Quick edit system for programming a thermostat
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Thermostats are often confusing and time-consuming to program due to the need to navigate multiple screens and input settings for various days of the week, requiring extensive user interaction and detailed manual review.
Innovation Solution
A thermostat with a touch-sensitive display and microprocessor that allows for quick editing of temperature and time settings on a single screen, using icons and adjustment buttons to program both heating and cooling modes for each day of the week without navigating away from the main screen, along with a smartphone app for remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional multi-screen programming interface is used, then comprehensive control of HVAC functions is achieved, but programming time and user complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple programming screens into a single main screen that displays all necessary controls and settings simultaneously. This merging of previously separate screens allows users to access and modify all thermostat parameters without navigating through multiple pages, directly reducing programming time while maintaining comprehensive HVAC control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the touch-sensitive display's spatial dimension to arrange numerous controls in a grid layout that fits on one screen. By strategically positioning controls based on their frequency of use and functional relationships, the design accommodates comprehensive programming options within a single visual field, eliminating the need for multi-screen navigation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive HVAC controls are provided, then system functionality is enhanced, but device complexity and user confusion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by organizing controls according to their functional importance and usage frequency. Frequently used controls are positioned in prominent locations with larger display elements, while less frequently used controls are placed in secondary areas. This differentiated arrangement maintains comprehensive HVAC control while reducing perceived complexity through intuitive spatial organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control interface where a single main screen serves multiple programming functions simultaneously. The same display area and control mechanisms handle temperature programming, schedule setting, fan control, and system mode selection, eliminating the need for separate interfaces for each function and thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes a control for adjusting a thermostat comprising a controller including a microprocessor and memory for storing a user interface, a display screen including a touch sensitive screen, the display screen coupled to the microprocessor and memory; the user interface including a main screen having a temperature icon, a time icon, an adjustment icon, and temperature and time set points for at least two days of the week and the microprocessor programmed to highlight one of the time or temperature icons upon selection of said one of the time or temperature icons and thereafter, without navigating away from the main screen, upon selection of the adjustment touch pad icon, the microprocessor programmed to adjust the time or temperature set point.