Programmable HVAC Controller for User-Defined Custom Actions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Building controllers, such as HVAC controllers, have limited customization capabilities, making it difficult for installers and users to configure them to meet specific needs, and often require additional devices from various providers to achieve desired functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A programmable building controller that allows users to create custom actions based on input conditions from connected electronic devices, such as sensors and geofences, enabling it to change the state of HVAC systems and other building systems accordingly, through an equipment interface module and user-defined configurations stored in memory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If building controllers use limited pre-programmed configurations, then device complexity is reduced and ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability to specific user needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller transitions from static pre-programmed configurations to dynamic customizable configurations. Users can programmatically define custom actions and configure them through a user interface, allowing the controller to adapt its behavior dynamically based on specific building needs and conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the operational parameters of the controller by enabling users to define custom actions with specific conditions and responses. This parameter customization resolves the contradiction by allowing the same hardware to serve multiple specialized functions through software configuration rather than requiring different hardware for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If building controllers offer extensive pre-programmed options, then adaptability to specific needs is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple functions through programmable custom actions. Rather than manufacturing different controllers for different functions, a single controller type can be configured to handle various building control scenarios, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining extensive functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables end-users to configure and customize the controller behavior themselves through a user interface. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manufacturers to pre-program all possible configurations, reducing manufacturing complexity while allowing users to create specialized functions as needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional devices from various providers are integrated to achieve desired functionalities, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple specialized devices into a single programmable controller. By combining condition monitoring, custom action definition, and system control in one device, the system reduces operational complexity while maintaining the ability to perform specialized functions that previously required separate devices from different providers.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control system for a building includes a controller configured to control a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system configured to condition a space within the building. An electronic device is configured to be in electronic communication with the controller and provides a first output to the controller that corresponds to a first state of the electronic device. The electronic device provides a second output to the controller that corresponds to a second state of the electronic device. In response to receiving one of the first output or the second output, the controller is configured to change a state of the HVAC system from a first state to a second state. In response to receiving the other of the first output or the second output, the controller is configured to change the state of the HVAC system from the second state to a third state.