Customizable routines for building control system
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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 are often dependent on multiple devices and applications from different providers.
Innovation Solution
A programmable controller system that allows users to create custom actions by connecting electronic devices, such as sensors, to an equipment interface module, enabling the controller to change the state of building systems based on specific conditions, like opening windows or detecting carbon monoxide, and display alerts on a user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If building controllers use limited predefined 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 predefined configurations to dynamic customizable configurations. Users can programmatically define custom actions that respond to terminal state changes, allowing the system to adapt to specific needs while maintaining a relatively simple hardware architecture. The customization is achieved through software programming rather than hardware modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing operational parameters through programmable custom actions. Instead of requiring different hardware configurations, the controller modifies its behavior by executing different programmed actions based on terminal states, effectively changing system parameters through software rather than hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If building controllers support multiple device compatibilities, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of integration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The controller implements a universal interface through standardized terminals that can work with various electronic devices. The system provides multi-functionality by allowing the same terminal infrastructure to support different device types (sensors, switches, etc.) through programmable custom actions, eliminating the need for device-specific configuration interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal acts as an intermediary between diverse electronic devices and the controller. Instead of requiring direct integration protocols for each device type, the terminal provides a standardized interface that mediates communication, allowing various devices to be integrated through a common mechanism rather than device-specific implementations.
3Ease of operation
If building controllers provide extensive customization options, then user satisfaction is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to configuration difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides pre-configured terminal interfaces and standard action templates that prepare the basic framework in advance. Users build upon these preliminary configurations rather than starting from scratch, reducing configuration time while maintaining extensive customization capability. The terminal setup and basic action structures are prepared beforehand for rapid deployment.
Data Source
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.