Systems and methods for air temperature control using a target time based control plan
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face challenges in providing improved control while allowing a broad range of thermostats and equipment, including both communicating and non-communicating legacy devices, due to interoperability issues and high costs associated with communicating systems.
Innovation Solution
A controller-based HVAC system that operates using a target time-based control plan, allowing for the integration of various HVAC units and thermostats, including both communicating and non-communicating devices, through a communication module that exchanges data with a computer device for analysis and optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If communicating thermostats and HVAC equipment are used to provide improved control and flexibility, then the degree of control and automation is improved, but the cost increases and interoperability with legacy equipment is lost
Solution Approach 1:
A communication bridge device is introduced as an intermediary between legacy HVAC equipment and modern communicating thermostats. The bridge receives simple on/off control signals from legacy equipment and translates them into communicating protocol signals that modern thermostats can process, enabling interoperability between legacy and modern components without requiring complete system replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The communication bridge creates a functional copy of the controlling interface by emulating both the legacy thermostat's simple switch control signals and the modern HVAC equipment's communicating protocol signals. This allows the system to maintain the simplicity of legacy control while gaining the capabilities of modern communicating equipment
2Ease of manufacture
If communicating HVAC equipment is used to provide automatic identification and capacity settings, then ease of installation and setup is improved, but the cost becomes prohibitive for many consumers
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bridge serves as a cost-effective intermediary that provides automatic identification and configuration capabilities to legacy systems. The bridge device can automatically discover connected legacy equipment, identify its capabilities, and configure appropriate control parameters, replicating the ease-of-installation benefits of communicating systems without requiring expensive communicating HVAC equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The communication bridge is designed to work with multiple types of legacy HVAC equipment and support various communicating protocols, providing universal compatibility. This multi-functionality allows a single bridge device to enable modern thermostat control across different legacy equipment types, reducing overall system cost while maintaining versatility
3Adaptability or versatility
If legacy thermostats and HVAC equipment are used to maintain interoperability and consumer flexibility, then adaptability and consumer choice are improved, but the degree of control and automation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bridge acts as an intelligent mediator that enhances rather than limits control capabilities. It can implement sophisticated control algorithms, scheduling, and optimization on the communicating side while presenting simple on/off control to legacy equipment, thereby improving degree of control without compromising legacy equipment compatibility
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling the air temperature of a building using a control plan based on a target time. The system includes a controller which may be connected to a number of indoor and outdoor heating ventilation and air-conditioning units. The system may include a thermostat. The system may also operate without a thermostat. The method includes determining a control plan to reach a desired temperature in a target time. The method also includes updating the plan by comparing the actual time to reach the desired temperature with the target time.