Wireless HVAC Controller With Built-In IR Protocol Database
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building automation systems, particularly mini-split HVAC systems, lack a universal remote control solution that can communicate effectively with various systems without relying on remote services or extensive network access, making it difficult to control temperature and environmental conditions across different HVAC units.
Innovation Solution
A wireless remote control device equipped with a NAND flash memory storing an IR database with lookup tables for multiple HVAC protocols, allowing users to select the correct protocol for their specific HVAC unit, enabling communication and control through IR signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a discrete air conditioner controller receives and stores IR codes from handheld remotes during programming, then the controller can be associated with specific HVAC units, but the system requires access to a central coordinator over a network to retrieve and transmit IR codes, reducing ease of operation and increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless controller is designed with a built-in database storing IR codes for multiple different makes and models of air conditioners, enabling a single controller to universally control various HVAC units without requiring separate programming for each device type
Solution Approach 2:
IR codes for numerous HVAC unit types are pre-loaded into the controller's database during manufacturing, eliminating the need for users to perform time-consuming programming procedures during installation and enabling immediate use
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless controller stores an extensive database of IR protocols for multiple HVAC makes and models, then universality and adaptability improve, but device complexity and memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The IR code database is organized into separate, identifiable sections or tables within the controller's memory, with each section dedicated to specific HVAC makes or models, allowing systematic storage and efficient retrieval without creating a monolithic complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The controller contains copied versions of IR code protocols from various HVAC manufacturers within its own memory, enabling it to replicate the functionality of original remote controls for different brands without requiring physical access to each manufacturer's proprietary codes
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
Enables universal control of various HVAC systems by identifying the correct IR protocol for each unit, allowing users to remotely adjust temperature settings and improve comfort without needing network access, thus enhancing user convenience and system compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
send commands to the HVAC unit using an IR transmitter
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless controller (200) is configured to send commands to a mini-split HVAC unit (100) that thermostatically controls a temperature in a space (50) using the temperature sensed and a programmable set point. The wireless controller (212) may include an infrared (IR) transmitter (208), a temperature sensor (210), a user interface (214), a non-volatile memory (202), and a controller (212). The wireless controller (200) may store an IR database in the non-volatile memory (202) for each of a wide variety of mini-split HVAC unit (100). The wireless controller (200) may then allow a user to select a particular mini-split HVAC unit (100), and from the selection may identify a corresponding IR protocol in the IR database. During subsequent use, the wireless controller (200) may use the corresponding IR protocol during subsequent communication with the mini-split HVAC unit (100).