Thermostat Configuration Copying to Reduce Multi-Unit Programming Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing thermostat update systems are complex and time-consuming, especially in multi-unit buildings, where manually programming each thermostat increases the likelihood of errors and requires significant time, making it difficult to efficiently transfer update data between thermostats.
Innovation Solution
A thermostat update system that includes a processor, transmitter, and storage area, allowing for the generation, transmission, and copying of update data between thermostats, either directly or through intermediary devices, using Wi-Fi routers and ad-hoc networks, enabling quick and accurate data transfer without the need for cloud connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual programming of each thermostat is performed, then each thermostat can be individually configured, but the process takes significant time and has high likelihood of errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a copying mechanism where configuration data from a source thermostat can be copied to multiple target thermostats. The system includes a copy button that initiates the copying process, transferring programming data automatically between devices, thereby eliminating manual re-programming and reducing both time and errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermostat system performs self-configuration through automatic data transfer. Once the copying process is initiated, the system automatically manages the data transmission and application of configuration settings without requiring manual intervention for each thermostat, reducing human error and time consumption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex thermostat controls are provided, then comprehensive HVAC control is achieved, but the controls become confusing and require great time to program
Solution Approach 1:
The copying feature allows users to replicate proven working configurations across multiple thermostats. Instead of programming each complex thermostat individually, users can copy configurations from a working source unit, maintaining full functionality while dramatically simplifying the setup process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows configuration to be prepared in advance on a source thermostat and then replicated to multiple target devices. This preliminary action of creating a master configuration that can be subsequently copied reduces the operational complexity for each individual thermostat setup.
3Productivity
If direct data transfer between thermostats is implemented, then update speed is improved, but system complexity increases with ad-hoc networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a mobile device as an intermediary for data transfer between thermostats. The mobile device acts as a mediator that receives configuration data from one thermostat and transmits it to target thermostats, simplifying the network architecture while maintaining fast data transfer speeds without requiring complex peer-to-peer ad-hoc networks between thermostats.
Data Source
AI summary
A thermostat update and copying system can include a first thermostat having a processor, a transmitter, a storage area. In some embodiments, the processor generates update data, the storage area maintains the update data, and the transmitter transmits the update data to multiple target devices. In some embodiments, the target devices include mobile devices capable of running applications to receive the update data and/or at least a second thermostat wherein the second thermostat is activated and update data is transmitted by the transceiver to the second thermostat.