HVAC Interlock Block for Building Automation Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ensuring that related HVAC devices operate without causing harm or errors to each other is difficult and requires complex programming with ANDs, ORs, and arithmetic functions, making it challenging to efficiently install and manage HVAC devices in building automation systems.
Innovation Solution
A function block system and method that reduces the need for custom programming by using interlock blocks with input and output status modules to determine if supporting HVAC devices are configured to support dependent devices, ensuring safe operation and preventing damage through interlock signals and sequencing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex programming with ANDs, ORs, and arithmetic functions is used to ensure HVAC devices operate safely, then device safety and reliability are improved, but device complexity and programming difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interlock block as an intermediary component that mediates between supporting HVAC devices and dependent HVAC devices. This block contains pre-configured interlock logic that automatically evaluates whether supporting devices are properly configured and operational before allowing dependent devices to operate. The interlock block translates complex safety requirements into simple binary interlock signals, eliminating the need for complex programming while maintaining device safety and reliability.
2Reliability
If custom programming is required for each HVAC device installation, then device functionality and safety are ensured, but installation time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring interlock logic and safety parameters within the interlock block during manufacturing or system setup. The interlock block comes pre-programmed with the necessary safety rules, evaluation criteria, and interlock signal configurations. This eliminates the need for custom programming during installation, as installers only need to connect the interlock block to the HVAC devices and the system is immediately functional with full safety features enabled.
3Ease of operation
If simplified interlock blocks are used to reduce programming complexity, then ease of installation is improved, but potential loss of customization and adaptability occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the interlock block configurable and adaptable to different HVAC system configurations. The interlock block can be programmed with different interlock logic, evaluation criteria, and signal configurations depending on the specific application requirements. This dynamic configurability allows the same standardized interlock block to serve multiple purposes across different HVAC device types and installations, maintaining both simplicity and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
An interlock function block system, method, and apparatus that reduces the necessity for a building automation programmer to program low-level instructions using a complex series of ANDs, ORs, and arithmetic functions to protect such devices is provided.