HVAC unit identification device and method

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#FIG. 1 is a plan view, showing a typical setup of a prior art split HVAC system.

#FIG. 2 is a schematic view, showing a prior art split HVAC system using a heat pump cycle.

#FIG. 3 is a schematic view, showing a prior art split HVAC system using a standard refrigeration cycle used for cooling-only.

#The present invention uses an electrical or electromechanical device, such as a time delayed relay driven by a fixed voltage, to pulse the control lines of an HVAC unit. The pulse generating device may be referred to as a “pulse generator.” FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a prior art split HVAC system in a dwelling 10. This is a typical setup for an HVAC system found in a home or apartment. The split system has an inside unit 12 and an outside unit 14 that may sit behind or on top of the dwelling 10.

#The preferred embodiment of the present invention is attached to the thermostat 22. It pulses the control lines 20. These lines lead to control circuit 18 contained within inside unit 12. Control lines 20 then run from inside dwelling 10 to outside unit 14, activating the correct mechanism as described in the succeeding text.

#For the case of a heat pump HVAC system, the inventive device pulses the control line for the reversing valve. FIG. 2 shows a schematic of the refrigeration cycle of a heat pump that contains indoor unit 12 and outdoor unit 14. This is a split system where refrigerant lines 16 run between the two units. As indicated by FIG. 2, the outdoor unit 14 contains compressor 26, reversing valve 28, outside coil 30 and outside fan 32. There are refrigerant lines 16 running throughout the system, which transport refrigerant (in different states of matter) to the necessary components of the system.