HVAC Data Bus Abstraction for Modular Control and Energy Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional HVAC systems lack advanced data acquisition and processing capabilities, leading to inflexible installation, operation, and maintenance, with limited temperature and humidity control, energy inefficiency, and frequent repairs.

Innovation Solution

A networked HVAC system with a data bus that allows components to communicate and share data, enabling sophisticated control, flexible installation, improved user interface, and automated diagnostics, which enhances temperature and humidity control, energy efficiency, and extends system lifespan.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional HVAC systems are used with basic thermostat control, then the system structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the temperature and humidity control precision is insufficient and energy efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature and humidity control precisionVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The HVAC system is divided into multiple independent functional modules including temperature control module, humidity control module, air quality control module, and communication module. Each module operates independently but coordinates through the data bus network, allowing precise control while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A data bus communication network serves as an intermediary layer between the user interface and various HVAC components. This intermediary enables sophisticated data acquisition and processing capabilities without requiring direct complex wiring between all components, thus improving control precision while managing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Use of energy by moving object

If conventional HVAC systems with basic control are used, then the installation and operation are straightforward, but the energy efficiency is poor and maintenance frequency is high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidinstallation and operation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors temperature, humidity, and air quality parameters through sensors and feeds this data back to the control modules via the data bus. This real-time feedback enables dynamic adjustment of HVAC operations to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining comfortable conditions, with the user interface providing simplified controls for users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The user interface and data bus communication protocol are designed to be universal, supporting multiple functions including temperature control, humidity control, air quality monitoring, and diagnostic capabilities through a single integrated interface, improving energy efficiency without complicating user operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of information

If a networked HVAC system with data bus communication is implemented, then advanced data acquisition and processing capabilities are achieved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata acquisition and processing capabilityVSAvoidcommunication network complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses standardized data messages and communication protocols that can be copied and replicated across different devices and modules. This standardization enables advanced data acquisition and processing capabilities while reducing complexity through consistent communication patterns and data formats throughout the network

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS9678486B2Device abstraction system and method for a distributed-architecture heating, ventilation and air conditioning system
Publication Date: 2017.06.13 LENNOX IND INC
  • US9678486B2 patent drawing
  • US9678486B2 patent drawing
  • US9678486B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The disclosure provides an HVAC data processing and communication network and a method of manufacturing the same. In an embodiment, the method includes configuring a user interface to receive a first parameter setting associated with a system device. The user interface is further configured to send a message to the system device including the first parameter setting. The user interface is further configured to receive from the system device a second parameter setting that is dependent on the first parameter setting. The user interface is further configured to make the second parameter setting available for viewing.