BIM TO CLOUD INTEGRATION FOR HVAC DEVICES

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and more particularly to a system and method for integrating HVAC devices with building information modeling (BIM) data and cloud services.

BACKGROUND

Building information modeling (BIM) is a methodology that involves creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of buildings and other structures. A building information model comprises information, also known as BIM data, about the geometry, materials, components, systems, and performance of a building, as well as its design, construction, operation, and maintenance. BIM data can be stored, accessed, and modified by various stakeholders, such as architects, engineers, contractors, owners, and facility managers, using specialized software applications.

HVAC devices are devices that control the temperature, humidity, air quality, and airflow of indoor environments. HVAC devices can include, for example, valves, actuators, sensors, controllers, dampers, fans, pumps, chillers, boilers, and air handlers. HVAC devices can be configured and operated according to various parameters, such as setpoints, flow rates, schedules, modes, and feedback signals, to achieve optimal performance and energy efficiency of the building.

There is a need for a system and method that can integrate HVAC devices with BIM data and cloud services, to enable improved design, selection, installation, commissioning, operation, configuration and maintenance of HVAC systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that in operation causes or cause the system to perform the actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including instructions that, when executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the actions. One general aspect comprises a method for generating and presenting HVAC device options. The method comprises obtaining BIM data for a building from a BIM repository. The method also comprises applying the BIM data to an HVAC recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC device options for the building, where each of the one or more HVAC device options may include one or more HVAC devices. The method also comprises causing presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building on a user interface. 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 methods.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. The method may include receiving a user-provided selection of a first HVAC device option for the building from the one or more HVAC device options. The method may include transmitting, in response to receiving the user-provided selection of the first HVAC device option, data for the first HVAC device option to the BIM repository. The BIM data may include one or more categories of data selected from a group may include of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Causing presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building further may include causing presentation of a user override option on the user interface, the method may include: receiving, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided HVAC device option for the building different from the one or more HVAC device options for the building; and transmitting data for the user-provided HVAC device option for the building to the BIM repository. The one or more configuration parameters are based on at least one selection parameter from a group may include of price, environmental impact, or energy saving. Causing presentation of the one or more HVAC configuration options for the building may include causing presentation of the one or more HVAC options in a user interface in association with an indication of a corresponding selection parameter and a selectable user input component. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

One general aspect comprises a non-transitory computer-readable medium may include computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to: generate and provide HVAC device configuration recommendations. The non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises computer-readable code to obtain BIM data corresponding to a preexisting HVAC system for a building from a BIM repository, where the HVAC system may include a plurality of HVAC devices. The medium also comprises computer-readable code to obtain device data for one or more additional HVAC devices to be included in the preexisting HVAC system. The medium also comprises computer-readable code to apply the BIM data and the device data to an HVAC device configuration engine configured to generate one or more recommended device configuration parameters for an additional HVAC device to be incorporated in the plurality of HVAC devices based on the BIM data and the device data. The medium also comprises computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations for the building on a user interface. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and methods to perform the actions encoded in the computer-readable code.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include computer-readable code to receive a user-provided selection of a first recommended device configuration parameters of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include computer-readable code to: transmit, in response to receiving the selection of the first of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters, configuration data for the first recommended device configuration parameters to the BIM repository. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may include computer-readable code to: provide, to a mobile device, device configuration data corresponding to the first of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters is transmittable by the mobile device to the one or more HVAC devices. The computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations on a user interface further may include computer-readable code to: cause presentation of a user override option in the user interface; receive, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided configuration different from the one or more recommended device configuration parameters; and transmit the device configuration data for the user-provided configuration to the BIM repository. The HVAC device configuration engine is configured to generate the one or more recommended device configuration parameters based on at least one selected from a group of selection parameters may include of price, environmental impact, or energy saving and, where the computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters further may include computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations on a user interface in association with an indication of a corresponding selection parameter and a selectable user input component. The BIM data may include one or more categories of data selected from a group may include of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Implementations of the described techniques may include hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a computer-accessible medium.

One general aspect comprises a system for generating HVAC device options. The system comprises one or more processors. The system also comprises one or more computer-readable media may include computer-readable code executable by one or more processors. The system also comprises computer-readable code to obtain BIM data for a building from a BIM repository. The system also comprises computer-readable code to apply the BIM data to an HVAC recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC device options for the building. The system also comprises computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building on a user interface. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, and methods to perform the actions encoded in the computer-readable code.

Implementations may include one or more of the following features. The system may include computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to receive a user-provided selection of a first HVAC device option for the building of the one or more HVAC device options for the building. The system may include computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to transmit, in response to receiving the selection of the first HVAC device option for the building, data for the first HVAC device option for the building to the BIM repository. The computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more HVAC options further may include computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to: cause presentation of a user override option; receive, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided HVAC device option for the building different from the one or more HVAC device options for the building; and transmit data for the user-provided HVAC device option for the building to the BIM repository. The one or more configuration parameters are based on at least one selection parameter from a group may include of price, environmental impact, or energy saving. The BIM data may include one or more categories of data selected from a group may include of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Other embodiments of this aspect include corresponding apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, and methods to perform the actions encoded in the computer-readable code.

Other aspects and features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary system, according to one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 2A-2C show exemplary diagrams illustrating the flow of information, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate example interfaces in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Techniques described herein are directed to selecting and managing HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) configuration data using machine learning techniques and models. The invention relates to a method and system for selecting and configuring HVAC systems for buildings using Building Information Modeling (BIM) data. Such a system and method can provide HVAC device recommendations based on BIM data, allow remote configuration and monitoring of HVAC devices via cloud services, and enable data exchange and feedback between HVAC devices and BIM data. For example, techniques described herein are directed to generating proposal HVAC devices for installation to new or preexisting HVAC systems and/or HVAC device and/or system configurations. Techniques described herein also allow for propagating user-selected configuration data to be transmitted to HVAC devices.

In some embodiments, an HVAC device or HVAC system and configuration can be selected for a building. By applying BIM data to an HVAC recommendation engine, the HVAC recommendation engine provides one or more devices. The technique comprises obtaining BIM data for a building from a BIM repository. The BIM data is applied to a recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC options, each of the one or more HVAC options associated with one or more HVAC devices. The one or more HVAC options for the building are presented on a display device.

In some embodiments, techniques are described for reconfiguring a preexisting HVAC system or installation, including potentially adding one or more HVAC devices to a preexisting HVAC system. The technique comprises obtaining BIM data for the preexisting HVAC system from a BIM repository, wherein the HVAC system comprises multiple HVAC devices. The method also comprises obtaining device data for one or more additional HVAC devices to be included in the HVAC system. The technique also comprises applying the BIM data to a recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC device options, and causing presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building on a display device.

The various embodiments described herein provide numerous technical benefits over prior-existing technology. For example, device selection can be optimized by using an intelligent selection process based on a machine learning technique for ensuring that the HVAC devices presented for selection are the best fit for the building's needs, taking into account various factors such as upfront price, ongoing cost, energy efficiency and environmental impact. By automating the recommendation process, the engine saves time and reduces the potential for human error, leading to more efficient HVAC system management. Techniques herein also allow flexibility in providing multiple options to a user, allowing stakeholders to choose the best option based on their specific needs, preferences, or constraints. At the same time, the techniques described herein allow for transmission of HVAC configuration data from a mobile device to an HVAC device, thereby providing a technically-enabled solution for efficient configuration of HVAC devices.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the various techniques. As part of this description, some of the drawings represent structures and devices in block diagram form. In this context, it should be understood that references to numbered drawing elements without associated identifiers (e.g., 100) refer to all instances of the drawing element with identifiers (e.g., 100a and 100b). Further, as part of this description, some of this disclosure's drawings may be provided in the form of a flow diagram. The blocks in any particular flow diagram may be presented in a particular order. However, it should be understood that the particular flow of any flow diagram is used only to exemplify one embodiment. In other embodiments, any of the various components depicted in the flow diagram may be omitted, or the components may be performed in a different order or even concurrently. In addition, other embodiments may include additional actions not depicted as part of the flow diagram. It should be understood that the language used in this disclosure has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the disclosed subject matter. As such, the various processes may be performed by alternate components than the ones specifically described.

Reference in this disclosure to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment, and multiple references to “one embodiment” or to “an embodiment” should not be understood as necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or to different embodiments.

With respect to flowcharts described in this description, such as in FIGS. 3-4, or the flow diagrams of FIGS. 2A-2C, the various actions depicted may be described as being performed by particular components. However, it should be understood that the particular components, actions, and processes of the flowcharts and/or flow diagrams are used only to exemplify an example embodiment. In other embodiments, any of the various components depicted in the flow diagram may be omitted, or the components may be performed in a different order or even concurrently. In addition, other embodiments may include additional blocks not depicted as part of the flow diagram. Further, some processes may be described as optional. It should be understood that those processes identified as optional indicate that the particular process may not be required for at least one embodiment described herein, but may be required for other embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary system 100 is presented in which aspects of the disclosure can be performed, according to one or more embodiments. The exemplary system 100 comprises one or more network device(s) 102, a mobile device 104, a computing device 106, a BIM repository 148, and, in some embodiments, one or more HVAC device(s) 112. The network device(s) 102, the mobile device 104, the computing device 106, the BIM repository 148, and, in some embodiments, the HVAC device(s) 112 is (are) communicatively coupled via the network 160, which can be any suitable wired or wireless network, such as the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a cellular network, a short range network, e.g., Bluetooth, or a combination thereof. Further, as shown between HVAC device(s) 112 and mobile device 104, some devices may be more directly coupled, such as by a near-field communication (NFC) connection, a USB connection, or the like. In other embodiments, the HVAC device(s) 112 may be indirectly coupled with the mobile device 104 or computing device 106 via a gateway device (not shown in FIG. 1). HVAC device(s) 112 is (are) depicted as optional in FIG. 1 because, in some embodiments, techniques described herein are directed to generating configuration recommendations for preexisting HVAC device(s) 112, or systems of HVAC devices. Additionally, or alternatively, techniques described herein are directed to generating recommendations for HVAC devices to be added to a preexisting building for which may or may not have preexisting HVAC devices.

The one or more network device(s) 102 can be any suitable device that can provide cloud services to the other devices in the exemplary system 100, such as a server, a network-connected computing platform, a data center, a building management system (BMS), or a combination thereof. The network device(s) 102 can include, for example, one or more processor(s) 116, one or more computer-readable media in the form of memory 114, storage 118 and a network interface 120. The network interface 120 can facilitate communication between the network device(s) 102 and other components of the exemplary system 100.

Memory 114 may include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media in which computer-readable code may be stored. The computer-readable code may be used for performing functions in conjunction with processor(s) 116. Memory 114 may include cache, ROM, RAM, or any kind of transitory or non-transitory computer-readable storage medium capable of storing computer-readable code. According to one or more embodiments, memory 114 comprises an HVAC device configuration engine 122, and an HVAC recommendation engine 124. According to one or more embodiments, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 is responsible for processing BIM data and generating configuration parameters for one or more HVAC devices. It ensures that the HVAC devices are optimally configured to meet the specific requirements of a building project. As will be described in greater detail below, the HVAC recommendation engine 124 uses one or more artificial intelligence (AI) models to evaluate various parameters, to recommend HVAC devices or systems that are a best fit for the building's needs. Storage 118 may include one or more non-transitory storage devices on which data is stored for use by HVAC device configuration engine 122 and/or HVAC recommendation engine 124 to generate recommended HVAC devices and/or configurations for a particular building.

The BIM repository 148 can be any suitable system that can store, access, share and modify BIM data for a building, such as a server, a cloud computing platform, a data center, or a combination thereof. Although not shown, the BIM repository 148 can comprise a computing system, such as one or more processors, one or more computer-readable media, a network interface, and other component suitable for hosting BIM data and interacting with other components in the exemplary system 100. Alternatively, BIM repository 148 may comprise network storage configured to store data related to a building specifications, e.g., 2D or 3D CAD information. BIM repository 148 may store BIM data such as information about the geometry, materials, components, systems, and performance of one or more buildings, as well as their design, construction, operation, and maintenance. Examples of BIM data include HVAC system configuration data 150, HVAC device configuration data 152, and building design data 154. Other examples of BIM data include HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data.

The computing device 106 can be any suitable device that can be used by a user, such as an engineer, a contractor, an installer, a technician, a facility manager, or an owner, to interact with the other components of the exemplary system 100. Examples of the computing device 106 include a desktop computer, a laptop, a notebook, a workstation, or a combination thereof. The computing device 106 can comprise one or more processor(s) 142, one or more computer-readable media in the form of memory 138, and a display device 140. Although not shown, other components may be included in the computing device 106 to facilitate interaction with users and/or other devices, such as input/output (I/O) devices such as keyboards, mice, microphones, touch-enabled devices, speakers, and the like. Other examples include a network interface facilitate communication between the computing device 106 and other components in the exemplary system 100. The display device 140 can be any suitable physical device that can display information to the user, such as a screen, a display, a monitor, a projector, or a combination thereof.

Memory 138 can comprise computer-readable code executable by the one or more processor(s) 142 to perform various functions. For example, memory 138 may include an HVAC configuration module 144, which may include logic for determining, based on BIM data and selection parameters, a recommended configuration for an HVAC device. Further, memory 138 may include computer-readable code for a user interface (U/I) 146. U/I 146 may provide a graphical interface by which a user may interact with the computing device 106, for example for purposes of interacting with the HVAC configuration module 144.

The one or more HVAC device(s) 112 can be any suitable devices that can control the temperature, humidity, air quality, and airflow of indoor environments, such as valves, actuators, sensors, controllers, dampers, fans, pumps, chillers, boilers, and air handlers. The one or more HVAC device(s) 112 can comprise components of a computing device such as processors, memory, and the like. Further HVAC device(s) 112 may include components for interacting with one or more additional components of the exemplary system 100, such as a network interface, e.g. an ethernet, BACnet, MODBUS or other interface. In some embodiments, the HVAC device(s) 112 may include wireless connectivity such as near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short-range communication connectivity for interacting with one or more additional components of the exemplary system 100.

The mobile device 104 can be any suitable device that can be used by a user, such as an engineer, a contractor, an installer, a technician, a facility manager, or an owner, to interact with the exemplary system 100, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop or notebook, a wearable device, or a combination thereof. The mobile device 104 can comprise one or more processor(s) 130, memory 126, a display device 128, and a communication module 132. The communication module 132 may include components that facilitate communication between the mobile device 104 other components of the exemplary system 100. The display device 128 can be any suitable physical device that can display information to the user, such as a screen, a display, a monitor, a projector, or a combination thereof. The memory 126 can comprise one or more computer-readable media, and can be configured to store computer-readable code executable by the one or more processor(s) 130 to perform various functions. For example, memory 126 may include an HVAC configuration module 134 which can be used to configure one or more HVAC device(s) 112, either directly or indirectly over a network. Memory 126 may also include a user interface (U/I) 136 which may include a graphical interface or other computer-enabled interface to guide an operator in selecting and/or deploying HVAC configuration data to the one or more HVAC device(s) 112.

FIGS. 2A-2C show exemplary diagrams illustrating the flow of information, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Turning to FIG. 2A, a technique for determining recommendations for an HVAC system based on BIM data is shown. The recommendations may include recommended HVAC devices or sets of devices for inclusion into a building. Additionally, or alternatively, the recommendations may include recommended device configuration parameters for HVAC devices in a building.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the BIM repository 148 can provide BIM data 206 to one or more network device(s) 102. For example, the network device(s) 102 may request BIM data from the BIM repository 148. The BIM data 206 can include HVAC configuration data and/or HVAC operational data for one or more HVAC devices already in a building. The configuration data can include information about the settings, parameters, and modes of the one or more HVAC devices, such as setpoints, flow rates, schedules, and feedback signals. The HVAC operational data can include information about the performance, status, and conditions of the one or more HVAC devices, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, flow, energy consumption, and fault codes. Additional BIM data may be included, such as building design data, e.g. 2D or 3D CAD information which may affect the recommendation of an HVAC device and/or configuration for the building.

Upon receiving the BIM data 206, the one or more network device(s) 102 can use an AI model to generate options for an HVAC device to be added to the system, and/or recommended configurations for HVAC devices in the system, as shown at block 208. According to one or more embodiments, the AI model may include the HVAC recommendation engine 124. For example, based on current specifications of a building as determined from the obtained BIM data, the HVAC recommendation engine 124 can be configured to generate one or more HVAC device options, such as additional devices to add to the building. The HVAC recommendation engine 124 can use various techniques, such as machine learning, AI, rule-based reasoning, optimization, reinforcement learning or a combination thereof, to generate the one or more HVAC device options. The HVAC recommendation engine 124 analyzes various parameters to propose the most suitable HVAC devices from a set of predefined HVAC devices. The HVAC recommendation engine may include a machine learning model that has been trained on known HVAC devices and outcomes when applied to preexisting, i.e., already installed, systems. In some embodiments, the HVAC recommendation engine 124 may be configured to determine a recommendation based on predefined preferences, such as initial price, ongoing cost, energy efficiency, environmental impact, and the like. The one or more HVAC device options and/or configurations 210 can include information about the type, model, size, capacity, features, and benefits of the recommended HVAC devices, as well as their compatibility, availability, and cost.

Additionally, or alternatively, the AI model may include the HVAC device configuration engine 122. For example, based on current specifications of a building as determined from the BIM data 206, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 can be configured to generate recommended configuration parameters for one or more preexisting, i.e., already installed, HVAC devices in the building, or for one or more recommended HVAC devices from the HVAC recommendation engine 124. The HVAC device configuration engine 122 can use various techniques, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, rule-based reasoning, optimization, reinforcement learning, or a combination thereof, to generate the one or more HVAC configuration recommendations. The HVAC device configuration engine 122 may include a machine learning model that has been trained on known HVAC devices and outcomes when applied to preexisting systems or installations. In some embodiments, the AI model may be configured to determine a configuration based on predefined preferences, such as initial price, ongoing cost, energy efficiency, environmental impact, and the like. The one or more HVAC options and/or configurations 210 can include information about the settings or configurations and benefits of the recommended HVAC device configurations or options.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more network device(s) 102 may transmit the HVAC options and/or configurations 210 to a computing device 106, or other device such as a mobile device, or directly to an HVAC device in the case of HVAC configurations. In doing so, the configuration and/or option data can be used to install and/or configure HVAC device(s) 112 for the building.

FIG. 2B illustrates the flow of information, e.g. in the exemplary system 100, for deploying HVAC configuration data to an HVAC device by a mobile device. The process begins with a computing device 106 submitting a request for HVAC options and/or configurations to network device(s) 102, as shown at block 222. The request may come from a computing device, such as a laptop, desktop or notebook, tablet, or other device. Further, in some embodiments, the request may originate from an application (hereinafter “app”) on a portable device such as mobile device 104, e.g., smart phone or other device. According to one or more embodiments, the request shown at block 222 may identify a particular building, HVAC device, HVAC system, or the like. Upon receipt of the request, the one or more network device(s) 102 may transmit a BIM data request 224 to the BIM repository 148. As described above, the BIM repository 148 may store operational, configuration, and other data for a building, such as HVAC system configuration data 150, HVAC device configuration data 152, and building design data 154. The BIM data request 224 may include an identifier by which the BIM repository 148 may perform a lookup for BIM data. In addition, the BIM data request 224 may specify one or more types of BIM data that is requested. In turn, the BIM repository 148 may provide the BIM data 226 to the one or more network device(s) 102.

Upon receiving the BIM data 226, the one or more network device(s) 102 can use an AI model to generate one or more HVAC device options and/or configurations, as shown at block 228. As described above, the AI model may include an HVAC recommendation engine 124 and/or an HVAC device configuration engine 122. For example, based on current specifications of a building as determined from the BIM data 226, the HVAC recommendation engine 124 can be configured to generate one or more HVAC device options, such as suggested additional devices to add to the building. The HVAC device configuration engine 122 can be configured to generate recommended configuration data for one or more preexisting, or pre-installed, HVAC devices in the building, or for one or more recommended HVAC devices suggested by the HVAC recommendation engine 124. For instance, the HVAC recommendation engine 124 may suggest one or more HVAC devices for installation in a new building, and the HVAC device configuration engine 122 can suggest a configuration for the recommended device. The various recommendations may be determined based on various criteria or parameters, such as building design, HVAC performance, HVAC compatibility, HVAC availability, HVAC price, HVAC running cost, HVAC energy efficiency, HVAC environmental impact, or any other suitable criteria.

According to one or more embodiments, the network device(s) 102 may transmit the HVAC options and/or configurations 230 to a computing device 106, or another device such as a mobile device 104, or directly to one or more HVAC device(s) 112. In the instance where the HVAC options include more than one option, the options may be presented to a user for selection. The one or more HVAC options and/or configurations 210 can include various information, such as HVAC device recommendations, HVAC configuration recommendations, HVAC feedback, or any other suitable information. As shown, the HVAC options and/or configurations 230 may be presented at computing device 106. Thus, a user at computing device 106 can select among the options and/or configurations. In some embodiments the different options and/or configurations will be presented on a U/I 146, e.g., a graphical user interface (GUI) on a display device 140 along with the parameters such as upfront price, ongoing cost, environmental impact, or energy efficiency. In this way, the user is prompted to provide a selection from the presented HVAC options and/or configurations 230 via the U/I 146. Thus, the computing device 106 may transmit an indication of the user selection 232 to the one or more network device(s) 102.

In response to receiving the user selection 232, the one or more network device(s) 102 may provide data for the user selection in the form of selection data 234. The selection data 234 may include data for the selected HVAC device option selected from the presented HVAC device options, and which may be used to configure the particular HVAC device or system. The network device(s) 102 may provide the selection data 234 to the computing device 106 and/or a mobile device 104 as illustrated in FIG. 2B.

According to one or more embodiments, a user can use the mobile device 104 to configure the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 by transmitting configuration data 236 to the HVAC device(s) 112. In some embodiments, the configuration data may be transmitted to the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 using near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short-range communication connectivity. Once configured, the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 may provide an acknowledgment 238 to the one or more network device(s) 102. In some embodiments, the acknowledgment 238 may be provided directly to the one or more network device(s) 102, or may be provided by way of mobile device 104, and/or computing device 106. In some embodiments, the acknowledgment may indicate that the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 have been configured, and may include identifying information for the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 that were configured. For example, the acknowledgement may include a serial number, or global trade item number (GTIN) of the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 that were configured. In this way, the one or more physical HVAC devices that were configured can be linked to the digital representation of that device. The selection data 240 may be provided to the BIM repository 148 such that the BIM data in the can be updated in accordance with the HVAC configuration, and/or identifying information for the configured one or more HVAC device(s) 112.

In some embodiments, configuration can occur via an app on the mobile device 104 without requiring an intermediary computing device, such as computing device 106. Turning to FIG. 2C, an example is shown in which an app on a mobile device initiates a configuration request. The process begins with a mobile device 104 submitting a request 262 for HVAC configuration data to one or more network device(s) 102. As described above with respect to FIG. 2B, the request may identify a particular building, HVAC device, HVAC system, or the like. Upon receipt of the request 262, the one or more network device(s) 102 may transmit a BIM data request 264 to the BIM repository 148. The BIM data request 264 may include an identifier by which the BIM repository 148 may perform a lookup for BIM data. In addition, the BIM data request 264 may specify one or more types of BIM data that is requested. In turn, the BIM repository 148 may provide the BIM data 266 to the one or more network device(s) 102.

Upon receiving the BIM data 266, the one or more network device(s) 102 can use an AI model to generate options and/or configurations, as shown at block 268. As described above, the AI model may include an HVAC recommendation engine 124 and/or an HVAC device configuration engine 122. The various recommendations may be determined based on various criteria or parameters, such as building design, HVAC performance, HVAC compatibility, HVAC availability, HVAC device initial price, HVAC device ongoing cost, HVAC energy efficiency, HVAC environmental impact, or any other suitable criteria.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more network device(s) 102 may transmit one or more HVAC options or configurations 270 to a mobile device 104. In the embodiment shown, a single set of configuration data 270 is provided. For example, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 may determine a best fit configuration for the particular one or more HVAC device(s) 112. For example, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 may propose a configuration which minimizes the running cost or environmental impact of the one or more HVAC device(s).

According to one or more embodiments, a user can use the mobile device 104 to configure the one or more HVAC device(s) 112, as shown by configuration data 272. In some embodiments, the configuration data may be transmitted to the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 using near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short range communication connectivity. Optionally, the configuration data may be provided directly to the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 from the one or more network device(s) 102. In some embodiments, the configuration data may be provided indirectly via a gateway device (not shown).

Once configured, the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 may provide an acknowledgment 274 to the one or more network device(s) 102. In some embodiments, the acknowledgment 274 may be provided directly to the one or more network device(s) 102, or may be provided by way of mobile device 104. In some embodiments, the acknowledgment may indicate that the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 have been configured, and may include identifying information for the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 that were configured. For instance, the acknowledgement may include a serial number or global trade item number (GTIN) of one more HVAC device(s) 112 that were configured. The configuration data 276 may be provided to the BIM repository 148 such that the BIM data stored therein can be updated in accordance with the HVAC configuration, and/or identifying information for the configured one or more HVAC device(s) 112.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for integrating BIM data with HVAC devices according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. At block 305, the flowchart 300 comprises obtaining BIM data for a building from a BIM repository 148. In some embodiments, the BIM data may correspond to a preexisting HVAC system or installation. Alternatively, the BIM data may correspond to a new installation where HVAC devices have yet to be chosen for the building. The BIM repository 148 can include various information, such as building geometry, 2D and/or 3D layout, structure, materials, systems, components, functions, performance, or any other suitable information. The BIM data can be in a data format, e.g. OpenBIM, which can facilitate compatibility and interoperability between different BIM and HVAC formats, standards, or protocols.

At block 310, the flowchart 300 comprises applying the BIM data to HVAC recommendation engine 124, which is configured to generate one or more HVAC device options based on the received BIM data. Each of the one or more HVAC options may be associated with one or more HVAC devices. For example, the one or more network device(s) 102 can apply the BIM data to HVAC recommendation engine 124, which can generate one or more HVAC options based on the BIM data. The one or more HVAC options can include various information, such as HVAC device recommendations, HVAC device identifiers such as names or serial numbers or global trade item numbers (GTINs), or any other suitable information. The one or more HVAC options and/or configurations can be associated with one or more HVAC device(s) 112, which can be selected or suggested by the HVAC recommendation engine 124 and/or the HVAC device configuration engine 122 based on various criteria, such as building design, HVAC performance, HVAC compatibility, HVAC availability, HVAC device initial price, HVAC device ongoing cost, HVAC energy efficiency, HVAC environmental impact, or any other suitable criteria.

At block 315, the one or more HVAC options and/or configurations for the building are presented on a display device. For example, the one or more network device(s) 102 can cause presentation of the one or more HVAC options and/or configurations for the building on the display device of a mobile device 104 and/or another device, e.g., computing device 106 via network 160. The display device can present a GUI or other interface that can show or present various information, such as building design, HVAC devices, HVAC options, user selection, override buttons, or any other suitable information.

The flowchart 300 proceeds to block 320, where a determination is made as to whether a selection has been received from the user. According to one or more embodiments, the selection may correspond to one of the options generated by the HVAC recommendation engine 124, and presented in a graphical user interface on a display device for user consideration. If a selection is received, the flowchart 300 concludes at block 325, and the selected option is used to select an HVAC device for installation. For example, a new HVAC device may be introduced based on the selected option.

Returning to block 320, if no selection is received, the flowchart 300 proceeds to block 330. At block 330, a user-provided HVAC option is obtained instead of a selection. According to one or more embodiments, the user interface may provide an option for a user to reject all suggested selections, and instead submit a user-provided selection. For example, the user may decide that none of the suggested HVAC device options recommended by the HVAC recommendation engine 124 are suitable for selection, in which case, the user is able to override selection of the provided HVAC device options with a different HVAC device selection. The flowchart 300 proceeds to block 335, where the user-provided HVAC option data is used to configure a new or preexisting HVAC device or installation.

FIGS. 5C-5D depict example user interfaces for presenting configuration information on a user interface, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Turning to FIG. 5C, a device 500 is shown having a display, on which a user interface 540A is presented. User interface 540A includes a presentation component 545A depicting information for a building for which one or more HVAC devices are to be recommended. In this example, the recommendation is for “Building A.” Furthermore, in this example, a user input component 550 provides user-selectable options, for example in the form of a check box, selectable text, or the like, for determining the one or more criteria on which the one or more HVAC devices for the “Building A” are to be generated by the HVAC recommendation engine. The one or more criteria include price, ongoing cost, energy efficiency, and/or environmental impact. For instance, if the user selects the option “price”, the HVAC recommendation engine generates one or more HVAC device recommendations for installing in the building based on an initial cost to purchase the HVAC device. According to some embodiments, the HVAC recommendation engine, e.g. HVAC recommendation engine 124, generates a single recommendation of a device suitable for “Building A” with the lowest purchase price.

FIG. 5D shows an updated view 540B of the user interface from FIG. 5C, in which a user has selected price as the selection criterion by which the HVAC device recommendation for “Building A” should be generated, as shown in 545B. In addition, user interface 540B shows the device options that have been generated, for example by HVAC recommendation engine 124. Accordingly, a recommended device options panel 560 is presented, listing the recommended HVAC devices 565 for “Building A” according to the selection criterion shown in 545B as “HVAC Device A” and “HVAC Device B.” Optionally, the one or more HVAC devices recommended by the recommendation engine may be presented on user interface 540B alongside the one or more criteria on which the recommendation engine generated the devices, e.g. in the present example, alongside an estimated price, e.g. purchase price, of the particular HVAC device in “Building A.” The recommended HVAC devices shown in 565 may be user-selectable, for example in the form of a check box, selectable text, or the like. In addition, user interface 540B may comprise an override input component 570, in which other options are presented. These options, shown as “HVAC Device C” and “HVAC Device D”, may refer to options which are capable of being installed in Building A, but may not be a best fit given the criterion shown in 545B. In some embodiments, the user-provided options may be selected from override input component 570. Additionally, or alternatively, the override input component 570 may include a text box or other type of input component by which a user can input an HVAC device identifier, e.g. a serial number, corresponding to a device different than those recommended by the recommendation engine, e.g. HVAC recommendation engine 124.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method for integrating a new HVAC device within a preexisting HVAC system according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. At block 405, the flowchart 400 comprises obtaining BIM data for a building from a BIM repository 148. In some embodiments, the BIM data may correspond to a preexisting HVAC system or installation, e.g. HVAC device(s) 112. Alternatively, the BIM data may correspond to a new installation where one or more HVAC devices have yet to be chosen for the building. The BIM data can include various information, such as building geometry, 2D and/or 3D layout, structure, materials, systems, components, functions, performance, or any other suitable information. The BIM data can be in a data format, e.g., OpenBIM, which can facilitate compatibility and interoperability between different BIM and HVAC formats, standards, or protocols.

The flowchart 400 proceeds to block 410, where device data is obtained for the HVAC device to be added to an HVAC system. Device data may include, for example, a unique identifier for a device to be added to an HVAC system, an HVAC device type, or the like. The device to be added may be determined based on user selection, determination from an HVAC recommendation engine, or other suitable technique.

At block 415, the flowchart 400 comprises applying the BIM data to the HVAC device configuration engine 122 configured to generate one or more HVAC device configuration options, each of the one or more HVAC options associated with an HVAC device from the device data obtained at block 410. For example, one or more network device(s) 102 can apply the BIM data to the HVAC device configuration engine, which can generate one or more HVAC device configuration options based on the BIM data. In generating the one or more HVAC configuration options based on the BIM data, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 may apply one or more rules. For example, one or more HVAC devices added to a preexisting HVAC system may belong to the same communication network and as such will use the same communication protocol. Thus, the HVAC device configuration engine 122 may recommend configuring the network interface of the one or more added HVAC devices with the same communication protocol as part of the HVAC configuration options. For instance, if the HVAC system according to the BIM data uses BACnet to communicate, the configuration engine may generate a configuration recommendation to use BACnet for the one or more HVAC devices. The one or more HVAC configuration options can include various information, such as HVAC configuration recommendations and/or any other suitable information related to the configuration recommendations. The one or more HVAC configuration options can be generated as suggestions by the HVAC device configuration engine 122 based on various criteria, such as building design, HVAC performance, HVAC compatibility, HVAC availability, HVAC cost over time, HVAC energy efficiency, HVAC environmental impact, or any other suitable criteria.

The flowchart 400 proceeds to block 420, where the one or more HVAC configuration options are displayed on a display device, for example on a user interface presented on a physical display device. For example, the one or more network device(s) 102 can cause presentation of the one or more HVAC options for the building on the display device of a mobile device 104 and/or another computing device (e.g., computing device 106) via a network (e.g., network 160). The display device can present a user interface, such as a GUI, which can show various information, such as building design, HVAC devices, HVAC options, user selection, override buttons, or any other suitable information.

At block 425, a determination is made as to whether a selection of a particular configuration option for the HVAC device is received. In some embodiments, rather than making a selection of a provided configuration option generated by the HVAC device configuration engine 122, the user interface may provide a user input component by which a user can select an alternative HVAC device configuration. That is, the user may override a selection of the generated configuration recommendations and provide an alternative HVAC configuration. Thus, if a user-provided selection is not received at block 425, then, optionally, the flowchart 400 proceeds to block 430, and user-provided HVAC configuration information is obtained instead of the selection. The override may be received via a user interface where the configuration options are presented. In some embodiments, a user can select from a series of predefined configurations for a given device, or may enter configuration information. Further, in some embodiments, a user may adjust one or more components of one or more of the recommended configuration options.

Optionally, as shown at block 435, configuration data may be transmitted to the mobile device 104. For example, configuration data may be data used by an HVAC device for configuration. The configuration information may be obtained from storage within the one or more network device(s) 102, or from other devices in exemplary system 100. At block 440, the configuration data is transmitted to the corresponding HVAC device. For instance the mobile device may be brought into proximity of the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 to be configured and the configuration data may be transferred from the mobile device to the one or more HVAC device(s) 112 via wireless communication, e.g. near-field communication (NFC), Bluetooth or other short range communication connectivity. This may occur, for example, during installation of the HVAC device. In some embodiments, the HVAC device may be configured with the configuration before or after installation.

Once configured, the configured HVAC device may provide an acknowledgment. As shown at optional block 445, HVAC device data may be obtained on a mobile device. This may occur, for example, if the mobile device transmitted the configuration data to the corresponding HVAC device. The HVAC device data may confirm that the device was configured as indicated. In some embodiments, the HVAC device data may include identifying information for the HVAC device, building, or other context for the installation and/or configuration. Identifying information for the HVAC device may comprise a serial number or a global trade item number (GTIN) of the device. In this way, the one or more physical HVAC device(s) which were configured may be linked to the digital representation thereof in the BIM repository 148. The flowchart 400 concludes at block 450, where the HVAC configuration data and device data obtained in block 445 is transmitted to the BIM repository 148. Accordingly, the BIM repository 148 can be updated in accordance with the HVAC device configuration.

FIGS. 5A-5B depict example user interfaces for presenting recommended configuration information on a user interface, in accordance with one or more embodiments. Turning to FIG. 5A, a device 500 is shown having a display, on which a user interface 505A is presented. User interface 505A incudes a presentation component 510A depicting information for an HVAC device to be configured and other contextual information. In this example, the HVAC device to be configured is “HVAC device A”. In some embodiments, the HVAC Device A may refer to the selection of HVAC Device A in FIG. 5D. Alternatively, the examples depicted in FIGS. 5A-5B may or may not be related to the examples depicted in FIGS. 5C-5D. The “HVAC device A” is installed, or is to be installed, in a building. In the depicted example, the building in which the “HVAC device A” is installed or is to be installed, is “Building A”. Furthermore, in this example, a user input component 515 provides user-selectable options, for example in the form of a check box, selectable text, or the like, for determining the one or more criteria on which the one or more configuration options for the “HVAC device A” is to be generated by the HVAC device configuration engine. The one or more criteria include ongoing cost, such as the cost to operate HVAC Device A in Building A for a given configuration, energy efficiency, and/or environmental impact. For instance, if the user selects the option “cost”, the configuration engine generates one or more configuration options for configuring the “HVAC device A” based on a cost.

According to some embodiments, the configuration engine, e.g. HVAC device configuration engine 122, generates a single configuration option, e.g. a HVAC device configuration option which minimizes the cost, e.g. minimizes the cost of running of the HVAC device A in the building A.

FIG. 5B shows an updated view 505B of the user interface from FIG. 5A, in which a user has selected energy efficiency as the criterion by which the configuration option for HVAC device A should be generated, as shown in 510B. In addition, user interface 505B shows the configuration options that have been generated, for example by HVAC device configuration engine 122. Accordingly, a recommended configuration options panel 520 is presented, listing the recommended configurations 525 for the HVAC device A according to the configuration criterion shown in 510B as “Configuration A” and “Configuration B”. Optionally, the one or more configuration options recommended by the configuration engine may be presented on user interface 505B alongside the one or more criteria on which the configuration engine generated the configuration options, e.g. in the present example, alongside an estimated energy efficiency of running the HVAC device. The recommended configuration options shown in 525 may be user-selectable, for example in the form of a check box, selectable text, or the like. In addition, user interface 505B may comprise an override input component 530, in which other options are presented. These options, shown as “Configuration C” and “Configuration D”, may refer to configurations the HVAC Device A is capable of handling, but may not be a best fit given the criterion shown in 510B. In some embodiments, the user-provided options may be selected from override input component 530. Additionally, or alternatively, the override input component 530 may include a text box or other type of input component by which a user can input configuration information for the HVAC device A which is different to the recommended configuration options.

The above discussion is meant to be illustrative of the principles and various embodiments of the present disclosure. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. It is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications.

EXAMPLES

In one aspect, a method comprises obtaining BIM data for a building from a building host system, applying the BIM data to an HVAC recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC device options, where each of the one or more HVAC device options comprises one or more HVAC devices, and causing presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building on a user interface. The method may also comprise receiving a user-provided selection of a first HVAC device option of the one or more HVAC device options. The method may also comprise transmitting, in response to receiving the user-provided selection of the first HVAC device option, data for the first HVAC device option to the BIM repository. The BIM data may comprise one or more categories of data selected from a group consisting of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Causing presentation of the one or more HVAC device options may further comprise causing presentation of a user override option on the user interface, and the method may further comprise receiving, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided HVAC device option different from the one or more HVAC device options, and transmitting data for the user-provided HVAC device option to the building host system. The one or more configuration parameters may be based on at least one selection parameter from a group consisting of price, environmental impact, or energy saving. The method may also comprise where the BIM data comprises one or more categories of data selected from a group consisting of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Other embodiments of this aspect comprise corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured to perform the actions of the methods. Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

In one aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprises computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to obtain BIM data corresponding to a pre-existing HVAC system for a building from a building host system, where the HVAC system comprises a plurality of HVAC devices, obtain device data for one or more additional HVAC devices to be comprised in the pre-existing HVAC system, apply the BIM data and the device data to an HVAC device configuration engine configured to generate one or more recommended device configuration parameters for an additional HVAC device to be incorporated in the plurality of HVAC devices based on the BIM data and the device data, and cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations for the building on a user interface. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also comprise further comprises computer-readable code to receive a user-provided selection of a first recommended device configuration parameters of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters. Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

In one aspect, a system comprises one or more processors. The system also comprises one or more computer readable media comprises computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to obtain BIM data for a building from a building host system, apply the BIM data to an HVAC recommendation engine configured to generate one or more HVAC device options, and cause presentation of the one or more HVAC device options for the building on a user interface. The system may also comprise computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to receive a user-provided selection of a first HVAC device option of the one or more HVAC device options. The system may also comprise computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to transmit, in response to receiving the selection of the first HVAC device option, data for the first HVAC device option to the building host system. The system may also comprise where the one or more configuration parameters are based on at least one selection parameter from a group consisting of price, environmental impact, or energy saving. The system may also comprise where the BIM data comprises one or more categories of data selected from a group consisting of HVAC configuration data, HVAC operation data, HVAC maintenance data, building data, electrical data, and plumbing data. Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

The method may also comprise transmitting, in response to receiving the selection of the first HVAC device option, data for the first HVAC device option to the building host system. The method may also comprise where causing presentation of the one or more HVAC configuration options for the building comprises causing presentation of the one or more HVAC options in a user interface in association with an indication of a corresponding selection parameter and a selectable user input component. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also comprise computer-readable code to transmit, in response to receiving the selection of the first of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters, configuration data for the first recommended device configuration parameters to the building host system. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also comprise computer-readable code to provide, to a mobile device, device configuration data corresponding to the first of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters is transmittable by the mobile device to the one or more HVAC devices. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also comprise where the computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations on a user interface further comprises computer-readable code to cause presentation of a user override option in the user interface, receive, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided configuration different from the one or more recommended device configuration parameters, and transmit the device configuration data for the user-provided configuration to the building host system. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also comprise where the HVAC device configuration engine is configured to generate the one or more recommended device configuration parameters based on at least one selected from a group of selection parameters consisting of price, environmental impact, or energy saving and, where the computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configuration parameters further comprises computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more recommended device configurations on a user interface in association with an indication of a corresponding selection parameter and a selectable user input component. The system may also comprise where the computer-readable code to cause presentation of the one or more HVAC options further comprises computer-readable code executable by one or more processors to cause presentation of a user override option, receive, in accordance with selection of the user override option, a user-provided HVAC device option different from the one or more HVAC device options, and transmit data for the user-provided HVAC device option to the building host system. Other technical features may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions, and claims.

A system of one or more computers can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on the system that in operation causes or cause the system to perform the actions described above. One or more computer programs can be configured to perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including instructions that, when executed by data processing apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the actions. The various actions can be comprised in computer readable code on one or more computer readable media. In some embodiments, the computer readable media can be comprised in a system. In some embodiments, the actions described above as being encoded in one or more computer readable media may be comprised in a method.