Smart Air Ventilation System with Occupancy-Based Energy Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face challenges in efficiently managing energy consumption in buildings, particularly in determining occupancy and adjusting temperature settings across multiple rooms, leading to increased energy costs and inefficient heating or cooling.
Innovation Solution
A wireless data transceiver system with an occupancy sensor and temperature sensor, coupled with a processor that controls air vents, communicates with a smart meter and online weather services, and utilizes energy harvesting to optimize energy use based on utility pricing and user preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If motion detection devices are used to determine room occupancy, then energy consumption can be reduced by adjusting HVAC settings, but the system complexity increases due to additional sensors and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated system: motion detection, temperature sensing, wireless communication, and HVAC control are merged into one coordinated system. The motion detector and temperature sensor work together with the microprocessor to automatically control the HVAC system, eliminating the need for separate manual controls and reducing overall system complexity despite adding intelligence.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables automatic self-regulation of HVAC settings based on detected occupancy and temperature conditions. The microprocessor automatically adjusts thermostat settings without requiring manual intervention, and the system self-monitors through wireless communication to maintain optimal energy savings while adapting to changing room conditions.
2Loss of energy
If minimum and maximum setback temperatures are set for unoccupied rooms, then energy costs decrease, but the comfort level for occupants may be compromised when rooms are re-entered
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary temperature adjustment only after confirming occupancy status through motion detection. When motion is detected indicating room entry, the system begins preliminary actions to restore comfortable temperature settings before the occupant fully enters, ensuring comfort is maintained while still achieving energy savings during unoccupied periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic temperature control that adapts setback parameters based on detected occupancy patterns and environmental conditions. The system dynamically adjusts between energy-saving mode and comfort mode, allowing flexible temperature management that responds to real-time conditions rather than applying fixed minimum and maximum setback temperatures.
Data Source
AI summary
A system to control energy consumption in a building having a plurality of rooms with a wireless data transceiver; an occupancy sensor; a temperature sensor; a processor coupled to the wireless data transceiver, the occupancy sensor and the temperature sensor; and an air register including a motor coupled to the processor, the motor opening or closing one or more air vents in response to sensed motion or room temperature.