Vehicle HVAC Control Panel Seamless Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air conditioning systems for vehicles face issues with smooth transitions when switching between synchronous and separate control modes, leading to sudden changes in air conditioning settings that can cause discomfort and noise, especially when incompetent passengers inadvertently adjust settings.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a control panel with a device switch that allows seamless transitions between air conditioning units by maintaining existing parameter values during mode changes and using a common control unit to control both air conditioners, eliminating the need for separate operating parts and ensuring that only intentional changes affect the air conditioning settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a synchronous mode is implemented where one control panel controls both air conditioning units, then the number of operating parts is reduced and system complexity is lowered, but sudden parameter jumps occur when switching back to separate mode causing noise and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit compares the currently set parameter values of the first air conditioning device with the last stored parameter values of the second air conditioning device before switching from synchronous to separate mode. This preliminary comparison action prevents sudden parameter jumps by ensuring smooth transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
A control unit acts as an intermediary between the control panel and the two air conditioning devices. It manages the parameter transmission and switching logic, storing parameter values and controlling the transition between synchronous and separate modes to prevent harmful parameter jumps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate control panels are provided for each air conditioning unit, then each zone can be independently controlled, but the system complexity and cost increase due to multiple operating parts
Solution Approach 1:
A single control panel is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control both the first and second air conditioning devices independently in separate mode, or control both simultaneously in synchronous mode. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control panels while maintaining independent zone control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between synchronous mode and separate mode based on user needs. The control unit manages this dynamic transition, allowing the same control panel to adapt its control function between controlling one or two air conditioning devices.
3Speed
If parameter values are immediately assigned when switching between modes, then the system responds quickly to user input, but incompetent passengers can inadvertently cause significant parameter changes and noise
Solution Approach 1:
Before assigning parameter values when switching from synchronous to separate mode, the control unit performs a preliminary comparison between current and stored parameter values. This preliminary check prevents inadvertent parameter changes caused by incompetent passengers playing with control elements during synchronous mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit stores the last parameter values of the second air conditioning device and uses this feedback information when switching modes. By comparing current values with stored values, the system provides feedback control that prevents harmful parameter jumps while maintaining quick response to intentional user input.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The method involves selectively assigning the control to an operating unit (18) in a separate mode by a primary air conditioning unit (12) and a secondary air conditioning unit (14). The appliance parameter values of the air conditioning unit controlled before the control change remain unchanged during the change of the control. The appliance parameter value controlled after the control change is assigned to the current positions of the parameter-adjusting elements and is displayed by the parameter-display elements. An independent claim is included for an air conditioning system for a motor vehicle.