Modern HVAC systems in commercial buildings typically operate on fixed schedules or basic motion detection, leading to inefficient temperature control that wastes up to 30% of heating and cooling energy. Current systems struggle to account for varying occupancy patterns, resulting in temperature inconsistencies that affect both comfort and energy consumption across different zones.

The fundamental challenge lies in accurately detecting and responding to real-time occupancy changes while maintaining consistent comfort levels without compromising system efficiency.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including thermal imaging-based detection systems, dynamic airflow control mechanisms, integrated sensor networks, and machine learning approaches for occupancy prediction. These and other approaches focus on practical implementation strategies that building managers can use to optimize HVAC performance while reducing energy consumption.

1. Occupancy Detection System with Thermal Imaging and Body Counting for Dynamic Temperature Adjustment

VENTAIRGE LTD, 2024

Occupancy-driven heating and cooling system that dynamically adjusts temperature based on occupancy patterns, incorporating advanced sensing technologies like thermal imaging and body counting. The system employs a unified occupancy detection and sex-occupancy analysis approach, enabling precise temperature control tailored to individual occupancy profiles. This approach eliminates traditional occupancy-based temperature control, instead leveraging real-time body detection to optimize heating and cooling distribution. The system integrates with existing building infrastructure, providing automated temperature management that adapts to changing occupancy patterns without manual intervention.

2. Air Conditioning System with Dynamic Airflow Control Using Temperature Gradient and Occupant Position Sensors

MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORP, 2024

Air conditioning system that dynamically controls airflow to maintain comfortable temperatures while preventing cold spots. The system incorporates temperature difference sensors to detect temperature gradients across the space, and position sensors to track occupant movement. When the space temperature difference exceeds a threshold, the system automatically directs warm air towards the feet of occupants to prevent cold spots. This intelligent airflow management system ensures consistent comfort while maintaining the desired temperature range.

3. Building System Control via Movement-Based Occupancy Detection Without Human Proxies

Ivany LLC, IVANI LLC, 2022

Building system control using occupancy detection enables machine-initiated actions without requiring human interaction. The system detects occupancy by monitoring movement patterns in spaces within the building, rather than relying on reference elements like smartphones. It tracks human and machine movement through detection of their presence in spaces, enabling automatic system control without requiring a human proxy. The system adapts its actions based on occupancy status, allowing machines to take control of building systems when humans are present.

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4. Thermostat Circuit with Integrated Infrared Sensing, Temperature Detection, and Gesture Recognition for Automated Environmental Control

GUANGDONG SAVEKEY TECHNOLOGY CO LTD, 广东思万奇科技有限公司, 2021

Thermostat circuit that enables smart home automation through body-sensing technology. The circuit integrates infrared sensing, temperature detection, and gesture recognition to automatically control heating and cooling systems based on occupants' presence. The system employs infrared transmitters and receivers, a temperature detection module, and gesture recognition capabilities to detect body heat and movement. When someone enters a space, the system automatically activates the heating or cooling system. The system also includes a communication module for wireless communication between devices and a display module for visual feedback.

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5. Building Management System with Integrated Occupancy and Environmental Sensor-Controlled HVAC Adjustments

HELVAR OY AB, 2021

Building management system that optimizes HVAC performance through occupancy-based control. The system integrates occupancy sensors with environmental sensors to monitor building conditions, then applies occupancy-dependent control actions to the HVAC system. The system continuously monitors and adapts to occupancy patterns, automatically adjusting ventilation rates and other parameters to maintain optimal indoor air quality and thermal comfort. This occupancy-driven approach eliminates the need for traditional occupancy-based controls and enables more efficient HVAC operation.

6. Zone Heating and Ventilation Control System with Occupancy-Responsive Parameter Monitoring

ELECTRICITE DE FRANCE, 2021

A system and device for optimizing heating and ventilation in a zone by coordinating the actions of a heating device and an air renewal device. The system monitors parameters like CO2 level, temperature, and humidity to detect if a person is present in the zone. If absence is determined, it reduces heating and increases ventilation. If presence is detected, it increases heating and reduces ventilation. This coordinated response optimizes comfort and energy efficiency based on occupancy.

7. Active Cooling Control System with Infrared Thermal Imaging and User Presence Detection

HANNAM UNIVERSITY INSTITUTE FOR INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA COOPERATION, Hannam University Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation, 2021

Active cooling control system that optimizes cooling based on thermal imaging and user behavior. The system employs an infrared thermal imaging camera to detect users' body heat, determining whether a user is present in the space. When a user is detected, the system sets the cooling target position and temperature based on the user's thermal signature, with cooling output adjusted to maintain optimal temperature balance. The system continuously monitors user presence and adjusts cooling parameters accordingly, ensuring consistent temperature control while maintaining energy efficiency.

8. HVAC System with Occupancy-Linked Sensor and Device Mapping for Adaptive Operation

HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC, 2021

Operating HVAC systems using occupancy sensing systems to provide more informed HVAC operation. The system uses a mapping between spaces, occupancy sensors, and HVAC devices to modify HVAC operations based on occupancy. The mapping provides contextual information about which devices govern comfort in which spaces. The system uses this information to modify HVAC operations to provide human comfort and save resources.

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9. Smart Thermostat with Integrated HVAC-Driven Dehumidification and Multi-Sensor Control System

GOOGLE LLC, 2021

Smart thermostat with advanced dehumidification capabilities that optimize indoor air quality while minimizing energy consumption. The thermostat employs a novel approach to dehumidification by leveraging the cooling function of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to remove moisture from enclosed spaces. When the thermostat detects high humidity levels, it activates the cooling function to maintain optimal humidity conditions. This approach enables continuous dehumidification during both occupied and unoccupied periods, eliminating the need for separate dehumidifiers. The thermostat integrates advanced sensing and control capabilities, including occupancy detection, temperature monitoring, and humidity measurement, to optimize dehumidification performance.

10. Indoor Environment Control System with Machine Vision-Based Occupancy Tracking and Smart Seating Sensors

CHINA RAILWAY CONSTR GROUP CO, 2021

Indoor environment control system that optimizes HVAC system performance through real-time monitoring of occupants and their seating arrangements. The system employs machine vision cameras above doorways to track occupancy patterns, while edge computing controllers process this data to accurately predict cooling load. When the system detects changes in occupant movement, it rapidly adjusts the HVAC system to maintain optimal temperature conditions. The system incorporates smart seating with built-in sensors that monitor occupant presence and position, enabling precise air supply targeting. This integrated approach ensures rapid response to changes in occupancy patterns while maintaining optimal indoor air quality.

11. Multi-Touch Thermostat with Proxy Sensor-Driven Occupancy Detection for HVAC Control

JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY CO, 2020

Improving HVAC control in buildings with multi-function, multi-touch thermostats that accurately respond to changes in occupancy. The thermostat uses proxy sensors like CO2, cameras, mics, or gas levels to detect occupancy faster than temperature sensors. When occupancy increases, it lowers the temperature setpoint proactively before measured temp rises. This prevents discomfort during sudden occupant surges.

12. HVAC Control System with Occupant Activity-Based Dynamic Temperature Adjustment

NIKO NV, 2020

HVAC control system that dynamically adjusts temperature based on occupant activity. The system integrates activity detection with temperature control, enabling automatic temperature adjustments when occupants are present versus when they are not. The system maintains a balance between comfort levels, automatically transitioning between activity-based temperature settings when occupants engage in high activity and low activity states. This approach enables energy efficiency while maintaining occupant comfort.

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13. HVAC System with Occupancy-Responsive Dynamic Airflow Adjustment Using Zone-Specific Sensors

JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY CO, 2019

HVAC system that dynamically adjusts airflow based on occupancy patterns. The system employs occupancy sensors to detect occupancy in zones, then uses this information to determine airflow rates. When occupancy is not present, the system adjusts airflow to maintain target conditions. When occupancy is detected, the system increases airflow to maintain target conditions. This adaptive control approach enables more precise airflow management by directly accounting for occupancy patterns rather than relying on traditional setpoint-based control.

14. System for Dynamic Adjustment of Temperature Setpoints Based on Integrated Occupancy Monitoring

ECOFACTOR INC, 2019

A system that optimizes heating and cooling by dynamically adjusting setpoints based on occupancy patterns. The system integrates with thermostats and electronic devices to monitor occupancy through user interfaces, and automatically adjusts setpoints between occupied and unoccupied states. This allows users to save energy while maintaining optimal comfort levels, without the need for complex programming or additional hardware. The system continuously monitors device activity and adjusts setpoints based on user interactions, enabling energy savings through optimized temperature settings.

15. Air Conditioner with Dynamic Environmental and Occupancy-Based Adjustment System

Zhou Rui, ZHOU RUI, 2019

An intelligent air conditioner that dynamically adjusts its operation based on environmental conditions and occupant presence. The system integrates with smart home systems to continuously monitor indoor temperature and occupancy, then automatically adjusts the air conditioner's temperature and mode to optimize energy efficiency. This intelligent control enables optimal performance during both indoor and outdoor conditions, while also promoting energy conservation.

16. Temperature Setpoint Adjustment Method Using Activity-Level-Based Corrective Factor for HVAC Systems

GROUPE ATLANTIC ORLEANS, 2019

Regulating heating and cooling systems based on occupant activity levels to improve comfort and energy efficiency. The method involves adding a corrective factor to the temperature setpoint based on activity levels detected by a sensor. Lower activity levels have a zero correction, medium levels add 0.5°C, and higher levels subtract 1°C. This compensates for occupant heat gains and provides a more accurate setpoint.

17. Dynamic Temperature Regulation Method for Air Conditioners Using Human Body Thermal Profiling and Sensor Integration

HUI ZHONG-ZHOU, 2018

Intelligent temperature regulation method for air conditioners that dynamically adjusts heating and cooling temperatures based on human body thermal profiles. The method employs a human body sensor to detect presence and an infrared temperature sensor to monitor body temperature distribution. It then adjusts heating and cooling targets and speeds based on the minimum and maximum body temperatures, ensuring optimal thermal comfort. The system automatically turns off when no occupants are detected.

18. Air-Conditioning Control Apparatus with Adaptive Infrared Sensor Scanning Modes

PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD, 2018

Air-conditioning control apparatus that optimizes temperature sensing and control through adaptive scanning strategies. The apparatus employs infrared sensors to monitor occupant temperature distribution, with scanning modes dynamically switching between high-speed and low-speed modes to balance resolution and scanning efficiency. The system adapts scanning parameters based on occupant presence and thermal requirements, enabling more accurate temperature mapping while minimizing scanning time. This approach enables enhanced thermal sensing capabilities without compromising control performance.

19. Passenger Cabin Temperature Regulation System with Occupant Detection and Automated Thermal Adjustment Mechanism

Mehmet Bektas, 2018

A passenger cabin temperature safety system that monitors both the presence of living beings and maintains optimal cabin temperature. The system comprises a person-recognizing sensor and a temperature control device, enabling the detection of both occupants and cabin temperature while automatically adjusting the temperature to prevent overheating.

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20. Air Conditioning System with Infrared-Based Non-Invasive Temperature Detection and Dynamic Control Mechanism

PANASONIC IP MANAGEMENT CO LTD, 2017

Air conditioning system that accurately monitors and controls occupant comfort through non-invasive temperature detection. The system employs infrared sensors to measure occupant temperature distribution, which is then analyzed by a processing unit to estimate occupant comfort levels. This temperature-based feedback is used to dynamically control the air conditioning system, ensuring optimal temperature conditions for occupants.

21. Thermostat with AI-Driven Dynamic Zone Control and Occupancy Sensing Integration

JOHNSON CONTROLS TECHNOLOGY CO, 2017

A multi-function thermostat that enables dynamic zone control through advanced occupancy sensing and AI-driven zone management. The thermostat integrates with building management systems to monitor occupancy patterns across zones, then dynamically adjusts HVAC zones based on occupant movement. It incorporates voice biometrics for occupant identification, enabling personalized zone control. The thermostat can also receive preferences from the building management system, allowing occupants to override zone assignments. This intelligent zone management system enables optimized HVAC operation across multiple zones while maintaining occupant comfort.

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22. Air Conditioning Control Device with Thermopile Sensor-Based Spatial Temperature Mapping and Person Discrimination Unit

AZBIL CORP, 2016

Air conditioning control device that dynamically adapts to occupant preferences through spatial temperature mapping. The device employs multiple thermopile sensors to capture temperature distribution in a target space, which are then analyzed using a person discrimination unit to identify temperature differences between human and non-human body parts. The temperature difference is used to control the air conditioning system, enabling personalized temperature adjustments based on occupant preferences.

23. System for Environmental Parameter Regulation via Real-Time Skin Temperature Monitoring and Adaptive Control Signals

ELWHA LLC, 2016

Regulating environmental parameters in a target zone through real-time monitoring of occupants' physiological responses, specifically skin temperature. The system measures skin temperature from individuals within the zone and compares it against a predetermined threshold to determine environmental control strategies. When the measured skin temperature deviates from the threshold, the system generates a control signal to adjust the zone's temperature or other environmental variables based on the calculated deviation. This enables personalized temperature management tailored to individual physiological needs.

24. Air Conditioning System with Infrared Sensors for User Movement and Temperature Anomaly Detection

宁波瑞易电器科技发展有限公司, NINGBO RDWORKS ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CO., LTD., 2016

Dynamic air conditioning system that optimizes cooling based on user movement patterns. The system employs infrared sensors to monitor user body temperature and detect anomalies. When a user's body temperature deviates from a set threshold, the system automatically adjusts the air conditioning output to provide targeted cooling. The system's advanced control system analyzes temperature data from both the user's body and the surrounding environment to optimize cooling performance.

25. HVAC Control System with Sensor-Driven Occupancy Detection and Cyclical Temperature Threshold Adjustment

SOMFY SYSTEMS INC, 2016

Smart environment control system that saves energy by optimizing HVAC operation based on room occupancy. The system uses sensors to detect if a room is occupied. When unoccupied, it enters a power saving mode where the HVAC cycles on and off following a series of time cycles dictated by temperature thresholds. This allows energy savings by reducing HVAC runtime without letting the room get too hot/cold when reoccupied.

26. Ambient Temperature Management System with Dynamic Adjustment Based on Occupant Preferences and Environmental Sensors

ECHOSTAR UK HOLDINGS LTD, 2016

Personalized ambient temperature management system that dynamically adjusts home temperature based on occupant preferences, environmental conditions, and spatial context. The system integrates multiple sensors to determine optimal temperature settings for specific locations within the home, taking into account factors like occupancy patterns, room layout, and external environmental conditions. This enables personalized temperature control tailored to individual preferences and needs, while also adapting to changes in occupancy and environmental conditions.

27. Infrared Imaging Device with Spatial Temperature Profiling for HVAC Systems

ROSEN HOWARD, 2015

Infrared imaging device for HVAC systems that enables real-time monitoring of occupant comfort through non-invasive temperature sensing. The device captures detailed spatial temperature measurements of individuals, including facial temperature, in a conditioned space. By analyzing these spatial temperature profiles, the device determines optimal system settings to maintain occupant comfort, including temperature, humidity, and air flow levels. This approach enables more personalized and effective space conditioning through predictive analytics and spatial analysis of occupant behavior.

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