Split HVAC Internet Control via Wireless Interface Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional split HVAC systems lack connectivity to the Internet and smart meters, making them non-controllable remotely via these platforms.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a control module with connectivity to networks and smart meters, utilizing an equipment interface module for wireless communication with indoor units, allowing operation control via radio frequency transceivers and infrared receivers, enabling remote control and monitoring through the Internet or smart meters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If split HVAC systems use conventional control methods with infrared receivers and remote controls, then the system is simple to operate locally, but the system cannot be controlled remotely via the Internet or smart meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an equipment interface module as an intermediary device that bridges the conventional infrared receiver system and the Internet/smart meter network. This module receives infrared signals from remote controls and converts them into network-compatible commands, enabling remote control functionality while preserving the simplicity of existing infrared remote control operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The equipment interface module is designed to handle multiple communication protocols and control methods simultaneously. It can process both traditional infrared remote control signals and network-based commands from the Internet or smart meters, making the HVAC system universally controllable through multiple channels without requiring separate systems for each control method.
2Adaptability or versatility
If split HVAC systems are equipped with network connectivity and equipment interface modules, then remote control via Internet and smart meters is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into separate functional modules: the existing infrared receiver in the HVAC unit, the new equipment interface module with network connectivity, and the control algorithms. This segmentation allows the network connectivity features to be added as a separate module without redesigning the entire HVAC system, thereby managing complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The equipment interface module serves as an intermediary that handles all network communication and protocol conversion, isolating the complexity of network connectivity from the core HVAC control system. This mediator approach confines the increased complexity to a single dedicated module rather than distributing it throughout the entire system.
3Device complexity
If conventional HVAC systems without network connectivity are used, then the system structure remains simple, but energy management and monitoring capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the equipment interface module and smart meter connectivity enable real-time monitoring of energy consumption and system performance. This feedback loop allows for optimized control decisions, energy management adjustments, and efficiency improvements that were not possible in conventional systems without network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The equipment interface module provides multiple functions beyond simple control: it enables remote monitoring, energy management, system diagnostics, and optimization. This multi-functionality addresses energy management efficiency while adding features to a single module rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
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
Enables remote control and monitoring of split HVAC systems, allowing users and utility providers to adjust operating modes and temperature settings, enhancing energy management and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Each radio frequency transceiver is configured for communication with the zone control via radio frequency signals
Implementation Method 2
Each radio frequency transceiver is configured for communication with a corresponding one of the infrared receivers via infrared signals
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for connecting split HVAC systems (and/or for providing such connectivity) to networks and/or smart meters, thereby allowing a split HVAC system to be controllable via the Internet and/or a smart meter. An exemplary embodiment includes a system for use with a split HVAC system having at least one outdoor unit and at least one indoor unit having a receiver. In this exemplary embodiment, the system comprises a control having connectivity to a network and/or a smart utility meter. An equipment interface module is configured for wireless communication with the receiver of the at least one indoor unit and the control. The equipment interface module is operable for communicating instructions from the control to the receiver of the at least one indoor unit, thereby allowing operation of the at least one indoor unit to be controllable via the network and/or smart utility meter.