User-friendly, network-connected, smart-home controller and related systems and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing HVAC control systems face challenges in balancing energy efficiency with user comfort, as simple thermostats lack programmability and advanced features are often underutilized due to complexity, while programmable thermostats intimidate users with numerous settings, leading to suboptimal energy savings in residential and commercial settings.
Innovation Solution
A versatile sensing and control unit (VSCU) with a passive and active infrared sensor, electronic display, and processors that automatically adjust temperature settings based on occupancy detection and user interaction, providing a user-friendly interface that learns user habits and promotes energy-saving behaviors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If programmable thermostats with multiple settings are provided, then energy-saving capability is improved, but device complexity increases making users intimidated and unable to use the features
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat system performs self-learning by automatically monitoring user manual adjustments and occupancy patterns over time, then autonomously generates and implements optimized temperature schedules without requiring user programming. This eliminates the complexity barrier while maintaining energy-saving capabilities through automated adaptation to household routines.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors user interactions with the thermostat and occupancy detection data, using this feedback to refine and update temperature profiles automatically. This closed-loop learning process enables the thermostat to improve energy efficiency progressively while requiring minimal user input beyond simple manual overrides.
2Ease of operation
If simple non-programmable thermostats are used, then ease of operation is improved, but energy-saving opportunities are lost due to lack of automation
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat autonomously performs the energy-saving scheduling function that would otherwise require complex user programming. Users simply operate the device as a simple thermostat with manual adjustments, while the system independently learns patterns and implements automated temperature management to capture energy-saving opportunities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively adjusts temperatures in advance of predicted occupancy changes based on learned patterns, such as pre-heating before typical wake times or pre-cooling before expected arrivals home. This anticipatory control achieves energy savings without requiring users to plan or program schedules manually.
3Ease of operation
If manufacturer default profiles are used, then ease of operation is maintained, but energy-saving effectiveness is reduced due to one-size-fits-all approach
Solution Approach 1:
The thermostat automatically adapts to each household's unique patterns by monitoring manual temperature adjustments and occupancy over time, then customizes profiles specific to that household's routines and preferences. This self-customization process maintains ease of operation while achieving the adaptability of personalized profiles.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature profiles are dynamic and continuously evolving rather than static defaults. The system adapts its control strategy in real-time based on changing user behaviors, seasonal variations, and occupancy patterns, ensuring ongoing optimization tailored to each household's evolving needs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The VSCU unit optimizes energy usage by automatically adjusting HVAC settings based on learned occupancy patterns and comfort preferences, enhancing energy efficiency while maintaining user comfort and encouraging energy-saving behaviors through a simplified, intuitive interface.
Implementation Method 1
The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor
Implementation Method 2
The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A thermostat for controlling an HVAC system in an enclosure may include a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, and an electronic display having a first mode and a second mode. The thermostat may also include one or more processors programmed to change a setpoint temperature of the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature upon detection of a non-occupancy condition for the enclosure. The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor. The processor(s) may also be programmed to change the electronic display from the first mode to the second mode upon detection of a person approaching the thermostat. The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor.