On-site controller for an HVAC system
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to external factors like climate and site-specific conditions, leading to mismatched power demand profiles and increased operational costs, as they are typically controlled based on generalized meteorological data rather than on-site conditions.
Innovation Solution
A customized HVAC system with environmental and diagnostic sensors, a database for setting operational benchmarks, and a system controller that adjusts power usage based on real-time microclimate data to maintain optimal temperature and humidity set points, minimizing power consumption and aligning with site-specific requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If HVAC systems operate based on generalized power demand profiles from power companies, then power cost calculation is simplified, but operational efficiency deteriorates due to mismatch with actual on-site microclimate conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors actual microclimate conditions (temperature, humidity, air quality) at the facility and compares them with the generalized power demand profile. This feedback loop enables the system to identify deviations and adjust operations accordingly, resolving the contradiction by maintaining both simplified billing alignment and on-site operational efficiency through continuous adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the power demand profile by applying correction factors based on real-time microclimate measurements. Rather than using a static generalized profile, the system creates a dynamic, site-specific power demand curve that adapts to changing conditions while still referencing the original utility profile for billing purposes.
2Ease of manufacture
If HVAC systems use predetermined operational capabilities and standardized control, then system design and installation is simplified, but adaptability to site-specific conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains standardized HVAC equipment design and installation while introducing localized environmental sensors and a control system that measures actual microclimate conditions at the specific site. This allows the same standardized hardware to adapt to different local conditions through software-based correction factors and real-time monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (power demand, temperature setpoints, equipment cycling) based on measured microclimate conditions. By adjusting these parameters dynamically rather than changing the physical system design, the patent achieves site-specific adaptation while maintaining standardized equipment.
3Device complexity
If HVAC systems operate without real-time microclimate monitoring, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of actual environmental conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses off-the-shelf environmental sensors (temperature, humidity, air quality) that automatically monitor conditions without requiring complex custom instrumentation. The standardized sensors feed data to a microcontroller that automatically calculates correction factors, enabling precise monitoring with minimal added complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-site controller for an HVAC system is operated to maintain temperature and humidity set points inside an enclosed facility. A weather station inside the facility records microclimate data pertinent to environmental conditions inside the facility, and a weather station outside the facility records microclimate data pertinent to meteorological conditions outside the facility. A summing network compares the inside microclimate data with the outside meteorological data to establish an actuating signal. A throttle, responsive to the actuating signal, varies the power demand for the HVAC system to maintain the predetermined set points for environmental conditions inside the facility.