HVAC controller interface device

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Solution Overview

Problem

HVAC controller interface devices are often permanently secured, restricting technician access, leading to increased service time and potential electrical issues due to misplaced components.

Innovation Solution

A removable and securely mountable controller interface device that maintains communication with the HVAC system controller, allowing for handheld operation and easy access, while preventing electrical malfunctions through secure retention mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the controller interface device is permanently secured to the cabinet, then the device is stable and fixed in position, but the technician's access to the interface is restricted and service time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice stabilityVSAvoidtechnician access

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting mechanism transitions from a static permanent fixation to a dynamic removable design, allowing the interface device to be easily detached and reattached. This enables technicians to access the device by simply removing it from the cabinet without requiring tools or damaging the cabinet structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is divided into separate components: a mounting plate attached to the cabinet and a removable interface device with retention members. This segmentation allows the interface device to be independently removed while leaving the mounting plate intact, facilitating easy access and reinstallation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If the controller interface device is permanently secured using sheet metal screws, then the device is firmly retained, but the screws may loosen or breakage and cause electrical shortages

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice retentionVSAvoidelectrical shortages

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The retention members are designed as simple, replaceable components that can be easily replaced if they wear out or become damaged. This approach uses simple, inexpensive parts rather than complex permanent fastening systems, reducing the risk of electrical issues while maintaining secure retention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting plate serves as an intermediary between the cabinet and the interface device, providing a stable mounting surface that distributes mechanical stress and prevents direct contact between metal screws and electrical components, thereby reducing the risk of electrical shortages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9817378B2HVAC controller interface device

Publication Date: 2017.11.14 TRANE INTERNATIONAL INC

AI summary

A handheld controller interface device that receives communications from one or more components of an HVAC system. The controller interface device is removably secured to an enclosure of the HVAC system. When not being engaged by a user, the controller user interface may be secured within the enclosure in a mounted position. When the HVAC system is being serviced, the controller user interface may be removed from the enclosure so as to be in an unmounted position. Further, when in the unmounted position, the controller interface device still at least receives communications from one or more components of the HVAC system, including, for example, a controller.