Mini Split HVAC Occupancy Control Without Extra Wiring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mini split HVAC systems lack reliable remote control capabilities due to the absence of a unique command to determine the current on/off state of the unit, leading to unreliable operation and energy inefficiency, especially in hotel/motel settings where occupancy detection and optimal thermostat placement are necessary for energy savings and comfort.
Innovation Solution
An adjunct control unit with a motion sensor, temperature sensor, and operational sensing apparatus that utilizes existing remote control commands to determine the HVAC system's state and adjust its operation based on occupancy and activity, using sound or vibration analysis to detect the unit's status without requiring additional wiring or modifying the existing system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the thermostat is incorporated into the indoor exchanger unit, then the system structure is simplified, but the thermostat cannot be placed in the optimal location for accurate temperature sensing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the thermostat function from the indoor exchanger unit by introducing a standalone wireless thermostat device. This segmentation allows the thermostat to be positioned independently in the most suitable location within the conditioned space, ensuring accurate temperature sensing while maintaining system simplicity through wireless communication.
2Reliability
If wiring is required for the thermostat unit, then reliable power and control signals are provided, but installation complexity increases and location flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical wiring system with a wireless communication system. The wireless thermostat communicates with the HVAC system using infrared or radio frequency signals, eliminating the need for physical wiring while maintaining reliable control. This substitution significantly reduces installation complexity and provides complete location flexibility within the conditioned space.
3Loss of energy
If occupancy detection is added to the control system, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the occupancy detection function with the wireless thermostat device. The motion sensor is integrated into the same housing as the temperature sensor and wireless communication module, creating a unified control device. This merging approach improves energy efficiency through occupancy-based control while minimizing the increase in overall system complexity, as the additional sensor shares the same power and communication infrastructure.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the compressor is placed outside the building, then noise is reduced, but the control system becomes more complex and less reliable
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a wireless communication intermediary between the indoor thermostat and the outdoor HVAC equipment. This wireless link allows the thermostat to control the outdoor compressor and indoor air handler without requiring physical wiring through the building envelope. The intermediary nature of wireless communication maintains system reliability while preserving the noise isolation benefits of having the compressor located outside.
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
Enables reliable and energy-efficient operation by automatically turning off the HVAC system when unoccupied and adjusting temperature settings based on occupancy, enhancing comfort and reducing energy consumption without altering the existing HVAC system infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
a motion sensor that detects occupancy and activity in the conditioned space
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor that measures the temperature of the conditioned space
Implementation Method 3
using sound or vibration analysis to detect the unit's status
Implementation Method 4
using sound or vibration analysis to detect the unit's status
Data Source
AI summary
A controller for a Heating Ventilation or Air Conditioning system (HVAC system) such as a mini split system is disclosed for adding control features that incorporate an observed operational status and occupancy/motion detection utilizing control commands already provided as part of the HVAC system as manufactured.