Multi-User HVAC Comfort Control Using Feedback-Based Preference Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-user buildings, varying comfort levels and temperature tolerances among occupants lead to conflicts, increased temperature fluctuations, and inefficient use of HVAC resources, resulting in reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a computing device to collect feedback from users, generate comfort models, and adjust HVAC settings based on individual comfort levels and sensitivity, minimizing discomfort and optimizing environmental conditions to enhance productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single thermostat is used for multiple users, then device complexity is reduced, but user comfort satisfaction deteriorates due to conflicting temperature preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the user base into different user profiles or groups with distinct temperature preferences. Each user profile maintains its own temperature settings and comfort parameters, allowing multiple users to have customized thermal environments without requiring separate physical thermostats for each user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts thermostat settings based on real-time detection of which users are present in the building or specific zones. The thermostat transitions from static, manually-adjusted settings to dynamic, automatically-adjusted settings that respond to user presence and current comfort requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If thermostat settings are frequently adjusted by multiple users, then individual comfort needs are addressed, but temperature fluctuation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where user comfort responses are collected and used to adjust future thermostat decisions. The thermostat learns from user reactions to temperature changes and adjusts its control strategy to maintain stability while accommodating preferences, reducing unnecessary temperature fluctuations caused by repeated manual adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat acts as an intermediary that mediates between conflicting user temperature preferences. Rather than allowing direct, conflicting manual adjustments from multiple users, the thermostat processes all user preferences through its control logic and implements balanced, stable temperature settings that satisfy multiple users simultaneously.
3Adaptability or versatility
If HVAC resources are increased to accommodate all users' comfort needs, then user comfort satisfaction improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by adjusting HVAC resources only to the extent necessary to satisfy user comfort needs within reasonable boundaries. Rather than maximizing comfort for all users at all times (excessive action), the thermostat implements just-enough adjustments based on actual user presence and comfort feedback, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat changes operational parameters such as temperature setpoints, HVAC system capacity levels, and operational timing based on user presence detection and comfort feedback. These parameter adjustments allow the system to optimize energy consumption by reducing HVAC output when fewer users are present or when comfort requirements are already met.
4Ease of operation
If manual thermostat adjustments are allowed for all users, then ease of operation improves, but productivity deteriorates due to conflicts and distractions
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat system provides self-service by automatically detecting user presence and adjusting settings based on pre-configured user profiles and real-time comfort feedback. Users do not need to manually operate the thermostat; instead, the system serves them automatically, eliminating the need for users to leave their workstations to adjust temperature settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical, manual thermostat adjustment system with an automated electronic control system. The physical act of users manually turning dials or pressing buttons is substituted with electronic sensors, processors, and automated control algorithms that detect user needs and adjust settings remotely and automatically.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, methods, and systems for building comfort control are described herein. One system includes computing device for building comfort control, comprising: a memory, and a processor configured to execute instructions to: receive feedback from a plurality of users on a comfort level for an area of a building, generate a comfort model for each of the plurality of users based on the feedback, and adjust a number of settings of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit for the area based on the comfort model for users among the plurality of users who are currently in the area.