Systems and methods for controlling an indoor climate of a building using a controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC systems face limitations due to the high cost and limited interoperability of communicating systems, which restrict consumer choice and flexibility in using both communicating and non-communicating equipment, and often require complete system replacement for upgrades or retrofits.
Innovation Solution
A controller system that operates HVAC units based on a target time control plan, allowing for the integration of both communicating and non-communicating equipment, using a communication module for data exchange with a computer device to analyze and optimize system performance, and adjusts control plans based on actual satisfy time compared to target time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If communicating thermostats and HVAC equipment are used, then control flexibility and automation are improved, but system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A communication bridge device is introduced as an intermediary between legacy HVAC equipment and modern smart devices. This bridge enables communicating thermostats and mobile devices to interact with non-communicating HVAC equipment through standard protocols, providing automation and control flexibility without requiring expensive communicating HVAC equipment.
2Extent of automation
If communicating systems are implemented, then control capabilities are enhanced, but interoperability with legacy equipment decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bridge device performs multiple functions: it acts as a thermostat, enables remote control, provides device discovery, and supports multiple communication protocols simultaneously. This universal device works with both legacy and modern equipment, enhancing control capabilities while maintaining broad interoperability.
3Extent of automation
If communicating equipment is used, then system intelligence is improved, but consumer choice and equipment flexibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent components: a legacy HVAC equipment, a communication bridge device, and optional smart devices. This segmentation allows consumers to choose legacy equipment based on their needs and budget, while adding intelligence only where required through the bridge device, maintaining both system intelligence and consumer choice.
4Device complexity
If legacy thermostats are used, then system cost and complexity are reduced, but control precision and automation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The communication bridge device is pre-configured with device discovery capabilities and communication protocols before use. It automatically detects connected HVAC equipment and configures appropriate communication parameters in advance, enabling precise control and automation without increasing operational complexity for the user.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling indoor climate of a building. The system includes one or more equipment of a heating ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system, a thermostat configured to wirelessly transmit operational data and a controller communicatively coupled to the one or more equipment and the thermostat. The controller includes a communication module configured to exchange the operational data with the thermostat and an equipment interface configured to communicate control signals to the one or more equipment to control operation of the one or more equipment. The controller is configured to receive the operational data wirelessly transmitted from the thermostat using the communication module, determine based on the operational data a control plan to operate the one or more equipment of the HVAC system, and operate the one or more equipment of the HVAC system based on the control plan.