CN110431358B

CN110431358B - Thermostat device and temperature adjustment system

Info

Publication number: CN110431358B
Application number: CN201680092026.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 黎俊德; 陈佑宗; 杨纯彰; 谢松辉; 钟树鸿
Original assignee: City University of Hong Kong CityU
Current assignee: City University of Hong Kong CityU
Priority date: 2016-11-22
Filing date: 2016-11-22
Publication date: 2021-12-14
Anticipated expiration: 2036-11-22
Also published as: WO2018094552A1; CN110431358A

Abstract

A thermostat device (200) for use with or as part of a temperature regulation system (100), the temperature regulation system (100) including at least a multi-speed motor (152) coupled to a fan (154), wherein the thermostat device (200) comprises: a motor driver (220) electrically coupled to a power source (210) and configured to receive a power source signal from the power source (210); a switch assembly (280) disposed between the motor driver (220) and the multi-speed motor (152), the switch assembly (280) electrically coupled to the motor driver (220) and electrically coupled to a voltage divider (153), wherein the voltage divider (153) is electrically coupled with the multi-speed motor (152); and a speed controller (230) in electronic communication with the motor drive (220); wherein the speed controller (230) is configured to provide a reference signal to the motor driver (220), the reference signal is based on a difference between a reference speed and a measured speed of the multi-speed motor (152), the reference speed is based on a difference between the measured temperature and a reference temperature, the reference temperature being set by a user, the motor driver (220) is configured to generate a drive signal based on the received reference signal, the motor driver (220) is further configured to transmit the drive signal to the multi-speed motor (152) via the switch assembly (280), the speed controller (230) is further configured to generate and transmit a switch control signal to the switch assembly (280), and the switch assembly (280) is configured to connect one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider (153).

Description

Thermostat device and temperature adjustment system

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a thermostat device and a temperature regulation system including the thermostat device, and in particular, the present disclosure relates to a thermostat device having an improved output control arrangement.

Background

Temperature conditioning systems are commonly used to condition the temperature of a space, such as a room, office, house, etc. Heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems are systems commonly used as temperature regulation systems. Thermostat devices are used to sense the thermal conditions of a space and provide the necessary signals to an air conditioning unit that is part of the HVAC system. The thermostat is in communication with one or more components of the HVAC system or a temperature regulation system.

Thermostats are typically connected to and control the operation of a fan or heating element or heater or valve within a temperature regulated system, such as an HVAC system. Typically, a thermostat senses the temperature of the space and controls one or more components of the HVAC system to maintain the temperature of the space as close as possible to a reference temperature. The reference temperature is a temperature set point that may be received from a user or a remote operator. Thermostats include various sensors, which typically include bimetallic strips or thermistors. A typical thermostat is a binary type controller configured to control various components, such as fans or heating elements, to switch between ON and OFF positions. Such thermostats provide a limited operating range for control of components in the temperature regulation system.

Line voltage is another example of a thermostat commonly used in temperature regulated systems. In line voltage thermostats, system power is switched directly by the thermostat. A line voltage thermostat may be used to control a motor that drives a fan in a temperature regulated system. In a temperature regulation system, a fan is selectively turned on or off by a thermostat according to a temperature of a space relative to a reference temperature. The speed of the fan is controlled by a switch.

In prior art systems, fan speed is controlled with either an inductive or capacitive divider arrangement.

Inductive voltage dividers are widely used to vary the speed of fans, particularly for multi-speed motors that drive fans. The voltage and current applied to the drive winding is varied by varying the connection to the thermostat. A thermostat including an inductive voltage divider includes a plurality of input terminals and a switch connectable to one of the plurality of input terminals. Each head is connected to an inductor. For example, in a thermostat with three heads, one head connects the power source to two inductors and the motor, a second head connects the power source to one inductor and the motor, and a third head connects the power source directly to the motor. Fan speed is controlled by connecting one of the heads. The inductor reduces the voltage received by the motor by acting as an impedance to the AC voltage received from the power source.

The use of only an inductive voltage divider has a number of disadvantages. The inductive voltage divider arrangement can only adjust the fan speed in a discrete manner and limits the speed selection to discrete speeds related to the number of heads. In the three head example, the fan speed can only be low, medium or high. Because the inductive voltage divider arrangement is integrated in the motor housing, the motor used with the inductive voltage divider is large and bulky in size. Furthermore, the arrangement of the inductive voltage divider has parasitic elements, resulting in a degradation of the quality of the power. Parasitic components can cause motor temperature to rise, introduce conduction and core losses, and thereby shorten the life of the motor. Finally, this arrangement causes additional losses and may increase the cost of the motor design.

Capacitive voltage dividers can be used in prior art thermostats to control a multi-speed motor driving a fan to control fan speed. Varying the fan speed by connecting the power supply between a series of capacitors of predetermined value effectively limits the electrical power supplied to the motor. The capacitor is placed within the motor housing or may be placed in a thermostat. A thermostat including a capacitive divider includes a plurality of input heads and includes a switch that can be connected to one of the plurality of input heads. Each head is connected to or through a capacitor. For example, in a thermostat with three heads, one head connects the power supply to two capacitors, a second head connects the power supply to one capacitor, and a third head connects the power supply directly to the motor. Fan speed is controlled by connecting one of the heads. The capacitor reduces the voltage received by the motor by acting as an impedance to the AC voltage received from the power supply.

There are also a number of disadvantages to using only capacitive voltage dividers. One disadvantage is that the capacitance value must be carefully matched to the impedance of the motor to allow for efficient operation and control of the motor. In practice this is a challenge because the manufacturers of fans or motors rarely provide impedance information, thus making capacitance matching difficult and often infeasible. In addition, the capacitor may have parasitic elements that may cause losses. The capacitive voltage divider also discretely adjusts the speed of the fan based only on the selected head configuration.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a thermostat device and/or temperature regulation system that will substantially ameliorate at least some of the disadvantages.

It will be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect, the present invention provides a thermostat arrangement for use with or as part of a temperature regulation system comprising at least a multi-speed motor coupled to a fan, wherein the thermostat arrangement comprises:

a motor driver electrically coupled to a power source and configured to receive a power signal from the power source,

a switch assembly disposed between the motor drive and the multi-speed motor, the switch assembly electrically coupled to the motor drive and electrically coupled to the voltage divider, wherein the voltage divider is electrically coupled to the multi-speed motor,

a speed controller in electronic communication with the motor driver, the speed controller configured to provide a reference signal to the motor driver, the reference signal based on a difference between a reference speed and a measured speed of the multi-speed motor,

the reference speed is based on the difference between the measured temperature and a reference temperature, the reference temperature being set by the user,

the motor driver is configured to generate a drive signal based on the received reference signal, the motor driver is further configured to transmit the drive signal to the multi-speed motor via the switch assembly,

wherein the speed controller is further configured to generate and send a switch control signal to the switch assembly;

the switch assembly is configured to connect one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider.

In one embodiment, the drive signal provided to the multi-speed motor includes a drive voltage and a drive frequency, the reference signal includes a reference voltage and a reference frequency, and wherein the drive voltage is adjusted based on the reference voltage.

In one embodiment, the speed of the multi-speed motor is based on the drive voltage and a connection between the switch assembly and one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider.

In one embodiment, the speed controller includes a comparator configured to determine a speed error, wherein the speed error is a difference between a reference speed and a measured speed, and the speed controller is configured to generate the reference signal based on the speed error.

In one embodiment, the speed controller includes a reference signal generator configured to generate a reference signal based on the speed error, the reference signal generator generating a reference voltage and a reference frequency, the reference frequency being a nominal frequency.

In one embodiment, the speed controller comprises a switch controller configured to generate a switch control signal, the switch control signal being based on a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed and/or the reference signal.

In one embodiment, the voltage divider includes one or more impedances and a plurality of connections, each connection corresponding to one of the impedances.

In one embodiment, the voltage divider includes three impedances and three connections, each connection corresponding to one of the impedances, and wherein the impedances are inductors or resistors or windings of the multi-speed motor.

In one embodiment, one of the connections is associated with a high supply voltage, one connection is associated with a medium supply voltage, and one connection is associated with a low supply voltage, the switch assembly comprising an electrically actuated movable member connectable to one of the high supply voltage connection, the medium supply voltage connection, or the low supply voltage connection based on a switch control signal.

In one embodiment, the voltage divider affects the drive voltage based on the position of the movable member of the switch,

wherein, in the high supply voltage connection, the switch assembly couples the motor drive to the multi-speed motor through an impedance,

wherein in the medium supply voltage connection, the switch assembly couples the motor drive to the multi-speed motor through more impedance than the high supply voltage connection, but below the low supply voltage connection, and;

wherein in the low supply voltage connection, the switch assembly couples the motor drive to the multi-speed motor through more impedance than the medium supply voltage connection and the high supply voltage connection.

In one embodiment, the switch assembly includes a plurality of double throw relays equal to one less than the number of impedances in the voltage divider or one less than the number of windings of the multi-speed motor in the switch assembly.

In one embodiment, the switch assembly includes a relay controller configured to generate and send a relay control signal to each of the plurality of double throw relays to actuate the relay between the first position and the second position, the relay control signal being generated based on the switch control signal.

In one embodiment, the thermostat device includes a speed sensor in electronic communication with the speed controller, the speed sensor configured to determine and transmit a measured speed to the speed controller, and wherein the measured speed corresponds to the motor speed, wherein the speed sensor is a tachometer configured to measure an instantaneous motor speed.

In one embodiment, the thermostat device further comprises a temperature controller configured to generate a reference speed and transmit the reference speed to the speed controller, wherein the reference speed is generated based on a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature,

wherein the temperature controller is adapted to receive the reference temperature from the user interface, the temperature controller is further adapted to receive a measured temperature from the temperature sensor, the measured temperature being related to the temperature of the space,

wherein the temperature controller is configured to increase the magnitude of the reference speed if the measured temperature is greater than the reference temperature; and;

wherein the temperature controller is configured to decrease the magnitude of the reference speed if the measured temperature is less than the reference temperature.

According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a temperature conditioning system for conditioning the temperature of a space, the temperature conditioning system comprising:

a fan assembly including a fan and a multi-speed motor connected to the fan and configured to drive the fan at a speed,

a thermostat device in electronic communication with the multi-speed motor and configured to control the multi-speed motor,

the thermostat device further includes:

In one embodiment, the temperature regulation system further comprises

A reservoir adapted to contain a heat exchange material,

a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the heat exchanger is adapted to receive a heat exchange material from the reservoir,

a valve between the heat exchanger and the reservoir, the valve being selectively movable between an open position in which the valve allows passage of heat exchange material from the reservoir to the heat exchanger and a closed position in which the valve prevents passage of heat exchange material from the reservoir to the heat exchanger,

a temperature sensor located within the space and configured to measure a temperature of the space to produce a measured temperature, the temperature sensor in electronic communication with the thermostat device to transmit the measured temperature to the thermostat device,

a user interface adapted to communicate with a user, and wherein the user interface is further adapted to receive a reference temperature from the user.

In one embodiment, the user interface may be arranged to be operated by any user, including a room user, a remote user, or in the case of a large building, a building manager or an operator. The user interface may also be autonomously controlled by the computing system to reach a conventional temperature to the room or building.

In one embodiment, the drive signal provided to the multi-speed motor includes a drive voltage and a drive frequency, the reference signal includes a reference voltage and a reference frequency, and wherein the drive voltage is adjusted based on the reference voltage, and wherein the speed of the multi-speed motor is based on the drive voltage and a connection between the switching assembly and one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider.

In one embodiment, the speed controller includes a comparator configured to determine a speed error, wherein the speed error is a difference between a reference speed and a measured speed, and the speed controller is configured to generate a reference signal based on the speed error,

the speed controller also includes a reference signal generator configured to generate a reference signal based on the speed error, the reference signal generator generating a reference voltage and a reference frequency, the reference frequency being a nominal frequency.

According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a method of regulating the temperature of a space using a temperature regulation system, wherein the temperature regulation system includes a thermostat assembly in electronic communication with a multi-speed motor, wherein the method of regulating the temperature includes the steps of:

a measured temperature is received from the temperature sensor,

receiving a reference temperature

The difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature is determined,

the reference speed is determined based on the difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature,

the measured speed of the multi-speed motor is determined from a speed sensor,

the difference between the reference speed and the measured speed is determined,

a reference signal is generated based on a difference between the reference velocity and the measured velocity,

a drive signal is generated based on the reference signal,

generating and transmitting a switch control signal to the switch assembly, the switch control signal causing the switch assembly to be connected to one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider,

the drive signal is transmitted to the multi-speed motor through the switch assembly.

The term speed as used herein relates to rotational speed. The terms speed and rotational speed will be used interchangeably in the following description. The rotational speed as defined herein relates to the rotational speed of the rotor as part of the motor. The term motor speed is used to denote the rotor speed, i.e. the rotational speed of the rotor and the drive shaft of the motor. This may be equal to the rotational speed of the fan. The terms motor speed and rotor speed are used interchangeably in the following description and are meant to be the same.

Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 shows a temperature regulation system comprising a thermostat arrangement.

Fig. 2a shows an electrical schematic of a thermostat arrangement that can be used with or as part of a temperature regulation system.

FIG. 2b is a logic block diagram illustrating an example of the internal logic for controlling an embodiment of the cooling and heating valves of the temperature regulation system of FIG. 1.

Fig. 3 shows an electrical schematic of a motor drive forming part of a thermostat arrangement.

Fig. 4 shows an electrical schematic of the speed controller when it is operating in a variable voltage constant frequency mode.

Figure 5 shows an electrical schematic of a temperature controller forming part of a thermostat arrangement.

FIG. 6 shows a graph of an example hysteresis band and measured temperatures within the hysteresis band.

Fig. 7a shows an electrical schematic of the switch assembly in the HIGH position.

Fig. 7b shows an electrical schematic of the switch assembly in the MED position.

Fig. 7c shows an electrical schematic of the switch assembly in the LOW position.

Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a method of operation of a switch controller as part of a speed controller.

Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a switch assembly as part of a thermostat assembly.

Fig. 10 shows a truth table implemented in a relay controller forming a part of a switching assembly.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a method of calibrating a speed sensor.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a method of regulating a temperature of a space using a temperature regulation system that also includes a thermostat assembly.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of a method of regulating the temperature of a space using a temperature regulation system that also includes a thermostat assembly.

Fig. 14 shows a graph of the back emf generated by the motor and the square pulses generated at each zero crossing of the back emf signal.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to a thermostat device for use as part of a temperature regulation system, such as a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC system). A thermostat device is used as part of an HVAC system and is configured to control one or more components of the HVAC system to regulate a temperature in a space. For example, thermostat devices are used as part of HVAC systems to regulate the temperature of rooms, houses, factories, manufacturing spaces, laboratories, medical clinics, hospital wards, offices, building floors, stores, or any other such space.

The present disclosure relates to a thermostat device having an improved output control arrangement. In particular, the thermostat device of the present disclosure is configured to provide a wider range of speed options for controlling a multi-speed motor as part of a temperature regulation system. The thermostat assembly of the present disclosure is configured for use with or as part of a temperature regulation system configured to control the temperature of a space, the temperature regulation system including a multi-speed motor, a heat exchanger, and a thermostat assembly. A thermostat assembly controls at least the multi-speed motor to control a temperature of the space. The thermostat assembly provides an extended speed control range for the multi-speed motor.

Referring to FIG. 1, a temperature conditioning system 100 is shown, the temperature conditioning system 100 being used to condition the temperature of a space 102. The system 100 includes an inlet conduit 110 and an outlet conduit 112 in fluid communication with each other. Return air 114 is drawn through inlet duct 110 and supply air 116 is delivered via the outlet duct. Air within the space 102 may be circulated through the temperature regulation system 100 to maintain the temperature of the space 102 at a selected or predetermined reference temperature.

The temperature regulation system 100 also includes a passage 120, the passage 120 being located between the inlet conduit 110 and the outlet conduit 112. The passageway 120 includes an inlet opening 122 in fluid communication with the inlet conduit 110 and an outlet opening 124 in fluid communication with the outlet conduit 120. The channel 120 may include an inlet manifold (not shown) positioned at the inlet opening, which may be connected to a plurality of inlet conduits. The channel 120 may also include an outlet manifold (not shown) positioned at the outlet opening 124, the outlet opening 124 being connectable to a plurality of outlet conduits.

Referring again to fig. 1, the temperature regulation system 100 also includes a heat exchanger 130, a reservoir 140 configured to hold a heat exchange material, and a fan assembly 150. As shown in FIG. 1, the heat exchanger 130 and the fan assembly 150 are positioned within the passage 120 such that air from the inlet opening 122 passes through the heat exchanger 130 and into the fan assembly 150. The heat exchanger 130 is configured to facilitate thermal energy exchange between the air and the heat exchanger. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the heat exchanger 130 is configured to cool the air passages through the heat exchanger 130. The fan assembly 150 is configured to apply a driving pressure to the air received into the fan assembly 150. The fan assembly 150 is configured to push cooling air out of the outlet duct 112 as the supply air 116.

As shown in fig. 1, the temperature regulation system 100 includes a filter 160, the filter 160 being disposed downstream of the inlet duct 110 and downstream of the inlet opening 122. The filter 160 is located upstream of the heat exchanger 130 and the fan assembly 150. The filter 160 is a dust filter, such as a HEPA filter. The filter 160 is configured to filter particulate matter, such as dust, airborne particles, hair, and other particulate matter, from the air passing through the passage 120. The filter 160 prevents or reduces the amount of particulate matter so that the fan assembly 150 is not clogged or stopped during operation.

The heat exchanger 130 will now be described in more detail. As shown in fig. 1, heat exchanger 130 is a shell and tube heat exchanger. The heat exchanger 130 includes a hollow housing 132 that houses a coil 134. The coiled tube 134 is a single tube comprising a plurality of U-bends as shown in fig. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the tubes 134 include seven U-bends but, alternatively, may include any suitable number of U-bends depending on the size of the heat exchanger required and the amount of heat exchange required. The coil 134, and in particular the portion of the coil 134 that includes the U-bend, defines a heat transfer area 139. In the cooling mode, air passing through the passage 120 is cooled as it passes through the heat transfer region 139, i.e., as it passes through the U-bend in the coil 134. In the heating mode, if the heat exchange is hotter than the air, the air passing through the passage 120 is heated.

The heat exchanger 130 also includes an inlet tube portion 136 and an outlet tube portion 138. An inlet tube section 136 is connected at one end to the coil 134 and is in fluid communication with the coil 134 and enters the housing 132 from one side. An outlet tube portion 138 is connected to and in fluid communication with the coil 134 at an end opposite the inlet tube portion 136. The outlet tube portion 138 exits the housing 132 from the opposite side of the inlet tube portion 136. As shown in fig. 1, the inlet tube portion 136 and the outlet tube portion 138 may be integrally formed with the coil portion 134. Alternatively, inlet tube portion 136 and outlet tube portion 138 may be separate tubes connectable to coil 134.

The heat exchanger 130 is in fluid communication with a reservoir 140. The inlet tube portion 136 and the outlet tube portion 138 are connected to a reservoir. A fluid passageway is formed between the reservoir 140 and the coiled tubing 134 by an inlet tube portion 136 and an outlet tube portion 138. The reservoir is adapted to receive and retain a heat exchange material. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the heat exchange material is cold water. The cold water is delivered into the heat exchanger 130 and cools the air passing through the heat exchanger 130. Cold water is introduced into the coil 134 via the inlet tube portion 136 and returned to the reservoir 140 via the outlet tube portion 138. Cold water flows through the inlet pipe portion 136, the coil 134, the outlet pipe portion 138 and back to the reservoir 140.

The system 100 includes at least one valve 170 located on the inlet pipe portion 136. For the purposes of describing the preferred embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise specifically referred to as a cooling valve 170c or a heating valve 170h, the term valve 170 will include a cooling valve 170c or a heating valve 170h or both

valves

170c, 170h, as some systems 100 will be implemented to provide cooling, heating, or both. Basically, the valve 170, which may include cooling or

heating valves

170c, 170h, operates in a similar manner to provide different functions of heating or cooling by the controller as desired by the user.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 1, the system has two valves, with a cooling valve 170c and a heating valve 172h located between the heat exchanger 130 and the reservoir 140. Generally, each of the two valves 170 is selectively movable between an open position and a closed position. When the valve 170 is in the open position, the valve 170 allows the heat exchange material to pass from the reservoir 140 to the heat exchanger 130. In the closed position, the valve 170 prevents the passage of heat exchange material from the reservoir 140 to the heat exchanger 130. In the example shown, the valve 170 is an electronically controlled valve, such as a solenoid valve. The valve 170 receives an actuation signal that includes status information including an ON state that moves the valve to an open position and an OFF state that moves the valve to a closed position. In the open position, the solenoid valve allows cold water to flow from the reservoir 140 to the heat exchanger 130, and in the closed position, the valve 170 prevents cold water from flowing from the reservoir 140 to the heat exchanger 130. The reservoir 140, in turn, is also referred to as a device that can deliver the heat exchange material when the reservoir 140 delivers the heat exchange material to the coil. The heat exchange material can be effectively used as a coolant or a heating agent. As outlined in this example system 100, two control valves 170, namely a cool valve 170c and a heat valve 170h, are present in the system to control which heat exchange material passes through the coils. The end result is that if the cooling valve 170c is opened, the heat exchange material flows through the coil, thereby cooling the air passing through the heat exchanger. If the heating valve 170h is opened, the air passing through the heat exchanger is heated.

In one example, the system 100 includes more than one valve 170, such as the system 100 shown in FIG. 1, where there are two valves 170, consisting of a cooling valve 170c and a heating valve 170h, the two valves 170 may be controlled according to a logic diagram as shown in FIG. 2b, where the switch may be set by a user or program (S)_valve) And a cooling/heating option, which are processed by a logic device to control the valve 170 to provide the desired heating or cooling.

The fan assembly 150 will be described in more detail with reference to fig. 1. The fan assembly 150 includes a motor 152 and a fan 154. The motor 152 is electrically connected to the fan 154 and mechanically coupled to the fan 154 by a drive shaft. The drive shaft is coupled to a rotor within the motor 152. The motor 152 is configured to drive a fan 154 at a speed. The motor 152 is a multi-speed motor, and the motor 152 is configured to rotate the fan at a selected rotational speed. The multi-speed motor 154 is a rotary motor that produces rotational or spinning motion. The speed defined in this specification means the rotational speed. The fan 154 includes a plurality of fins. The fan 154 may include any suitable number of fins to generate a driving pressure to push air out of the outlet duct 112. The operation of the motor 152 is controlled by the thermostat assembly 200.

The motor 152 may include a voltage divider (potential divider)153 (i.e., a voltage divider). Alternatively, the thermostat device 200 may include a voltage divider. The voltage divider 153 includes a plurality of components arranged in series with a plurality of connections between the components. The component is an impedance. In the illustrated embodiment, the voltage divider includes a plurality of inductors. The voltage divider 153 also includes a plurality of connections disposed between the impedances (i.e., inductors) to allow the thermostat assembly to vary the amount of impedance in the voltage divider circuit. Voltage divider circuit 153 allows discrete speed changes of multi-speed motor 152.

The multi-speed motor 152 also includes a plurality of windings. The winding includes an electrical coil wound to form an inductor. As shown in fig. 2a, the windings of multi-speed motor 152 are arranged to form a voltage divider 153. Each winding of the multi-speed motor 152 acts as an impedance of a voltage divider. Fig. 2a shows an embodiment of an electric motor with three

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The motor 152 is a three-speed motor and therefore includes three windings. The windings are arranged as a voltage divider to selectively control the amount of voltage and/or power received at the motor. Further details of the motor and its function will be described later.

The temperature regulation system 100 includes a thermostat assembly 200, the thermostat assembly 200 being in electronic communication with the multi-speed motor 152 and configured to control the multi-speed motor 152. Thermostat assembly 200 is in electronic communication with multi-speed motor 152 and thermostat assembly 200 is configured to control the operation of multi-speed motor 152 and valve 170 to attempt and maintain a reference temperature in space 102.

Referring to fig. 1, a thermostat assembly 200 includes a user interface 202. The user interface 202 is located within the space 102 and is accessible by a user or individual. In one example, the thermostat device 200 can be disposed on a wall or any other suitable structure in a space such that a user can access the thermostat device 200. The user interface 202 allows a user to set a reference temperature for the space 102. The reference temperature is the desired temperature in the space 102. The user interface 202 is configured to be in electronic communication with one or more components of the thermostat apparatus 200.

Referring to fig. 2a to 13, the thermostat device 200 will be described in more detail. Fig. 2a shows an electrical schematic of a thermostat device 200. The thermostat device 200 is configured for use with or as part of the temperature regulation system 100. The thermostat device 200 is electrically coupled to a power source 210, which is an AC power source. In the illustrated embodiment, the power supply 210 is a main power supply that generates an alternating current and an alternating voltage. The voltage is generated at a specified frequency. The power supply provides a power signal comprising at least a voltage and a frequency.

The thermostat device 200 is a line voltage thermostat. The thermostat assembly 200 is directly connected to the mains power supply. The thermostat device 200 is configured to generate a drive signal by modulating a power supply signal received from a power supply 210. The thermostat device is configured to generate the drive signal at a varying voltage having a constant frequency. The thermostat assembly 200 provides improved output to allow for an increased speed range of the multi-speed motor 152.

Referring to fig. 2a, the thermostat device 200 further includes a motor drive 220. Motor driver 220 generates drive signals and provides the drive signals to multi-speed motor 152. The thermostat assembly 200 also includes a speed controller 230 in electronic communication with the motor drive 220. The speed controller 230 provides a reference signal to the motor driver 220. The reference signal is based on a difference between a reference speed and a measured speed of the multi-speed motor 152. The drive signal is generated by the motor driver based on the reference signal from the speed controller 230.

The thermostat assembly also includes a speed sensor 240 in electronic communication with the speed controller. The speed sensor 240 determines the speed of the motor and provides feedback of the motor speed (labeled ω) to the speed controller 230. Temperature controller 250 is in electronic communication with speed controller 230. Temperature controller 250 provides a reference speed (labeled ω)_ref) To the speed controller 230. Temperature controller 250 provides an actuation signal (labeled S)_valve) To operate the valve 170 and, in systems with heating and cooling, the temperature controller may then provide a heating or cooling signal in addition to the actuation signal, depending on the desired temperature, in order to operate the cooling valve 170c or the heating valve 170 h. The drive signals are used to vary the speed (i.e., rotation) of the multi-speed motor 152Speed). The components of the thermostat assembly 200 are disposed in a housing 260. The housing 260 may be a metal or plastic housing. Details of the thermostat assembly 200 are described in more detail below.

As described above, the motor driver 220 generates the driving signal based on the reference signal from the speed controller 230. The drive signal includes a drive voltage and a drive frequency. The reference signal generated by the speed controller 230 includes a reference voltage (labeled V)_ref) And a reference frequency (labeled f)_ref). The drive voltage or the drive frequency or both are adjusted based on the reference signal. In particular, based on the received reference voltage V_refAdjusting the drive voltage and based on the reference frequency f_refThe driving frequency is adjusted. Specifically, the motor driver is configured to provide the drive signal at a varying voltage with a constant frequency (VVCF mode).

Motor driver 220 is electrically coupled to power supply 210 and is configured to receive a power supply signal from power supply 210. Motor driver 220 is directly connected to the multi-speed motor such that all of the voltages of the drive signals are delivered to multi-speed motor 152. The motor drive 220 may include a frequency converter, a bidirectional ion frequency converter, or a power flow controller. Motor drive 220 includes components that depend on the cost of the hardware implementation, power rating, heat dissipation, size of the components or constraints on noise and size. Details of the motor driver 220 will be described later with reference to fig. 3.

The thermostat apparatus 200 also includes a varying output arrangement configured to vary the drive voltage provided to the multi-speed motor by selectively connecting to different connections in the voltage divider. In the illustrated embodiment, the varying output arrangement is a switch assembly 280, which may be connected to one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider 153. The switch assembly 280 connects the motor driver output to the voltage divider 153 and the motor 152. The voltage supplied to the motor is increased or decreased depending on the connection between the switch assembly 280 and the voltage divider 153.

Referring to fig. 2a, the switch assembly 280 includes a movable switch member 282. The movable member is an electrically actuated member configured to move in response to a received electrical signal. As shown in fig. 2a, switch assembly 280 is in electrical communication with speed controller 230. The speed controller 230 is configured to control the operation of the switch assembly 280, in particular the position of the movable switch member 282. The speed controller 230 is configured to send a control signal, i.e. an electrical signal comprising position information, which causes the movable switch member 282 to move into position such that it is connected to one of the connections of the voltage divider 153.

As shown in fig. 2a, the voltage divider 153 comprises three impedances. Each impedance is formed by a winding of the multi-speed motor. Multi-speed motor 152 includes three

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The switch member 282 may be connected to any one of the three

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The control signal from the speed controller 230 moves the switch assembly 280, causing the switch member 282 to move to connect to any one of the

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The switch member 282 is an electrically actuated physical switch. The switch assembly may be any suitable switch assembly, such as an electromagnetic switch or a toggle switch, for example. Alternatively, the switch assembly 282 may be a digital electronics based switch assembly, such as including a logic gate or other suitable digital circuitry.

The speed of multi-speed motor 152 is based on the voltage received at multi-speed motor 152 from voltage divider 153. The voltage divider 153 receives a driving voltage from the motor driver 220. The drive voltage is reduced by a voltage divider 153, which depends on the position of the switch 282 relative to the

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The switch 282 is movable between a HIGH (HIGH), MID (MID) or LOW (LOW) position. The HIGH position corresponds to a HIGH speed of the motor 152, the MID position corresponds to a medium or intermediate speed of the motor 152, and the LOW position corresponds to a LOW speed of the motor 152. In the HIGH position, switch 282 is connected to single winding 153 a. In the MID position, the switch is connected to both

windings

153a, 153 b. In the LOW position, switch 282 is connected to the three

windings

153a, 153b and 153 c. In the HIGH position, the drive voltage from the motor driver 220 is delivered directly to the motor windings 153 a. In the MID position, the drive voltage is passed through the two

windings

153a, 153 b. Finally, in the LOW position, the drive voltage is passed through the three

windings

153a, 153b and 153 c. Further details of the switch assembly will be described later.

Referring to fig. 3, an embodiment of a motor drive 220 is shown. Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the motor drive 220. The motor driver 220 includes a switching network 221 that includes power electronics such as triacs, diodes, power MOSFETs, and the like. These components are organized together to form an electrical switching network 221. The switching network effectively acts as an actuator to shape the motor voltage and its corresponding frequency. The switching network 22 is operated based on the gate signal generated by the driver feedback controller 224. The gate signals define the switching pattern of the switching network 221 such that the switching network outputs the appropriate drive signal including the drive voltage and drive frequency. Motor drive 220 only functions in a Variable Voltage Constant Frequency (VVCF) mode. Motor driver 220 generates a drive signal that includes a variable drive voltage and a constant drive frequency.

Motor drive 220 also includes a passive network that includes passive elements such as capacitors and/or inductors. The passive network is connected to the switching network. The passive network acts as a low pass filter to eliminate ripple voltages and currents and improve EMI performance. The passive network also reduces voltage spikes that may be caused by the coils in the motor 152.

The motor driver 220 includes a command signal generator 222. The command signal generator 222 includes appropriate circuitry for generating a command signal (labeled V) that is provided to the voltage comparator 223_cmd(t)). The command signal is generated based on a received reference signal, in particular based on a received reference voltage V_refAnd a reference frequency f_refAnd (4) generating. The reference signal is generated by the speed controller 230 and provided to the command signal generator 222. In the illustrated embodiment, motor drive 220 is equipped with or implemented with a power factor calibrator. The command signal is generated based on:

f_Nnominal frequency of motor in Hz

V_NNominal RMS voltage of motor in volts

In the VVCF mode, the motor-controlled engine changes only the motor voltage V_MotorAnd an electric motor f_MotorFrequency maintenance and motor f_NAre the same as the nominal frequency.

The power factor calibrator may be implemented as a hardware module comprising a plurality of electronic circuit components. The electronic circuit components may be analog or digital electronic components. Alternatively, the power factor calibrator may be implemented as a software module within motor driver 220. The power factor calibrator is used to calibrate a power factor since a power source is an alternating current (i.e., alternating current and voltage), which alternates at a specific frequency.

As shown in fig. 3, the motor driver 220 further includes a motor driver comparator 223. The motor driver comparator 223 generates an error signal epsilon_vWhich is provided to the driver feedback controller 224. The error signal being a command voltage signal V_cmd(t) and sampling the Motor Voltage V_motorThe difference between them. The driver feedback controller 224 includes suitable circuitry, and the driver feedback controller 224 is configured to suppress the error signal to zero. The driver feedback controller 224 outputs the appropriate switching pattern, i.e., gate signals to the switching network 221. The driver feedback controller 224 may be a PID controller or any other suitable controller. The feedback controller 224 may be implemented using suitable analog or digital components.

As shown in fig. 2, the thermostat assembly 200 also includes a speed controller 230 in electronic communication with the motor drive 220. The speed controller 230 is configured to provide a reference signal to the motor driver 220. The reference signal is based on the difference between the reference speed and the measured speed of the multi-speed motor 152. The reference speed is based on the difference between the measured temperature and a reference temperature, where the reference temperature is set by the user through the user interface 202.

The speed controller 230 is configured to map a reference speed (i.e., a reference motor speed) to a reference signal. In particular, the speed controller 230 is configured to reference the speed ω_refMapping to a reference voltage V_refRoot of HeshenFrequency of examination f_ref. Motor drive 220 executes in a VVCF mode, and thus speed controller 230 is configured to generate a reference voltage that varies based on the difference between the measured speed and the reference speed, while maintaining a constant reference frequency. The speed controller 230 is also configured to generate a control signal that is provided to the switch assembly 280 to cause movement of the switch member 282. The switch member 282 may be moved based on the control signal to connect to the desired voltage divider connection to further vary the voltage received by the motor 152 to vary the motor speed. The speed controller 230 includes a speed controller comparator 231 and a reference feedback controller 232. A reference feedback controller is used as the reference signal generator. The operation of the comparator 231 and the reference feedback controller 232 is described with reference to fig. 4.

Fig. 4 shows an arrangement of speed controller 230 when motor drive 220 operates in a VVCF (variable voltage constant frequency) mode. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of the internal modules of speed controller 230. As shown in FIG. 4, the comparator 231 receives the reference speed ω_refAnd measuring the velocity ω. The speed controller 230 receives a reference speed from the temperature controller 250 and a measured speed from the speed sensor 240. Comparator 231 generates a speed error e_ω. The reference feedback controller 232 (i.e., the reference signal generator) receives the speed error (i.e., the speed error signal) and generates an appropriate reference voltage signal V_ref. The reference feedback controller is configured to compensate for the speed error by changing the motor voltage set point, i.e., by changing the reference voltage. Reference frequency f_refAnd thus the frequency of the motor, remains constant. The reference frequency is set to the nominal frequency f_N. The nominal frequency in the embodiment of fig. 4 may be the primary electrical frequency, e.g., 50Hz or any other suitable frequency.

Speed controller 230 also includes a switch controller 234. The switch controller 234 generates a control signal and provides the control signal to the switch assembly 280 to cause movement of the switch member 282. The switch controller 234 receives the error signal epsilon_ωAnd an output signal from the feedback controller. The switch controller 234 is based on the error signal epsilon_ωAnd a reference voltage V_refDetermining a switch member282, respectively. The switch controller 234 is further configured to base the speed error ε_ωAnd a determined reference voltage V_refGenerating a control signal S_tapThe switch member 282 is connected to the appropriate connection in the voltage divider 153 to vary the voltage received by the multi-speed motor and thereby vary the speed of the multi-speed motor. S_tapThe signal may be HIGH, MED or LOW. HIGH corresponds to the HIGH speed position of the switch 282, MED corresponds to the medium speed position of the switch 282, and LOW corresponds to the LOW speed position of the switch 282. These positions will be described in more detail with reference to fig. 7a, 7b and 7 c. Further detailed operation of the switch controller 234 and the switch assembly will be described later with reference to fig. 8.

As previously discussed with reference to fig. 2a, the thermostat device 200 includes a speed sensor 240. The speed sensor 240 is configured to provide a motor speed ω (i.e., fan speed) signal to the speed controller 230. In one embodiment, the speed sensor 240 comprises a tachometer. The tachometer may be located in the fan assembly 150. The tachometer may be located in the motor 152 or on the fan 154 or on the drive shaft connecting the motor to the fan. The tachometer is configured to measure the speed of the motor (or fan) and return to the measured speed value at revolutions per minute. The tachometer measures an actual rotation speed of the motor. Preferably, the speed sensor 240 comprises a tachometer. Alternatively, if there is no tachometer, counter potential detection may be used. The back-emf detection process will be described later in the description of alternative embodiments. Preferably a direct speed sensor is used, such as a tachometer or accelerometer.

The temperature controller 250 is in electrical communication with the temperature sensor 180. A temperature sensor 180 is located within the space 102. The temperature sensor 180 may be located within the thermostat device housing 260. The temperature sensor 180 is any suitable type of temperature sensor such as a thermistor or thermometer or a thermocouple or temperature sensing IC.

Referring to fig. 5, an embodiment of a temperature controller 250 and components or modules of the temperature controller 250 are shown. Fig. 5 shows an exemplary architecture of temperature controller 250. The temperature controller 250 is configured to generate a reference speed ω_refBased on a temperature between a reference temperature and a measured temperatureAnd (4) poor. The temperature controller 250 includes a temperature comparator 252. Temperature controller 250 receives a reference temperature T from user interface 202_ref. The temperature controller receives the measured temperature T from the temperature sensor 180_room. The temperature comparator 252 compares the magnitude between the reference temperature and the measured temperature. Specifically, the temperature comparator 252 determines the reference temperature T_refAnd measuring the temperature T_roomThe difference between them. The temperature comparator 252 generates a temperature error signal. Temperature controller 250 also includes a temperature feedback controller 254 and a hysteretic controller 256. Temperature feedback controller 254 generates the reference velocity ω by minimizing the error signal_ref. If the reference temperature is higher than the measured temperature of the room, the temperature controller 250 (and the temperature feedback controller 254) decreases the reference speed. Conversely, if the reference temperature is less than the measured temperature, the temperature controller 250 increases the reference speed.

The temperature controller 250 is further configured to generate an actuation signal S_valveAnd will actuate signal S_valveTo the valve 170. Actuating signal S_valveIncluding status information relating to the status of the valve 170. The state information includes an ON state and an OFF state. As shown in fig. 7a, 7b and 7c, the temperature controller 250 further comprises a hysteresis controller 256. The hysteretic controller 256 outputs an actuation signal S based on the temperature error signal (i.e., the difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature)_valve. In the ON state, valve 170 is opened to allow cold water to enter heat exchanger 130. In the OFF state, the valve 170 is closed and prevents the cold water from flowing to the heat exchanger 130.

In examples where the temperature controller 250 is arranged to operate with a system having both a cooling valve 170c and a heating valve 170h in order to provide a cooling or heating function, the temperature controller is further arranged to be implemented as a valve management logic arrangement 290 as shown in fig. 2b, or in connection with a valve management logic device 280 as shown in fig. 2b, which is in addition to the actuation signal S_valveAdditional inputs for heating or cooling instructions are provided. As shown in fig. 2b and as previously described, the logic means, which may be implemented by logic gates, hardware, software or a combination thereof, is arranged to process the input signal such that when the actuation signal S is input_valveWhen the cooling valve or the heating valve is actuated.

The hysteresis controller 256 is adapted to measure the temperature T_roomGenerating an ON state when greater than an upper threshold and measuring the temperature T_roomLess than the lower threshold produces an OFF state. The upper threshold relates to a predetermined upper limit value in the temperature hysteresis band and the lower threshold relates to a predetermined lower limit value in the temperature hysteresis band. Fig. 6 shows an exemplary hysteresis band 258. As shown in FIG. 6, the hysteresis band surrounds the reference temperature T_refAnd (5) constructing. The hysteresis band including an upper threshold T_HAnd a lower threshold T_L. The upper and lower threshold limits are predetermined to achieve a desired hysteresis band. The upper and lower threshold limits are selected based on the requirements of the temperature regulation system 100.

Fig. 6 illustrates an example operation of the hysteretic controller 256. Fig. 6 shows a plot of measured temperature versus hysteresis band 258 over a period of time. When the temperature exceeds the upper threshold T_HGenerating an actuation signal S comprising an ON state_valve. When the temperature falls below a lower threshold T_LWhen an actuation signal S including an OFF state is generated_valve. The hysteretic controller 256 reduces false switching of the valve 170 and reduces chattering in the valve due to any rapid temperature changes. Furthermore, the reduction in false switching of the valve 170 will also maximize the life of the valve, as frequent switching of the valve will reduce the life of the valve.

Referring again to fig. 2a, the thermostat device 200 also includes an AC load current sensor 272 (I)_AC). Which measures the current drawn by motor drive 220. AC load current sensor 272 may generate an alarm or disable motor drive 220 if the current drawn is below a first threshold, or preferably, when the current drawn is greater than a second threshold. This is advantageous because the motor will be protected and the risk of damage to the motor is reduced if the current drawn exceeds a certain threshold. The AC load current sensor is any suitable type of current sensor, such as a resistive current sensor, a hall effect IC current sensor, or a current transformer.

The thermostat device 200 also includes an AC grid voltage sensor 274. AC grid voltage sensor 274 measures grid voltage V_ACAnd supply the network voltage toA motor driver 220. The AC grid voltage sensor 274 is useful if a power factor calibrator is used for the motor drive. Based on the sampled voltages, an RMS (root mean square) grid voltage and a grid frequency are determined. AC grid voltage sensor 274 is any suitable voltage sensor, such as a non-isolated resistive divider network with a differential amplifier. Alternatively, the AC grid voltage sensor 274 may be implemented using an isolation method, such as an optically isolated sigma-delta modulator, a voltage transformer based voltage sensor or linear optical coupler, or any other suitable sensor.

Thermostat assembly 200 also includes an AC motor voltage sensor 276. AC motor voltage sensor 276 is configured to measure motor voltage V_motor. Which provides a motor voltage value or signal to the motor driver 220 and speed sensor. Based on the sampled voltage signal, the RMS motor voltage and frequency to be supplied to the motor are determined. AC motor voltage sensor 276 may be implemented as any suitable voltage sensor. For example, AC motor voltage sensor 276 may include a sensor similar in structure and function to AC grid voltage sensor 274.

As shown in fig. 2a, the thermostat device 200 includes an AC load current sensor 278. AC load current sensor 278 measures motor current I drawn by motor 152_motor. If the motor current I_motorBeyond its rated power, the operation of motor drive 220 will be disabled to protect motor drive 220.

Referring to fig. 7a, 7b and 7c, three circuit schematics are shown relating to the HIGH, MED and LOW switch positions, respectively. Fig. 7a shows a schematic circuit diagram when the switch member 282 is in the HIGH position. Since the speed controller 230 outputs a high S_tapThe signal, and therefore the switch member 282, is moved to the high position. As shown in fig. 7a, the switch member 282 is configured to be connected to one winding 153c of the motor. Thus, the stator voltage (i.e., the voltage driving the stator) is driven by V_s＝V_AC-V_xAnd (4) defining. The stator voltage being the supply voltage V_ACMinus motor drive V_xThe voltage across the terminals. As shown in fig. 7a, other windingsShown in phantom to indicate where no current flows through the other windings due to the switch member 282 bypassing those windings.

Fig. 7b shows the switch member 282 in the MED position. A switch 282 connects the motor drive to the two

windings

153b and 153c in the MED position. The two windings are positioned in series to act as a voltage divider. The voltage of each winding decreases. Voltage V of stator_sDefined by the following formula for the MED position: v_s＝V_AC-[V_x+I_s(Z_med)]。Z_medCorresponds to the winding and the winding is represented as an impedance. The "intermediate" winding is denoted as Z_med. In the configuration shown in fig. 2a, the voltage received by the stator is less than when the switch is in the HIGH position. Thus, when the switch is in the MED position, the speed of the motor 152 is less than when the switch is in the HIGH position.

Fig. 7c shows the switch member 282 in the LOW position. In the LOW position, the switch connects the motor driver 220 output to the three

windings

153a, 153b, 153 c. The three windings are positioned in series to act as a voltage divider. The voltage over each winding is reduced, i.e. the voltage is shared over the windings, so the stator sees a smaller voltage across the stator. When the switch member 282 is in the low position, the stator voltage V_sFrom V_s＝V_AC-[V_x+I_s(Z_low+Z_med)]And (4) defining. Z_lowCorresponding to the windings and represented as impedances. The "low" winding is denoted as Z_low. In the LOW configuration as shown in fig. 7c, the voltage across the stator is lower than the voltage when the switch member 282 is in the MED position and in the HIGH position. In the LOW configuration, the voltage across the stator is minimal, thus minimizing speed reduction.

An advantage of this approach is that the output voltage rating of motor driver 220 need not cover the entire operating range of the multi-speed motor to control speed. Some of the voltage supplied to the motor is reduced by a voltage divider 153, i.e. by an impedance Z_lowAnd Z_medAnd decreases. Thus, the voltage rating of the motor drive may be more flexible than closely matching the voltage rating of the motor 152.

The function of the switch controller 234 will now be described in more detail with reference to fig. 8. Fig. 8 illustrates a method of operation of the switch controller 234. The switch controller 234 determines the position of the switch member 282. The position of the switch member 282 changes the connection between the motor driver 220 output and the desired speed winding in the motor (i.e., the voltage divider 153). The method begins at step 701, which includes outputting HIGH S_tapSignal, which means a control signal comprising information about the HIGH velocity position. HIGH S_tapThe signal will cause the switch member 282 to connect directly to the stator windings. At step 702, the switch controller 234 employs a delay of a predetermined time. The delay may be between 2 and 10 seconds.

In step 703, the speed controller 234 determines a speed error ε_ωWhether greater than a predetermined threshold. If the speed error ε_ωNot greater than the threshold, then this indicates that the reference and measured speeds are closely aligned and the current speed setting should be maintained. If the speed error is not greater than the predetermined threshold, the method loops back at this stage after step 701. If the speed error ε_ωIf it is greater than the predetermined threshold, then the reference voltage V is applied in step 704_refChecking. In step 704, the speed controller checks the reference voltage V_refWhether it has reached its lowest value. V_refThe values are generated by a reference feedback controller 232.

If the Vref value has reached its lowest value, method 700 proceeds to step 705 where the check of the switch position is continued based on the switch control signal value. V_refThe minimum value is predetermined based on motor parameters and motor driver parameters. In step 705, the method determines S_tapWhether it is HIGH. If so, the switch controller 234 outputs S at step 706_tapThe switch 282 is moved to the MED position (as shown in fig. 7 b) for the output of the MED. If in step 705, S_tapIf the value is not HIGH, the switch controller checks S in step 707_tapWhether the value is MED. If so, the switch controller 234 will S at step 708_tapThe value changes to equal LOW causing the switch member 282 to move to the LOW position (as shown in fig. 7 c). If the controller 234 determines S in step 707_tapNot MED, the method returns in step 709 to the delay in step 702.

Similarly, referring again to step 704, if V is determined_refIf the value is not its lowest value, the method proceeds to step 710 and checks the reference voltage V_refWhether its highest value has been reached. The highest value is a predetermined value. If not, the method proceeds to step 711, which returns the method to step 702. If the reference voltage has reached its highest value, the method proceeds to step 712. In step 712, the method determines a switch control signal S_tapWhether it is LOW. If so, the method proceeds to step 713, where the switch controller 234 outputs the MED switch control signal, S_tapMED. After step 713, the method returns to step 702.

If the switch controller 234 determines no (no) at step 712, i.e., S_tapNot equal to LOW, the method proceeds to step 714 where the controller checks if S is not equal_tapMED. If not, the method proceeds to step 715 and returns to the beginning step 702. If at step 714, S_tapIf MED is yes, i.e., a positive (yes) determination, the method proceeds to step 716 where the switch controller outputs S_tapHIGH output to move the switch member 282 to the HIGH position (as shown in fig. 7 a). The method returns to step 702.

The method described above and with respect to fig. 8 is repeated continuously during operation. The method may be repeated at any suitable time period, for example every few milliseconds or every few seconds. The repetition of the method may be predetermined according to the desired speed control level in the thermostat 200 and thermostat 100. Alternatively, the method may be performed and repeated in real time.

The speed of multi-speed motor 152 is determined by the magnitude of the voltage received by the stator. As described previously, the motor driver 220 provides the driving voltage based on the reference voltage from the speed controller. In a thermostat device according to the present disclosure, the position of the switch member 282 further affects the drive voltage. The drive voltage is affected depending on whether the switch member 282 is in the LOW, MED or HIGH position. Speed controller 230 is a component that affects the speed of motor 152 in that speed controller 230 generates a reference signal that includes a reference voltage, and speed controller 230 also generates a switch control signal to control the position of the switch. The reference signal and the switch control signal are generated based on at least a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed.

Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a switch assembly 280. The switch assembly 280 includes a movable switch member 282. Fig. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a switch assembly 280 in which the movable switch member comprises a pair of relays. In the illustrated embodiment, the switch member 282 includes a pair of single pole, double throw relays 284, 286. For a multi-speed motor comprising N speed windings, an (N-1) speed single pole double throw relay may be used. Fig. 9 also shows a switch assembly 280 that includes a relay controller 288 that controls the operation of each of the

relays

284, 286. The relay controller outputs a first relay control signal S1 and a second relay controller signal S2. The relay controller 288 may be a software-based controller, or may be a digital electronic-based or analog electronic-based controller. The relay controller 288 includes a truth table that defines the switching relationships of the first and

second relays

284, 286. Relay controller 288 receives switch control signal S based on the truth table_tapThe control signals are provided to a first relay 284 and a second relay 286.

Referring to fig. 9, each relay 284,286 includes a member movable between a first position (a) and a second position (B). Each relay control signal S1, S2 includes information about the position at which the members of each relay need to be moved. The truth table controls the operation of the relay according to the switch control signal information.

Fig. 10 shows a truth table implemented in the relay controller 288. The truth table may be stored in a memory unit associated with the relay controller 288 and controls the operation of the relay controller 288. As shown in fig. 9 and 10. When the switch control signal received by the relay controller 288 is HIGH (i.e., S)_tapHIGH), the first relay signal (S1) is output as a. The first relay moves to the a position, which corresponds to the switching member being in the HIGH position. This allows motor driver output 220 to be directly connected to the stator as shown in fig. 7 a. If the switch control signal is MED (i.e. S)_tapMED), the first relay signal (S1) is output as B, and the second relay signal (S2) is output as a. The first relay member is moved to the second position and the second relay member is moved to the first position, which corresponds to the switch member being in the MED position. This connects the motor drive 220 output to a medium impedance Z_medAnd a stator, as shown in fig. 7 b. If the switch control signal is LOW (i.e. S)_tapLOW), the first relay signal (S1) is output as B, and the second relay signal (S2) is also output as B. The first relay member and the second relay member are in a second position corresponding to the switch member being in the low position. This connects the output of motor drive 220 to the low impedance, medium impedance and stator as shown in fig. 7 c.

A thermostat apparatus as described herein, which includes a speed controller 230 and a switch assembly 280, is advantageous because it widens or expands the range of rotational speeds achievable by a multi-speed motor. As explained previously in prior art thermostats, discrete speed selection of the motor is possible, e.g. only high, medium and low. This is possible because the motor is composed of three windings. The prior art thermostat acts as a switch connecting the main source voltage/power to the specific speed winding. Temperature regulation in prior art thermostats relies primarily on control of the heat exchanger rather than on the speed of the fan. The fan speed control is a user selected speed.

The present invention and thermostat assembly 200 are advantageous because it is an active line thermostat and controls the speed of the motor through a motor driver and speed controller. The motor drive directly varies the power supply to the multi-speed motor 152, thus providing greater flexibility in speed selection. The motor drive functions like a variable output impedance device, which is more versatile and more flexible. In addition, the use of the voltage divider 153 (i.e., speed winding) allows for further control of the voltage supplied by the motor driver. The thermostat assembly 200 and the temperature regulation system regulate the temperature of the space by controlling the operation of the valves and the fan speed. The thermostat device 200 and the temperature adjustment system 100 may be set in an automatic mode in which the temperature of the space may be automatically adjusted. In the automatic mode, the user cannot set the fan speed. The thermostat assembly 200 and the temperature regulation system may be operated in a manual mode, and the user may select the fan speed via the user interface 202. For example, high speed corresponds to 100% speed, medium speed corresponds to 77% fan speed and low speed corresponds to 60% speed. The user may customize the speed rating, for example, the low speed may be as low as 40% of the maximum speed. In the manual mode, the motor driver outputs a drive voltage based on the user's input and also controls the switch assembly 280 based on the user's input. The automatic mode is the preferred mode of operation for temperature regulation.

As previously described, the speed sensor 240 comprises a tachometer or any other suitable sensor that determines the rotational speed of the motor (i.e., the rotor or fan). The speed sensor 240 includes a lookup table that correlates motor speed ω to supply voltage (V) and supply frequency (f). The supply voltage and supply frequency are provided by motor driver 220.

The created lookup table may be stored in the speed controller 230 or in the motor driver 220. The look-up table may alternatively be stored in a memory unit in communication with either the speed controller 230 or the motor drive 220. The look-up table is created during the speed sensor calibration process. Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a calibration method. The calibration method 300 shown in fig. 11 is a calibration method involving a tachometer speed sensor. The method is performed by the speed sensor 240.

Referring to fig. 11, the method begins at step 302, where calibration is initialized. The user may initiate the calibration method through the user interface 202. Optionally, the speed controller or motor drive or some other suitable component in the thermostat device 200 is configured to initiate the calibration process during start-up.

At step 304, the set point of motor drive 220 is set to a maximum value. At step 304, the speed controller 230 is configured to provide a reference signal comprising a maximum reference voltage and a maximum reference frequency. Thus, motor driver 220 generates a drive signal that includes a maximum voltage and a maximum frequency.

At step 306, a speed sensor 240 (in this example, a tachometer) is configured to sense the rotational speed of the motor (i.e., the rotor or fan). At step 308, a lookup table is created by the speed controller or the motor drive. In step 308, the drive voltage value, the drive current value, and the drive frequency value associated with the measured rotation speed are stored in a table. The drive voltage, drive current and drive frequency are stored in such a way that they are correlated and correlated with the measured rotational speed.

At step 310, the reference signal (i.e., the reference voltage and the reference frequency) is decremented. This results in a corresponding decrement of the drive signal, i.e. the drive voltage and/or the drive frequency. The decreasing parameter is based on the mode of the motor driver 220. At step 312, a check is performed whether the setpoint is greater than a minimum threshold. The check may be performed by the speed controller 230 or the motor driver 220. If the reference signal value and/or the drive signal value is less than the minimum threshold, the calibration process is complete, as shown in step 314. The thermostat device 200 resumes normal operation. If the reference signal value and/or the drive signal value is greater than the minimum threshold value, the method proceeds to step 316 where the drive signal is transmitted to the motor 152 and the method waits until the motor 152 reaches a steady state. Once steady state is reached, the method proceeds to repeat steps 306 to 312 until the calibration method is complete. The minimum threshold is different for each mode of the motor drive. The following table illustrates examples of ratios of maximum (Max) drive voltage and frequency, minimum threshold (Min) and decreasing Step size (Step-size). These values are expressed as nominal voltages V_NAnd frequency f_NThe ratio of (a) to (b). In the thermostat device 200, since the motor driver functions in the VVCF mode, only the voltage is increased. See table below:

as will be understood by those skilled in the art, these values in the table above are example values. There may be other values depending on some extrinsic factor, such as the specification of the motor or the required resolution of the table. For example, the motor may be below V_N50 percent ofOr below f_NThe low speed driving is performed at a frequency of 50%. If a higher resolution is preferred, the step size can be reduced, for example to 1%.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of a method 400 of regulating a temperature of a space using a temperature regulation system including a thermostat assembly in electronic communication with a multi-speed motor. The method 400 includes a step 402 of initializing the system 100. At step 404, the temperature of the space is sampled using a temperature sensor. At step 406, the temperature controller 250 is activated. Temperature controller 250 functions as previously described to generate reference speed ω_refAnd transmits the reference speed to the speed controller 230. Temperature controller 250 may alternatively or in combination with the generated reference velocity, temperature controller 250 also generating an actuation signal S_valveTo open or close the valve 170. At step 408, the speed sensor determines the measured motor speed and provides the measured motor speed ω to the speed controller 230. The speed controller 230 generates a reference signal including a reference voltage and a reference frequency and provides the reference signal to the motor driver 220 at step 410. At step 412, the motor driver is adjusted to generate the appropriate drive signals, including the drive voltage to control the motor 152. At step 414, the switching assembly 280 is controlled by a switching control signal provided by the speed controller 230. The speed controller 230 generates and transmits a switching control signal based on a difference between the measured speed and the reference speed. The switch is between the HIGH, MED or LOW positions depending on the desired motor speed. Step 404 and 414 are repeated to control the temperature in the space.

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of a method 500 of regulating a temperature of a space using a temperature regulation system including a thermostat assembly in electronic communication with a multi-speed motor, wherein the method includes the steps of: at step 502, a measured temperature is received from a temperature sensor and at step 504 a reference temperature is received from a user. Step 506 includes determining a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature. Step 508 includes determining a reference speed based on a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature. Step 510 includes determining a measured speed of the multi-speed motor from the speed sensor 240. Step 512 includes determining a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed. Step 514 includes generating, by the speed controller 230, a reference signal based on a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed. Step 516 includes generating a drive signal based on the reference signal. At step 518, a switch control signal is generated and transmitted to the switch assembly 280. The speed controller 230 preferably generates a switch control signal, but alternatively this may be generated by a motor driver. Finally, step 520 includes transmitting a drive signal to the multi-speed motor to drive the multi-speed motor. The method depicted in fig. 14 is preferably implemented by the thermostat device 200 and its components. The method 500 causes an adjustment of the temperature of the space. The method 500 also continuously controls the motor and continuously adjusts the drive signal (i.e., drive voltage and/or drive frequency) to the motor to provide improved or better motor control and improved temperature control. The method 500 may be repeated by the thermostat device 200.

The thermostat assembly 200 is advantageous because the use of the switch assembly expands or expands the range of rotational speeds of the multi-speed motor. By using an integrated or internal voltage divider 153 in the motor, the power rating of any passive components is reduced to handle the full power level of the motor. The power rating requirements of the motor drive can be reduced by using a voltage divider 153, which voltage divider 153 can also result in a smaller thermostat assembly 200. The speed of rotation of the multi-speed motor 152 is infinitely adjustable by varying the drive voltage and the position of the switch member 282. This increases the versatility of the airflow provided to the space and allows for improved temperature control of the space. The connection of the thermostat assembly 200 (i.e., the active line thermostat) is compatible with conventional prior art thermostats.

The thermostat device 200 allows additional functional modes of the temperature regulation system 100. The temperature regulation system 100 may operate in a pre-cooling mode or a fresh air mode. In the pre-cooling mode, the fan speed is lower than the conventional low speed, about 50% of full speed. In this mode, the valve remains in the open position to cool the air passing through the passage 120. The main purpose of this mode is to slowly cool the room and prevent excessive energy being wasted.

In fresh wind mode, the fan speed is also lower than the conventional low speed, e.g., about 50% of full speed. Valve 170 is closed to prevent cold water from entering heat exchanger 130. The purpose of this mode is to maintain a minimum airflow to provide ventilation. In the normal automatic mode, the thermostat device 200 may function as previously described.

In an alternative embodiment, the heat exchanger 130 comprises a plate heat exchanger comprising a plurality of plates positioned adjacent to each other. In another alternative, the heat exchanger may be a plate and shell heat exchanger, or a phase change or microchannel heat exchanger, or a direct contact or transfer heat exchanger, or any other suitable heat exchanger that may be used to cool air passing through the channels 120.

In an alternative embodiment, the heat exchange material is a coolant, such as a hydraulic fluid. The heat exchange material may comprise a fluid or a gas or liquid coolant. The heat exchange material is preferably a fluid that is cooler than the operating temperature range of the room. The heat exchange material is configured to cool air flowing through the heat exchanger. In another alternative embodiment, the heat exchange material may be a hot fluid or gas configured to heat air flowing through the heat exchanger.

In an alternative embodiment, the valve 170 is a proportional valve. The proportional valve includes a movable member that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The movable member may also be movable between any intermediate position between the open and closed positions such that the movable member may be partially opened. The proportioning valve allows any suitable or predetermined volume of heat exchange material to be delivered to the heat exchanger. The actuation signal generated by the temperature controller includes position information of the movable member. The actuation signal moves the movable member to a predetermined position between the fully open position and the fully closed position. The position information of the valve member is related to a temperature difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature. The position information of the valve member may be predetermined and stored in a look-up table. The temperature controller is configured to generate an actuation signal having appropriate valve member position information based on a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature. The temperature controller is configured to select valve member position information from a look-up table and encode it as an actuation signal.

In another alternative embodiment, the valve 170 may be any other suitable electronically activated valve, such as an electromechanical check valve or an electromechanical butterfly valve, or any other type of electronically activated or controllable valve. In an alternative embodiment, the temperature regulation system 100 may include a plurality of valves between the reservoir and the heat exchanger.

In an alternative embodiment, the fan assembly includes a fan, a linear motor, and a crank assembly. The linear motor is connected to the fan through a crank assembly to drive the fan in a rotational or spinning motion. A linear motor may be used instead of a standard rotary motor because the linear motor may be smaller or more easily controlled. In this alternative embodiment, the fan assembly may also include a linear "fan" in the form of a piston or plunger driven by an electric motor. A linear piston or plunger applies pressure to the air flow to push the cool air out of the outlet duct 112.

In an alternative embodiment, speed sensor 240 is configured to determine or predict a measured speed (i.e., motor speed) based on the back emf generated by multi-speed motor 152. Due to mechanical inertia in the motor 152 and fan 154, the rotor of the motor continues to rotate for several cycles and produces a back emf that can be detected. Fig. 14 shows a graph of the back electromotive force (i.e., the back voltage) generated by the motor 152. The speed sensor 240 includes a zero-crossing detector configured to detect zero-crossing points of the back emf signal. As shown in fig. 14, the square wave pulse is generated during the zero crossing point. The period of the back emf is equal to the duration between two consecutive rising edge signals. The rotational speed can be estimated using the following formula:

ω_m≈ω

ω_mis the mechanical rotational speed of the rotor in rad s^-1，

t_bIs the measurement period of the back emf in units of s,

p is the number of motor pole pairs.

The speed sensor 240 is configured to generate a measured speed using the above formula. The speed sensor 240 generates a signal that includes information indicative of the speed of the motor. The speed estimated using the back electromotive force method is the rotation speed of the motor 152. For back emf speed detection, the speed sensor 240 may be calibrated using a method similar to that described in fig. 11. The calibration method comprises the following steps: calibration is initiated and the reference signals (reference voltage and reference frequency) are adjusted to a maximum value. After that, any power supply to the motor is turned off, so that the motor functions as a generator that generates a counter electromotive force. The rotational speed of the motor is estimated using the above formula, which relates speed to the period of back emf. A look-up table is created that correlates drive voltage, drive current and drive frequency to rotational speed. The reference voltage and the reference frequency are decreased in steps, thereby decreasing the driving voltage and the driving frequency. The calibration method checks whether the reference voltage and/or the reference frequency is less than a minimum threshold. If not, the calibration process ends once a certain number of decrements have occurred. If so, a drive signal is provided to the motor and the system waits until the motor returns to a steady state and then repeats the process. Other calibration methods are also contemplated.

In another alternative, the voltage divider 153 may be incorporated into the thermostat assembly rather than being part of the motor. The voltage divider 153 may include an inductor or resistor or any other suitable electrical component and may be positioned in the thermostat housing 260. The voltage divider 153 will be connected to the drive winding of the motor. As previously described, the voltage divider 153 allows for improved speed control. In another alternative embodiment, the motor drive and the speed controller may be integrated with each other. The thermostat assembly may include a single controller that includes the functions of the speed controller 230 and the motor driver 220.

In the foregoing description, the components of the thermostat assembly and any subcomponents such as comparators, generators, controllers, etc. may be implemented with analog electronic components such as resistors, inductors, capacitors, operational amplifiers, MOSFETs, transistors, etc. Alternatively, the thermostat assembly and any subcomponents such as comparators, generators, controllers, etc. may be implemented with digital electronic components such as logic gates. In another alternative, some or all of these components may be implemented as software modules stored in a memory unit and executed by a hardware processor residing in a thermostat device housing. The thermostat device may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a memory unit, that includes computer-readable instructions executable by a processor.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and/or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups, or combinations thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups, or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all possible combinations or one or more of the associated listed items, as well as combinations that are lacking when interpreted in the alternative ("or").

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the specification and claims and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense. Unless explicitly defined herein. Well-known functions or constructions may not be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on," "attached," "connected," "coupled," "in contact with," etc., another element, it can be directly on, connected, coupled, and/or in contact with the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being, for example, "directly on," "directly attached," "directly connected," "directly coupled," or "directly contacting" another element, there are no intervening elements present. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that references to a structure or feature that is disposed "adjacent" another feature may have portions that overlap or underlie the adjacent feature.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A thermostat device for use with or as part of a temperature regulation system that includes at least a multi-speed motor coupled to a fan, wherein the thermostat device comprises:

a motor driver electrically coupled to a power source and configured to receive a power source signal from the power source,

a switch assembly disposed between the motor driver and the multi-speed motor, the switch assembly electrically coupled to the motor driver and electrically coupled to a voltage divider, wherein the voltage divider is electrically coupled to the multi-speed motor,

the reference speed is based on a difference between the measured temperature and a reference temperature, the reference temperature being set by a user,

the motor driver configured to generate a drive signal based on the received reference signal, the motor driver further configured to transmit the drive signal to the multi-speed motor via the switch assembly,

2. The thermostat device of claim 1, wherein the drive signal provided to the multi-speed motor comprises a drive voltage and a drive frequency, the reference signal comprises a reference voltage and a reference frequency, and wherein the drive voltage is adjusted based on the reference voltage.

3. The thermostat device of claim 2, wherein a speed of the multi-speed motor is based on the drive voltage and a connection between the switch assembly and one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider.

4. A thermostat device according to claim 1 wherein the speed controller includes a comparator configured to determine a speed error, wherein the speed error is a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed, and the speed controller is configured to generate the reference signal based on the speed error.

5. The thermostat device of claim 1, wherein the speed controller includes a reference signal generator configured to generate a reference signal based on the speed error, the reference signal generator generating a reference voltage and a reference frequency, the reference frequency being a nominal frequency.

6. A thermostat device according to claim 1, wherein the speed controller comprises a switch controller configured to generate the switch control signal based on a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed and/or the reference signal.

7. The thermostat device of claim 2, wherein the voltage divider comprises one or more impedances and the plurality of connections, each connection corresponding to one of the impedances.

8. The thermostat device of claim 7, wherein the voltage divider includes three impedances and three connections, one corresponding to each of the impedances, and wherein the impedances are inductors or resistors or windings of the multi-speed motor.

9. A thermostat device according to claim 7 wherein one of the connections is associated with a high supply voltage, one connection is associated with a medium supply voltage, and one connection is associated with a low supply voltage, the switch assembly including an electrically actuated movable member connectable to one of the high supply voltage connection, the medium supply voltage connection, or the low supply voltage connection based on the switch control signal.

10. The thermostat device of claim 9, wherein the voltage divider affects the drive voltage based on a position of the movable member of the switch,

wherein in the medium supply voltage connection the switch assembly couples the motor drive to the multi-speed motor through more impedance than the high supply voltage connection, but below the low supply voltage connection, and;

11. The thermostat device of claim 1, wherein the switch assembly includes a plurality of double throw relays equal to one less than a number of impedances in the voltage divider or one less than a number of windings of the multi-speed motor in the switch assembly.

12. The thermostat device of claim 11, wherein the switch assembly comprises a relay controller configured to generate and send a relay control signal to each of the plurality of double throw relays to actuate the relay between a first position and a second position, the relay control signal being generated based on a switch control signal.

13. A thermostat device according to claim 1 wherein the thermostat device includes a speed sensor in electronic communication with the speed controller, the speed sensor configured to determine and transmit a measured speed to the speed controller, and wherein the measured speed corresponds to a motor speed, wherein the speed sensor is a tachometer configured to measure an instantaneous motor speed.

14. A thermostat device according to claim 1, wherein the thermostat device further comprises a temperature controller configured to generate the reference speed and transmit the reference speed to the speed controller, wherein the reference speed is generated based on a difference between a reference temperature and a measured temperature,

wherein the temperature controller is adapted to receive a reference temperature from a user interface, the temperature controller further adapted to receive a measured temperature from a temperature sensor, the measured temperature being related to the temperature of the space,

15. A temperature conditioning system for conditioning a temperature of a space, the temperature conditioning system comprising:

the thermostat device further includes:

16. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the temperature regulation system further comprises

A reservoir adapted to contain a heat exchange material,

a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the reservoir, wherein the heat exchanger is adapted to receive the heat exchange material from the reservoir,

a valve located between the heat exchanger and the reservoir, the valve being selectively movable between an open position in which the valve allows passage of the heat exchange material from the reservoir to the heat exchanger and a closed position in which the valve prevents passage of the heat exchange material from the reservoir to the heat exchanger,

a temperature sensor located within the space and configured to measure the temperature of the space to produce a measured temperature, the temperature sensor in electronic communication with the thermostat device to transmit the measured temperature to the thermostat device,

17. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the drive signal provided to the multi-speed motor comprises a drive voltage and a drive frequency, the reference signal comprises a reference voltage and a reference frequency, and wherein the drive voltage is adjusted based on the reference voltage, and wherein a speed of the multi-speed motor is based on the drive voltage and a connection between the switch assembly and one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider.

18. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the speed controller comprises a comparator configured to determine a speed error, wherein the speed error is a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed, and the speed controller is configured to generate the reference signal based on the speed error,

19. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the speed controller comprises a switch controller configured to generate the switch control signal based on a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed and/or the reference signal.

20. The temperature regulation system of claim 17, wherein the voltage divider comprises one or more impedances and the plurality of connections, each connection corresponding to one of the impedances.

21. The temperature adjustment system of claim 20, wherein the voltage divider comprises three impedances and three connections, one corresponding to each of the impedances, and wherein the impedances are inductors or resistors or windings of the multi-speed motor.

22. The temperature regulation system of claim 20, wherein one of the connections is associated with a high supply voltage, one connection is associated with a medium supply voltage, and one connection is associated with a low supply voltage, the switch assembly comprising an electrically actuated movable member connectable to one of the high supply voltage connection, the medium supply voltage connection, or the low supply voltage connection based on the switch control signal.

23. The temperature adjustment system of claim 22, wherein the voltage divider affects the drive voltage based on a position of the movable member of the switch,

24. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the switch assembly comprises a plurality of double throw relays equal to one less than the number of impedances in the voltage divider or one less than the number of windings of the multi-speed motor in number in the switch assembly.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the switch assembly comprises a relay controller configured to generate and send a relay control signal to each of the plurality of double throw relays to actuate the relay between a first position and a second position, the relay control signal generated based on a switch control signal.

26. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the thermostat device comprises a speed sensor in electronic communication with the speed controller, the speed sensor configured to determine and transmit a measured speed to the speed controller, and wherein the measured speed corresponds to a motor speed, wherein the speed sensor is a tachometer configured to measure an instantaneous motor speed.

27. The temperature regulation system of claim 15, wherein the thermostat device further comprises a temperature controller configured to generate the reference speed and transmit the reference speed to the speed controller, wherein the reference speed is generated based on a difference between a reference temperature and a measured temperature,

28. A method of conditioning the temperature of a space using the temperature conditioning system of claim 15, comprising the steps of:

a measured temperature is received from the temperature sensor,

receiving a reference temperature

Determining a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature,

determining a reference speed based on a difference between the reference temperature and the measured temperature,

determining a measured speed of the multi-speed motor from a speed sensor,

determining a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed,

generating a reference signal based on a difference between the reference speed and the measured speed,

generating a drive signal based on the reference signal,

generating and transmitting a switch control signal to a switch assembly, the switch control signal causing the switch assembly to be connected to one of the plurality of connections of the voltage divider,

transmitting the drive signal to the multi-speed motor through the switch assembly.