Systems and methods for wirelessly configuring climate control system controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional HVAC control boards are difficult to configure due to complex interfaces, interference from electromagnetic noise, limited space, and housing materials that obstruct wireless communication, making it challenging to access and change settings, especially in confined and harsh environments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a near field communication (NFC) module separate from the HVAC control module, which converts NFC signals to wired signals for communication with a mobile device, allowing configuration and data transfer without requiring the control board to be powered and accessible.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication components are integrated into the HVAC control board, then wireless configuration capability is improved, but electromagnetic interference from power supplies and ignition circuitry degrades communication reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the wireless communication function into a distinct remote device from the HVAC control board. The control board maintains its original components (power supply, ignition circuitry) while the wireless NFC interface resides in a separate mobile device, eliminating electromagnetic interference while preserving wireless configuration capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication approach where the mobile device acts as a mediator between the user and the control board. The NFC module in the mobile device communicates with the control board through established communication protocols, isolating the wireless interface from harmful electromagnetic environments while maintaining reliable data transfer
2Strength
If the control board is enclosed within a housing, then component protection and structural integrity are improved, but wireless signal transmission through the housing is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions the wireless interface from an internal board-level component to an external mobile device interface. By moving the NFC antenna to a separate dimension (external device rather than integrated component), the system bypasses the housing material obstruction problem while maintaining protected internal architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless communication functionality is copied to a separate mobile device rather than being implemented on the control board itself. This allows the housing to remain intact and protective while the copied wireless interface operates externally where signal transmission is not blocked by housing materials
3Device complexity
If configuration is performed through dipswitches and push buttons on the control board, then direct control access is improved, but user accessibility in confined and harsh environments is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control interfaces (dipswitches, push buttons, LEDs) with a wireless electronic interface. The mobile device with NFC capability substitutes for physical switches and displays, allowing configuration without mechanical interaction in harsh environments while maintaining the same control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration through the mobile device interface. Users can independently access and modify control settings wirelessly without needing to physically access the control board, interpret LED codes, or manipulate switches in difficult-to-reach locations
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
Enables easy and reliable configuration of HVAC controls from a distance, reducing installation complexity and interference issues, allowing for universal control settings and data access without physical access to the control board.
Implementation Method 1
The NFC module includes an NFC board, NFC circuitry, and an NFC antenna connected to the NFC board. The NFC circuitry is configured to convert NFC signals received from the mobile device through the NFC antenna to wired signals according to a wired communication protocol
Data Source
AI summary
An HVAC controller includes an HVAC control module, a control housing covering or enclosing at least a portion of the HVAC control module, a near field communication (NFC) module, and a communication connection connected to the HVAC control module and the NFC module. The HVAC control module includes a controller board, a controller processor, and a controller memory disposed on the controller board. The control housing has an inner surface facing the HVAC control module and an outer surface opposite the inner surface. The NFC module includes an NFC board, NFC circuitry, and an NFC antenna connected to the NFC board. The NFC module is positioned remote from the HVAC control module and proximate the inner surface or the outer surface of the control housing.