Multi-zone Vehicle Air Conditioner Sync Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing multi-zone air conditioning systems in vehicles require an additional control button to switch between synchronization and de-synchronization modes, which occupies valuable space and does not provide a seamless user experience.

Innovation Solution

A method that allows switching between synchronization and de-synchronization modes using the second temperature adjuster, eliminating the need for a dedicated 'sync button' by automatically adjusting the temperature settings to enable intuitive operation and conserve space.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a dedicated sync button is provided to switch between synchronization and de-synchronization modes, then the synchronization function can be activated/deactivated, but additional control buttons are required which occupy valuable space and increase device complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization functionVSAvoidcontrol buttons
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The second temperature adjuster is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a temperature control for the second zone and simultaneously serves as the activation/deactivation mechanism for synchronization mode. When the second adjuster is actuated, it triggers mode switching between synchronized and de-synchronized operation, eliminating the need for a dedicated sync button while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a dedicated sync button is provided, then the synchronization mode can be switched, but the user experience is not seamless and requires explicit button pressing

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization mode switchingVSAvoiduser interaction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects when the second temperature adjuster is actuated and autonomously switches between synchronization and de-synchronization modes without requiring the user to press any additional buttons or understand mode switching concepts. The adjuster itself performs the dual function of temperature control and mode selection, making the interaction intuitive and seamless.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3446898B1Method and device for operating a multichannel device, motor vehicle and computer program
Publication Date: 2020.12.09 VOLKSWAGEN AG
  • EP3446898B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3446898B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3446898B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a method and a device for operating a multi-channel device (110). In a synchronization mode, a common control of a setting parameter takes place in the different zones. In another operating mode, the zones are controlled separately according to their individually set setting parameters. For setting the parameters, at least one first (51) and one second parameter adjuster (52) are provided for the at least two zones. The method is characterized in that, in the individual operating mode, when the second parameter adjuster (52) is further actuated such that the selected parameter is brought into conformity with the parameter value selected by the first parameter adjuster (51), the second operating mode is exited and the at least two different zones are again controlled together in the first operating mode (synchronization mode).This eliminates the need for a sync button on the control unit. Specifically, this is a multi-zone air conditioner.