HVAC Controller Target-Time Temperature Control for Legacy Equipment
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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 features.
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 adaptive control plan adjustments to achieve efficient temperature regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If communicating HVAC systems are used to achieve improved control and automation, then the degree of control and automation is improved, but the system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communicating thermostat as an intermediary device that bridges legacy non-communicating HVAC equipment and modern smart home networks. The thermostat includes a processor that can communicate with both traditional on/off thermostats and modern communicating equipment, enabling advanced control features while maintaining compatibility with cost-effective legacy systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The communicating thermostat is designed with multi-functionality to work with both communicating and non-communicating HVAC equipment. It can issue traditional on/off signals to legacy equipment while also providing smartphone connectivity, energy usage monitoring, and predictive control algorithms, thus delivering modern automation capabilities across diverse system configurations without requiring complete system replacement.
2Extent of automation
If communicating systems are implemented to achieve improved control features, then the control capabilities are improved, but the interoperability with legacy equipment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The communicating thermostat serves as a mediator between modern smart control systems and legacy HVAC equipment. It translates between traditional on/off control signals and modern communication protocols, enabling seamless integration of advanced control features with existing non-communicating equipment from various manufacturers.
Solution Approach 2:
The system architecture segments communication functions into modular components. The communicating thermostat handles all sophisticated communication and control logic, while legacy HVAC equipment continues to operate with simple on/off signals. This segmentation allows each component to operate in its optimal mode without requiring upgrades to the entire system.
3Ease of operation
If communicating equipment is used to simplify installation and setup, then the ease of installation is improved, but the consumer choice and equipment flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The communicating thermostat is designed as a universal control device that can interface with multiple types of HVAC equipment from different manufacturers. It provides simplified installation through automatic equipment detection and configuration, while simultaneously offering consumers the flexibility to choose from a broad range of legacy equipment options without being locked into a single vendor's ecosystem.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-service capabilities where the communicating thermostat automatically detects connected HVAC equipment, retrieves operational parameters, and configures control algorithms without requiring extensive manual setup. This simplifies installation while maintaining compatibility with diverse equipment types, as the thermostat adapts to the specific equipment rather than requiring pre-configuration.
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.