User interface for thermostat and related devices, systems, and methods
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user interfaces for thermostatic radiator valves in zoned heating systems are difficult for lay users to read and often lead to ineffective or inefficient adjustments in set point temperatures, as they are typically located near the floor or wall and do not provide intuitive feedback on energy-efficient temperature settings.
Innovation Solution
A user interface with a movable user input member that can be adjusted to increase or decrease the set point temperature, featuring a return mechanism to reset to a home position and an indicator panel that illuminates to show temperature adjustments, along with a lockout controller to prevent unnecessary adjustments when the environmental temperature is close to the set point, ensuring intuitive and efficient temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the user interface is positioned near the floor or wall for compact installation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the readability and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the user interface from a two-dimensional wall-mounted display to a three-dimensional tactile dial interface. The dial protrudes from the wall surface, creating depth and spatial separation between the user's hand and the display elements. This dimensional change allows large, easily readable indicators and buttons to be positioned within easy reach while maintaining a compact wall-mounted footprint.
2Device complexity
If traditional thermostat interfaces are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the energy efficiency and measurement precision deteriorates due to lack of intuitive feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple feedback mechanisms: visual feedback through illuminated indicators that show current temperature, set point, and system status; tactile feedback through the physical dial position that indicates set point temperature; and auditory feedback through beeps that confirm user actions. This multi-sensory feedback loop helps users make energy-efficient temperature adjustments by providing immediate, intuitive information about system state and the impact of their adjustments.
3Ease of operation
If users are allowed to freely adjust set point temperature, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability and loss of energy worsens due to over-correction and unnecessary adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action through the lockout feature that prevents temperature adjustments when the current temperature is already within an acceptable range of the set point. The system proactively detects when adjustment is unnecessary and blocks the user interface, preventing over-correction and unnecessary energy consumption. This anticipatory control maintains temperature stability while preserving user ability to adjust when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A user interface for a thermostat that controls a radiator valve can include a user input member that is movable from a home position to a set point increase or decrease position to increase or decrease a set point temperature of the thermostat. In some embodiments, a return mechanism returns the user input member to the home position after being released from one of the set point increase and decrease positions. The user interface can include an indicator panel and controller that controls the indicator panel to provide an indication of when the set point temperature of the thermostat is being adjusted. The user interface can also include a lockout controller that prevents further set point temperature adjustments using the user interface when the set point temperature differs from the environmental temperature by a specified amount.