Dynamically programmable thermostat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC control systems lack flexibility and efficiency in managing diverse HVAC components, requiring multiple hardware configurations and complex installation processes, which can lead to increased energy consumption and hardware requirements.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically programmable thermostat that can adapt to various HVAC components by determining their types and updating its operation accordingly, using web-based or mobile applications for configuration and control, and accessing processes to coordinate the operation of HVAC system components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware configurations are used to support different HVAC components, then compatibility with various HVAC components is improved, but device complexity and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat is designed with universally compatible terminals that can be dynamically assigned to different HVAC components through software configuration rather than requiring separate hardware configurations for each component type
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat employs dynamic relay assignment where terminal functions are not fixed but can be reconfigured in real-time based on the detected HVAC component type, allowing the same hardware to adapt to various configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hardware configurations are used to support different HVAC components, then compatibility with various HVAC components is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat automatically detects the type of HVAC component connected to its terminals and self-configures the appropriate control logic and terminal assignments without requiring manual installation configuration or complex wiring procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (terminal assignments, control strategies) based on the detected component type rather than requiring physical hardware changes during installation
3Device complexity
If a single thermostat manages multiple HVAC components, then hardware requirements are reduced, but the ability to properly control diverse components deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat dynamically adjusts its control logic and terminal functions based on the specific HVAC component type detected, allowing a single static hardware platform to perform multiple specialized functions
Solution Approach 2:
The system modifies its operational parameters including relay assignments, control algorithms, and communication protocols to match the requirements of each specific HVAC component type
Data Source
AI summary
Programmable controller technology, in which data is received that identifies a particular type of HVAC system component that is to be controlled by a programmable controller. Based on receiving data identifying the particular type of HVAC system component, configuration information is accessed for the particular type of HVAC system component. A configuration is determined for one or more interface ports of the programmable controller based on the configuration information for the particular type of HVAC system component. The interface ports of the programmable controller are configured according to the determined configuration. A connection between the particular type of HVAC system component and the programmable controller that satisfies the determined configuration is detected. Based on detecting the connection between the particular type of HVAC system component and the programmable controller that satisfies the determined configuration, the particular type of HVAC system component is controlled through the one or more interface ports.