HVAC Return Air Sensor Fallback for Remote Sensor Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges in maintaining uninterrupted heating or cooling when network connectivity is lost or communication with remote sensors is unavailable, as they rely on these connections for operation.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a controller configured to communicatively couple with remote and return air sensors, allowing it to determine the availability of communication links and, if unavailable, use ambient condition readings from the return air sensor to operate the HVAC unit, maintaining temperature settings within a threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the HVAC system relies on remote sensors and network connectivity for operation, then the system can operate without a formal thermostat and provide remote control capability, but the system cannot function properly when network connectivity is lost or communication with remote sensors is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fallback mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the remote sensor failure and the HVAC control system. When network connectivity is lost or remote sensors fail, the system automatically switches to using the local return air sensor as a mediator to continue providing temperature control functionality, thus maintaining system reliability while preserving remote control capabilities during normal operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements beforehand cushioning by preparing a backup sensor (return air sensor) in advance that can be activated when remote sensors fail. This pre-prepared fallback option ensures that the HVAC system can continue operating without interruption, cushioning against the potential failure of network connectivity or remote sensors while maintaining the adaptability for remote control when available
2Device complexity
If the system eliminates the thermostat and relies on remote sensors, then the system complexity is reduced and remote control is enabled, but the system loses the ability to function when communication links are unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the return air sensor to serve multiple functions: it acts as a local backup when remote sensors fail, and also serves as part of the normal temperature monitoring system. This multi-functional approach allows the system to maintain simplified structure while ensuring operation continuity through the return air sensor's ability to compensate for remote sensor failures
3Measurement precision
If the HVAC system uses remote sensors for temperature monitoring, then accurate ambient condition control is achieved, but the system cannot operate without network connectivity or when sensors fail
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring the availability of remote sensors and network connectivity, and automatically adjusting the source of temperature data based on this feedback. When remote sensors are available, the system uses them for accurate measurement; when they fail or connectivity is lost, the feedback mechanism triggers a switch to the return air sensor, ensuring continuous heating or cooling operation without interruption
Data Source
AI summary
A system faults to a return air sensor integrated within a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. The system transmits a signal to a remote sensor. The system determines that a return signal is not received from the remote sensor. The system obtains a temperature reading from the return air sensor. The system determines whether the temperature reading satisfies a temperature setting stored in the memory. In response to determining that the temperature reading does not satisfy the temperature setting, the system enables heating or cooling of the HVAC unit until the temperature setting is satisfied. In response to determining that the temperature reading satisfies the temperature setting, the system disables heating or cooling of the HVAC unit.