HVAC Thermostat Sensor Priority Screen for Multi-Zone Comfort Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current HVAC systems lack efficient control mechanisms that can effectively manage temperature and occupancy data from multiple sensors across different building spaces, leading to suboptimal comfort and energy usage.
Innovation Solution
An HVAC controller that receives signals from multiple temperature and occupancy sensors, displaying graphical constructs to prioritize spaces based on current temperatures and occupancy status, allowing for dynamic control of the HVAC system to optimize comfort and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the HVAC controller monitors multiple sensors across different spaces, then the comfort control capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the building into multiple zones or spaces, each with its own sensor. The controller segments the display into multiple graphic constructs, one for each sensor/space, allowing independent monitoring and control of each zone's temperature and occupancy status
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to the display by creating graphic constructs that represent different physical spaces. Each graphic construct provides a visual representation of a specific zone, transforming the abstract sensor data into spatially-aware graphical interfaces that show temperature and occupancy across multiple dimensions of the building
2Loss of energy
If the HVAC system dynamically adjusts temperature settings based on real-time sensor data, then energy efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives real-time feedback from sensors regarding temperature and occupancy status in each space. The controller processes this feedback and dynamically adjusts HVAC operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy usage based on actual conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic temperature adjustments that adapt to changing occupancy patterns and environmental conditions. The system transitions from static preset temperatures to dynamically adjusted settings that respond in real-time to sensor data, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining comfort
3Ease of operation
If the controller prioritizes occupied spaces for HVAC control, then user comfort is improved, but the energy optimization becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different control strategies to different spaces based on their occupancy status. Occupied spaces receive prioritized attention with adjusted temperature settings, while unoccupied spaces receive different treatment. This local differentiation optimizes both comfort and energy usage without requiring complex centralized control
Data Source
AI summary
An HVAC controller is configured to receive signals from a plurality of sensors positioned in different spaces. The HVAC controller includes a controller that is configured to display one or more screens on a user interface that include a home screen including a selectable display element that indicates a number of the plurality of sensors that are currently being used by the controller in controlling the HVAC system. Upon selection of the selectable display element, the controller displays a sensor priority screen that includes a plurality of graphic constructs that each identify a building space and a current temperature for that building space. The controller is configured to control the HVAC system in accordance with the current temperature reported by each of the number of the plurality of sensors that are currently being used by the controller in controlling the HVAC system.