HVAC CONTROLLER USER INTERFACES
Controllers for controlling heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and cooling (HVAC) systems are provided. The controllers include graphical user interfaces for user adjustment of system settings. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include slide bars for adjusting temperature set points. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include selectable calendars for adjusting program schedules for the HVAC systems. In certain embodiments, the graphical user interfaces may include screens for adjusting a nightlight feature of the controller.
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This application claims priority from and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/097,133, entitled “CONTROLLER AND ASSOCIATED USER INTERFACE FOR CLIMATE CONDITIONING SYSTEM”, filed Sep. 15, 2008, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUNDThe invention relates generally to heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, and controllers for configuring these systems.
A wide range of applications exist for heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. For example, residential, light commercial, commercial, and industrial systems are used to control temperatures and air quality in residences and buildings. Such systems often are dedicated to either heating or cooling, although systems are common that perform both of these functions. Very generally, these systems operate by implementing a thermal cycle in which fluids are heated and cooled to provide the desired temperature in a controlled space, typically the inside of a residence or building. Similar systems are used for vehicle heating and cooling, and as well as for general refrigeration.
Residential systems generally include an indoor unit, such as an air handler or a furnace, and an outdoor unit, such as a heat pump or an air conditioner. A system controller, such as a thermostat, may be connected to control circuits within the indoor and outdoor units to control operation of the HVAC system. A user may adjust operating parameters of the HVAC system, such as the temperature of a heated or cooled space, through a user interface. However, in certain applications, the user interface may not allow for adjustment of more complex parameters. Further, a user may not understand how to adjust all but the simplest system parameters or how the components of the HVAC system function together.
SUMMARYThe present invention relates to a control device that includes a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system and a display capable of displaying a graphical element defining a range of temperature set points for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, and a moveable feature disposed on the graphical element. The control device also includes a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that moves the moveable feature on the graphical element to select a temperature set point from the range of temperature set points and a processor capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system based on the selected temperature set point.
The present invention also relates to a control device that includes a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system. The control device also includes a display capable of displaying a slide bar defining a range of temperature set points for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, a first moveable feature disposed on the slide bar for selecting a cooling mode temperature set point, and a second moveable feature disposed on the slide bar for selecting a heating mode temperature set point. The control device further includes a graphical user interface capable of receiving a first user input that moves the first moveable feature on the slide bar to select the cooling mode temperature set point and a second user input that moves the second moveable feature on the slide bar to select the heating mode temperature set point. The control device further includes a processor capable of applying the selected heating mode temperature set point and the selected cooling mode temperature set point to the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system.
The present invention further relates to a control device that includes a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, and a display capable of displaying a calendar with graphical elements for assigning an operating schedule to a period shown on the calendar. The control device also includes a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that selects one or more of the graphical elements to assign the operating schedule to the period shown on the calendar, and a processor capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning or cooling system in accordance with the operating schedule during the assigned period.
The present invention further relates to a control device that includes a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, and a display with a backlight and capable of displaying user selectable graphical elements for assigning a schedule that adjusts an intensity of the backlight for a set period. The control device also includes a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that selects the set period via the selectable graphical elements, and a processor capable of operating the backlight at the adjusted intensity for the set period and capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system through the communication interface.
The present invention further relates to a method that includes receiving an adjusted set point for a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, determining whether the adjusted set point exceeds an over adjustment threshold, and operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system based on the adjusted set point in response to determining that the adjusted set point does not exceed the over adjustment threshold.
The present invention further relates to a control device including a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, a graphical user interface comprising user selectable graphical elements for producing a virtual representation of a physical environment conditioned by the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, and a display capable of displaying the virtual representation.
The present invention further relates to a control device including a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, a graphical user interface comprising a user selectable graphical element for enabling a rapid heating and/or rapid cooling mode, and a processor capable of overriding a current temperature setting to operate the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system at a maximum capacity in response to selection of the user selectable graphical element.
The present disclosure is directed to controllers with graphical user interfaces that facilitate programming of the controller and/or HVAC system. The user interfaces may be intuitive and interactive to facilitate user adjustment of HVAC system settings. In certain embodiments, the user interfaces may include moveable graphical elements for adjusting temperature set points and/or intensity of the backlight. Further, the user interfaces may include an interactive calendar for adjusting operating schedules for the HVAC system. Moreover, the user interfaces may facilitate control of the HVAC system through external devices and/or voice control.
Air handlers 18 are coupled to ductwork 20 that is adapted to distribute air between the air handlers and may receive air from an outside intake (not shown). Air handlers 18 include heat exchangers that circulate cold water from chiller 12 and hot water from boiler 14 to provide heated or cooled air. Fans, within air handlers 18, draw air through the heat exchangers and direct the conditioned air to environments within building 10, such as rooms, apartments, or offices, to maintain the environments at a designated temperature. A controller 22, shown here as including a thermostat, may be used to designate the temperature of the conditioned air. Controller 22 also may be used to control the flow of air through and from air handlers 18 and to diagnose mechanical or electrical problems with the air handlers 18. Other devices may, of course, be included in the system, such as control valves that regulate the flow of water and pressure and/or temperature transducers or switches that sense the temperatures and pressures of the water, the air, and so forth. Moreover, the control device may communicate with computer systems that are integrated with or separate from other building control or monitoring systems, and even systems that are remote from the building.
When the system shown in
Outdoor unit 30 draws environmental air through heat exchanger 32 using a fan 36 and expels the air above the outdoor unit. When operating as an air conditioner, the air is heated by heat exchanger 32 within outdoor unit 30 and exits the unit at a temperature higher than it entered. Indoor unit 28 includes a blower or fan 38 that directs air through indoor heat exchanger 34, where the air is cooled when the system is operating in air conditioning mode, and then circulates the air through ductwork 40 that directs the air to the residence 24. The overall system operates to maintain a desired temperature as set by a system controller 22 (
When the unit in
Touch screen 45 may receive input from a user's or object's touch and may send the information to a processor within the controller 22, which may interpret the touch event and perform a corresponding action. According to certain embodiments, the touch screen may employ resistive touch screen technology. However, in other embodiments, the touch screen may employ any suitable type of touch screen technology, such as capacitive, infrared, surface acoustic wave, electromagnetic, or near field imaging. Furthermore, touch screen 45 may employ single point or multipoint sensing.
Display 44 may be used to display a graphical user interface (GUI) 46 that allows a user to interact with the controller. GUI 46 may include various layers, windows, screens, templates, elements, or other components that may be displayed in all, or a portion, of display 44. Generally, GUI 46 may include textual and graphical elements that represent applications and functions of controller 22. For example, user GUI 46 may include status indicators 48 that display the status of the system and/or the environment. For example, an indicator 48B may display the operational mode (i.e., heating or cooling) and the temperature set point, an indicator 48C may display the current temperature and humidity, and an indicator 48D may display the weather conditions, among others. In another example, indicators 40E and 40F may display the humidity control status and the fan speed, respectively. In certain embodiments, the status indicators 48 also may include one or more brand indicators 48A that display information identifying the brand of controller 22.
GUI 46 also may include graphical elements 50 that may represent icons, buttons, sliders, menu bars, and the like. Graphical elements 50 may be selected by a user through the touch screen. For example, graphical elements 50A may be selected to increase or decrease the temperature set point. In another example, graphical elements 50B and 50C may be selected to change the system mode between heating and cooling. A graphical element 50D also may be selected by a user to display screens with menus and/or submenus for adjusting system settings and/or operation parameters of the HVAC system. Further, a graphical element 50E may notify a user that maintenance is required and may be selected to obtain maintenance information. As may be appreciated, the types and functionality of the graphical elements may vary depending on system functionality, system settings, and system equipment, among others. Further, in certain embodiments, controller 22 may include physical inputs, such as buttons, wheels, knobs, or the like, for receiving user input instead of, in addition to, or in combination with graphical elements 50.
The operation of indoor and outdoor units 28 and 30 is controlled by control circuits 58 and 60, respectively. Further, the operation of auxiliary heat system 56 is controlled by a control circuit 62. Control circuits 58, 60, and 62 may execute hardware or software control algorithms to govern operations of HVAC system 52. According to certain embodiments, the control circuits may include one or more microprocessors, analog to digital converters, non-volatile memories, and interface boards. In certain embodiments, the control circuits may be fitted with or coupled to auxiliary control boards that allow conventional 24 VAC wiring to be controlled through serial communications. Further, in certain embodiments, the control circuits may be controlled through a wireless network.
Control circuits 58, 60, and 62 may receive control signals from controller 22 and transmit the signals to equipment located within indoor unit 28, outdoor unit 30, and auxiliary heat system 54. For example, outdoor control circuit 60 may route control signals to a motor 64 that powers fan 66 and to a motor 68 that powers a compressor 70. Indoor control circuit 58 may route control signals to a motor 72 that powers fan 38. Indoor control circuit 58 also may route control circuits to equipment included within an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) system 74. For example, IAQ system 74 may include one or more air cleaners, UV air purifiers, humidifiers, and/or ventilators, among others. The control circuits also may transmit control signals to other types of equipment such as valves 76 and 78, sensors, and switches.
Controller 22 may operate to control the overall heating and cooling provided by indoor unit 28, outdoor unit 30, and auxiliary heat system 54. Indoor and outdoor units 28 and 30 include heat exchangers 34 and 32 that function either as an evaporator or a condenser depending on the heat pump operation mode. For example, when HVAC system 52 is operating in cooling (or “AC”) mode, outside heat exchanger 32 functions as a condenser, releasing heat to the outside air, while inside heat exchanger 34 functions as an evaporator, absorbing heat from the inside air. When HVAC system 52 is operating in heating mode, outside heat exchanger 32 functions as an evaporator, absorbing heat from the outside air, while inside heat exchanger 34 functions as a condenser, releasing heat to the inside air. A reversing valve (not shown) may be positioned on closed loop 54 to control the direction of refrigerant flow and thereby to switch the heat pump between heating mode and cooling mode.
HVAC system 52 also includes two metering devices 76 and 78 for decreasing the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant before it enters the evaporator. The metering devices also regulate the refrigerant flow entering the evaporator so that the amount of refrigerant entering the evaporator equals, or approximately equals, the amount of refrigerant exiting the evaporator. The metering device used depends on the heat pump operation mode. For example, when HVAC system 52 is operating in cooling mode, refrigerant bypasses metering device 76 and flows through metering device 78 before entering inside heat exchanger 34, which acts as an evaporator. In another example, when HVAC system 52 is operating in heating mode, refrigerant bypasses metering device 78 and flows through metering device 76 before entering outside heat exchanger 32, which acts as an evaporator. According to other exemplary embodiments, a single metering device may be used for both heating mode and cooling mode.
The refrigerant enters the evaporator, which is outside heat exchanger 32 in heating mode and inside heat exchanger 34 in cooling mode, as a low temperature and pressure liquid. Some vapor refrigerant also may be present as a result of the expansion process that occurs in metering device 76 and 78. The refrigerant flows through tubes in the evaporator and absorbs heat from the air changing the refrigerant into a vapor. In cooling mode, the indoor air flowing across the multichannel tubes also may be dehumidified. The moisture from the air may condense on the outer surface of the multichannel tubes and consequently be removed from the air.
After exiting the evaporator, the refrigerant flows into compressor 70. Compressor 70 decreases the volume of the refrigerant vapor, thereby, increasing the temperature and pressure of the vapor. The compressor may be any suitable compressor such as a screw compressor, reciprocating compressor, rotary compressor, swing link compressor, scroll compressor, or turbine compressor.
From compressor 70, the increased temperature and pressure vapor refrigerant flows into a condenser, the location of which is determined by the heat pump mode. In cooling mode, the refrigerant flows into outside heat exchanger 32 (acting as a condenser). Fan 36, which is powered by motor 64, draws air across the tubes containing refrigerant vapor. According to certain exemplary embodiments, the fan may be replaced by a pump that draws fluid across the multichannel tubes. The heat from the refrigerant is transferred to the outside air causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid. In heating mode, the refrigerant flows into inside heat exchanger 34 (acting as a condenser). Fan 38, which is powered by motor 72, draws air across the tubes containing refrigerant vapor. The heat from the refrigerant is transferred to the inside air causing the refrigerant to condense into a liquid.
After exiting the condenser, the refrigerant flows through the metering device (76 in heating mode and 78 in cooling mode) and returns to the evaporator (outside heat exchanger 32 in heating mode and inside heat exchanger 34 in cooling mode) where the process begins again.
In both heating and cooling modes, motor 68 drives compressor 70 and circulates refrigerant through reversible refrigeration/heating loop 54. The motor may receive power either directly from an AC or DC power source or from a variable speed drive (VSD). The motor may be a switched reluctance (SR) motor, an induction motor, an electronically commutated permanent magnet motor (ECM), or any other suitable motor type.
The operation of motor 68 is controlled by control circuit 60. Control circuit 46 may receive control signals from controller 22. In certain embodiments, controller 22 may receive information from a sensor 76 that measures the ambient indoor air temperature and a sensor 78 that measures indoor humidity. Controller 22 then compares the air temperature to the temperature set point (which may be input by a user) and engages compressor motor 68 and fan motors 64 and 72 to run the cooling system if the air temperature is above the temperature set point. In heating mode, controller 22 compares the air temperature from sensor 76 to the temperature set point and engages motors 64, 68, and 72 to run the heating system if the air temperature is below the temperature set point. According to certain embodiments, sensors 76 and 78 may be located within and/or may be an integral part of controller 22. However, in other embodiments, sensors 76 and 78 may be external devices connected to controller 22, for example, through a wired or wireless connection.
Control circuit 60 and controller 22 also may initiate a defrost cycle when the system is operating in heating mode. When the outdoor temperature approaches freezing, moisture in the outside air that is directed over outside heat exchanger 32 may condense and freeze on the coil. Controller 22 may receive information from one or more sensors 80 that measure the outside air temperature and, in certain embodiments, the temperature of outside heat exchanger 32. These sensors provide temperature information to the control circuit 60 which determines when to initiate a defrost cycle.
Controller 22 also may use temperature information from outdoor temperature sensor 80 to determine when to enable the auxiliary heating system 54. For example, if controller 22 receives a signal from temperature sensor 80 indicating that the outdoor temperature has dropped below a certain set point, controller 22 may disable operation of indoor unit 28 and outdoor unit 30 and enable auxiliary heating system 54. In certain embodiments, HVAC system 52 also may include a sensor 81 that senses the level of fuel within a fuel source for auxiliary heating system 54. For example, auxiliary heating system 54 may be a furnace that uses fuel from a propane tank. In this example, sensor 81 may measure the level of fuel within the propane tank and may provide this information to controller 22. Controller 22 may then determine when to operate auxiliary heating system 54, based at least in part on the fuel information provided by sensor 81. For example, if the fuel level is low, controller 22 may operate indoor and outdoor units 28 and 30 for heating, rather than operating auxiliary heating system 54. Further, in certain embodiments, depending on the outdoor temperature, among other factors, controller 22 may operate the auxiliary heating system 54 in conjunction with indoor unit 28 and outdoor unit 30.
The operation of controller 22 may be controlled by a processor 82 that provides the processing capability for the controller. In certain embodiments, the processor 82 may include one or more microprocessors, instruction set processors, graphics processors, and/or related chip sets. Processor 82 may cooperate with a memory 84 that stores executable and/or machine-readable code, data, and instructions for processor 82. For example, the memory 84 may store look up tables and/or algorithms for GUI 46 (
Memory 72 also may store components of GUI 46 (
Display 44 may display screens of GUI 48 prompting a user to enter a user input 88 through touch screen 45. User input 88 may include a value specifying properties of the HVAC system. For example, a screen may prompt a user to select one of the graphical elements 50 to adjust a temperature set point or to determine the heating or cooling mode. In another example, display 44 may display setup screens prompting a user to input a schedule for the HVAC system.
User input 88 also may be received through an input/output (I/O) port 90. The I/O port may be a serial port, USB port, media card port, IEEE-1394 port, network interface, or other suitable interface configured to receive input from an external device. For example, the I/O port may be a USB port for connecting to a USB drive or flash drive. In certain embodiments, the I/O port may be a wireless interface for connecting to a computer, cell phone, or personal navigation device over a wireless network, such as an IEEE 802.11x wireless network. Moreover, in certain embodiments, screens of GUI 46 may be transmitted through I/O port 90 to an external device, such as a cell phone or computer, to facilitate control of controller 22 through the external device.
A communication interface 92 may transmit information received through I/O port 90 to processor 82. In certain embodiments, communication interface 92 may process data prior to transmitting the data to processor 82. Communication interface 92 also may provide an infrastructure for communicating information from I/O port 90 and processor 82 to the indoor and outdoor units 28, 30, 54, 74 (
According to certain embodiments, images 96 also may include customized images, such as screen savers, backgrounds, wallpaper, or photos that may be stored within memory 84 (
The controller 22 may display screens facilitating user customization of backgrounds 97 and images 96. For example, a user may select a color for background 97 that is similar to the color of the wall controller 22 is mounted on to allow controller 22 to blend in with the wall. In another example, a user may select display options, such as a color palette, display theme, or font size and style, among others. Further, in certain embodiments, controller 22 may alter the display of background 97 and/or images 96 based at least in part on the operational mode of controller 22. For instance, if HVAC system 52 is operating in a heating mode, the color palette may change to warm reddish tones. Similarly, if HVAC system 52 is operating in a cooling mode, the background and/or images 96 may include a color scheme in cool blue tones. In certain embodiments, the color scheme may be used to inform the user of the current operational mode of HVAC system 52. Further, some psychological benefits also may be gained where the user may perceive that the temperature is actually warmer or cooler when they observe the display of reddish or bluish tones. In certain embodiments, this may result in reduced energy costs. Controller 22 may also display various themes associated with background 97 and images 96. For example, themes may include seasonal themes, such as fall, spring, summer, winter, or holiday related themes, that may be selected by a user to correspond to different times of the year. For example, during the holidays, a user may wish to display a holiday theme to fit in with home decorations.
A graphical element 126 may be selected to adjust settings for zones within HVAC system 52. For example, HVAC system 52 may include electrically controlled dampers that are independently controlled by controller 22 to adjust the airflow to different areas, or zones, within the building. The zones may allow HVAC system 52 to maintain different environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, or airflow, within different areas of the building. In certain embodiments, each zone may have a slave controller that communicates with controller 22. Further, in other embodiments, each zone may be controlled by controller 22 with each zone having separate temperature and/or humidity sensors. Further, a graphical element 124 may be selected to enable emergency heating. For example, graphical element 124 may be selected to override current system settings and provide emergency heat using auxiliary heating system 54. Menu screen 104 also includes a graphical element 107 that may be selected to close the menu screen and return to the home screen shown in
Each slide bar 204A and 204B includes a set of indicators 206, 208, 210, and 212 that show the maximum and minimum temperature set points that may be selected. Each slide bar 204A and 204B generally represents an incremental range of temperatures that may be selected within the maximum and minimum temperature ranges, as shown by indicators 206, 208, 210, and 212. For example, the incremental temperature values may be spaced in one degree temperature increments along slide bars 204 and 204B. According to certain embodiments, controller 22 may determine the maximum and minimum temperatures based on factors such as the equipment models included within HVAC system 52, the operating efficiency of HVAC system 52, the operating mode (i.e., heating, cooling, high cooling, low cooling, high heating, low heating, auxiliary heat, etc.), the thermal loading of the home, the geographical location, structural characteristics of the home, user preferences based on comfort selections, efficiency settings, or the like, and installer and/or factory settings. In certain embodiments, tables and/or algorithms correlating HVAC system conditions to maximum and minimum temperature settings may be stored within memory 84 (
Each slide bar 204A and 204B includes a moveable feature, such as a slider 214A or 214B that may be moved along slide bar 204A or 204B to adjust the temperature set point. Each slider 214A and 214B may include an indicator 215A and 215B that displays the current temperature set point. A user may touch and drag sliders 214A and 214B along the corresponding slide bars 204A and 204B until the desired set point is selected. In addition to sliders 214A and 214B, a user may select graphical elements 216A, 216B, 218A, and 218B to increase or decrease the temperature set point. In response to selection of graphical elements 216 or 218, the corresponding slider 214A or 214B may move accordingly to reflect the adjusted temperature setting. For example, in response to selection of graphical element 216A or 216B, controller 22 may move slider 214A or 214B to the right to increase the temperature setting by one increment, for example, one degree. In response to selection of graphical element 218A or 218B, controller 22 may move slider 214A or 214B to the left to decrease the temperature by one increment.
As sliders 214A and 214B are moved, either through sliding or selection of graphical elements 216 and 218, indicators 215 may be updated to correspond to the new temperature set point. Upon selection of a new set point, a user may select graphical elements 174 and 220 to cancel or to apply the new set point to the schedule. Specifically, a user may select graphical element 174 to cancel the changes and return to the prior set points. However, if a user would like to implement the new set points, the user may select graphical element 220 to apply the new temperature set points.
In response to selection of graphical element 220, controller 22 may determine the temperature corresponding to the selected set point. For example, as shown in
In other embodiments, the shape, style, design, graphics, and the like of the graphical elements and/or the moveable features may vary. As shown in
As shown in
In manual mode, a user may select the desired humidity level from a range of humidity values displayed on a slide bar 238. Specifically, slide bar 238 includes indicators 240 and 242 that display the minimum and maximum humidity set points, respectively. In certain embodiments, the maximum and minimum humidity set points may be set by the factory or by an installer based on performance capabilities the particular equipment installed in the HVAC system. Further, in certain embodiments, controller 22 may determine the maximum and minimum humidity set points based on factors such as the equipment models included within HVAC system 52, the operating efficiency of HVAC system 52, the operating mode, and installer and/or factory settings. In certain embodiments, tables and/or algorithms correlating HVAC conditions to maximum and minimum humidity set points may be stored within memory 84 (
Slide bar 238 includes a slider 244 that may be moved along slide bar 238 to adjust the humidity set point. Slider 244 may include an indicator 245 that displays the current humidity set point. A user may touch and drag slider 244 along slide bar 238 until the desired set point is selected. In addition to slider 244, a user may select graphical elements 246 and 248 to increase or decrease the humidity setting. In response to selection of graphical element 246 or 248, slider 244 may move accordingly to reflect the adjusted humidity setting. As slider 244 is moved, either through slider 244 or selection of graphical elements 246 and 248, indicator 245 may be updated to correspond to the new humidity set point. Upon selection of a new set point, a user may select graphical element 178 to apply the new setting.
After a user has created a schedule, or adjusted a schedule, as described above with respect to
As depicted in
As shown in
Screen 279 also includes graphical elements 50F and 50G that display information about the status of HVAC system 52. For example, graphical element 50F displays a snowflake icon with text indicating that the cooling system is off. However, in other embodiments, when the cooling system is operational the snowflake icon may appear along with an indicator displaying a current percentage of cooling capacity. In another example, graphical elements 50G a heating icon with text indicating the current temperature set point for the heating mode. Further, graphical elements 50F and 50G may be animated to indicate the current level of heating and cooling being performed. For example, graphical elements 50F and 50G may pulse and/or glow when the HVAC system 52 is actively heating or cooling. Moreover, the frequency of the pulse may be linked to the level of heating or cooling (i.e., to indicate whether the system is operating in a first stage or a second stage, or to show a modulation rate).
Screen 279 also includes graphical elements 283, 284, and 286 that may be employed to view screens and/or menus for changing operating parameters of HVAC system 52. For example, graphical element 283 may be selected to return to standby screen 94 as shown in
As shown in
A user also may user calendar 302 to identify special days, such as birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or the like. As shown in
In certain embodiments, a user may select a different operating schedule for a special day. For example, controller 22 may display a screen on the special day to enable the user to specify an atypical set point for that day. For example, on the afternoon of a child's birthday party, a user may adjust the set point to five degrees cooler than normal to accommodate guests that may be present for the party. In another example, a heating temperature set point may be adjusted to increase at an earlier time to accommodate an early morning gathering.
GUI 46 also may facilitate customization of the backlight settings for controller 22 as shown in
As shown in
Screen 342 also includes graphical elements 360 and 362 that may be selected to set the time the nightlight is turned on and off. For example, graphical element 360 may be selected to set the time that the nightlight turns on and graphical element 362 may be selected to set the time that the nightlight turns off. After a user has selected graphical element 360 or 362, a user may select the arrows 364 to increase or decrease the time. Similarly, a user may select graphical element 362 to set the time the nightlight turns off. After setting the night light brightness and time period, a user may select graphical element 274 to return to the main screen. Further, in certain embodiments, a user may assign the nightlight feature to one or more operating schedules for HVAC system 52. For example, a user may program the times and intensity for the nightlight feature as part of the “Sleep” event shown in
Screen 366 includes an indicator 368 that displays the zone currently being controlled by controller 22. Screen 366 also includes indicators 48D, 48E, 48F, and 48G that display status information about HVAC system 52. A slide bar 370 includes separate sliders 372 and 374 that may be moved independently from one another along slide bar 370 to adjust the heating and cooling set points. Specifically, a user may touch and drag slider 372 along slide bar 370 to adjust the heating set point, and a user may touch and drag slider 374 along slide bar 370 to adjust the cooling set point. Each slider 372 and 374 includes an indicator 375 and 376 that may display the current temperature set point. Slide bar 370 also includes indicators 377 and 378 that represent the maximum and minimum temperature set points, respectively. Further, slide bar 370 includes off positions 382 and 384, which may disable the heating and cooling modes. For example, a user may touch and drag slider 374 to off position 382 to turn off the cooling mode, and a user may touch and drag slider 372 to off position 384 to turn of the heating mode.
Between sliders 372 and 374 is a deadband section 380. Deadband section 380 represents a temperature range where neither heating nor cooling may occur. According to certain embodiments, deadband section 380 may prevent HVAC system 52 from switching between the heating and cooling modes too rapidly and/or frequently. Slide bar 370 and sliders 372 and 374 may allow a user to visualize the size of deadband section 380. Further, in certain embodiments, slide bar 370 may allow a user to increase the size of deadband section 380 as shown in
As shown in
Further, in certain embodiments, screen 366 and slide bar 370 may facilitate understanding of how HVAC system 52 operates. For example, controller 22 may prevent a user from adjusting the slider 372 to a higher set point than the current set point of slider 374. In certain embodiments, if a user attempts to move slider 372 to far to the right to overlap with slider 374, controller 22 may move the cooling set point to the right to maintain a minimum deadband between slider 372 and 374.
Slide bar 392 also includes indicators 400 and 402. Specifically, indicator 400 indicates when the cooling mode has been enabled, for example, by lighting up or by changing color. Indicator 402 may indicate when the heating mode has been enabled, for example, by lighting up or changing color. As shown, HVAC system 52 is currently operating in a cooling mode. An indicator 404 may appear below indicator 400 to provide information relating to the cooling capacity. For example, as shown, indicator 404 alerts a user that the cooling system is currently operating at 62% of the cooling capacity. When HVAC system 52 is operating in the heating mode, a similar indicator (not shown) may appear below graphical element 402. As shown, no indicator appears below graphical element 402 indicating that the heating mode is off. However, in other embodiments, when the heating mode is off, an indicator may appear below graphical element 402 indicating that the heating capacity is at 0%.
In addition to facilitating user adjustment of temperature set points, controller 22 may notify a user when over-adjustment of a temperature set point has been attempted. For example, as shown in
Controller 22 may then determine whether the change in the temperature set point exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, memory 84 (
If the adjustment frequency is less than the predetermined threshold, controller 22 may then adjust (block 422) the set point. However, if the adjustment causes the frequency to exceed the predetermined threshold, controller 22 may display (block 424) a notification on touch screen 45. For example, controller 22 may display a message explaining that system efficiency and comfort are maximized when the temperature set point is not frequently adjusted. In another example, controller 22 may display a message indicating how many times the set point has been adjusted within a certain period. Further, controller 22 may suggest waiting a certain time period before implementing the set point adjustment. Moreover, in certain embodiments, controller 22 may ignore the set point adjustment if the adjustment causes the frequency to exceed the predetermined threshold. In certain embodiments, controller 22 may ignore set point adjustments that are too frequent to optimize energy efficiency, performance, or equipment life, among others. Controller 22 may also request user verification prior to making the set point adjustment.
Although method 406 (
GUI 46 also may facilitate user interaction with controller 22. For example, as shown in
In response to selection of graphical element 426, controller 22 may display a window 428 as shown in
Window 428 also includes graphical elements 434 and 436 that may be selected to cancel or apply the language selection. For example, a user may select graphical element 434 to cancel the language selection and to return to the previous setting. A user may select graphical element 436 to apply the new language setting. In response to selection of graphical element 436, controller 22 may apply the language setting to GUI 46. For example, controller 46 may change the screen of GUI 46 to show text in the corresponding language. According to certain embodiments, memory 84 may store screens corresponding to each of the languages that may be selected. Controller 22 may select the appropriate set of screens for the selected language and may display these screens through GUI 46.
GUI 46 also may facilitate voice control of controller 22 as shown in
To initiate voice control, a user 440 may transmit a voice enable command 442 to controller 22. For example, user 440 may speak a command such as, “voice control” that may be recognized through audio feature 438. Controller 22 may process the voice command and display an indicator 444 that shows that voice control has been enabled. Controller 22 may then wait to receive a voice command from user 440. For example, user 440 may transmit a voice command 446 to controller 22 that changes a temperature set point of HVAC system 52. In other embodiments, voice commands may be used to control fan speed, adjust humidity, hold a certain temperature for a set time period, or to perform maintenance functions, such as downloading fault codes to an external device.
Controller 22 may then process the command and transmit a verification request 448 through speaker 438 to user 440. For example, a verification request may be audibly produced by controller 438 that may say, “request received to change temperature set point to 72 degrees, say yes to confirm, no to deny.” User 440 may then transmit the requested verification 450 to controller 22. For example, the user may say “yes” to confirm the command. In response to receiving verification 450, controller 22 may process the command. For example, as shown in
Controller 22 may display one or more screens 456 of GUI 46 for communicating with controller 22 via external device 54. For example, screen 456 may include a window 458 that indicates when an external device has been connected. Further, screen 456 may display a window 460 for entering data 462 from external device 454. As data 462 is received by the controller 22 from external device 454, data 462 may be displayed within window 460. In certain embodiments, data may be entered through a keypad or other data entry device of external device 454. Data 462 may then be transmitted to controller 22 through communication interface 92 (
In certain embodiments, controller 22 may transmit corresponding user interface information 464 to be displayed on external device 454 to facilitate entry of data 462 through external device 454. In certain embodiments, user interface info 464 may include screens that may be displayed on external device 454 to facilitate entry of data for controller 22. Communication through external device 454 may allow a user to quickly enter data in a data entry format that the user may be familiar with, for example, a keyboard, or a cell-phone keypad. In certain embodiments, external device 454 may be used to control parameters, such as a temperature set point, relative humidity set point, fan speed, or vacation settings, through external device 454. For example, a user may return from vacation earlier than expected and may communicate with controller 22 over external device 454 while the user is traveling home from the airport. In certain embodiments, communication by external device 454 may enable a longer-range communication, for example, through a wide area network (WAN).
As shown in
As shown in
Upon selection of a type of software upgrade 472 (i.e., themes, applications, skins, etc.), screen 470 may display windows 474 describing the available software upgrades. Windows 474 may include graphical elements 476 that may be selected to select the corresponding software upgrade for purchase. A user may then select a graphical element 478 to purchase the selected software. A user also may select a graphical element 480 to cancel the transaction.
Upon selection of graphical element 478, a user may be directed to a screen that facilitates payment for the software upgrades 472. For example, GUI 46 may display a screen for entering credit card information. In certain embodiments, the payment information may be transmitted to the software provided through communication interface 92 (
As shown in
As shown in
Slide bar 504 includes a slider 506 that may be moved along slide bar 504 to select alphabetical and/or numerical values. An indicator 508 is shown within slider 506 to indicate the current alphanumeric value selected on slider 506. A toggle button 507 may be selected to change slide bar 504 between alphabetical values and numerical values. In certain embodiments, a user may enter information by tapping slider 506 after it shows the desired alphanumeric value. The information may then be shown as entered information 510 within window 500. Screen 498 also includes a spacebar 512, a return key 514 and a delete key 516 that may facilitate entry of alphanumeric information through touch screen 45. Slide bar 504 may facilitate the entry of alphanumeric information by allowing a large number of values to be entered in a limited screen size. Further, in certain embodiments, additional toggle keys 507 may be includes to display symbols or the like on slide bar 504.
After a user has adjusted the scale by moving slider 526, a user may select graphical element 532 to scale the text and graphics to the selected size. For example, as shown in
Controller 22 also may automatically adjust the text displayed to allow the same information to be displayed in the same area but with a larger font. For example, humidity indicator 540 has been truncated to “HUM” to allow a larger font size to be used. Further, in other embodiments, text may be replaced with a graphical representation of the text to facilitate displaying the same information in a larger size. Additionally, content deemed less critical may be manually or automatically removed to accommodate the larger display. For example, the maintenance alert 50E has been removed but may be accessed through graphical element 50D in a submenu. In certain embodiments, scaling of font size may allow users with vision limitations to comfortably read the display.
Screen 542 also includes a graphical element 554 that may be selected to customize the look of the layout 544. For example, in response to selection of graphical element 554, controller 22 may display a screen for assigning different colors to sections of layout 544. In certain embodiments, a user may select colors that correspond to wall colors of the rooms represented in layout 544. In another example, a user may be able to name each of the rooms and/or each of the zones. Further, through graphical element 554 an installer may be able to adjust a schedule and/or temperature set points for each of the zones. Moreover, in certain embodiments, a user may select areas of layout 544 to assign those areas to different operating zones of HVAC system 52. For example, in response to user selection of a zone for an area of layout 544, controller 22 may assign the electronic dampers for the selected area to the selected zone. In this manner, a user may determine which areas of layout 544 correspond to each zone by selecting areas of layout 544. After installer has made the desired changes, an installer may select graphical element 490 to save the changes.
As show in
As shown in
When display 44 is mounted on base 580, electrical connectors 582 and 584 may operably couple display 44 to base 580. For example, base 580 may include electrical connector 582, which couples to corresponding electrical connector 584 of display 44. Base 580 also includes communication interface 92 (
Display 44 also may be designed to attach to a cradle or dock 588 that may provide a portable power source. Further, in certain embodiments, cradle 588 may serve as a docking station where display 44 may be coupled through media ports for memory upgrades, data downloads, or uploads, etc. Cradle 588 may include an electrical connector 590 that couples to electrical connector 584 to enable communication between display 44 and cradle 588.
As shown in
As shown in
Motion sensor 64 also may facilitate motion-based control of controller 22 by detecting and processing motion patterns. For example, memory 84 may store motion-based commands that may be received through motion sensor 64. In one embodiment, a user may wave a hand upward to increase a set point and may wave a hand downward to decrease a set point. In another example, a user may rotate a hand to adjust fan speed. In certain embodiments, motion-based control may be enabled by selecting a graphical element of GUI 46, for example, through a settings menu. In certain embodiments, motion sensor 64 also may be employed to restrict access to controller 22. For example, motion sensor 64 may be used to detect the height of a user. Controller 22 may then compare the detected height to a minimum height stored within memory 84, and may only allow a user to interact with controller 22 if the user is above a minimum height. In another example, controller 22 may allow access to only some of the control features if a use is below the minimum height. According to certain embodiments, motion sensor 64 may allow homeowners to restrict a child's access to controller 22. Further, in certain embodiments where controller 22 may be controlled by an external device such as a cell phone or a remote, motion sensor 64 may ensure that an unauthorized user is not attempting to change settings with the external device.
Screen 612 includes indicator 98 that displays the current temperature and also includes slide bar 614 that represents a range of incremental temperature set points that may be adjusted by a user. Indicators 616 and 618 display the maximum and minimum temperature set points. In certain embodiments, the maximum and minimum humidity set points may be set by the factory or by an installer based on performance capabilities the particular equipment installed in the HVAC system. Further, in certain embodiments, controller 22 may determine the maximum and minimum temperature set points based on factors such as the equipment models included within HVAC system 52, the operating efficiency of HVAC system 52, the operating mode, and installer and/or factory settings. In certain embodiments, tables and/or algorithms correlating HVAC conditions to maximum and minimum temperature set points may be stored within memory 84 (
Slide bar 614 includes a slider 620 that may be moved along slide bar 614 to adjust the temperature set point. Slider 620 may include an indicator 622 that displays the current temperature set point. A user may touch and drag slider 620 along slide bar 614 until the desired set point is selected. In addition to slider 620, a user may select graphical elements 624 and 626 to increase or decrease the temperature setting. In response to selection of graphical element 624 or 626, slider 620 may move accordingly to reflect the adjusted temperature setting. As slider 620 is moved, either through dragging slider 620 or selection of graphical elements 624 and 626, indicator 622 may be updated to correspond to the new temperature set point.
Upon receiving a new temperature set point, controller 22 may compare the new set point to the current temperature to determine whether a heating mode or a cooling mode should be enabled. For example, if the new temperature set point is higher than the current temperature, controller 22 may enable or increase heating. In another example, if the new temperature set point is lower than the current temperature, controller 22 may enable or increase cooling.
Screen 612 also includes graphical elements 628 and 630 that may be selected to enable rapid cooling or rapid heating, respectively. For example, after coming in from outdoors in the winter, a user may select graphical element 630 to increase the heat until a user warms up. When one of the graphical elements 628 or 630 is selected, controller 22 may operate HVAC system 52 at full capacity regardless of the current temperature set points. In certain embodiments, controller 22 may operate HVAC system 52 in rapid heating or cooling mode for a predetermined period of time, such as 10, 30 or 60 minutes, among others. The predetermined period may be set by an installer or at the factory or may be set by a user and stored within memory 84 (
In general, the user interface components depicted in
While only certain features and embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, many modifications and changes may occur to those skilled in the art (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters (e.g., temperatures, pressures, etc.), mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention. Furthermore, in an effort to provide a concise description of the exemplary embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not have been described (i.e., those unrelated to the presently contemplated best mode of carrying out the invention, or those unrelated to enabling the claimed invention). It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation specific decisions may be made. Such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure, without undue experimentation.
Claims
1. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a display capable of displaying a graphical element defining a range of temperature set points for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, and a moveable feature disposed on the graphical element;
- a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that moves the moveable feature on the graphical element to select a temperature set point from the range of temperature set points; and
- a processor capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system based on the selected temperature set point.
2. The control device of claim 1, wherein the graphical element comprises a slide bar, and wherein the moveable feature comprises a slider.
3. The control device of claim 1, wherein the display comprises a touch screen for sensing the user input.
4. The control device of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a screen for selecting a zone controlled by the control device and wherein the processor is capable of applying the selected temperature set point to the selected zone independent of other zones controlled by the control device.
5. The control device of claim 1, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a screen for selecting a schedule event controlled by the control device, and wherein the processor is capable of applying the selected temperature set point to the selected schedule event independent of other schedule events controlled by the control device.
6. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a display capable of displaying a slide bar defining a range of temperature set points for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system, a first moveable feature disposed on the slide bar for selecting a cooling mode temperature set point, and a second moveable feature disposed on the slide bar for selecting a heating mode temperature set point;
- a graphical user interface capable of receiving a first user input that moves the first moveable feature on the slide bar to select the cooling mode temperature set point and a second user input that moves the second moveable feature on the slide bar to select the heating mode temperature set point; and
- a processor capable of applying the selected heating mode temperature set point and the selected cooling mode temperature set point to the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system.
7. The control device of claim 6, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a screen for selecting a zone controlled by the control device and wherein the processor is capable of applying the selected temperature set points to the selected zone independent of other zones controlled by the control device.
8. The control device of claim 6, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a screen for selecting a schedule event controlled by the control device, and wherein the processor is capable of applying the selected temperature set points to the selected schedule event independent of other schedule events controlled by the control device.
9. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a display capable of displaying a calendar with graphical elements for assigning an operating schedule to a period shown on the calendar;
- a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that selects one or more of the graphical elements to assign the operating schedule to the period shown on the calendar; and
- a processor capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning or cooling system in accordance with the operating schedule during the assigned period.
10. The control device of claim 9, wherein the display comprises a touch screen for sensing the user input.
11. The control device of claim 9, wherein the graphical elements comprise a first graphical element defining the beginning of the time period and a second graphical element defining the end of the period, and wherein the user input comprises dragging the first graphical element and the second graphical element to dates shown on the calendar.
12. The control device of claim 9, wherein the graphical elements represent years, seasons, days, or months, or a combination thereof.
13. The control device of claim 9, wherein the graphical user interface is capable of receiving another user input that defines the operating schedule for the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system.
14. The control device of claim 9, wherein the graphical user interface is capable of receiving another user input that selects the operating schedule from a plurality of displayed operating schedules.
15. The control device of claim 9, wherein the communication interface is capable of receiving a text message that assigns the operating schedule to the period shown on the calendar.
16. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a display with a backlight and capable of displaying user selectable graphical elements for assigning a schedule that adjusts an intensity of the backlight for a set period;
- a graphical user interface capable of receiving a user input that selects the set period via the selectable graphical elements; and
- a processor capable of operating the backlight at the adjusted intensity for the set period and capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system through the communication interface.
17. The control device of claim 16, wherein the display comprises a touch screen for sensing the user input.
18. The control device of claim 16, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a virtual slide bar for selecting the reduced intensity.
19. The control device of claim 18, wherein the display is capable of displaying a slide bar defining a range of intensity settings and capable of displaying a movable feature disposed on the slide bar, and wherein the graphical user interface is capable of receiving another user input that moves the moveable feature along the slide bar to select the reduced intensity.
20. The control device of claim 16, wherein the graphical user interface comprises another selectable graphical element for selectively enabling the schedule.
21. A method, comprising:
- receiving an adjusted set point for a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- determining whether the adjusted set point exceeds an over adjustment threshold;
- operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system based on the adjusted set point in response to determining that the adjusted set point does not exceed the over adjustment threshold.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein determining whether the adjusted set point exceeds an over adjustment threshold comprises determining the difference between the adjusted set point and a current set point.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein determining whether the adjusted set point exceeds an over adjustment threshold comprises determining a set point adjustment frequency.
24. The method of claim 21, wherein the adjusted set point comprises a temperature set point or a humidity set point.
25. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a graphical user interface comprising user selectable graphical elements for producing a virtual representation of a physical environment conditioned by the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system; and
- a display capable of displaying the virtual representation.
26. The control device of claim 25, wherein the graphical user interface is capable of receiving a user input adjusting zones of the physical environment through the virtual representation and comprising a processor capable of operating the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system based on the adjusted zones.
27. A control device comprising:
- a communication interface suitable for operable connection to a heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system;
- a graphical user interface comprising a user selectable graphical element for enabling a rapid heating and/or rapid cooling mode; and
- a processor capable of overriding a current temperature setting to operate the heating, ventilating, air conditioning, or cooling system at a maximum capacity in response to selection of the user selectable graphical element.
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 15, 2009
Publication Date: Mar 18, 2010
Applicant: Johnson Controls Technology Company (Holland, MI)
Inventors: Gregory Ralph Harrod (Wichita, KS), Bradley A. Beers (Dorr, MI), Grant E. Camichael (Grand Rapids, MI), Amanda L. Slavens (Guthrie, OK), Jeremiah M. Horn (Derby, KS), Mimoun Abaraw (Wichita, KS)
Application Number: 12/560,228
International Classification: G05B 15/00 (20060101);