Thermostat synchronization via remote input device
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC control systems face complexity in setup and synchronization with remote devices due to various wireless communication protocols and software interfaces, leading to difficulties for installers and unsophisticated users in linking components.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for inputting a code to a thermostat that uses a remote input device to synchronize with a local router, allowing the thermostat to receive signals and verify the SSID without direct user input, using a Wi-Fi network and software tools to simplify the setup process, enabling remote control of HVAC units through a web-enabled building control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual setup procedures are used for linking thermostat and remote devices, then users have direct control over the setup process, but the system becomes complex and difficult to implement for unsophisticated users
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat automatically performs setup and synchronization operations without requiring user input. The device autonomously discovers available remote devices, transmits configuration data, and completes pairing procedures through self-service mechanisms including automatic SSID generation and wireless network configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces automated intermediary processes between the thermostat and remote devices, using machine-to-machine communication protocols to mediate the setup procedure. This intermediary automation layer handles the complexity of protocol negotiation and configuration transmission, shielding users from technical details.
2Ease of operation
If automated synchronization is implemented without direct user input, then setup process is simplified, but users lose control over configuration parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial automation by automatically handling routine configuration tasks while leaving critical customization options available for user input. The thermostat automatically completes basic setup steps but allows users to intervene and modify parameters if needed, providing excessive automation that can be curtailed on demand.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment where configuration parameters can be automatically set by the system but remain modifiable by users. The thermostat changes parameters automatically during setup while maintaining the capability for user-driven parameter modification, balancing automation with adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless communication protocols are supported, then system compatibility is improved, but setup complexity and difficulty increase for users
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat is designed with multi-functional wireless communication capabilities, supporting multiple protocols including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee. This universal compatibility allows the device to work with various remote devices and networks while the automated setup process uniformly handles protocol selection and configuration, preventing complexity from multiplying despite protocol diversity.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring users to select and configure specific protocols, the system inverts the approach by having the thermostat automatically detect available protocols and select the appropriate one. The configuration flow is reversed from user-driven protocol selection to system-driven automatic protocol negotiation and selection.
4Productivity
If automated code transmission is used from remote device to thermostat, then setup time is reduced, but reliability of code input may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating and pre-validating configuration codes on the remote device before transmission. The thermostat receives these pre-prepared codes through automated channels, and the pre-validation process ensures reliability is maintained while enabling rapid setup without manual verification steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the thermostat verifies received configuration codes and provides automated confirmation or error messages to the remote device. This closed-loop feedback system ensures transmission reliability by detecting and correcting errors automatically, maintaining productivity through rapid iterative verification rather than slow manual checking.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a method of inputting a code to a thermostat comprising the following steps, providing a thermostat having a display panel and a receiver for receiving signals from a local router, the local router configured to receive signals via the internet from a remote input device (RID), transmitting a register command to the local router, transmitting new user information to the local router and the thermostat receiving a serial number from the local router and the thermostat synchronizing with the RID without requiring any direct inputs to the display panel of the thermostat. The RID may verify the service set identifier (SSID).