HVAC control system and method
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face inefficiencies in temperature control, as they maintain occupied temperature set points even when zones are unoccupied, leading to excessive energy usage and comfort issues due to lack of occupancy-based prioritization.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that dynamically determine an effective temperature set-point for VAV controllers in HVAC systems by correlating occupancy status, zone temperature, and outside air temperature with building configurations and temperature thresholds, using a sensor interface module, standard reference module, and correlation engine to adjust temperature set points based on occupancy levels and comfort ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If VAV units maintain occupied temperature set point continuously, then comfort temperature is achieved in occupied zones, but excessive energy is spent in unoccupied zones
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the temperature set point based on real-time occupancy status. When a zone is detected as unoccupied, the temperature set point is changed from the occupied set point to a different temperature value, allowing the HVAC system to reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses occupancy sensors to detect whether zones are occupied or unoccupied, and this feedback information is used to automatically adjust the temperature set point for VAV units. This closed-loop control ensures that temperature control adapts to actual conditions, preventing energy waste in unoccupied areas while maintaining comfort in occupied zones.
2Device complexity
If single thermostat is used in large zones, then device complexity is reduced, but effective temperature control is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides large zones into multiple sub-zones, each with its own temperature control. By segmenting the zone and using multiple occupancy sensors distributed throughout the space, the system achieves more precise temperature control in different areas while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular sensor and control unit deployment.
3Loss of time
If occupied temperature set point is maintained during no occupancy, then comfort temperature is ready for occupancy, but energy is spent excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses occupancy prediction or advance detection to prepare comfort temperature before actual occupancy occurs. When sensors detect approaching occupancy or scheduled occupancy, the HVAC system proactively adjusts the temperature set point to the comfort level, so that when occupants arrive, the comfortable temperature is already achieved, eliminating the need for continuous pre-cooling or pre-heating.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the invention are directed towards a system and a method of controlling temperature of different zones inside premises based on determining an effective temperature set point. One or more dynamically sensed parameters are received from a plurality of sensors strategically placed within and outside of a building. One or more static parameters corresponding to building configurations and temperature thresholds from a memory unit are retrieved. A correlation engine determines the effective temperature set point for individual VAV controller associated with a particular pre-defined zone in the building by establishing a correlation between the one or more dynamically sensed parameters and static parameters corresponding to that zone. The effective temperature setpoint is transmitted to a VAV controller for associated zone.