Multiple-Antenna HVAC System for Self-Configuring Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges in efficiently configuring wireless connections to networked devices due to physical barriers and distance, which impede their ability to connect to wireless backbones, especially in mesh network topologies.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-antenna HVAC system with a controller that selectively uses antennas for parent-node and child-node communication, searching for non-mesh and mesh connection points based on signal criteria to establish optimal wireless connections, thereby facilitating self-configuration and mesh network formation without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single antenna is used for wireless communication in HVAC systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of wireless connection is worsened due to physical barriers and distance
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication system is segmented into multiple independent antennas (first antenna and second antenna) with different spatial positions. The first antenna is disposed along the return airflow path while the second antenna is disposed outside the return airflow path. This segmentation allows the system to overcome physical barriers by providing multiple spatial paths for wireless signal transmission, thereby improving connection reliability without requiring a single complex antenna structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each antenna is assigned a specific spatial location optimized for its function. The first antenna is positioned along the return airflow path to leverage the airflow corridor for signal transmission, while the second antenna is positioned outside the return airflow path to provide an alternative transmission path. This local quality optimization ensures that each antenna operates in its most effective spatial zone, improving overall system reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration of mesh networks is required, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC system performs self-configuration of mesh network connections without requiring manual intervention. The controller automatically searches for parent nodes using the first antenna, and if unsuccessful, automatically switches to the second antenna for alternative connection paths. The system autonomously determines connection strategies based on signal criteria, eliminating the need for user configuration while maintaining high adaptability to different network environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different antennas based on connection success. The controller is configured to first attempt connection using the first antenna along the return airflow path, and only if that fails does it switch to the second antenna outside the return airflow path. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to automatically adjust its configuration strategy based on real-time environmental conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a multiple-antenna heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a first antenna disposed along a return airflow path from an enclosed space to the multiple-antenna HVAC system, where the multiple-antenna HVAC system supplies conditioned air to the enclosed space. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a second antenna disposed outside the return airflow path. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a controller in communication with the first antenna and the second antenna, where the controller wirelessly communicates via the first antenna and the second antenna.