Controller and process for controlling a plurality of resources within a workplace
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern workplaces face inefficiencies in energy consumption due to unused shared spaces and resources, such as heating, air conditioning, and electrical devices, which remain active even when not in use, leading to wasteful energy expenditure.
Innovation Solution
A central controller system that schedules and automates the activation and deactivation of resources in shared spaces based on scheduling information and sensor data, using event-based and schedule-based triggers to manage energy consumption efficiently, such as activating HVAC before a meeting and deactivating resources after it concludes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If resources (heating, air conditioning, lights, computing equipment) are kept active in shared spaces, then availability and comfort for users is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by activating resources before scheduled events and deactivating them after events conclude. The controller receives scheduling information about upcoming events in shared spaces and automatically activates relevant resources (lights, HVAC, computing equipment) prior to event start times, then deactivates them after event end times, ensuring resources are available when needed while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption during idle periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring sensor data (occupancy sensors, motion detectors, event status) and adjusting resource activation/deactivation decisions based on real-time conditions. This feedback loop allows the controller to respond dynamically to actual usage patterns, activating resources only when and where they are genuinely needed rather than following rigid schedules alone
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual control methods are used for activating resources, then flexibility and user preference are improved, but automation and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically managing resource activation and deactivation based on scheduled event information and sensor data without requiring manual user intervention. The controller autonomously determines when resources should be activated or deactivated based on event schedules and occupancy detection, freeing users from the burden of manually controlling shared space resources while maintaining appropriate resource availability
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves universality by creating a single automated controller that can manage multiple types of resources (lighting, HVAC, computing equipment, audio-visual equipment) across multiple shared spaces simultaneously. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate manual control systems for each resource type and location, providing consistent automated management throughout the workplace
3Loss of information
If scheduling programs are used for managing shared resources, then organization and coordination are improved, but energy consumption management is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges scheduling management with energy consumption control by integrating event schedule information directly with resource activation/deactivation logic. The controller receives scheduling information about events in shared spaces and combines this with sensor data to automatically control resources, eliminating the need for separate scheduling and energy management systems. This integration ensures that resources are activated based on both organizational scheduling needs and actual energy efficiency considerations
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices and processes effectively and efficiently manage the energy consumption of shared workspaces such as meeting rooms and the like. A central control device receives scheduling information and/or sensor information relating to meeting attendees, for example, that can be used to activate or deactivate resources within the shared meeting space. Lights, computing equipment, heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) or other climate controls, electrical outlets, food or beverage preparation equipment and/or other energy-consuming resources within the workplace can be automatically controlled for efficient operation and energy conservation.