Thermostat Compressor Delay Control for Peak HVAC Energy Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional HVAC systems lack a simple method to create asymmetrical thermal waveforms without complex programming, and existing thermostats do not allow users to adjust compressor delays easily, leading to inefficient energy use and potential mechanical damage from rapid cycling.
Innovation Solution
A networked HVAC control system that dynamically adjusts compressor delays based on weather and electricity demand, using a website and thermostat with microprocessor control to manage setpoints and delay settings, allowing for asymmetrical thermal waveforms without changing the displayed setpoint, thereby reducing energy consumption and peak demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a fixed compressor delay is implemented in conventional thermostats, then mechanical damage from rapid cycling is prevented, but energy consumption cannot be optimized during peak demand periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic compressor delay mechanism where the delay duration is not fixed but varies based on outdoor temperature conditions. The thermostat automatically adjusts the compressor delay period according to pre-programmed temperature ranges, allowing longer delays during peak demand hot periods and shorter delays during milder conditions. This dynamic adjustment optimizes energy consumption during peak demand while preventing mechanical damage, without requiring complex user programming or manual intervention.
2Loss of energy
If programmable thermostats are used to create asymmetrical thermal waveforms, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the thermostat to automatically generate and execute asymmetrical thermal waveforms without requiring user programming. The system uses pre-programmed outdoor temperature ranges that automatically trigger appropriate compressor delay periods, creating energy-saving thermal patterns self-service fashion. The thermostat monitors outdoor temperature conditions and autonomously adjusts operational parameters to create asymmetrical waveforms during peak demand periods while maintaining comfort, eliminating the need for complex user programming while achieving energy reduction benefits.
3Reliability
If the hysteresis band is adjusted to prevent rapid cycling, then system reliability improves, but the ability to respond to user temperature changes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces asymmetry into the thermostat control by implementing different compressor delay periods based on outdoor temperature conditions. During mild temperature conditions, the system uses shorter delay periods that allow rapid response to user temperature changes, maintaining system adaptability. During hot peak demand conditions, the system automatically extends the compressor delay period to create asymmetrical thermal waveforms that reduce energy consumption. This asymmetric approach maintains both system reliability through appropriate delay protection and adaptability through condition-responsive adjustment.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed for reducing the usage of a ventilation system. For example, one or more of the exemplary systems comprise a thermostatic controller that has at least two settings for the delay occurring between turning the ventilation system off and then turning the system back on. One setting being for a first interval and at least a second setting for a second interval that is longer than the first interval. A processor is in communication with the thermostatic controller and is configured to evaluate one or more parameters including at least the temperature outside the structure conditioned by the ventilation system. The processor is further configured to determine whether to adopt the first interval or the second interval based upon the values of the parameters.