HVAC Control Using Return and Supply Air Sensors to Prevent Load Hopping
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Modern HVAC systems in commercial spaces operate inefficiently due to independent unit control, leading to 'load hopping' and high energy consumption, resulting in increased costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Innovation Solution
The system controls HVAC units using signals from both return and supply air temperature sensors, prioritizing cooling valves over fans to maintain room temperature efficiently, preventing load hopping and optimizing energy use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If HVAC units operate independently to maintain their individual spaces, then each unit can control its own temperature, but load hopping occurs and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple independent HVAC units into a coordinated system. The controller integrates temperature sensor readings from all units and their respective zones, enabling them to operate as a unified system rather than competing independently, thereby eliminating load hopping and reducing overall energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the controller continuously monitors temperature readings from sensors in each HVAC unit's zone and adjusts the operation of each unit based on this feedback. This coordinated feedback loop prevents the independent units from competing and causes unnecessary cycling, thus reducing energy waste
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple HVAC units operate independently, then each unit can maintain its zone temperature, but uneven operations and load hopping occur between units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the operational control of multiple HVAC units under a single coordinated system. The controller receives temperature readings from all units and manages their operation collectively, ensuring balanced load distribution and preventing uneven operations and load hopping between units while maintaining zone temperature control
3Temperature
If HVAC units constantly adjust and compete to cool the room, then temperature control is attempted, but infinite loops of readjustments occur and targeted temperature is never reached
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses coordinated feedback control where the central controller monitors temperature readings from all HVAC units and their zones, and adjusts each unit's operation based on overall system needs. This prevents the infinite adjustment loops that occur when units compete independently, as the controller ensures complementary rather than conflicting adjustments, enabling the system to reach and maintain target temperature efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary coordination of HVAC unit operations before adjustments are made. By analyzing temperature readings from all units and predicting the optimal operation sequence, the system prevents unnecessary competitive adjustments and infinite loops, reducing the time required to reach and stabilize at the target temperature
4Extent of automation
If HVAC units operate independently with limited sensors, then each unit can function autonomously, but tremendous inefficiency and high power consumption result
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the autonomous operation capability of individual HVAC units with a central coordinating controller. While each unit retains its sensors and basic control functions, the controller integrates information from all units to optimize overall system operation, eliminating the energy waste that results from independent autonomous operation with limited sensing capabilities
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces energy consumption by up to 25% and minimizes HVAC unit failures, while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs for corporations and households.
Implementation Method 1
controls its fans and its cooling valves in response to only its own return airflow temperature sensor readings
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Systems and methods of controlling a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system are provided that operate according to signals returned from return air temperature sensors as well as the supply air temperature sensors. Using predetermined temperature setpoints, return temperature information, and supply temperature information, the HVAC system is configured to maintain the temperature of a room first, by the use of its cooling valve, and second and only when the capacity of the cooling valve has peaked, by use of the fan. The presently disclosed improved HVAC system operates more efficiently by avoiding unit loading hopping and minimizing power consumption.