Systems and methods for air temperature control using a target time based control plan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems face limitations due to the high cost and limited interoperability of communicating systems, which restrict consumer choice and flexibility in retrofitting or upgrading, while legacy systems lack advanced control capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A controller that operates HVAC systems based on a target time control plan, allowing for both communicating and non-communicating equipment, using a communication module for data exchange and sensor integration, and iteratively adjusts the control plan to achieve desired temperature settings efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If communicating HVAC systems are used, then control capability and flexibility are improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates communicating and non-communicating components, allowing the controller to work with simple legacy equipment while implementing advanced control algorithms independently. This segmentation enables advanced control capabilities without requiring expensive communicating equipment throughout the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that bridges simple legacy HVAC equipment with advanced control strategies. It receives basic on/off signals from legacy thermostats and equipment, then implements sophisticated control logic including outdoor temperature compensation and multi-stage sequencing without requiring the equipment itself to be communicating.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communicating systems are used, then control flexibility is improved, but interoperability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with universal compatibility to work with both communicating and non-communicating HVAC equipment. It can process simple on/off signals from legacy thermostats while also supporting communicating protocols, enabling a single system to serve multiple functions and work with diverse equipment types without requiring complete system replacement.
3Device complexity
If legacy HVAC systems are used, then cost and interoperability are improved, but control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller pre-calculates optimal operating strategies based on outdoor temperature conditions and system characteristics before executing control actions. It implements outdoor temperature compensation and multi-stage sequencing algorithms in advance, allowing legacy equipment to operate more efficiently without requiring real-time communicating capabilities from the equipment itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling the air temperature of a building using a control plan based on a target time. The system includes a controller which may be connected to a number of indoor and outdoor heating ventilation and air-conditioning units. The system may include a thermostat. The system may also operate without a thermostat. The method includes determining a control plan to reach a desired temperature in a target time. The method also includes updating the plan by comparing the actual time to reach the desired temperature with the target time.