HVAC Current Monitoring via Frequency Domain Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional HVAC system monitoring is costly and time-consuming due to the need for multiple discrete sensors to measure current individually for each component, making it prohibitive for widespread implementation.
Innovation Solution
A remote monitoring system that uses air handler and condensing monitor modules to aggregate current data, processing it using frequency domain analysis and statistical methods to determine component operation, reducing the number of necessary sensors and providing real-time performance data and predictive maintenance alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple discrete sensors are used to measure current for each HVAC component, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete current measurements into a single aggregate current measurement using one sensor on the main power line. The monitoring module measures the total current drawn by the HVAC system and uses frequency domain analysis to extract individual component operation data, eliminating the need for multiple separate sensors while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer (frequency domain analysis and statistical methods) that transforms a single aggregate current measurement into detailed component-level operation data. This intermediary approach allows one sensor to provide the equivalent information of multiple sensors through sophisticated signal processing.
2Measurement precision
If multiple discrete sensors are installed for each HVAC component, then measurement precision is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single sensor installation on the main power line. By measuring aggregate current and using frequency domain analysis, the system achieves component-level monitoring accuracy with the cost of one sensor rather than multiple discrete sensors, significantly reducing installation expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical mechanical approach of installing multiple discrete sensors with each component with an electrical signal processing approach. A single sensor captures aggregate electrical current, and mathematical transformations (frequency domain analysis) substitute for the need for multiple physical measurement points, reducing both hardware cost and installation complexity.
3Reliability
If real-time monitoring of all HVAC components is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency domain analysis and statistical methods as intermediary processing layers that transform simple aggregate current measurements into detailed component operation status. This intermediary approach enables comprehensive reliability monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities while keeping the physical sensor infrastructure simple and the processing architecture manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A difference module determines differences between an outdoor ambient temperature and an indoor temperature, determines a first average of the differences, and determines a second average of the differences. A storing module stores a first data point, the first data point including the first average and a first total run time of a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system, and stores a second data point, the second data point including the second average and a second total run time of the HVAC system. A fitting module fits a line to the first and second data points. An envelope grading module generates a grade for an exterior envelope of a building based on a first characteristic of the line. An interior grading module generates a grade for an interior of the building based on a second characteristic of the line. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the building including the grade of the exterior envelope and the grade of the interior of the building.