Self-Learning HVAC Controller to Reduce Manual Energy Optimization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing HVAC systems require frequent manual adjustments of numerical constants in optimization software to maintain optimal energy efficiency due to changes in local climate, equipment characteristics, and operating conditions, which is time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A self-learning controller that communicates with a building automation system to automatically adjust operating parameters of HVAC equipment using real-time data, predicted efficiencies, and self-learning algorithms to minimize energy wastage and optimize energy management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual adjustment of numerical constants in optimization software is used to maintain optimal energy efficiency, then energy efficiency can be maintained, but frequent manual intervention is required which is time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidmanual intervention time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service through automatic detection of equipment changes and self-adjustment of numerical constants. The controller continuously monitors equipment operating characteristics and automatically modifies the optimization software parameters without requiring manual intervention, thereby maintaining energy efficiency while eliminating time-consuming manual adjustments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring actual energy consumption and equipment operating characteristics, comparing them against optimal values, and automatically adjusting numerical constants in the optimization software to maintain optimal performance. This closed-loop feedback system ensures energy efficiency is maintained dynamically without manual intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual re-programming of BAS is performed to account for changes in local climate and ambient conditions, then adaptability to environmental changes is achieved, but the process is complex and requires periodic evaluation and re-programming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to climate changesVSAvoidre-programming complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects changes in local climate and ambient conditions through continuous monitoring of environmental sensors and equipment performance data. It then self-adjusts the numerical constants in the optimization software to adapt to these changes without requiring manual evaluation or re-programming, thereby maintaining adaptability while simplifying the process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the optimization software with adjustable numerical constants that can be automatically modified in response to environmental changes. This preliminary setup enables rapid adaptation to climate variations without complex re-programming procedures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of energy

If optimization software is used to automatically adjust operating parameters, then energy efficiency is improved, but numerical constants still need periodic manual adjustment when equipment characteristics change

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy wastageVSAvoidease of parameter adjustment

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by automatically detecting when equipment characteristics change through monitoring of operating parameters and performance metrics. Upon detecting such changes, the system automatically recalibrates the numerical constants in the optimization software without manual intervention, thereby maintaining ease of operation while preventing energy wastage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the manual mechanical process of adjusting parameters with an automated electronic control system. The controller uses algorithms to automatically modify numerical constants in the optimization software based on real-time equipment performance data, substituting manual operation with automated electronic adjustment to maintain energy efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10408481B2Systems and methods to control energy consumption efficiency

Publication Date: 2019.09.10 OPTIMUM ENERGY LLC

AI summary

A controller is configured to exchange information with a building automation system and includes various executable programs for determining a real time operating efficiency, simulating a predicted or theoretical operating efficiency, comparing the same, and then adjusting one or more operating parameters on equipment utilized by a building's HVAC system. The controller operates to adjust an operating efficiency of the HVAC system. An adjustment module utilized by the controller may modify the HVAC equipment parameters based on the likelihood that various HVAC equipment operates in parallel and on-line near its natural operating curve. In addition, the adjustment module may include a self-learning aspect that permits the controller to more efficiently make similar, future adjustments as needed.