Systems and methods for air temperature control using a target time based control plan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face challenges in providing improved control and flexibility, as communicating systems are costly and lack interoperability with non-communicating equipment, limiting consumer choice and retrofitting options.
Innovation Solution
A controller-based HVAC system that operates using a target time-based control plan, allowing for the integration of both communicating and non-communicating legacy equipment, and enabling device discovery and configuration through various methods, including user input, remote database retrieval, and trial-and-error learning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If communicating HVAC systems are used to provide improved control and flexibility, then control precision and system intelligence are improved, but system cost increases and interoperability with non-communicating equipment deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A controller serves as an intermediary device that receives commands from both communicating thermostats and non-communicating legacy thermostats, translating between different communication protocols and control methods. This mediator enables interoperability between modern communicating equipment and older non-communicating equipment without requiring complete system replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed with multi-functionality to support both communicating and non-communicating thermostat types, as well as various HVAC equipment configurations. It can adapt its operation mode based on the connected thermostat type, providing universal compatibility across different system architectures.
2Extent of automation
If communicating HVAC systems are deployed to achieve improved control capabilities, then system intelligence and automation are improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into optional communicating components and mandatory legacy-compatible components. Users can selectively add communicating thermostats and controllers to achieve desired automation levels without requiring all system components to be communicating types, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining intelligence where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as a cost-effective intermediary that provides intelligent control capabilities and can interface with both communicating and non-communicating thermostats. This mediator enables advanced automation features without requiring expensive communicating thermostats throughout the entire system.
3Adaptability or versatility
If legacy HVAC equipment is used to maintain interoperability and reduce costs, then adaptability and system flexibility are improved, but control precision and automation capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves as an intermediary that enhances the control precision of legacy equipment by implementing sophisticated control algorithms, target time-based control plans, and iterative optimization methods. This allows non-communicating HVAC equipment to achieve improved control precision through the intelligent mediation of the controller.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically adjusts operating parameters such as equipment capacity settings, cycle timing, and temperature setpoints based on target time calculations and actual system performance. This parameter optimization compensates for the limitations of legacy equipment and achieves precision comparable to communicating systems.
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.