Remote Sensing Thermostat for Flexible Building Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building automation systems require wall-mounted thermostats with complex wiring, which can be costly and unsightly, especially in environments like hospitals or museums, and limit flexibility in installation.
Innovation Solution
A line of sight temperature sensor and remote user input system that allows thermostat placement away from walls, using infrared sensors and projected graphics for user interaction, enabling ceiling or alternative mounting and reducing installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the thermostat is mounted on a wall, then the temperature sensing is direct and simple, but the wiring becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical wiring system with an optical communication system. The thermostat uses an optical sensor to detect infrared signals from a remote control device, eliminating the need for complex physical wiring connections. This substitution of mechanical/electrical connection with optical detection resolves the contradiction by simplifying installation while maintaining system functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the thermostat is mounted on a wall, then the installation is straightforward, but it causes aesthetic issues and potential damage in sensitive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary optical communication system that allows the thermostat to be mounted in protected locations such as ceilings or display cases. The infrared remote control acts as an intermediary device, transmitting control signals through air without requiring direct physical contact or exposed wiring, thus protecting the thermostat from damage while maintaining control functionality.
3Ease of operation
If remote sensing is implemented, then the thermostat can be placed in alternative locations, but the user interaction becomes indirect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the optical sensor detects infrared signals from the remote control and sends appropriate responses back to the user interface. This feedback loop maintains user interaction quality despite the physical separation, allowing users to control the thermostat remotely while still receiving visual or display confirmation of their commands and current system status.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates versatile placement, reduces damage risk, and simplifies installation by allowing remote control of building automation systems without direct user contact, enhancing usability and aesthetics in sensitive environments.
Implementation Method 1
A temperature is sensed with a line of sight temperature sensor
Implementation Method 2
The user places a finger or hand on a graphic for increasing or decreasing temperature. The placement is detected with an optical or other remote sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A line of sight temperature sensor in a thermostat allows placement at locations other than on a wall. For example, the thermostat is positioned in a ceiling, allowing easier wiring access. Wall placement may be used. By remotely sensing user selection associated with a remote location, control of the building automation is provided without requiring user contact. For example, the user places a finger or hand on a graphic for increasing or decreasing temperature set point. The placement is detected with an optical or other remote sensor. The set point for heating or cooling control is altered based on the remote sensing of the user selection.