributed HVAC system architecture that uses intelligent control units to manage and facilitate communication between multiple HVAC units, sensors, and interactive displays via Wi-Fi direct protocols, allowing for seamless network creation and configuration, and enabling users to control and monitor their HVAC systems from multiple locations without relying on a centralized server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional HVAC systems rely on centralized control and internet connectivity, then system management is simplified, but user connectivity and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the HVAC control architecture into distributed control units, each capable of independent operation and local decision-making. Each control unit manages specific HVAC equipment and can communicate with user devices directly, eliminating the need for a centralized server and enabling scalable expansion without increasing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional HVAC systems use centralized control, then system management is easier, but interoperability and advanced communication capabilities are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Each control unit is designed with multi-functional capabilities including local HVAC control, wireless communication with user devices, sensor data processing, and cloud connectivity options. This universal design enables different control units to interoperate seamlessly while maintaining ease of operation through standardized interfaces and protocols.
3Adaptability or versatility
If HVAC systems require internet connectivity for control, then centralized management is enabled, but user connectivity from multiple locations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit acts as an intermediary between the HVAC equipment and user devices, providing multiple communication pathways including direct wireless connectivity, local network communication, and optional cloud connectivity. This intermediary architecture enables users to control HVAC systems from multiple locations without requiring constant internet connectivity, while maintaining system reliability through redundant communication channels.
4Productivity
If multiple HVAC units are managed independently, then system simplicity is maintained, but scalability and integrated control are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented, modular control units that can be independently installed and configured for each HVAC equipment. Each control unit operates autonomously but can seamlessly integrate with other control units through standardized communication protocols, enabling scalable expansion from single-unit to multi-unit systems without increasing configuration complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an HVAC system includes a first control unit communicatively coupled to a first plurality of HVAC units and a first interactive display. A second control unit communicatively coupled to a second plurality of HVAC units and a second interactive display. The first control unit is operable to detect and connect to the second control unit using a Wi-Fi direct protocol to create an HVAC control network that is designated as a primary communications network. The first control unit further operable to detect a Wi-Fi network including a wireless access point. The first control unit operable to re-designate the HVAC control network as a secondary communications network and to designate the Wi-Fi network as the primary communications network. The first control unit may also detect and connect to the second control unit over the Wi-Fi network, wherein the first control unit may receive a first temperature change request from the first interactive display and transmit the first temperature change request to the second control unit over the Wi-Fi network.