Modular Stage Driver Memory Allocation for HVAC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the commercial HVAC industry, there is a need for a flexible and cost-effective control system that can dynamically allocate resources and stages, accommodating varying demands and new architectures, while efficiently using memory resources.
Innovation Solution
A function block engine system that uses two function blocks to manage stagers in HVAC systems, allowing for dynamic allocation of resources and stages, and implements a stage driver mechanism that optimizes memory usage by calculating starting addresses and offsets, enabling efficient operation with minimal memory requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed memory block architecture is used, then memory allocation is simple, but the system cannot dynamically allocate resources and stages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic memory allocation by allowing the memory block architecture to adapt its structure based on runtime requirements. The system can dynamically allocate and de-allocate memory blocks for different resources and stages, transforming the static memory structure into a dynamic one that responds to changing system demands.
Solution Approach 2:
The memory system is divided into multiple allocable blocks that can be independently managed. Each block can be assigned to specific resources or stages as needed, allowing flexible segmentation of memory space. This segmentation enables the system to allocate memory in discrete units rather than requiring a fixed monolithic structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more stages are added to accommodate varying demands, then system versatility improves, but memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the memory management of multiple stages into a unified allocable block system. Instead of dedicating separate fixed memory blocks to each stage, the system uses a pool of allocable blocks that can be shared and dynamically assigned to any active stage, reducing total memory requirements while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of memory allocation from fixed to dynamic based on the number and configuration of active stages. As stages are added or removed, the memory allocation parameters automatically adjust, allowing the system to optimize memory usage according to the current operational requirements rather than provisioning for maximum possible stages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular stage driver system is implemented, then resource linking flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stage driver system implements universal interfaces and allocable blocks that can serve multiple functions and connect different resource types. The same basic driver structure can link various resources (stages, actuators, sensors) through standardized interfaces, providing flexibility without requiring separate complex control paths for each resource type.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for optimizing usage of energy converting stages. It may have a stage driver, and stage driver adds as needed. The system may control the on-times of the stages according to a pattern that optimizes energy usage, processing and memory. The pattern may control the stages according to lead lag, rotating or runtime. The pattern may incorporate modulating. The system may be scalable and have a small memory footprint. The system may be implemented with function blocks of a function block engine. Network variables may be incorporated for input and output connections of the system.