Methods and graphical user interfaces for reporting performance information for an HVAC system controlled by a self-programming network-connected thermostat
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved energy management in HVAC systems to enhance energy efficiency and user awareness of energy consumption, as heating and cooling account for 56% of energy use in homes, with existing systems lacking effective monitoring and control methods to encourage energy-saving practices.
Innovation Solution
A method for interactively and graphically displaying HVAC performance information to users through a network-connected thermostat, allowing for real-time data analysis and feedback on energy usage, including graphical summaries and detailed timelines, to encourage energy-saving settings and practices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If detailed HVAC performance information is provided to users, then user awareness of energy consumption is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that collects raw HVAC performance data, processes it into meaningful metrics, and presents it through a user-friendly interface. This intermediary system handles the complexity of data aggregation and analysis while presenting simplified information to users, thereby resolving the contradiction between providing detailed information and maintaining system simplicity.
2Loss of energy
If real-time feedback on energy usage is implemented, then energy-saving practices are encouraged, but use of energy by the thermostat increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat system monitors and provides feedback on its own energy consumption while simultaneously managing HVAC operations. By implementing self-monitoring capabilities and providing transparent energy usage information to users, the system enables users to make informed decisions about energy-saving practices without requiring additional external monitoring devices, thus resolving the contradiction between providing real-time feedback and increasing energy usage.
3Loss of energy
If comprehensive monitoring of HVAC activity is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements localized information presentation by providing different levels of detail in different interface areas or contexts. The system offers simplified summaries for general oversight while allowing users to drill down into specific details only when needed, thereby maintaining ease of operation for typical use while still providing comprehensive monitoring capabilities for users who require detailed information.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are described for interactively and graphically displaying performance information to a user of an HVAC system controlled by a self-programming network-connected thermostat. The information is made on a remote display device such as a smartphone, tablet computer or other computer, and includes a graphical daily summary each of several days. In response to a user selection of a day, detailed performance information is graphically displayed that can include an indication of HVAC activity on a timeline, the number of hours of HVAC activity, as well as one or more symbols on a timeline indicating setpoint changes, and when a setpoint was changed due to non-occupancy.