Control subsystem having an integration framework

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing building automation systems (BAS) struggle to efficiently manage and control energy consumption in large buildings due to limitations in real-time feedback and deterministic control, leading to wasted energy and inefficiencies in HVAC DDC control systems.

Innovation Solution

A pseudo deterministic control subsystem integrated within an event-driven framework, combining direct digital control and web architecture for rapid prototyping, using a Niagara framework with enhanced function block execution sequencing, error detection, and high-speed communication protocols to ensure near real-time performance and energy management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If event-driven control framework is used for flexibility and integration, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but deterministic control and real-time performance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddeterministic control
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments control functions into separate function blocks that can be independently executed. Each function block processes specific control logic, allowing the event-driven framework to maintain flexibility while deterministic segments ensure real-time performance for critical control tasks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a control subsystem as an intermediary layer between the event-driven framework and the controlled process. This subsystem provides deterministic execution for time-critical control operations while allowing the upper-level event-driven framework to handle flexible integration and supervisory functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If traditional HVAC DDC control is used, then deterministic control is maintained, but energy management efficiency and system integration capability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeterministic controlVSAvoidenergy management efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The control subsystem is designed to perform multiple functions including deterministic control execution, energy management optimization, and system integration. This multi-functional approach maintains deterministic control while adding energy efficiency capabilities that traditional single-purpose DDC systems lack.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements enhanced feedback mechanisms that provide near real-time monitoring and adjustment of control parameters. This allows the system to maintain deterministic control performance while optimizing energy management through continuous feedback on system state and energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If event-based execution model is used, then system integration and flexibility are improved, but control loop timeliness and consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem integrationVSAvoidcontrol loop timeliness
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements dynamic execution scheduling where the timing and priority of function block execution can be adjusted based on control criticality. Time-critical control loops receive higher priority and guaranteed execution timing, while less critical functions operate in the flexible event-driven schedule, achieving both timeliness and integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12001179B2Control subsystem having an integration framework
Publication Date: 2024.06.04 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
  • US12001179B2 patent drawing
  • US12001179B2 patent drawing
  • US12001179B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A pseudo determinism control subsystem for event-driven integration framework of a controller system with application relative to various parameters such as, for instance, energy consumption. Pseudo determinism, near real time and/or direct digital control combined with event driven control along with strong security and high speed throughout the controller system.