A heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes at least one indoor air quality monitor. The indoor air quality monitor is fomied with an arrangement of chambers¨intake chamber, low-flow chamber, and outlet chamber¨such that a particulate sensor on an interior and another air quality sensor are neither overwhelmed nor underwhelmed by air flow to the sensors. The indoor air quality monitor may be arranged for attaching to a surface in a conditioned space for sampling air therein or may include a bypass chamber that fluidly couples to an HVAC duct. Other systems and methods are presented.
An indoor air quality monitor for an HVAC system includes a monitor body formed with a plurality of chambers defined at least in part by chamber walls. A bypass chamber allows for a majority of airflow entering the monitor to pass through. An intake chamber coupled to the bypass chamber allows for a portion of air to be removed for sampling by a particulate sensor. Air from the particulate sensor is discharged to an outlet chamber that is fluidly coupled to a downstream portion of the bypass chamber. The fluid requirements of the particulate sensor are maintained without overwhelming or underwhelming the particulate sensor. Other systems and monitors are presented; some include separate TVOC sensors.
A method of monitoring a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to detect installation location of at least one indoor air quality (IAQ) monitor. The method includes monitoring, by a controller, operation of the HVAC system, detennining, by the controller, whether power exists at a duct terminal of the at least one IAQ monitor and responsive to a detennination that the power exists at the duct tenninal of the at least one IAQ monitor, configuring, the at least one IAQ monitor as being installed within a ductwork.
An HVAC system includes one or more air quality sensors, each configured to measure an air quality and a thermostat communicatively coupled to the one or more air quality sensors. The thermostat receives indoor air quality measurements from the one or more air quality sensors. An indoor air quality score is determined based at least in part on the received indoor air quality measurements. The thermostat determines, based at least in part on the indoor air quality score, a mitigation action, wherein the mitigation action comprises one or more actions selected from the group of: (i) a filtering action comprising filtering air provided to the space using an air purification subsystem, and (ii) a ventilation action comprising ventilating the space using a ventilation subsystem. The mitigation action is executed, or implemented, by adjusting one or more components of the HVAC system.
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
F24F 11/70 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
F24F 7/003 - Ventilation in combination with air cleaning
F24F 8/10 - Treatment, e.g. purification, of air supplied to human living or working spaces otherwise than by heating, cooling, humidifying or drying by separation, e.g. by filtering
5.
MEASURING INDOOR AIR QUALITY FOR A HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
An air quality measuring device that includes a first chamber, a second chamber, a third chamber, and a fourth chamber. The first chamber includes a first inlet configured to receive a first airflow, a first outlet configured to receive a first portion of the first airflow, and a second outlet configured to receive a second portion of the first airflow. The second chamber includes a second inlet configured to receive the first portion of the first airflow and a first sensor disposed within the second chamber. The third chamber includes a third inlet configured to receive the second portion of the first airflow and a second sensor disposed within the third chamber. The fourth chamber includes a fourth inlet configured to receive the second portion of the first airflow and a third sensor disposed within the fourth chamber.
An HVAC system includes a variable speed compressor. A controller determines that the HVAC system is requested to operate according to a demand response during a demand response time. A curtailment compressor speed is determined that achieves the reduced power consumption requested by the demand response. At a start of the demand response time, the controller begins operating the variable speed compressor at the curtailment speed. During the demand response time, the controller adjusts the speed of the variable speed compressor using dynamic control logic with an offset setpoint temperature used as the control setpoint value when an indoor air temperature of the space is less than the offset setpoint temperature and greater than the baseline setpoint temperature.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
7.
HVAC SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED OPERATION OF A SINGLE-STAGE COMPRESSOR DURING A PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE
An HVAC system is configured to regulate a temperature of a space. The HVAC system includes a single-stage compressor configured to compress a refrigerant used to cool air provided to the space and a controller communicatively coupled to the single-stage compressor. The controller determines that a demand response time period is starting at a start time. After determining that the demand response time period is starting at the start time, an operation schedule is determined indicating alternating portions of the demand response period during which the single- stage compressor is to be turned off and turned on. At or after the start time of the demand response time period, the controller begins operating the single-stage compressor according to the determined operation schedule.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
8.
DYNAMIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to receive a temperature value and determine a load demand value based on the temperature value. The device is further configured to determine the load demand value is greater than the load capacity value for the HVAC system and, in response, identify a first setting from among a first plurality of settings for the HVAC system. By default, access to the first plurality of setting for the HVAC system is restricted for a user. The device is further configured to receive a response approving permission to operate the HVAC system using the first setting to the user and send a trigger signal to an HVAC controller to operate the one or more components of the HVAC system using the first setting.
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F24D 19/10 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
9.
AUTOMATIC STAGING OF MULTIPLE HVAC SYSTEMS DURING A PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE
A system includes multiple HVAC systems. After receiving a demand request, a multiple-system controller a first anticipated power consumption associated with operating a first HVAC system at a first temperature setpoint during a future period of time of the demand response request and a second anticipated power consumption associated with operating a second HVAC system at a second temperature setpoint during the future period of time. Based at least in part on the first and the second anticipated power consumptions, a staging schedule is determined that indicates when to operate the first and second HVAC systems.
A blower of an HVAC system includes an air inlet, an air outlet, a blower wheel with blades, a motor operable to cause the blower wheel to rotate, and a blower housing within which the blower wheel is positioned. The blower housing includes a top panel, a bottom panel, and a connecting panel. The top panel and the bottom panel are connected to the connecting panel. The top panel includes a curved edge extending from a bottom edge of the connecting panel to a top edge of the connecting panel. An expansion angle of the curved edge of the top panel changes as a function of position along the curved edge of the top panel. The bottom panel may have a shape corresponding to a mirror image to that of the top panel.
F24F 1/0284 - Self-contained room units for air-conditioning, i.e. with all apparatus for treatment installed in a common casing characterised by air supply means, e.g. fan casings, internal dampers or ducts with horizontally arranged fan axis
F04D 1/00 - Radial-flow pumps, e.g. centrifugal pumps; Helico-centrifugal pumps
F04D 17/16 - Centrifugal pumps for displacing without appreciable compression
11.
PROPER DEICING END DETECTION AND DEFROST CYCLE OPTIMIZATION
A method of defrost operation optimization in a heat pump includes launching a heating mode after completion of a performed defrost operation, measuring, after launching the heating mode, a heat transfer capability, determining if the measured heat transfer capability is less than or equal to a predetermined heat transfer capability limit for a non-iced condition, and reinforcing a next defrost operation if the measured heat transfer capability is greater than the predetermined gap limit.
In one instance, a heat sink for thermal management of an electronic component includes a top plate and a base plate that is displaced from the top plate when in an assembled position. The base plate has a first side and a second side, and the second side is for thermally coupling to the electronic component. The heat sink also includes a plurality of fins each including a flat member formed with a plurality of pin apertures and a plurality of fastener apertures. A plurality of pins is disposed through the plurality of pin apertures. The members of the plurality of fins are spaced from one another. The top plate is coupled to a first end of the plurality of pins, and the base plate is coupled to a second end of the plurality of pins to form a secure structure. Other heat sinks are presented.
B23P 15/26 - Making specific metal objects by operations not covered by a single other subclass or a group in this subclass heat exchangers
F28D 21/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups
F28F 1/32 - Tubular elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element and extending transversely the means having portions engaging further tubular elements
An HVAC system includes a high-pressure subsystem and a low-pressure subsystem. After determining that refrigerant leak diagnostics should be performed, a controllable valve is closed between a condenser and compressor of the HVAC system. The compressor then operates until a predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached. After the predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached, operation of the compressor is stopped. After stopping operation of the compressor and waiting at least a predetermined wait time, the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem of the HVAC system is monitored. A rate of change of the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem is determined. If the rate of change is negative and a magnitude of the rate of change is greater than a threshold value, a leak location is determined to be in the low- pressure subsystem.
A HVAC system having an indoor heat exchanger having a first refrigerant passage extending in a first direction and a second refrigerant extending in a second direction opposite from the first direction, a first refrigerant circuit comprising a first compressor, a first expansion valve, a first outdoor heat exchanger, the first refrigerant passage, and a first reversing valve operable to control a direction of first refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit, and a second refrigerant circuit comprising a second compressor, a second expansion valve, a second outdoor heat exchanger, the second refrigerant passage, and a second reversing valve operable to control a direction of second refrigerant in the second refrigerant circuit.
F24F 1/0003 - Room units for air-conditioning, e.g. separate or self-contained units or units receiving primary air from a central station characterised by a split arrangement, wherein parts of the air-conditioning system, e.g. evaporator and condenser, are in separately located units
F25B 5/02 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with several evaporator circuits, e.g. for varying refrigerating capacity arranged in parallel
F25B 29/00 - Combined heating and refrigeration systems, e.g. operating alternately or simultaneously
15.
SOUND-BASED DIAGNOSTICS FOR A COMBUSTION AIR INDUCER
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the speed of a combustion air inducer exceeds a speed threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system and to determine an audio signature for the combustion air inducer is not present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine whether an audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F23N 5/16 - Systems for controlling combustion using noise-sensitive detectors
F24D 19/10 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to ignite a burner in a burner assembly has exceeded a time threshold value and that a flame was not detected by a flame sensor. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the flame, and to determine whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the first audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to close a pressure switch exceeds a time threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the combustion air inducer, and to determine the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination that the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the speed of a combustion air inducer has exceeded a speed threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the combustion air inducer from an audio signature library, and to determine the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination that the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.
A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to close a pressure switch exceeds a time threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system and to determine that an audio signature for a combustion air inducer is not present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine whether an audio signature for an integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.
A heat exchanger includes a shell, a coiled tube, and a swirler. The shell has an inlet and an outlet and forms a cavity. A first of a liquid refrigerant and a vapor refrigerant enters the inlet of the shell. The coiled tube is positioned within the cavity and is connected to an inlet tube from outside the shell and an outlet tube to outside the shell. A second of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant enters the inlet tube of the coiled tube. The swirler is arranged adjacent the inlet of the shell and is dimensioned to distribute the first of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant across the coiled tube.
F28F 9/24 - Arrangements for promoting turbulent flow of heat-exchange media, e.g. by plates
F28F 13/12 - Arrangements for modifying heat transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media by creating turbulence, e.g. by stirring, by increasing the force of circulation
An HVAC system includes a suction-side sensor, a liquid-side sensor, an outdoor temperature sensor, and a controller. The controller determines that initial criteria are satisfied for initiating validation of the suction-side sensor and the liquid- side sensor. After determining that the initial criteria are satisfied, a suction-side property value, liquid-side property value, and outdoor temperature value are received. The controller determines whether a first validation criteria and a second validation criteria are satisfied. a second validation criteria is satisfied. If both the first validation criteria and the second validation criteria are satisfied, the suction-side sensor, the liquid-side sensor, and the outdoor temperature sensor are determined to be functioning properly. Otherwise, the controller determines which one or more of the sensors are malfunctioning.
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
22.
HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOUSINGS FOR BACKWARD-CURVED BLOWERS
In an embodiment, a blower for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system includes a blower wheel and a housing. The blower wheel includes backward- curved blades configured to rotate in a rotational plane. The housing forms an at least hexagonal cross- section around at least a portion of the rotational plane, where the blower wheel is positioned within the housing such that there exists a first distance and a second distance. The first distance is measured radially outward from a center of the blower wheel to a first side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance is measured radially outward from the center of the blower wheel to a second side of the at least hexagonal cross- section. The second distance forms a an acute angle with the first distance. The first distance and the second distance are unequal and less than a diameter of the blower wheel.
In an embodiment, a tensioning apparatus includes a housing and a fastener extending at least partially through the housing. The apparatus also includes a trolley adjustably positioned within the housing about the fastener. The apparatus also includes a pulley disposed outside the housing and coupled to the trolley, where the pulley moves in unison with the trolley along an opening in the housing.
An HVAC system includes a blower, a variable-speed compressor, an indoor air temperature sensor that measures an indoor air temperature (IAT) of an enclosed space, a discharge air temperature sensor that measures a discharge air temperature (DAT) of the flow of air from an evaporator, and a controller. The controller stores an indoor temperature setpoint and a default discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller receives the IAT and the DAT. The controller determines that the IAT is not within a threshold range of the indoor temperature setpoint. The controller then determines an adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller determines a compressor speed at which to operate the variable-speed compressor based on the adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller causes the variable-speed compressor to operate at the determined compressor speed.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
A clamshell heat exchanger for use in a combustion furnace of an HVAC system is presented that includes in one instance two passageways coupled by a turnaround passageway. The first passageway that receives the combustion products diverges. A cross section of the first passageway resembles a tear drop or air foil with the widest portion closest to the second passageway. The second passageway also diverges from the turnaround portion towards the outlet. The second passageway may include a baffle that forms two flow streams. Other embodiments are presented.
F28D 1/03 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or mo with the heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with plate-like or laminated conduits
26.
SOUND-BASED HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS
A device configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system and to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating HVAC system. The device is further configured to generate a representation of the audio signal, to compare one or more audio signatures to the representation of the audio signal, and to determine that an audio signature from among the one or more audio signatures is not present within the representation of the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type that is associated with the audio signature that is not present within the representation of the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output the component identifier.
In an embodiment, a method of preventing evaporator coil freeze in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes determining a reference saturated suction temperate (SST) via a sensor disposed in relation to an evaporator coil in the HVAC system, where the HVAC system is operating in reheat dehumidification mode. The method also includes determining whether the reference SST is below a minimum SST threshold. The method also includes, responsive to a determination that the reference SST is below the minimum SST threshold, determining a decreased compressor speed. The method also includes modulating a variable-speed compressor in the HVAC system in correspondence to the decreased compressor speed.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
28.
THERMODYNAMIC HEAT RECOVERY WITHOUT AN ADDITIONAL THERMODYNAMIC CIRCUIT
A refrigerant circuit includes a compressor operable to compress a refrigerant, an expansion valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger in a fresh air inlet to a conditioned space, a recovery heat exchanger in an extracted air outlet from the conditioned space, and a reversing valve operable to direct a direction of refrigerant flow between a cooling mode and a heating mode.
An adaptive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to identify timestamps over a time period when a space is unoccupied, to identify a set point temperature for each timestamp, and to train a machine learning model using the timestamps and corresponding set point temperatures. The device is further configured to determine a timestamp that corresponds with the current day, to input the timestamp into the machine learning model, and to obtain HVAC control settings from the machine learning model in response to inputting the timestamp into the machine learning model. The HVAC control settings include a return time and a set point temperature. The device is further configured to operate the HVAC system at the set point temperature until the return time.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
An occupancy tracking device configured to identify devices connected to an access point over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to populate entries in a device log for the identified devices. The device is further configured to determine a presence value for each device that indicates an amount of time that a device was present during the predetermined time period. The device is further configured to identify entries that are associated with a presence value that is less than a presence threshold value and to associate the entries with a user device classification. The device is further configured to identify clusters for the entries that are associated with a user device classification, to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified, and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.
An occupancy tracking device configured to establish a network connection with an access point and to capture wireless signal distortion information for the network connection. The device is further configured to generate statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information. The device is further configured to input the wireless signal distortion information and the statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information into a machine learning model. The machine learning model is configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the wireless signal distortion information and the statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information. The predicted occupancy level indicates a number of people that are present within with the space. The device is further configured to obtain the predicted occupancy level from the machine learning model and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
G01S 3/802 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
32.
OCCUPANCY TRACKING USING ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
An occupancy tracking device configured to receive sound samples, to identify voices within the sound samples, and to determine a first occupancy level based on the identified voices. The device is further configured to identify user devices connected to an access point and to determine a second occupancy level based on the user devices that are connected to the access point. The device is further configured to measure a signal strength of a network connection with the access point and to determine a third occupancy level based on the signal strength of the network connection with the access point. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the first occupancy level, the second occupancy level, and the third occupancy level and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
An occupancy tracking device configured to receive a plurality of sound samples over a predetermine time period. The device is further configured to compute an audio signature for each sound sample. The audio signature includes a numerical value that uniquely identifies characteristics of an audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a direction of arrival for each sound sample. The device is further configured to populate entries in the voice data log for the sound samples, to identify one or more clusters based on an audio signature that is associated with the populated entries, and to determine a number of clusters that are identified. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
34.
A METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR PREVENTING A FREEZE EVENT USING REFRIGERANT TEMPERATURE
A method of mitigating a freeze event in an HVAC system includes measuring a saturated suction temperature, receiving actual temperature value reflective of the measured saturated suction temperature, determining whether the actual temperature value is less than a first pre-determined minimum threshold temperature value, and responsive to a determination that the actual temperature value is less than the first pre-determined minimum threshold temperature value, initiating a timer to operate for a pre-determined time interval. Determining whether the actual temperature value is less than a second pre-determined minimum threshold temperature value. Responsive to a determination that the actual temperature value is less the second pre-determined minimum threshold temperature value, initiating the timer to operate for a modified time interval, determining whether the timer operating for the modified time interval has expired, and responsive to a determination that the timer has expired, modifying operation of a compressor.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 47/00 - Arrangements for preventing or removing deposits or corrosion, not provided for in another subclass
35.
CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING EVAPORATOR COIL FREEZE
In an embodiment, a method of preventing evaporator coil freeze in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is performed by a controller in the HVAC system. The method includes determining a reference saturated suction temperate (SST) via a sensor disposed in relation to an evaporator coil in the HVAC system. The method also includes determining whether the reference SST is below a minimum SST threshold. The method also includes, responsive to a determination that the reference SST is below the minimum SST threshold, increasing a discharge air temperature (DAT) setpoint.
A method of mitigating liquid-refrigerant migration includes comparing a requested compressor speed of a variable-speed compressor to a pre-defined threshold and, responsive to a determination that the requested compressor speed is greater than the pre-defined threshold, operating the variable-speed compressor at a first compressor speed that is less than the requested compressor speed.
A motor driving system includes motor driving circuitry configured to operate an electric motor. The system further includes a controller that is configured to send a signal to energize the electric motor and to measure a back electromotive force voltage of the electric motor. The controller is further configured to determine a temperature value based on the measured back electromotive force voltage using a back electromotive force voltage mapping that maps back electromotive force voltages to temperature values. The controller is further configured to determine an expected winding resistance value based on the determined temperature value using a resistance mapping that maps winding resistance values to temperature values. The controller is further configured to measure a winding resistance of the electric motor, to compare the measured winding resistance of the electric motor to the expected winding resistance value, and to output a match result indication based on the comparison.
A system that includes a plurality of controllers that are each controller is configured to operate at least a portion of a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The system further includes a network provisioning device that is configured to establish a peer-to-peer connection with a controller. The controller is not associated with any wireless networks. The device is further configured to send a request to the controller to identify a wireless network that is associated with the local area network and is in range of the controller. The device is further configured to obtain network credentials for the identified wireless network and to send the network credentials to the controller to join the provisioned mesh network. The controller is configured to use the network credentials to join a provisioned mesh network.
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
A system that includes a plurality of controllers that are each controller is configured to operate at least a portion of a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The plurality of controllers are members of an unprovisioned mesh network. The system further includes a network provisioning device that is configured to establish a peer-to-peer connection with the controller. The device is further configured send a request to the controller to identify a wireless network that is in range of one or more controllers that are members of the unprovisioned mesh network and to obtain network credentials for the identified wireless network. The network device is further configured to send the network credentials to the controller to join a provisioned mesh network. The controller is configured to propagate the network credentials to other controllers within the unprovisioned mesh network.
ABSTRACT A system that includes a plurality of controllers that are each controller is configured to operate at least a portion of includes a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The system further includes a gateway controller that is configured to determine a mesh network size for a local mesh network, to broadcast the mesh network size to other gateway controllers within a local area network, and to receive mesh network size information from the other gateway controllers. The gateway controller is further configured to compute an average mesh network size for the local area network and to compare the mesh network size for the local mesh network to the average mesh network size. The gateway controller is further configured to modify the number of controllers within the local mesh network based on the comparison. Date Recue/Date Received 2021-08-27
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
H04W 4/33 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for indoor environments, e.g. buildings
An HVAC system includes a heating element, a discharge air temperature sensor, and a return air temperature sensor. A controller of the HVAC system determines that the HVAC system has been operating in the heating mode for at least a predefined amount of time. The controller receives measurements of the discharge air temperature and the return air temperature. A temperature rise value is determined using the discharge air temperature and return air temperature. If the temperature rise value is less than a predefined minimum threshold value, the controller determines that a first fault of the HVAC system is detected and provides a corresponding alert. If the temperature rise value is greater than a predefined maximum threshold value, the controller determines that a second fault of the HVAC system is detected and provides a corresponding alert.
A method of calibrating a motor assembly includes selecting an electric motor and a motor controller for the motor assembly, obtaining at least one electric motor parameter of the electric motor, calculating a correction factor for the electric motor based upon the at least one electric motor parameter, and programming the motor controller with the correction factor.
H02P 31/00 - Arrangements for regulating or controlling electric motors not provided for in groups , or
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
43.
METHOD OF CALIBRATING A VARIABLE-SPEED BLOWER MOTOR
A method of calibrating a motor assembly includes selecting an electric motor and a motor controller for the motor assembly, obtaining at least one electric motor parameter of the electric motor, determining a correction factor for the electric motor based upon the at least one electric motor parameter, and programming the motor controller with the correction factor.
H02P 31/00 - Arrangements for regulating or controlling electric motors not provided for in groups , or
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
44.
DETERMINATION OF PULLEY RATIO OF A BELT-DRIVE BLOWER
An HVAC system includes a blower. The blower includes a driven pulley and a motor with a driver pulley. A motor drive supplies electrical power to the motor. A controller receives a benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower and a corresponding benchmark output current of the motor drive associated with operation of the blower at a test condition. A benchmark input power corresponding to the benchmark output current is determined based on a predetermined relationship between input power and output current for the motor drive. A ratio of the benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower to the benchmark input power is determined. The controller determines a pulley ratio for the blower based on this ratio. The pulley ratio corresponds to the ratio of a diameter of the driven pulley to a diameter of the driver pulley of the blower.
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
An HVAC system includes a blower, a motor drive, and a controller. A benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower and a corresponding benchmark power output of the motor drive associated with operation of the blower at a test condition are received. The controller determines a first motor drive frequency at which the motor drive is operating. Based on the benchmark rate and a comparison of the first motor drive frequency to the predefined motor drive frequency, a first rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined. At a later time, a current power output of the motor drive is determined during operation of the blower at the test condition. Based on a comparison of the current benchmark power output to the benchmark power output, an updated benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined.
In an embodiment, a method includes receiving a user instruction to initiate meshnet provisioning. The method also includes provisioning a first device to a meshnet, where the provisioning the first device yields first provisioning data that includes one or more keys. The method also includes provisioning a second device to the meshnet, where the provisioning the second device yields second provisioning data that includes include one or more keys. The method also includes transferring provisioning data that includes the first provisioning data and the second provisioning data to storage on the first device. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the method.
In an embodiment, a multiple-antenna heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a first antenna disposed along a return airflow path from an enclosed space to the multiple-antenna HVAC system, where the multiple-antenna HVAC system supplies conditioned air to the enclosed space. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a second antenna disposed outside the return airflow path. The multiple- antenna HVAC system also includes a controller in communication with the first antenna and the second antenna, where the controller wirelessly communicates via the first antenna and the second antenna.
H04W 40/22 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing using selective relaying for reaching a BTS [Base Transceiver Station] or an access point
An HVAC system includes a blower configured to provide a flow of air into a conditioned space. A temperature sensor measures a discharge air temperature of the flow of air provided to the conditioned space. A controller of the HVAC system determines that heating or cooling mode operation is not requested. Following this determination, the blower provides the flow of air at a predefined flow rate. The controller determines that the measured discharge air temperature satisfies predefined stability criteria associated with a change in the discharge air temperature during the first period of time being less than a threshold value. If the stability criteria are satisfied, a temperature offset is determined between the discharge air temperature and an indoor temperature. The temperature offset is stored in a lookup table such that the temperature offset is associated with the flow rate of air provided by the blower and the outdoor temperature.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
An HVAC system includes a controller configured to receive weather forecast information including anticipated future outdoor temperatures. Based at least in part on the weather forecast information, the controller determines that test- initiation criteria are satisfied for testing operation of the HVAC system in a test mode. In response to determining that the test-initiation criteria are satisfied, the controller determines that current weather conditions are suitable for operating the HVAC system in the test mode for a test time period. The HVAC system is operated in the test mode for the test time period. Following operation of the HVAC system in the test mode for the test time period, the controller determines whether a predefined change in an indoor air temperature is achieved. If the predefined change in the indoor air temperature is achieved, the test is passed. Otherwise, the test is failed.
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
An HVAC system includes a reversing valve configured to receive refrigerant and direct the received refrigerant based on an operating mode of the HVAC system. The HVAC system includes first and second sensors. A sensor measures a heat- exchanger temperature associated with the outdoor heat exchanger. A controller monitors an outdoor temperature and the heat-exchanger temperature and compares these temperatures. The controller determines whether the HVAC system is intended to operate in a cooling or heating mode. If the heat-exchanger temperature is less than the outdoor temperature and the HVAC system is intended to operate in the cooling mode, the controller determines that a first reversing-valve fault is detected. The first reversing-valve fault is associated with the reversing valve being in the heating configuration when the HVAC system is intended to operate in the cooling mode.
An HVAC system includes a reversing valve configured to receive compressed refrigerant and direct the refrigerant based on an operating mode of the HVAC system. One or more suction-side sensors measure suction-side properties associated with refrigerant provided to an inlet of the compressor. The suction-side properties comprise a suction-side temperature. One or more liquid-side sensors measure liquid-side properties associated with the refrigerant provided from an outlet of the compressor. A controller monitors the suction-side property and liquid- side property. The controller determines whether the suction-side property is greater than the liquid-side property. If the suction-side temperature is greater than the liquid-side temperature, the reversing valve is determined to be in an equalizing configuration. The equalizing configuration corresponds to a configuration in which the refrigerant provided from the outlet of the compressor is directed to the inlet of the compressor without first being directed to other components of the HVAC system.
A controller of an HVAC system is communicatively coupled to a suction-side sensor and a shutoff switch. The controller stores measurements of the suction- side property over an initial period of time. The controller detects that the shutoff switch is tripped at a first time stamp corresponding to an end of the initial period of time. The controller accesses the measurements of the suction-side property. The controller determines, based on the measurements of the suction-side property, whether the suction-side property has an increasing or decreasing trend. In response to determining that the suction-side property has the increasing trend, the controller determines that a malfunction of a fan caused the shutoff switch to trip. In response to determining that the suction-side property has the decreasing trend, the controller determines that a blockage of the refrigerant conduit subsystem caused the shutoff switch to trip.
A controller of an HVAC system is communicatively coupled to a liquid-side sensor and a shutoff switch. The controller stores measurements of a liquid- side property over an initial period of time. The controller detects that the shutoff switch is tripped at a first time stamp corresponding to an end of the initial period of time. The controller accesses the measurements of the liquid-side property. The controller determines, based on the measurements of the liquid-side property, whether the liquid-side property has an increasing or a decreasing trend. In response to determining that the liquid-side property has the decreasing trend, a malfunction of a blower of the system is determined to have caused the shutoff switch to trip. In response to determining that the liquid-side property has the increasing trend, a blockage of the refrigerant conduit subsystem is determined to have caused the shutoff switch to trip.
A controller of an HVAC system monitors a suction-side property and a liquid-side property over a period of time. The controller determines whether the suction-side property has an increasing or decreasing trend over the period of time. The controller determines whether the liquid-side property has an increasing or decreasing trend. In response to determining that both the suction-side property and the liquid-side property have an increasing trend over the period of time, a fan fault is detected. In response to determining that the suction-side property has a decreasing trend and the liquid-side property has an increasing trend over the period of time, a blockage of a refrigerant conduit subsystem is detected. In response to determining that both the suction-side property and the liquid-side property have a decreasing trend over the period of time, a blower fault is detected.
An HVAC system includes a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. A sensor measures a value associated with the refrigerant in the condenser or the evaporator, and a controller is communicatively coupled to the compressor and the sensor. The controller determines, based on an operational history the compressor, that pre-requisite criteria are satisfied for entering a sensor validation mode. After determining the pre-requisite criteria are satisfied, an initial sensor measurement value is determined. Following determining the initial sensor measurement value, the compressor is operated according to a sensor-validation mode. Following operating the compressor according to the sensor-validation mode for at least a minimum time, a current sensor measurement value is determined. The controller determines whether validation criteria are satisfied for the current sensor value. In response to determining that the validation criteria are satisfied, the controller determines that the sensor is validated.
ABSTRACT [00036] A tray for an HVAC controller includes a tray base, a first mounting tab secured to the tray base and configured to interlock with a corresponding mount of a cabinet of an indoor unit of an HVAC system, a mounting bracket secured to the tray base and comprising an aperture for receiving a mounting screw therethrough, a drip wall that extends up from the tray base, and a cover extending up from the tray base that includes a wall and a top plate. The cover is positioned to protect a component of the HVAC controller from impact when the HVAC controller is installed in the tray. Date Recue/Date Received 2021-01-12
ABSTRACT A system, includes a device and a payload warehouse. The device receives a user request to initiate a feature of the device. In response to receiving the request, device information is provided to a payload warehouse. The payload warehouse stores an inventory which includes a digital payload. The digital payload includes data, such as a digital certificate, which may be used by the device to implement the user-requested feature. The payload warehouse receives the device information provided by the device and determines an encryption vector based at least in part on the received device information. Using the encryption vector, the digital payload is encrypted. The encrypted digital payload is provided to the device. Date Recue/Date Received 2021-01-08
H04L 9/06 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols the encryption apparatus using shift registers or memories for blockwise coding, e.g. D.E.S. systems
ABSTRACT A system includes a secure payload generator and a payload warehouse. The secure payload generator receives a payload, which includes a private key and a corresponding public key. For example, the private key may include information for decrypting a message encrypted with the public key. An encryption vector is determined based at least in part on the public key. The private key is encrypted using the determined encryption vector. The encrypted private key and the corresponding public key are provided to the payload warehouse. The payload warehouse stores the encrypted private key and the corresponding public key as a secured payload. Date Recue/Date Received 2021-01-08
H04L 9/06 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols the encryption apparatus using shift registers or memories for blockwise coding, e.g. D.E.S. systems
H04L 9/30 - Public key, i.e. encryption algorithm being computationally infeasible to invert and users' encryption keys not requiring secrecy
ABSTRACT A thermostat of an HVAC system receives active event parameters from a utility provider. The active event parameters include a start time, a stop time, and a predefined temperature setpoint for the active event, which is associated with a requirement to decrease energy consumption between the start time and the stop time. Following the start time, the thermostat adjusts a setpoint temperature of the HVAC system to the predefined setpoint temperature. After adjusting the setpoint temperature to the predefined setpoint temperature, a new user setting for operation of the HVAC system is received. The thermostat determines that energy consumed during operation of the HVAC system according to the new user setting is less than or equal to energy consumed during operation of the HVAC system according to the predefined setpoint temperature. Following this determination, the thermostat causes the HVAC system to operate according to the new user settings. Date Recue/Date Received 2021-01-06
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
ABSTRACT A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to collect event data from the one or more devices and to populate time entries in an occupancy history log with the event data. The event data includes a timestamp indicating a time when an event occurred, a set point temperature value for the HVAC system, and an occupancy status indicating whether a space is occupied. The device is further configured to identify blank time entries in the occupancy history log and to populate the blank time entries by forward filling the occupancy history log using event data from another time entry in the occupancy history log. The device is further configured to output the populated occupancy history log. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-12-29
ABSTRACT A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device is configured to record a plurality of actual occupancy statuses, to determine a plurality of corresponding predicted occupancy statuses, and to compare the plurality of predicted occupancy statuses to the plurality of actual occupancy statuses. The device is further configured to identify conflicting occupancy statuses based on the comparison. A conflicting occupancy status indicates a difference between an actual occupancy status and a corresponding predicted occupancy status. The device is further configured to identify timestamps corresponding with the conflicting occupancy statuses, to identify historical occupancy statuses corresponding with the identified timestamps, and to update the conflicting occupancy statuses in the predicted occupancy schedule with the historical occupancy statuses. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-12-29
ABSTRACT A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-12-29
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
ABSTRACT A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to generate the machine learning model using the first set of weights and the second set of weights. The machine learning model is configured to output a probability that a user is present at the space based on an input that identifies a day of the week and a time of a day. The device is further configured to determine a probability that a user is present at the space for a predicted occupancy schedule using the machine learning model, to determine an occupancy status based on a determined probability that a user is present at the space, and to set a predicted occupancy status in the predicted occupancy schedule based on a determined occupancy status for each time entry. The device is further configured to output the predicted occupancy schedule. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-12-29
ABSTRACT A method of monitoring a refrigerant leak. The method includes monitoring, by a first controller, operation of a first HVAC system for conditioning air within a first level of a residence, monitoring, by a second controller, operation of a second HVAC system for conditioning air within a second level of the residence and determining, using a plurality of leak detectors, whether refrigerant within the first HVAC system is leaking. Responsive to a positive determination in the determining step, receiving, by the first controller, a refrigerant leak warning signal, forwarding, by the first controller to the second controller, the refrigerant leak warning signal. Responsive to receiving the refrigerant leak warning signal from the first controller, activating, by the second controller, a variable-speed circulation fan of the second HVAC system. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-12-01
ABSTRACT An HVAC system includes an outdoor heat exchanger. A first indoor heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger and disposed in a first zone. A second indoor heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger and disposed in a second zone. A compressor is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger, the first indoor heat exchanger, and the second indoor heat exchanger. A first circulation fan is positioned to circulate air around the first indoor heat exchanger and a second circulation fan is positioned to circulate air around the second indoor heat exchanger. A first zone controller is electrically coupled to the first indoor heat exchanger. The first zone controller is configured to measure a temperature in the first zone, compare the measured temperature to a setpoint temperature of the first zone, and responsive to a difference between the measured temperature and the setpoint temperature, adjust a speed of the first circulation fan independent of the speed of the second circulation fan. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-11-06
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
ABSTRACT An HVAC system includes a compressor with an inlet port, an outlet port, and a scroll set. The scroll set includes a fixed scroll member and an orbiting scroll member. The fixed scroll member includes a first scroll wrap extending vertically from a base of the fixed scroll wrap. The first scroll wrap has an approximately spiral shape with at least 3.5 rotations from the center to the end of the spiral. The orbiting scroll member includes a second scroll wrap extending vertically from a base of the orbiting scroll wrap. The second scroll wrap has an approximately spiral shape with at least 3.5 rotations from the center to the end of the spiral. The orbiting scroll moves in an elliptical pattern such that fluid entering the inlet port of the compressor is compressed from a first volume to a second volume via movement of the orbiting scroll member. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-11-03
F04C 18/02 - Rotary-piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids of arcuate-engagement type, i.e. with circular translatory movement of co-operating members, each member having the same number of teeth or tooth-equivalents
F24F 1/08 - Compressors specially adapted for separate outdoor units
F25B 1/04 - Compression machines, plants or systems with non-reversible cycle with compressor of rotary type
An HVAC system includes an evaporator, a first sensor coupled to the evaporator at a first position, and a second sensor operably coupled to the evaporator at a second position. The first sensor monitors a first temperature of the refrigerant flowing in the evaporator at the first position, which is adjacent to the evaporator inlet. The second sensor monitors a second temperature of the refrigerant flowing in the evaporator at the second position, which is downstream from the first position. The system includes a controller, which receives a first signal corresponding to the first temperature and a second signal corresponding to the second temperature. The controller determines, based on the received signals, a temperature difference between the second temperature and the first temperature. In response to determining that the temperature difference is greater than a predefined threshold value, the controller determines that a loss of charge has occurred.
An HVAC system includes an evaporator. The evaporator includes a sensor configured to measure a property value (i.e., a saturated suction temperature or a saturated suction pressure) associated with saturated refrigerant flowing through the evaporator. The system includes a variable-speed compressor configured to receive the refrigerant and compress the received refrigerant. The system includes a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the variable-speed compressor. The controller monitors the property value measured by the sensor and detects a system fault, based on the monitored property value. In response to detecting the system fault, the controller operates the compressor in a freeze-prevention mode, which is configured to maintain the property value above a setpoint value by adjusting a speed of the variable-speed compressor. This prevents or delays freezing of the evaporator during operation of the system during the detected system fault.
F24F 11/32 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F24F 13/22 - Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate
F25B 47/00 - Arrangements for preventing or removing deposits or corrosion, not provided for in another subclass
69.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SEALING AND SUPPORTING EXTERNAL PIPE CONNECTIONS IN FLUID LINES AND DIRECTING ESCAPED FLUIDS TO A CABINET IN AN HVAC SYSTEM
A stub pipe housing and a method for installing a stub pipe housing in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ("HVAC") system, the stub pipe housing comprising a first end for sealed contact with an external surface of a cabinet in the HVAC system and a non- permeable material extending to a second end for sealed contact with an external pipe. Sealed contact between the first end and the cabinet, sealed contact between the second end and the external surface, and the non-permeable material ensures any fluid escaping the connection between the stub pipe and the external pipe is directed to the cabinet. The stub pipe housing supports the connection using resilient material, rigid material with compliant seals or some combination. Fluids are directed to flow through the stub pipe opening in the cabinet or directed to flow through other openings.
An HVAC system includes an evaporator coil and a compressor fluidly coupled to the evaporator coil. A condenser coil is fluidly coupled to the compressor. The condenser coil includes at least one condenser circuit fluidly coupled between a discharge line and an exit manifold. A sub-cool circuit is fluidly coupled between the exit manifold and a liquid line. A first temperature sensor is disposed at an entrance to the sub-cool circuit. A second temperature sensor is disposed at an exit to the sub-cool circuit. An HVAC controller is operatively coupled to the first temperature sensor and the second temperature sensor. The HVAC controller is configured to determine a temperature difference across the sub-cool circuit.
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
F25B 45/00 - Arrangements for charging or discharging refrigerant
71.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROTECTING A SINGLE-STAGE FURNACE IN A MULTI-ZONE SYSTEM
A method of protecting a single-stage furnace in a multi-zone system includes monitoring a temperature of each zone of a plurality of zones, determining if the temperature of at least one zone of the plurality of zones is less than a threshold temperature, powering on the HVAC system to satisfy a heating demand of the zone having a temperature less than the threshold temperature, monitoring an outlet temperature of the single-stage furnace, determining if the outlet temperature is greater than an outlet temperature threshold, and responsive to a determination that the outlet temperature is greater than the outlet temperature threshold, modulating a gas valve to reduce a flow of gas to the single-stage furnace.
F24D 19/10 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
F24D 5/02 - Hot-air central heating systems; Exhaust-gas central heating systems operating with discharge of hot air into the space or area to be heated
An apparatus includes a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a reheater, a first valve, a second heat exchanger, and a blower. The compressor compresses a refrigerant. The blower moves air proximate the second heat exchanger to the reheater. During a first mode of operation: the first heat exchanger removes heat from a first portion of the refrigerant from the compressor, the first valve opens such that a second portion of the refrigerant from the compressor flows to the reheater, the second heat exchanger uses the first portion of the refrigerant from the first heat exchanger and the second portion of the refrigerant from the reheater to cool air proximate the second heat exchanger, and the reheater uses the second portion of the refrigerant from the compressor to heat the air moved by the blower.
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
F24F 3/153 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification with subsequent heating, i.e. with the air, given the required humidity in the central station, passing a heating element to achieve the required temperature
F25B 6/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with several condenser circuits
An apparatus includes first and second microchannel heat exchangers and first and second pipes. The first heat exchanger includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first tube, a second tube, a first outlet, and a second outlet. Refrigerant at the first inlet is directed through the first tube to the first outlet and the first pipe. Refrigerant at the second inlet is directed through the second tube to the second outlet and the second pipe. The second heat exchanger includes a third inlet, a fourth inlet, a third tube, a fourth tube, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet. The third inlet directs refrigerant from the first pipe through the third tube towards the third outlet. The fourth inlet directs the refrigerant from the second pipe through the fourth tube towards the fourth outlet. The first pipe overlaps the second pipe between the two heat exchangers.
An HVAC system includes a variable-speed compressor which compresses refrigerant flowing through the HVAC system, a blower which provides a flow of air through the HVAC system at a controllable flow rate, and a controller communicatively coupled to the variable-speed compressor and the blower. The controller receives a demand request, which includes a command to operate the HVAC system at a predefined setpoint temperature. In response to receiving the demand request, a setpoint temperature associated with the HVAC system is adjusted to the predefined setpoint temperature. A speed of the variable-speed compressor is decreased to a low-speed setting. Based on the decreased speed of the variable- speed compressor, an air-flow rate is determined to provide by the blower. The controllable flow rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is adjusted based on the determined air-flow rate.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
75.
PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE OPERATION OF HVAC SYSTEM WITH FACE-SPLIT EVAPORATOR
An HVAC system includes a face-split evaporator. The face-split evaporator includes a top evaporator circuit positioned above a bottom evaporator circuit. The system includes a first compressor associated with the top evaporator circuit, a second compressor associated with the bottom evaporator circuit, and a controller communicatively coupled to the first and second compressors. The controller receives a demand request, which includes a command to reduce power consumption by the HVAC system by a predefined percentage. In response to receiving the demand request, the second compressor is turned off thereby decreasing power consumption by at least the predefined percentage. A portion of a liquid condensate formed on a surface of the top evaporator circuit is allowed to fall on a surface of the bottom evaporator circuit such that a portion of a flow of air passing across the bottom evaporator is evaporatively cooled by the portion of the liquid condensate.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
76.
PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE OPERATION WITH IMPROVED SENSIBLE CAPACITY
An HVAC system includes a variable-speed compressor which compresses refrigerant flowing through the HVAC system, a blower which provides a flow of air through the HVAC system at a controllable flow rate, and a controller communicatively coupled to the variable-speed compressor and the blower. The controller receives a demand request, which includes a command to operate the HVAC system at a predefined setpoint temperature. In response to receiving the demand request, a setpoint temperature associated with the HVAC system is adjusted to the predefined setpoint temperature. The variable-speed compressor is adjusted to a low-speed setting, thereby operating the HVAC system at a first tonnage of cooling. The rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is adjusted to a first flow rate, such that a ratio of the first flow rate to the first tonnage of cooling is increased to a first predefined value.
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
An HVAC system includes a controller communicatively coupled to a subcool sensor, an outdoor temperature sensor, a compressor, and a blower of the HVAC system. For a first period of time, the controller periodically determines subcool values. For each determined subcool value, a corresponding compressor speed, outdoor temperature, and blower speed are determined. A baseline database is generated with baseline values associated with normal operation of the HVAC system. Following the first period of time, subcool values are determined based on the subcool signal. For each subcool value, a corresponding compressor speed, outdoor temperature, and blower speed are determined. The controller determines whether each subcool value satisfies a criteria based on the baseline database. If the criteria are not satisfied for at least a threshold time, the system is determined to be operating under a fault condition, and a corresponding alert is transmitted.
An HVAC system includes an evaporator coil disposed between a return air duct and a supply air duct. The system includes a compressor fluidically connected to the evaporator coil, and a blower for providing a flow of air through the HVAC system. The HVAC system includes a supply air recirculation line with a recirculation damper and an evaporator bypass line with a bypass damper. A controller of the HVAC determines a recirculation portion of a flow of air and causes the recirculation damper to move to divert the recirculation portion to the recirculation line, so the air recirculates through the HVAC system. The controller determines a bypass portion of a flow of air and causes the bypass damper to move to divert the bypass portion to the bypass line, so the bypass portion does not contact the evaporator coil.
F24F 11/70 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
F24F 11/81 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the air supply to heat-exchangers or bypass channels
F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
In a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system using a flammable refrigerant, a concentration sensor is used to check concentrations in the conditioned air or other locations. If concentrations are detected indicative a catastrophic or large leak, a purge valve is activated to immediately purge the refrigerant from the closed- conduit circuit of the system to a safe location. With lesser leaks, the blower may be activated and the leak monitored. Other systems and methods are disclosed.
A method of minimizing components of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system from malfunctioning, the method includes measuring, by an accelerometer associated with at least one component of the HVAC system, vibration of the at least one component and receiving, by a controller, actual vibration data reflective of the measured vibration. The method further includes determining, using the controller, whether the actual vibration data is greater than pre-defined acceptable baseline vibration data by more than a pre-defined acceptable amount and responsive to a positive determination in the determining step, adding, by the controller, as a deadband frequency, an operational frequency of the at least one component corresponding to the actual vibration data.
In one embodiment, an HVAC system includes an indoor unit having a furnace, an outdoor heat pump unit having a compressor and an outdoor coil, a refrigerant line coupled to the indoor unit and the outdoor heat pump unit, and a valve coupled to the refrigerant line. The HVAC system further includes one or more controllers operable to determine that the outdoor heat pump unit is in operation during an air conditioning cycle. The controllers are further operable to determine an outdoor temperature and compare the outdoor temperature to a predetermined temperature. The controllers are further operable to initiate a closure of the valve coupled to the refrigerant line and initiate operation of the compressor at an end of the air conditioning cycle to pump down a refrigerant to the outdoor coil in response to comparing the outdoor temperature to the predetermined temperature.
In one embodiment, an HVAC system includes an indoor unit having a furnace, an outdoor heat pump unit having a compressor and an outdoor coil, a refrigerant line coupled to the indoor unit and the outdoor heat pump unit, and an EEV coupled to the refrigerant line. The HVAC system further includes one or more controllers operable to determine an occurrence of a first event, initiate a closure of the EEV, initiate operation of the compressor at a completion of the air conditioning cycle to pump down a refrigerant to the outdoor coil, and cease operation of the compressor when a low-pressure switch is tripped.
An HVAC system includes an evaporator coil disposed between a supply air duct and a return air duct. A re-circulation duct fluidly couples the supply air duct and the return air duct. A damper is disposed in the re-circulation duct and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. A controller is operatively coupled to a variable-speed compressor, a variable-speed circulation fan, and the damper. Responsive to a determination that the variable-speed circulation fan is operating at the minimum speed and the suction pressure is above the predetermined threshold, the controller signals the damper to move to the open position. Responsive to a determination that the variable-speed circulation fan is not operating at the minimum speed or the suction pressure is below the pre-determined threshold, the controller signals the damper to move to the closed position.
F24F 11/70 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
84.
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING A BYPASS HUMIDIFIER FOR DEHUMIDIFICATION DURING COOLING
An HVAC system includes an indoor heat-exchange coil disposed between a supply air duct and a return air duct. A damper is disposed in a re-circulation duct and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. A controller is configured to determine if the HVAC system is operating in a heating mode or an air-conditioning mode. Responsive to a determination that the HVAC system is operating in the air-conditioning mode, the controller is configured to determine if the variable-speed indoor circulation fan is operating at a minimum speed and if the relative humidity measured by the humidity sensor is above a pre-determined threshold. Responsive to a determination that the variable-speed indoor circulation fan is operating at the minimum speed and the relative humidity of the enclosed space is above the pre-determined threshold, the controller signals the damper to move to the open position.
F24F 11/70 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof
F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
A method for operating a heating, ventilation, and air condition ("HVAC") system includes determining a current temperature of the enclosed space and receiving a first comfort temperature. The method further including determining, based on a selection of a time period, a first consumption value indicating a predicted amount of energy required to maintain the first comfort temperature for the time period, wherein the first consumption value is determined based at least on a first predicted value and a second predicted value, the first predicted value being indicative of an amount of energy required to condition the enclosed space to the first comfort temperature from the current temperature and the second predicted value being indicative of an amount of energy required to, upon conditioning the enclosed space to the first comfort temperature, maintain the first comfort temperature for the time period.
F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
In one embodiment, an HVAC system includes an indoor unit having an indoor blower, an outdoor unit having a compressor and a condenser, an isolation valve coupled to the outdoor unit, and a sensor to detect a refrigerant leak. The HVAC system further includes one or more controllers operable to generate an alarm in response to the sensor detecting the refrigerant leak, operate the indoor blower in response to generating the alarm, close the isolation valve in response to generating the alarm, and operate the compressor to pump down the refrigerant to the condenser in response to generating the alarm.
A controller of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, the controller comprising instructions that cause the controller to determine an air flowrate of an air blower of the HVAC system and calculate a threshold value based on a minimum required air flowrate. The controller further comprises instructions that cause the controller to send a notification to an operator of the HVAC system indicating that the air flowrate of the air blower is less than the threshold value in response to determining that the air flowrate of the air blower is less than the threshold value and shut down the HVAC system such that the refrigerant is no longer circulated by the componentry of the HVAC system in response to determining that the air flowrate of the air blower is less than the minimum required air flowrate.
F24F 11/32 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
F24F 11/36 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to leakage of heat-exchange fluid
F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
F24D 19/10 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
F25B 49/00 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
88.
HVAC SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IMPROVING LATENT CAPACITY
A method of operating a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ("HVAC") system, the HVAC system comprising a first portion of evaporator circuits and a second portion of evaporator circuits, the first portion of evaporator circuits being adapted to receive refrigerant from a first refrigerant path and the second portion of evaporator circuits being adapted to receive the refrigerant from a second refrigerant path. The method comprises determining, by a controller of the HVAC system, a first value associated with the HVAC system, wherein: the first value is calculated based on a speed of an air blower of the HVAC system and a total capacity of the HVAC system and the air blower is operable to push a minimum volume of air in to the enclosed space. The method further comprises upon determining that the first value of the HVAC system exceeds a cooling threshold or that the first value of the HVAC system exceeds a dehumidification threshold, instructing, by the controller, a valve of the HVAC system to close such that refrigerant cannot flow to the first portion of evaporator circuits of the HVAC system.
F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
F24F 13/30 - Arrangement or mounting of heat-exchangers
F25B 5/02 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with several evaporator circuits, e.g. for varying refrigerating capacity arranged in parallel
A method of operating an HVAC system using a controller includes predicting a first predicted temperature of an enclosed space during an unoccupied time with the HVAC system off. The controller determines if the first predicted temperature is less than a set-point temperature. Responsive to a determination that the first predicted temperature is less than the set-point temperature, the controller predicts a second predicted temperature of the enclosed space if the HVAC system is operated for a first runtime. The controller determines if the second predicted temperature is less than the set- point temperature and, responsive to a determination that the second predicted temperature is not less than the set-point temperature, the controller operates the HVAC system for the first runtime.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
90.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CHARGE COMPENSATOR REHEAT VALVE
A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ("HVAC") system includes an evaporator coil and a compressor fluidly coupled to the evaporator coil via a suction line. A condenser coil is fluidly coupled to the compressor via a discharge line and fluidly coupled to a metering device via a liquid line. A charge compensator is fluidly coupled to the liquid line via a connection line. A charge compensator re-heat valve is disposed in the connection line.
F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
F24F 13/30 - Arrangement or mounting of heat-exchangers
F25B 29/00 - Combined heating and refrigeration systems, e.g. operating alternately or simultaneously
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
In one instance, an isolator for a heating, ventilating, and cooling (HVAC) system is provided that is a formed plastic member that is disposed between dissimilar metals of the bottom of the condenser and a base pan that supports the condenser or between two dissimilar metals of another HVAC heat exchanger. The isolator separates the two dissimilar metals involved from each of those components and also provides gaps or apertures to drain any water that otherwise might become standing water that potentially causes oxidation or increased oxidation. Other aspects are disclosed.
A method includes initiating, by a controller of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning ("HVAC") system, a filter calibration procedure, curve fitting a first line based on a plurality of static pressure measurements and corresponding flowrates of air, and generating a second line based on the first line. The method further includes determining a first static pressure measurement sensed by at least one sensor in response to determining that a first flowrate of air has been moved by the at least one blower and comparing the first static pressure value to a predicted static pressure value of the second line, the predicted static pressure value corresponding to the first flowrate of air. The method further includes determining that an air filter of the HVAC system has no more usable life in response to determining that the first static pressure value is greater than the predicted static pressure value.
F24F 11/48 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring prior to normal operation, e.g. pre-heating or pre-cooling
93.
OPERATING AN HVAC SYSTEM TO REACH TARGET TEMPERATURE EFFICIENTLY
An HVAC system for a comfort zone includes a compressor, temperature sensor and controller. The controller is configured to receive a starting temperature from the temperature sensor, receive a desired temperature, and receive a desired time for the comfort zone to reach the desired temperature. The controller is further configured to determine a starting time to adjust cooling the comfort zone, the starting time determined based at least on the desired time, the desired temperature, the starting temperature, and a most-energy- efficient operating speed of the compressor. Once the starting time has been reached, the controller is further configured to communicate a command to the HVAC system to operate the compressor at the most-energy-efficient operating speed.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
94.
OPERATING AN HVAC SYSTEM BASED ON PREDICTED INDOOR AIR TEMPERATURE
A method includes receiving a setpoint and a time of interest indicating a time in the future when the setpoint is to be reached and obtaining a first data set comprising a plurality of lag values, the plurality of lag values associated with one or more variables related to the HVAC system. The method further includes selecting a second data set comprising a subset of the lag values from the first data set and determining a predicted condition at the time of interest based at least in part on the lag values in the second data set. The method further includes determining a schedule for operating heating or cooling components of the HVAC system such that the setpoint is reached by the time of interest and communicating one or more signals instructing the HVAC system to operate according to the schedule.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
95.
DEHUMIDIFICATION TECHNIQUE FOR HEATING VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
According to certain embodiments, operating an HVAC system comprises receiving zone temperature data from a temperature sensor, zone humidity-ratio data from a humidity sensor, a temperature set point from a user, and a relative- humidity set point from a user. A humidity-ratio set point is determined based on the temperature and relative-humidity set points. A first command to the HVAC system to perform a cooling operation is communicated upon determining that the temperature data exceeds a temperature threshold based on the temperature set point. Determining if the humidity data has reached a humidity-ratio threshold based on the humidity-ratio set point after determining that the temperature data has reached the temperature threshold. Operating the HVAC system according to a dehumidification-based cooling procedure upon determining that the humidity data has not reached the humidity-ratio threshold.
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
According to certain embodiments, a system comprises a primary unit and a plurality of secondary units each having a unique unit number. The primary unit is configured to communicate a command to each secondary unit with instructions to reply during a time window. The primary unit is also configured to receive a reply communication indicating the secondary unit's unique unit number from at least one of the secondary units, and determine an address to assign to the replying secondary unit based at least in part on the received unique unit number.
H04L 61/5038 - Address allocation for local use, e.g. in LAN or USB networks, or in a controller area network [CAN]
F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
H04L 1/22 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received using redundant apparatus to increase reliability
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is configured to receive a signal from a thermostat. The signal instructs the HVAC system to operate a component ' in a partial load mode. The HVAC system is further configured to determine that the component has exceeded its operating envelope. In response to determining that the component has exceeded its operating envelope, the HVAC system is configured to operate the component according to an override configuration. The override configuration overrides the signal to operate the component in the partial load mode.
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
According to certain embodiments, a system comprises a controller and an HVAC system with components comprising an evaporator unit comprising an evaporator coil, an indoor fan, and a discharge air duct and a condenser unit comprising a compressor, a condenser coil, and an outdoor fan. The system is configured to determine that a first or a second level of evaporator coil freeze risk is present and to communicate an instruction to the HVAC system with a first or a second action to counteract the freeze risk. For example, in certain embodirnents, the actions comprise changing the indoor fan speed, changing the compressor speed, and changing the outdoor fan speed.
F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
99.
AUTO-ADDRESSING FOR A MULTI-DEVICE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM
According to certain embodiments, a system comprises a master device and a plurality of slave devices. The master device configured to determine that one or more of the slave devices use a default address reserved for unconfigured devices, and to communicate a command to each slave device that is using the default address. The command comprises a list of unused addresses and an instruction to enter a selection round to select one of the addresses from the list.
H04L 61/5046 - Resolving address allocation conflicts; Testing of addresses
F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
In an example a pressure probe includes a tube having an output end, an internal passage, an axial run and pressure orifices axially aligned along a downstream side of the axial run. According to an aspect an upstream side of the axial run opposite from the downstream side of the axial run does not have a pressure orifice.
F24F 13/00 - AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING - Details common to, or for air-conditioning, air-humidification, ventilation or use of air currents for screening
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
G01L 19/00 - MEASURING FORCE, STRESS, TORQUE, WORK, MECHANICAL POWER, MECHANICAL EFFICIENCY, OR FLUID PRESSURE - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus for measuring steady or quasi-steady pressure of a fluent medium insofar as such details or accessories are not special to particular types of pressure gauges