Mobile Climate Control Remote Access via Direct Bluetooth Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current mobile climate control systems in vehicles, such as RVs, lack remote control capabilities, requiring multiple thermostats to be adjusted manually and relying on costly Wi-Fi connections for communication, which is impractical for mobile operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and system allowing direct Bluetooth connection between a smart device and a thermostat, enabling remote control of mobile climate control systems through a dedicated application that emulates a thermostat interface, eliminating the need for intermediary communication devices and providing single-point control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If Wi-Fi standard system is used for remote connection, then remote control capability is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase due to required intermediary communication devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote control capabilityVSAvoidintermediary communication system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and removes the intermediary communication system (Wi-Fi router, modem, internet connection) from the remote control architecture. Instead, it implements a direct peer-to-peer communication link between the portable device and thermostat using Bluetooth technology, eliminating the need for complex intermediary infrastructure while maintaining remote control functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new intermediary - a Bluetooth communication module integrated into both the thermostat and portable device - that enables direct communication without requiring external Wi-Fi infrastructure. This intermediary provides a simplified communication path specifically designed for mobile applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple thermostats are used for distributed climate control, then climate management coverage is improved, but operation complexity increases due to need to adjust each thermostat separately

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclimate management coverageVSAvoidthermostat adjustment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the control functions of multiple distributed thermostats into a single unified interface on the portable device. The system allows a user to control multiple climate zones from one location by establishing communication links between the portable device and each thermostat, consolidating what would otherwise require separate manual adjustments into a centralized control experience.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The portable device is designed with universal control capability, allowing it to function as a remote interface for multiple different thermostats simultaneously. The device can establish communication with and control various climate control systems across different locations, providing multi-functional control from a single device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If Wi-Fi connection is implemented for remote control, then remote access is enabled, but operational cost increases due to required data plans

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote access capabilityVSAvoiddata plan cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs Bluetooth technology, which uses minimal energy and does not require paid data plans or internet connectivity. The communication occurs over short distances using low-power wireless protocols already integrated into modern portable devices, eliminating the need for expensive cellular data plans while maintaining remote access functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 remote and centralized control of multiple thermostats within a vehicle, improving convenience and reducing costs by eliminating the need for additional communication devices, while maintaining independent adjustability of each climate control zone.

Implementation Method 1

Starting communication capability of the Bluetooth transceiver of the smart device and starting the application of the smart device. Connecting the smart device to a thermostat which is in communication with the mobile climate control system, the thermostat having a thermostat Bluetooth transceiver.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBluetooth wireless communication:

Data Source

PatentUS10696129B2Method and system for remote control of a mobile climate control system

Publication Date: 2020.06.30 DOMETIC APPLIANCES

AI summary

A method and system for remotely controlling a mobile climate control system for a vehicle is provided. The method allows for remote connection of a smart device to a mobile climate control system. The mobile climate control system may comprise a single HVAC system and thermostat or may comprise multiple HVAC systems and thermostats which provide multi-zone climate control for a vehicle, such as for non-limiting example, a recreational vehicle (RV). In some other embodiments, the system may comprise multiple HVACs and a single thermostat.