NFC enabled HVAC field device and an HVAC system
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face challenges with complex device configurations and accessibility, particularly in demanding environments, requiring improved short-range communication solutions for efficient installation and setup.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a base HVAC device block with a first add-on NFC antenna and control module, allowing for direct or indirect electrical connections, enhances communication and configuration capabilities, enabling efficient data exchange with external service devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If HVAC field devices use traditional configuration methods (potentiometers, service tools), then device configuration can be achieved, but installation complexity and technician time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical configuration methods (potentiometers, physical service tools) with wireless NFC communication. The mobile service device uses NFC to wirelessly transmit configuration data to the HVAC field device, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment and reducing installation time while improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an NFC antenna as an intermediary component that enables wireless communication between the mobile service device and the HVAC field device. This intermediary facilitates data exchange without direct physical contact, streamlining the configuration process and reducing technician intervention time
2Reliability
If HVAC devices are installed in demanding environments with limited accessibility, then system functionality is maintained, but configuration and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical access requirements for configuration with wireless NFC communication. Technicians can configure devices remotely using mobile devices, eliminating the need to physically access hard-to-reach locations and improving both reliability and ease of operation in demanding environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the HVAC field device compatible with multiple configuration approaches by integrating NFC communication capabilities. The device can be configured through wireless NFC, maintaining backward compatibility while enabling remote access, thus improving accessibility without sacrificing reliability
3Adaptability or versatility
If HVAC systems use multiple separate components for communication and control, then system functionality is comprehensive, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the NFC antenna, communication interface, and control functions into an integrated HVAC field device. This merging of components provides comprehensive communication capability while reducing overall device complexity compared to using multiple separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the HVAC field device to perform multiple functions through a single integrated design. The device supports both traditional communication methods and NFC-based wireless communication, providing versatility without requiring separate dedicated components for each function
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C
AI summary
The invention relates to an HVAC field device comprising a plurality of HVAC device blocks. The HVAC field device comprises: a) a base HVAC device block comprising: a base housing; an electric motor configured to drive an actuated part, and/or a sensor for the measurement of operational parameters of an HVAC system; a base control module 5 connected to the electric motor, and/or the sensors; a base near field communication (NFC) circuit connected to the base control module; and b) a first add-on HVAC device block comprising: an add-on housing and a first add-on NFC antenna, wherein the base HVAC device block and the first add-on HVAC device block are mechanically connected, and wherein the first NFC antenna is electrically connected to the base HVAC device 0 block. (Fig.2B)