Occupancy Detection Using Building Energy Consumption Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing occupancy detection methods, such as cameras and motion detectors, are impractical due to high costs and installation complications, and there is a need for a more efficient way to determine whether a structure is occupied to optimize energy management and reduce energy waste.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that integrates with a structure's existing power infrastructure, using a processor and memory to analyze energy consumption data to determine occupancy, incorporating historical data and external inputs like GPS locations to predict occupancy, and distinguishing between occupant-induced and automated energy usage patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cameras and motion detectors are used for occupancy detection, then occupancy detection accuracy is improved, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/optical occupancy detection devices (cameras, motion detectors) with an electrical system that uses existing power infrastructure and energy consumption data to detect occupancy, eliminating the need for separate sensing hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing power infrastructure and energy consumption data that is already being collected for other purposes, allowing occupancy detection without adding separate sensing devices or increasing installation complexity
2Measurement precision
If cameras and motion detectors are used for occupancy detection, then occupancy detection accuracy is improved, but installation cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive optical/mechanical detection devices with an electrical analysis system that processes existing energy consumption data, significantly reducing hardware costs
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs multiple functions using existing infrastructure: it analyzes energy consumption data for both occupancy detection and energy management purposes, eliminating the need for dedicated occupancy sensing hardware
3Device complexity
If energy consumption data analysis is used for occupancy detection, then installation complexity is reduced, but occupancy detection accuracy may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors energy consumption data and uses feedback from historical patterns and external sources (GPS, calendars) to refine occupancy detection accuracy over time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements including historical energy consumption data, external GPS location data, and calendar information that mediate between the raw energy data and occupancy determination, improving detection accuracy
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, methods, and systems for occupancy detection are described herein. One device embodiment includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to determine energy consumption data associated with a structure at a point in time, and determine whether the structure is occupied at the point in time based, at least in part, on the determined energy consumption data.