Remote VAV Box Controller for Automated Test and Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring and maintaining VAV boxes in HVAC systems is a time-consuming and tedious process, requiring manual measurements and setting changes, which can be inefficient and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
An HVAC controller that is remotely operable and equipped with a user interface and temperature sensor, allowing for automated control of VAV boxes and facilitating a test and balance procedure to adjust damper positions based on measured and desired air flow values, thereby aiding installers in configuring and reconfiguring VAV boxes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual configuration and measurement methods are used for VAV boxes, then installation and maintenance can be performed with simple equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement and configuration processes with an automated electronic system. The HVAC controller automatically measures air flow through the VAV box and electronically configures damper positions, eliminating the need for manual measurements and physical adjustments during commissioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration where the VAV box and HVAC controller automatically perform measurements and configure themselves without requiring manual intervention. The automated commissioning process allows the system to self-test and self-adjust, reducing labor requirements.
2Extent of automation
If automated control functionality is added to the HVAC controller, then configuration efficiency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HVAC controller is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a standard temperature control device and as an automated commissioning tool. The same controller hardware and interface are used for both routine temperature regulation and for automated air flow measurement and damper configuration, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the commissioning functionality with the existing HVAC controller rather than using a separate device. The controller integrates temperature control, air flow measurement, and automated damper configuration into a single unified system, reducing overall system complexity despite adding automation capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If the HVAC controller performs automated test and balance procedures, then measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring air flow measurements and using this data to automatically adjust damper positions. The HVAC controller receives feedback from air flow sensors and iteratively configures the VAV box settings, improving measurement precision through multiple measurement cycles and adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
An HVAC system may include a VAV box including a damper movable between a first damper position and a second damper position and an HVAC controller that is mounted remotely from the VAV box. The HVAC controller may be configured to control the VAV box in accordance with a temperature set point entered into the HVAC controller and may be programmed with a test and balance procedure. In some cases, the HVAC controller may also be programmed with functionality that facilitates an installer or other technician in configuring and/or reconfiguring the VAV box. This may include providing a user interface that supports a test and balance procedure of the VAV box. Such functionality may be user-accessible via the user interface of the HVAC controller, and in some cases, may be used to drive the damper of the VAV box between various damper positions as well as perform other functionality.