Lock-Setting Thermostat With Flash-Memory Unlock and Defeat Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current property-management thermostats lack the ability to re-program settings for new tenants or changes in circumstances, and are unable to detect and prevent tenants from attempting to defeat the lock settings, leading to wasteful overheating or overcooling.
Innovation Solution
A thermostat system that uses a flash memory module, such as an SD card, to unlock and re-lock settings, allowing technicians to adjust temperature parameters and detect abnormal temperature changes, preventing wasteful energy use by locking out heating or cooling cycles if rapid temperature changes are detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the thermostat settings are permanently stored in ePROM during installation, then the lock-setting function is achieved and tenant abuse is prevented, but the thermostat cannot be re-programmed for new tenants or changed circumstances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary locking action where the thermostat settings are automatically locked after a predetermined period following installation or power-up. This allows the initial configuration to be established and then automatically secured, preventing future unauthorized changes while maintaining the ability to re-program through authorized methods (replacement thermostat or master code).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization mechanism using a master control code or replacement thermostat that can override the locked settings. This intermediary allows authorized personnel to re-program the thermostat for new tenants or changed circumstances while maintaining security against unauthorized tenant access.
2Ease of operation
If the thermostat allows tenant adjustment of settings, then ease of operation is improved, but tenants can defeat the lock settings and cause wasteful energy use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control where the thermostat transitions between locked and unlocked states based on authorization. During normal operation, settings are locked to prevent tenant abuse. When authorized personnel insert a replacement thermostat or enter the master code, the system dynamically unlocks to allow re-programming, then re-locks after configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback through temperature sensing that detects abnormal conditions (rapid temperature changes indicating thermostat defeat attempts). When such feedback is detected, the system automatically locks the settings and can alert authorized personnel, creating a feedback loop that prevents energy waste from defeated thermostats.
3Loss of energy
If the thermostat settings are locked permanently, then energy waste from tenant abuse is prevented, but the thermostat cannot accommodate new tenants or building code changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary locking mechanism that secures settings after installation but maintains the capability for authorized re-programming. The lock is not permanent in the sense of being unchangeable, but rather preliminarily established to prevent unauthorized access while allowing future authorized modifications for new tenants or code changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authorization system (master control code or replacement thermostat) that mediates between the locked settings and the need for re-programming. This intermediary allows authorized changes for legitimate reasons (new tenants, code changes) while maintaining security against unauthorized tenant access and energy waste.
4Reliability
If the thermostat detects rapid temperature changes, then tenant defeat attempts are detected and prevented, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a relatively simple feedback mechanism using the existing temperature sensor to detect rapid temperature changes. The control circuit monitors the rate of temperature change and compares it against predetermined thresholds. This feedback approach uses existing hardware components rather than adding complex new detection systems, maintaining simplicity while enabling defeat detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs self-service detection where the thermostat uses its own temperature sensing capability to detect defeat attempts. The system monitors its own operational environment and automatically responds to abnormal conditions without requiring external monitoring equipment or complex additional systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Property-management or lock-setting thermostats have maximum and minimum set points locked in to prevent abuse of management-provided heating and/or air conditioning. An ePROM or similar internal memory device stores heating and cooling limit parameters that are set in by a technician at the time of installation. A plug-in flash memory module contains an unlock code to match the unlock code stored in said ePROM, to unlock the thermostat and allow the settings to be adjusted; when said flash memory module is removed the thermostat reverts to its lock condition. The thermostat can also respond to unusual rates of change of temperature to block furnace or A/C operation temporarily.