HVAC Zone Setpoint Scheduling with Simplified Configuration Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of configuring air condition setpoints in HVAC systems discourages user customization, leading to suboptimal occupant comfort and energy consumption due to the intricate process of setting schedules for multiple zones.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control system that allows users to select between scheduled and constant setpoint modes for each zone, simplifying the configuration process by enabling users to choose between setting air condition schedules or constant temperatures, reducing the complexity of initial setup and adjustment processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users configure air condition setpoints with detailed schedules for multiple zones, then occupant comfort and energy efficiency are improved, but the configuration complexity increases and discourages user customization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration process into two distinct modes: scheduled setpoint mode and constant setpoint mode. This segmentation allows users to choose the appropriate level of complexity for each zone, breaking down the overwhelming task of configuring all zones with detailed schedules into manageable, selectable components. The system divides the control functionality into separate operational paths, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining the capability for detailed scheduling where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different setpoint modes (scheduled or constant) to be assigned to different zones based on local needs. Instead of requiring a uniform complex scheduling approach across all zones, the system enables users to apply detailed schedules only to zones where they are necessary, while using simpler constant setpoints for zones where basic temperature control suffices. This localized approach to configuration reduces overall complexity while maintaining reliability where needed.
2Reliability
If users configure air condition setpoints with detailed schedules for multiple zones, then target comfort levels and energy consumption are achieved, but the setup process becomes overly complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration process is segmented into distinct modes that can be selected based on user needs. By offering a constant setpoint mode as a simplified alternative, the system reduces the time required for setup in cases where detailed scheduling is not necessary. Users can quickly configure zones with constant setpoints, avoiding the time-consuming process of creating detailed schedules for every zone, thus reducing overall setup time while maintaining the option to achieve target comfort and energy goals where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to apply detailed scheduled setpoints to only the extent necessary for achieving comfort and energy goals, rather than requiring complete configuration of all zones with full schedules. Users can opt for constant setpoints in zones where partial control is sufficient, avoiding the excessive time investment required for complete detailed scheduling across the entire building, thus reducing setup time while maintaining effectiveness where needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides multiple configuration options for setpoints, then user customization is enhanced, but the interface complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the configuration options into two clearly defined modes: scheduled setpoint mode and constant setpoint mode. This segmentation presents users with distinct, understandable choices rather than a continuous spectrum of complex parameters. Each mode has its own clear configuration path, making the interface easier to operate while maintaining adaptability. Users can select the mode that best fits their needs without being overwhelmed by a unified complex configuration interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the configuration interface based on the selected setpoint mode. When users choose constant setpoint mode, the interface simplifies to show only the necessary constant temperature parameter. When scheduled setpoint mode is selected, the interface dynamically presents the scheduling parameters. This dynamic adaptation of the interface to the selected mode enhances ease of operation by showing only relevant controls, while maintaining full customization capability through the available modes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes techniques for improving configuration of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In some embodiments, a control system of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes control circuitry and memory. The memory stores instructions that, when executed by the control circuitry, causes the control circuitry to control air flow supplied to a first building zone by the HVAC system based on a temperature setpoint schedule associated with the first building zone; and control air flow supplied to a second building zone by the HVAC system based on a constant temperature setpoint associated with the second building zone.