HVAC control with a remote user interface and a remote temperature sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems lack advanced control mechanisms that enable seamless integration of remote temperature sensing and control, limiting user convenience and system efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An HVAC controller with a communication module for wireless communication with a network and remote servers, allowing for thermostat control algorithms to generate control signals based on sensed temperatures from remote sensors and setpoints received via the network, enabling remote access and control through smartphones or other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the HVAC controller is mounted within the building and provides control signals to various HVAC components, then the system can control environmental conditions within the building, but the user cannot access or control the system remotely
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC controller is enhanced with a communication module that enables it to perform both traditional local control functions and remote communication functions. The controller can receive temperature setpoints from remote devices via wireless network communication while still executing the thermostat control algorithm locally to generate control signals for HVAC components, making it multi-functional without requiring separate control systems
2Measurement precision
If a remote temperature sensor is wired to the HVAC controller, then accurate remote temperature sensing is achieved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A remote temperature sensor is positioned in the living space away from the HVAC controller to accurately measure the ambient temperature where it matters most. The sensor connects to the controller through existing thermostat wiring infrastructure, serving as an intermediary that captures temperature data from the remote location and transmits it to the controller for processing by the thermostat control algorithm
3Adaptability or versatility
If the thermostat control algorithm uses sensed temperature from remote sensors and setpoints from remote devices, then remote control functionality is enabled, but the communication infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat control algorithm continuously receives temperature setpoints from remote user devices via wireless communication and compares them with actual temperature readings from remote sensors. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust HVAC operation based on both user preferences communicated remotely and actual environmental conditions measured remotely, enabling adaptive remote control while using standard communication protocols
Data Source
AI summary
An illustrative HVAC controller may include a communication module for wirelessly communicating with a network and wiring terminals for receiving a wired connection to a remote temperature sensor that is situated remote from the HVAC controller and in a living space of the building. A controller may be operably coupled to the communication module and the wiring terminals and may be configured to implement a thermostat control algorithm to generate one or more control signals, wherein the one or more control signals are provided by a wired connection to the HVAC system to control one or more HVAC components of the HVAC system. The thermostat control algorithm may be configured to compare a sensed temperature received from the remote temperature sensor via the wiring terminals and a temperature setpoint received from the server via the network.