HVAC Device Abstraction via Subnet Controllers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional HVAC systems lack advanced control and data acquisition techniques, making them inflexible, difficult to install and maintain, and inefficient in temperature and humidity management.
Innovation Solution
A networked HVAC system with a data bus that allows components to communicate and share identity, capability, status, and operational data, enabling more sophisticated control and diagnostics, and allowing for remote configuration and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a networked HVAC system with data bus and multiple controllers is implemented, then flexibility and control sophistication are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC system is divided into multiple independent controllers (subnet controllers) that can operate autonomously. Each controller manages specific zones or equipment, allowing the system to be scaled and configured flexibly without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The subnet controllers are designed with universal functionality to handle multiple tasks including temperature control, data acquisition, communication protocol management, and device abstraction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized components while maintaining system flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If device abstraction and parameter update mechanisms are implemented, then ease of operation and maintenance are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A device abstraction layer is introduced as an intermediary between the physical HVAC equipment and the control software. This abstraction layer provides standardized interfaces and parameter management, simplifying operation and maintenance while isolating the complexity within the abstraction layer itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic parameter update mechanisms where subnet controllers monitor and detect parameter changes, then automatically update affected devices. This feedback loop reduces manual intervention requirements while maintaining system complexity within manageable bounds.
3Productivity
If automatic parameter update and change detection are implemented, then productivity and energy efficiency are improved, but use of energy for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parameter update mechanism operates periodically rather than continuously, with subnet controllers checking for changes at scheduled intervals. This approach maintains system responsiveness and productivity while significantly reducing the energy consumption associated with constant monitoring and data processing.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure provides an HVAC data processing and communication network and a method of manufacturing the same. In an embodiment, the network includes configuring a first system device and a subnet controller. The first system device is configured to receive an initial value of a specified dependent parameter. The subnet controller is configured to determine that a value of said specified parameter has been changed to a modified value after said first system device receives said initial value. The subnet controller is further configured to send to said first system device, in response to said determining, a message updating said specified parameter with said modified value.