Multi-Zone Temperature Control Using Fire Detector Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature control systems require separate thermostats or temperature sensors for each zone, leading to high costs due to the need for multiple installations.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing fire detectors with built-in temperature sensors that transmit measurements to a thermostat, allowing for centralized temperature control across zones via various communication methods such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or through a server or router, eliminating the need for multiple temperature sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate thermostats or temperature sensors are installed in each zone for temperature sensing and control, then temperature control accuracy in each zone is improved, but system cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fire detector is designed to perform multiple functions: fire detection and temperature sensing. By utilizing the temperature sensing capability already present in fire detectors, the system eliminates the need for separate temperature sensors in each zone, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining temperature measurement functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines fire detection and temperature control functions into a unified system. The fire detector's temperature sensor is integrated with the thermostat system, allowing temperature data from fire detectors to be used for HVAC control decisions, thus merging multiple functions into a single coordinated system
2Reliability
If separate thermostats or temperature sensors are installed in each zone, then temperature monitoring capability is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fire detector serves dual purposes: fire safety detection and temperature monitoring for HVAC control. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain reliable temperature monitoring across all zones without incurring the additional cost of purchasing separate temperature sensors or thermostats for each zone
Solution Approach 2:
The fire detector's existing temperature sensor, originally designed for fire detection purposes, is repurposed to provide temperature data for HVAC control. This self-service approach allows the system to utilize already-installed equipment for additional functions, eliminating the need for separate temperature sensing infrastructure
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
This solution provides a cost-effective and efficient method for temperature control in multiple zones by leveraging existing fire detectors to sense temperature, reducing the necessity for multiple temperature sensors and thermostats.
Implementation Method 1
The first fire detector positioned at a first zone of a premises is adapted to sense temperature in the first zone
Data Source
AI summary
A system and a method for controlling temperature in different zones of a premises. A method includes receiving a measurement of temperature sensed by a first fire detector positioned at a first zone of a premises. The method further includes receiving a measurement of temperature sensed by a second fire detector positioned at a second zone of the premises. The method also includes controlling the temperature by a thermostat in the first zone based on the measurement of the sensed temperature received from the first fire detector and in the second zone based on the measurement of the sensed temperature received from the second fire detector.