Wireless Sensor Network for Personalized HVAC Microclimate Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional HVAC systems lack the ability to accurately map temperatures across an enclosed space, leading to hot and cool spots due to reliance on single temperature readings, which results in inefficient airflow decisions and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A network of wireless remote climate sensors that collect temperature and humidity data across the space, creating a heat map to inform airflow adjustments through variable dampers, and optionally detect human presence for personalized microclimate creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single temperature sensor at the thermostat is used to control airflow, then the system is simple to operate, but temperature imbalances and hot/cool spots develop throughout the enclosed space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the enclosed space into multiple zones, each equipped with its own temperature sensor and damper. This segmentation allows independent temperature control in different areas, eliminating hot and cold spots while maintaining overall system simplicity through automated zone-based management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where temperature sensors in multiple zones continuously monitor local conditions and communicate with the thermostat. The thermostat adjusts damper positions based on this feedback from various zones, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains temperature uniformity throughout the space.
2Measurement precision
If automated dampers with temperature sensors are installed in each room, then local temperature monitoring improves, but the system still provides only a vague picture of the temperature map and cannot accurately detect ambient temperatures felt by occupants
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions temperature sensors in multiple locations throughout the enclosed space, including near occupants and in representative zones. Each sensor provides localized temperature data, and the system integrates these measurements to create an accurate comprehensive temperature map that reflects actual ambient conditions experienced by occupants.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-point temperature measurement at the thermostat to multi-dimensional temperature mapping by distributing sensors throughout the three-dimensional space. This spatial distribution of sensors captures temperature variations across different locations, heights, and zones, creating a comprehensive temperature map that accurately represents the thermal environment.
3Productivity
If airflow is increased or decreased throughout the system based on a single temperature reading, then the thermostat can respond to temperature changes, but hot or cool spots develop in other areas of the enclosed space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the HVAC system into multiple independently controllable zones, each with its own damper and temperature sensor. This allows the thermostat to adjust airflow to specific zones based on their individual temperature needs, maintaining local temperature balance while preserving overall system productivity and responsiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality control by adjusting airflow to specific zones based on their unique temperature conditions rather than applying uniform airflow changes throughout the entire system. This targeted approach maintains temperature balance in each zone while preserving overall system efficiency.
4Temperature
If manual dampers are installed in each room to restrict airflow, then local airflow control improves, but users must manually adjust dampers in each room increasing operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by equipping each damper with an automated actuator that responds to temperature sensor data. The system automatically adjusts damper positions to maintain optimal airflow and temperature balance in each zone, eliminating the need for manual intervention while preserving local airflow control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The automated damper system uses feedback from temperature sensors to automatically adjust airflow in each zone. The sensors continuously monitor local conditions and communicate with the damper actuators, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains temperature balance without requiring manual operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A network of wireless remote climate sensors in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system permits the creation of personalized microclimates within an enclosed space. In addition to collecting temperature and humidity data, the wireless remote climate sensors can detect whether the enclosed space is occupied by a human. Human detection is made possible by optional cameras, microphones, and gas sensors on the wireless remote climate sensors. As the human moves throughout the enclosed space, the HVAC system is able to track the human's movement using the wireless remote climate sensors. The HVAC system may adjust airflow to different portions of the enclosed space based on the human's location. The result is an efficient use of system resources to keep users at their ideal temperature.