Thermostat Configuration Duplication Using Wireless Data Transfer

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Configuring and programming multiple thermostats in complex HVAC systems is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies, especially in large buildings, and users face difficulties navigating the complexities of thermostat settings when switching devices.

Innovation Solution

A system that allows for the quick and accurate transfer of thermostat configuration data between devices using a processor, transmitter, storage area, and control button, enabling transmission via cloud storage and wireless protocols, allowing configuration data to be shared between thermostats and virtual images.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual configuration and programming is performed for each thermostat individually, then each thermostat can be set up, but the process is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidsetup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a master thermostat configuration that can be copied to multiple target thermostats. The configuration data including HVAC system parameters, user preferences, and programming schedules is stored as a master template that can be replicated across multiple devices, eliminating manual reconfiguration while maintaining accuracy through the copy operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary configuration by creating a master thermostat with all necessary settings and parameters before deployment to multiple locations. This master configuration serves as a pre-prepared template that can be quickly distributed to target thermostats, avoiding the need to perform configuration actions at each individual device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If complex thermostat controls are provided with full functionality, then comprehensive HVAC control is achieved, but users have difficulty navigating the settings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvethermostat functionalityVSAvoiduser navigation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service by allowing the thermostat to automatically receive and apply configuration data from the master template. The target thermostat can be configured through automated data transfer and application of pre-configured settings, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate complex menus and make configuration decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a master thermostat configuration as an intermediary that contains all the complex settings and parameters. Instead of requiring users to directly configure each thermostat, the master configuration acts as a mediator that provides pre-processed, organized settings that can be easily transferred and applied to target devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple thermostats are deployed in a building with multiple units, then comprehensive HVAC coverage is achieved, but configuration and programming must be repeated for each device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-unit coverageVSAvoidconfiguration efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal master thermostat configuration that can serve multiple target thermostats across different building units. The master configuration contains standardized HVAC parameters and programming that can be universally applied to multiple devices, allowing one configuration to fulfill the function of configuring numerous thermostats throughout the building.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables efficient multi-unit deployment by copying the master thermostat configuration to multiple target thermostats. The configuration data is replicated across all building units through automated transfer processes, eliminating the need to manually configure each thermostat while ensuring consistent settings across the entire building.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10423142B2Thermostat configuration duplication system
Publication Date: 2019.09.24 BRAEBURN SYSTEMS LLC
  • US10423142B2 patent drawing
  • US10423142B2 patent drawing
  • US10423142B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A thermostat configuration system includes a first thermostat having a processor, a transceiver, a storage area and a control button. The processor generates configuration data for the first thermostat and stores the configuration data in the storage area of the first thermostat. The processor then causes the configuration data to be transmitted to multiple target devices using the transmitter, including at least a second thermostat.