Self-configuring domestic energy management system

Users of domestic heating systems are often obliged to enter time and temperature settings into a small electronic unit via complex and inconvenient push button and menu arrangements. As a result settings may be unsuitable, such that their comfort or the operating efficiency of the system is impaired. This paper proposes a novel approach to the human interface of home heating systems which greatly simplifies the input required by the user. Time settings are derived automatically from electricity consumption, and a temperature set point is provided that adapts to user activity levels and external temperature. It is also argued that this increased automation of control allows the benefits of low carbon technologies such as micro Combined Heat and Power, and solar hot water heating, to be fully exploited.