Simplified system and method for setback programming of thermostats
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Solution Overview
Problem
Most programmable thermostats are not programmed due to the complexity and number of steps required, which is tedious and often requires constant reference to a user manual, leading to low energy efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A programmable thermostat with a simplified and intuitive interface that allows users to program common settings with minimal commands, using preconfigured options for nighttime setback and 'five and two' programming modes, reducing the need for manual specification of event times and temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional programmable thermostat programming is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity and number of programming steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The programming interface is segmented into simple, discrete steps with clear visual guidance. Each programming action is broken down into individual, easily understood commands rather than requiring users to navigate through complex menus or remember multiple parameters simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat provides visual prompts and guidance before requiring user input, preparing the user for the next action. The system anticipates user needs by displaying relevant information and suggested programming options before the user must make decisions, reducing cognitive load and programming complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive programming options are provided, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Complex programming parameters and advanced features are extracted from the main user interface, leaving only the most commonly used and intuitive options visible. Advanced programming capabilities remain available but are not presented upfront, allowing users to access comprehensive functionality when needed while maintaining simple operation for typical use cases.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming interface dynamically adapts based on user behavior and selections. The system adjusts the complexity and type of options presented based on the programming stage and user preferences, providing simple defaults for common scenarios while allowing access to more sophisticated programming as users become more familiar with the device or require advanced customization.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed programming instructions are provided, then programming accuracy is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Visual prompts, icons, and on-screen guidance act as intermediaries between the user and the programming functions. These visual elements convey programming information and instructions more efficiently than text-based manuals, reducing the time users spend reading and interpreting detailed instructions while maintaining programming accuracy through clear visual feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or text-based instruction methods with visual display technology. The thermostat's screen provides dynamic visual guidance, animations, and graphical representations of programming concepts, substituting static manuals and complex text instructions with more intuitive visual communication that reduces programming time while maintaining accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A programmable thermostat usable to program their thermostat in a more intuitive manner using the fewer commands. The programmable thermostat provides a simplified level of programming that is intuitive and quick, based on a common set of settings, such as a nighttime setback programming that automatically adjusts the thermostat setpoint down in the evening and resetting the setpoint up in the morning, and a “five and two” programming reflecting the normal five-day work week and two-day weekend, as well as four events per day during the work week but only two events during the two weekend days. By compromising infinite flexibility and customization of programming for the efficiency of assuming that the most common settings are sufficient for most users, and these most common settings can be accomplished with a greatly reduced set of intuitive commands, making it easier for users to making use of thermostat programming.