| Class / Patent application number | Description | Number of patent applications / Date published |
|---|
| 236001000 |
Heating and cooling controls
| 101 |
| 236001000 |
Zone control for heating and cooling medium
| 20 |
| 236001000 |
Piezoelectric crystal and other electric unit temperature controls | 4 |
| 20130228633 | Systems and Methods for Power Stealing - A thermostat includes a power stealing circuit selectively configured to provide power to the thermostat and to circuit(s) ancillary to the thermostat from power source(s) external to the thermostat, without requiring a common or neutral connection between the thermostat and the power source(s). Exemplary embodiments also are disclosed of a climate control system that includes such a thermostat. This thermostat can power-steal off of existing load wires (e.g., a W and/or Y terminal, etc.) and can provide power for a continuous backlight and/or other device (e.g., a remote sensor and/or low-power transceiver, etc.). | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130206850 | TEMPERATURE-BASED FLOW REGULATOR - A flow regulator for a solid fuel grill may include a housing having an opening and configured for coupling to a solid fuel grill over a vent opening of the grill and the regulator may also include a damper assembly arranged on the housing where the damper assembly may include a damper arranged to operably and variably open and close the opening and the damper assembly may also include a temperature sensitive damper controller operably connected to the housing and the damper to open and close the damper based on temperature changes. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20080217418 | Temperature compensation method for thermostats - An air conditioning control system and method for compensating for heat gain or loss in an air conditioned space due to window area and temperature differential between outdoor temperature and indoor temperature. For predetermined amounts of window area, as a percent of total wall area defining an enclosed space, the thermostat setpoint or measured temperature is adjusted as a function of the temperature differential between the enclosed space and the outdoor ambient temperature, for example. Data may be accumulated and stored in a controller memory for various types of structures and rates of heat transfer therethrough for various amounts and type of window area as a percent of the total wall area, for example. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080272199 | METHODS USING A DRAPED LIQUID WARMING DEVICE - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080283621 | OCCUPANT CONTROLLED ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN A MULTI-UNIT BUILDING - A system and a method for allowing an occupant of a single unit of a multi-unit building to select an operating state of the unit which consumes less energy than a normal operating state. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080314998 | Temperature control in variable-capacity HVAC system - Relatively constant temperatures are maintained in a space by varying the capacity of heating or cooling equipment. A proportional band is used to adjust capacity to compensate for changes in heating or cooling load, and the proportional band is adjusted to bring the actual temperature within the space closer to the set point temperature. Such an adjustment may be made by determining the difference between the present temperature and the set point temperature, and adjusting a floating temperature set point by a percentage (e.g., ten percent) of the difference. Such a process may be repeated, for example, at regular intervals, such as once per minute. As a result, the temperature within the space approaches (e.g., asymptotically) the set point temperature whether the heating or cooling load is high or low. Methods, systems, and apparatuses are contemplated, including HVAC units and controls, including for residential applications, including using variable-speed drives. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090014547 | LIQUID WARMING DEVICE WITH BASIN DETECTION - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090026278 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING A SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY TO CONTROL TEMPERATURE - This invention relates generally to shape memory alloys, and more specifically, to systems and methods for using a shape memory alloy to control temperature. In one embodiment, the invention includes obtaining a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first shape; deforming the SMA to a second shape, the deformed SMA releasing thermal energy resulting in heat; distributing the heat from the SMA in a first direction; reforming the SMA to approximately the first shape, the reformed SMA consuming thermal energy resulting in cold; distributing the cold from the SMA in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction, wherein the first direction is towards a location whereby increased temperatures are desired and the second direction is towards a location whereby decreased temperatures are desired. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090140065 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH SAVE A WIRE TERMINAL - A HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building is described. In one illustrative embodiment, an HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building by activating and deactivating one or more HVAC components is provided. The HVAC controller may include a special purpose save a wire terminal that provides a multiplexed or otherwise encoded control signal. The HVAC controller may be configured to multiplex, for example, two or more of a call for heat (W) signal, a call for cool (Y) signal, and/or a call for fan (G) signal onto the special purpose save a wire terminal of the HVAC controller. This may free up a wire in a four wire installation to carry, for example, a common (C) signal. A demultiplexer module may be provided adjacent to the one or more HVAC components to demultiplex the multiplexed control signal. This may substantially reduce the cost and complexity of, for example, retrofitting a four wire installation with a 24 VAC powered HVAC controller. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20100025483 | Sensor-Based Occupancy and Behavior Prediction Method for Intelligently Controlling Energy Consumption Within a Building - A method for controlling energy consumption within a building includes providing at least one environment sensing device and at least one energy consumption sensing device associated with the building. Current data is collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device along with associated time-of-day data. A value of a future energy consumption parameter is predicted based upon the collected current data, the associated time-of-day data, and historic data collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device. A profile of future costs per unit of energy consumption as a function of time is determined. Energy consumption is controlled dependent upon the predicted future energy consumption parameter value and the determined profile of energy consumption costs. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20120126020 | THERMOSTAT WIRING CONNECTOR - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system. The thermostat includes wiring terminals adapted and configured to make an electrical connection with an HVAC system wires such as common, heating and cooling control and return wires. The making of the connection with a common wire actuates switching open a loop of an electrical circuit used for power harvesting. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal includes actuation of a moveable part of the terminal so as to accommodate the common wire that in turn actuates the switching open the power harvesting loop. More than one other loop can be switched. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used to automatically connect and/or disconnect Rc and Rh circuits when one or both Rc and Rh wires are present. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used for electronically sensing the presence of the HVAC system wire. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126021 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY FOR CONNECTION TO HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system having one or two separate transformers for supplying power to the HVAC system. The thermostat includes isolation circuitry housed within the thermostat to safely connect to the HVAC control wires and power wire(s) whether the HVAC system has one or two separate transformers without the use of removable jumpers or manual rewiring. The thermostat can include a processor that sends DC signals for turning on and turning off each of the HVAC functions, and an isolator adapted to electrically isolate the processor from the control wires and power wire(s). The isolator can include a transformer, such as a low cost Ethernet transformer. The circuitry can include one or more field effect transistors adapted and arranged so as to open or close an electrical connections between the control and power wires, thereby turning on or off the associated HVAC function. According to some embodiments, the Rc and Rh terminals are permanently connected using a fuse. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120168524 | SWITCH FOR MULTI FUNCTION CONTROL - The invention provides for a controller such as a thermostat for an HVAC system comprising a housing having a circuit board and a display screen, the display screen having at least one alpha-numeric icon and a group of touch pads comprising at least two displayable touch pads. A microprocessor is provided for controlling the display screen. A sole mechanical button or switch is mounted in the housing and the button has a first end and second end and a touch surface extending between the first end and second end. The sole mechanical button signals the microprocessor in order to adjust the alpha-numeric icon(s), so that the combination of inputs received by the microprocessor from the group of touch pads and sole mechanical button provide for each and every adjustment required for all of the operational functions of the controller. The mechanical button may be a rocker switch. The controller may also include a navigation button. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120199660 | ADAPTIVE POWER STEALING THERMOSTAT - An electronic thermostat and associated methods are disclosed for power stealing from an HVAC triggering circuit. The methods include making voltage measurements while controlling the amount of current drawn by the power stealing circuitry so as to determine a relationship that can be used to select how much current to draw during power stealing. Through the use of the described methods, the likelihood of inadvertent switching of the HVAC function (on or off) can be significantly reduced. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120217316 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF ADVANCED FAN SPEED CONTROL - According to some embodiments, a method, system, and apparatus to provide thermal management control. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, by a control mechanism, a plurality of temperature representative signals from a plurality of temperature sensors, receiving a command signal from the control mechanism by an output weighting matrix mechanism, and controlling at least one thermal cooling device with at least one weighted output signal from the output weighting matrix mechanism. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120248210 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN ENERGY BUFFERED BUILDING CONTROL UNIT - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit configured to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The powering circuit has a power extraction circuit configured to extract electrical power from one or more of the plurality of received HVAC control wires up to a first level of electrical power, a rechargeable battery, and a power control circuit coupled to the power extraction circuit, the rechargeable battery, and the thermostat processing and control circuit. The power control circuit is configured to provide the electrical load power using power from the power extraction circuit and the rechargeable battery. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120248211 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120256009 | POWER-PRESERVING COMMUNICATIONS ARCHITECTURE WITH LONG-POLLING PERSISTENT CLOUD CHANNEL FOR WIRELESS NETWORK-CONNECTED THERMOSTAT - Provided according to one or more embodiments herein are methods, systems and related architectures for facilitating network communications between a wireless network-connected thermostat and a cloud-based management server in a manner that promotes reduced power usage and extended service life of a rechargeable battery of the thermostat, while at the same time accomplishing timely data transfer between the thermostat and the cloud-based management server for suitable and time-appropriate control of an HVAC system. The thermostat further comprises powering circuitry configured to: extract electrical power from one or more HVAC control wires in a manner that does not require a “common” wire; supply electrical power for thermostat operation; recharge the rechargeable battery (if needed) using any surplus extracted power; and discharge the rechargeable battery to assist in supplying electrical power for thermostat operation during intervals in which the extracted power alone is insufficient for thermostat operation. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120273580 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120325919 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130026243 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN HEATING DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN HEATING INSTALLATION - A control device for a heating device includes: a thermostat having a control unit, the control unit being connected to an energy source which is used to operate the control unit. The energy source is configured to generate energy in response to the presence of temperature differences between two reference points. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130087629 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a housing, a user interface, and a processing system configured to control an HVAC system using setpoint temperature values. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable based on a user response to an inquiry presented on the user interface, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130099008 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AMBIENT TEMPERATURE - A mechanism for indicating ambient temperature of an enclosure from temperatures determined within the enclosure. The temperatures may be obtained from two or more sensors at each of two or more locations within the enclosure. The enclosure may include heat generating components such as electronics. The enclosure may also incorporate one or more dynamic components that emanate sudden amounts of heat. The present mechanism compensates for such heat sources with a compensating scheme. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099009 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099010 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099011 | ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTING SCHEDULE LEARNING ALGORITHMS FOR INTELLIGENT THERMOSTAT - A user-friendly programmable thermostat is described that includes receiving an immediate-control input to change set point temperature, controlling temperature according to the set point temperature for a predetermined time interval, and then automatically resetting the set point temperature upon the ending of the predetermined time interval such that the user is urged to make further immediate-control inputs. A schedule for the programmable thermostat is automatically generated based on the immediate-control inputs. Methods are also described for receiving user input relating to the user's preference regarding automatically generating a schedule, and determining whether or not to automatically adopt an automatically generated schedule based on the received user input. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130221117 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN SINGLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS AND IN MULTIPLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit operative to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The thermostat includes circuitry and methods for maximizing efficiency of energy harvested from the HVAC system connected to the thermostat, and depending on which system is connected to the thermostat, different power schemes can be implemented in order to obtain power from the HVAC system. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130292481 | BUILDING CONTROL UNIT METHOD AND CONTROLS - Embodiments of the invention provide thermostat controls having improved tactile feedback. According to one embodiment, a thermostat includes a bottom member, a switch, a top member, and a motion guiding member or assembly that operationally couples the top member with the bottom member so that the top member is inwardly pressable by a user relative to the bottom member to allow the thermostat to receive input from the user by contacting the switch with a component of the top member or the bottom member. The motion guiding member or assembly contacts the top member near its outer periphery to control the inward motion of the top member relative to the bottom member to provide the improved tactile feedback. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130313331 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140084072 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140091152 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR USING ALUMINUM CAPILLARY - A temperature sensor assembly is provided. The temperature sensor includes an aluminum capillary soldered to an actuation unit. The actuation unit operably fluidly couples to the capillary to define an internal cavity storing a working fluid. The working fluid configured to manipulate the actuation unit when the working fluid changes temperature. Solder sealingly couples the capillary to the actuation unit. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140091153 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a processing system configured to control an HVAC system. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140158783 | HVAC Systems - A system includes a heat pump configured to match a working fluid's temperature to a fluid temperature set-point, a fluid pump in fluid communication with the heat pump through the working fluid and configured to match the working fluid's pressure/flow to a fluid pressure/flow set-point, at least one heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid pump, and a supervisory controller in signal communication with the at least one heat exchanger, the fluid pump, and the heat pump. The at least one heat exchanger includes a proportional valve and a return air temperature gauge configured to monitor return air temperature associated therewith. The supervisory controller is configured to vary the fluid temperature set-point and vary the fluid pressure/flow set-point based upon a position of the proportional valve and the return air temperature. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140191048 | Rotating Control Panel - A control panel for an enclosed space, set into a cutout in the wall of the enclosed space, that can rotate at least 180 degrees so as to be accessible from either the inside or the outside of the enclosed space. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140217185 | HVAC System With Camera and Microphone - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has an input configured to receive at least one of a first heating setting, a first ventilation setting, a first cooling setting, a first humidity setting, and a first air quality setting, at least one of an image sensor and a microphone connected to at least one component in the HVAC system, the image sensor and/or microphone being configured to capture an data from a first zone, and a controller connected to the input and at least one of the image sensor and microphone, the controller configured to control at least one of the first heating setting, the first ventilation setting, the first cooling setting, the first humidity setting, and the first air quality setting in response to receiving the data from at least one of the image sensor and the microphone. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140217186 | Wireless Thermostat and System - A secure wireless thermostat and system comprising the thermostat are described and taught. The temperature control unit replaces the traditional thermostat by attaching to the wall and using the existing wiring from the traditional thermostat. This temperature control unit has no display or programming buttons, rather a user interacts with the temperature control unit via electronic devices such as smart phones, laptop computers, and desktop computers. The settings of the system can be modified by the user from these access ports. If the user opts to interact with the system via a third party IP server, a local DHCP web server can be employed to store data safely and securely. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231530 | ACTIVE POWER STEALING - A thermostat and related methods are described for controlling one or more functions, such as heating and cooling in an HVAC. According to some embodiments the thermostat includes a switching circuit for controlling an HVAC function, where closing the switching circuit activates the HVAC function. The thermostat may also include power harvesting circuitry adapted and arranged to harvest power from the HVAC system, where during times when the HVAC function is active the switching circuit opens for a time interval. The power harvesting circuitry may harvest power from the HVAC system during the time interval, and the time interval may be short enough that the HVAC function remains activated without interruption during the time interval. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140239078 | Thermostat Control System with IR Sensor - A thermostat control system is suitable for mounting within a substantially sealed housing, and comprises an infrared sensor within the substantially sealed housing that monitors the interior surface temperature of at least a portion of a housing wall. The monitored portion of the interior wall, as well as the thermal path between the monitored wall portion and an exterior housing surface is highly thermally conductive to minimize the lag between temperature changes exterior to the housing and the consequential monitored temperature changes of the interior wall surface. The monitored portion of the interior wall surface is also characterized by high emissivity. Because the interior of the housing is substantially sealed from the external steam bath environment, electronic components within the housing, including the sensor, are protected from the moist environment of a steam bath or other submersible environment. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140263679 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284391 | Method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising multiple rooms, and apparatus for carrying out the method - A method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising a plurality of rooms, the room temperature in a room or in a plurality of rooms is regulated by regulating the mass flow of a heat-carrying fluid flowing through a heat exchanger according to a determined current room temperature. A temperature sensor in the room can be dispensed with in that, in order to determine the current room temperature, in each case the mass flow of the heat carrying fluid through the heat exchanger and the flow temperature prevailing at the input to the heat exchanger and the return temperature prevailing at the output of the heat exchanger are measured, and that a temperature assigned to the determined values of the mass flow, the flow temperature and the return temperature is output as the current room temperature and used for regulation. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140299670 | Current Control for Power Stealing - A thermostat for use in a climate control system has a power stealing circuit that provides power from a voltage supply through a load of the climate control system when the load is in an “off” mode. The power stealing circuit has a current limiting circuit that provides a maximum level of instantaneous current predetermined to be a threshold beyond which the load is switched to an “on” mode. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140312131 | TRIAC OR BYPASS CIRCUIT AND MOSFET POWER STEAL COMBINATION - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices requiring power. A power supply unit may be designed to keep electromagnetic interference emissions at a minimum, particularly at a level that does not violate governmental regulations. A unit may be designed so that there is enough power for a triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source rather than line power to reduce emissions on the power line. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing. Power stealing may require switching transistors which can generate emissions. Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140319234 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH FIXED SEGMENT DISPLAY HAVING FIXED SEGMENT ICONS AND ANIMATION - An HVAC controller including a controller and a display operatively coupled to the controller. The display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more programmable options of the HVAC controller in the first region of the display for selection by a user, where the programmable options may be used to set settings that are capable of controlling subsequent operations and/or functionality of the HVAC controller. The controller may be configured to selectively animate one or more of the programmable options displayed in the first region. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319235 | USER INTERFACE FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller including a controller and a touch screen display operatively coupled to the controller. The touch screen display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more selectable options in the first region of the display for selection by a user and to accept selection of a displayed selectable option by detecting a user touch of the displayed selectable option via the touch screen display. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319236 | SELF-SETTING CIRCUIT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC Controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly capable of releasably engaging the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a first housing and a printed circuit board having a controller for providing one or more control signals, where the printed circuit board may be secured relative to the first housing. The second sub-assembly may include a second housing, a power source, one or more output terminals, and a second printed circuit board. The second printed circuit board may be secured relative to the second housing and may have circuitry thereon that is powered by the power source and configured to receive the one or more control signals from the first printed circuit board. The circuitry of the second sub-assembly may set output terminals thereof to a predetermined state when the first sub-assembly is released from the second sub-assembly. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326795 | Training Room and Use Thereof - A training gym is a closed windowless room provided with at least one access door, and infrared heater, a humidistat for regulating the ambient humidity in said indoor space; lighting; and at least one vent. In use the training gym is maintained at a temperature of at least about 37° C. and a relative humidity of 50 to 60% to promote increased effectiveness of exercise and optimum benefit of a training session for physical and sports training, fitness, functional rehabilitation, and post-traumatic or post-operative reathletization for athletes at beginner, experienced or expert levels (elite athletes) making use of the training gym. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140346241 | Round Thermostat with Flanged Rotatable User Input Member and Wall-Facing Optical Sensor that Senses Rotation - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140367475 | ROUND THERMOSTAT WITH ROTATABLE USER INPUT MEMBER AND TEMPERATURE SENSING ELEMENT DISPOSED IN PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION WITH A FRONT THERMOSTAT COVER - An electronic thermostat is described that includes a head unit, a rotatable ring, a backplate, an electronic display that is viewable by a user in front of the thermostat, a printed circuit board, and a daughter circuit. The daughter circuit is coupled to the printed circuit board, and senses motion of the rotatable ring and includes a first temperature sensor. A second temperature sensor separated from the first temperature sensor, are both used to calculate ambient temperature. The first temperature sensor is positioned at least partially within a cavity formed between a front surface of the head unit and the printed circuit board. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374497 | HEAT SOURCE SYSTEM, CONTROL DEVICE THEREOF, AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A technique of suppressing power consumption of a system so as to be equal to or less than contracted power when a refrigerator is used as a heat source is provided. A system control device ( | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150034729 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat compatible with single-HVAC- and dual-HVAC-transformer systems may include a first power return wire connector, a second power return wire connector, and a user-moveable mechanical element that physically blocks wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a first position and physically allows wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a second position. The thermostat may also include a switching circuit that may be in a first configuration when the mechanical element is in the first position, and in a second configuration when the mechanical element is in the second position. The first wire connector may be electrically coupled to the second wire connector in the first configuration, and first wire connector may be electrically isolated from the second wire connector in the second configuration to promote foolproofing against undesired isolation of the first and second wire connectors. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150053779 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. Voice recognition software identifies a trigger phrase included in the natural language audio message and in response the HVAC controller performs an action. The voice recognition software may be used to create a natural language text based message from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, where the natural language text based message is translated into the command recognizable by the HVAC controller. In response to the command, the HVAC controller may perform an action and/or respond with a natural language text based or audio message. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053780 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat and may include a housing that at least partially houses a control module, a microphone, a speaker, a display, and a voice recognition module. The voice recognition module recognizes a predetermined audible trigger from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, and in response, provide one or more audio clips via the speaker and/or video clips via the display to assist users in operating the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053781 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat including a housing that houses a temperature sensor, a microphone, and a controller. The controller may identify a trigger phrase in an audio stream provided by the microphone. In response to identifying the trigger phrase, the controller initiates processing of the audio stream to identify a command following the trigger phrase and to generate a command understandable by the thermostat that instructs the controller to perform the identified command. The controller then executes the generated command understandable by the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the microphone of the thermostat and/or a remote device having a microphone. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150083812 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - Temperature adjustment systems and methods for adjusting thermostat temperature settings are provided. A system includes an oven appliance sensor in communication with an oven appliance, the oven appliance sensor operable to sense an operation of the oven appliance. The system further includes a thermostat in communication with the oven appliance sensor, the thermostat operable to adjust a temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. A method includes sensing an operation of an oven appliance, communicating the operation of the oven appliance to the thermostat, and adjusting the thermostat temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083813 | Soliciting user input for thermostat control - A device or arrangement may be configured to receive a temperature limit such as an acceptable maximum temperature as well as a tolerance measure such as a number of acceptable events, the events causing the temperature to be outside of the temperature limit. An air comfort device may be operated based on the received temperature limit and the tolerance measure. A potential cost value may be provided based on a temperature limit and tolerance measure. A temperature limit and tolerance measure may be calculated based on a target cost value such that the arrangement may modify a temperature limit and/or tolerance measure to achieve the target cost value. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150115045 | Determining Power Stealing Capability of a Climate Control System Controller - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for determining a power stealing capability of a climate control system controller. In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for use in a climate control system generally includes a capacitor chargeable by current flowing through an off-mode load of the climate control system. A voltage detect circuit detects a voltage across the capacitor. The controller includes a timer for determining a charge time of the capacitor from a first specific voltage to a second specific voltage based on input from the voltage detect circuit. The controller determines a resistance of the off-mode load based on the charge time and, based on the determined resistance, determines a level of current for power stealing through the off-mode load. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150115046 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically connected. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122900 | DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND THERMOSTATS INCLUDING DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS - A DC voltage-limiting circuit generally includes first, second, and third transistors. The first transistor is connected between a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first transistor has a collector connected to the voltage input terminal, an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal, and a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first resistor. The second transistor has a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first voltage regulator and a second resistor, a collector connected to the base of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal. The third transistor has a collector connected to the base of the first transistor via a third resistor, an emitter grounded, and a base connected to the voltage output terminal via a second voltage regulator and a fourth resistor. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150136862 | System and Method for Environmental Control - In an exemplary embodiment, an Environmental Optimization System (“EOS”) provides a system for the intelligent control and monitoring of a poultry or livestock house environment through the utilization of a solar thermal collection system, a variety of environmental and livestock behavior sensors, apparatus for controlling the thermal collection and existing interior heating/air conditioning/ventilation (“HVAC”) systems, and Internet or cloud based intelligent control and monitoring capabilities of the system. In various embodiments central sensor data aggregation is utilized to provide improved optimization control for individual structures based on data from multiple structures. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150144705 | METHODS SYSTEMS AND TOOLS FOR DETERMINING A WIRING CONFIGURATION FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - A wiring configuration tool may be configured to determine a new wiring configuration for a replacement HVAC controller based, at least in part, on the existing wiring configuration for a current HVAC controller and, for example, the make and model of the replacement HVAC controller. The wiring configuration tool may be hosted by a server that provides a user interface for interacting with the user. The user may access the wiring configuration tool via a web services interface, a smart phone application or in any other suitable manner. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150144706 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY TO CONTROL POWER USAGE - An operation alteration of a network attached thermostat to control power usage. Control wires for a heating and air conditioning system may be connected to a thermostat control circuit configured to control the system. A power extraction circuit may be coupled to the control wires configured to extract power from the control wires. The power may be put into a storage device. The power may be provided to the thermostat control circuit and a WiFi radio module. The radio module may provide a network connection for the thermostat. Circuitry and techniques may be provided to reduce power usage by the thermostat components. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150316285 | WIRELESS WALL THERMOSTAT - The wireless wall thermostat of the present invention utilizes a push-contact mechanical system that allows a user to raise or lower the temperature within a space by applying a force on the top or bottom center of the front of the thermostat. The perpendicular force applied by the user generates a moment arm around pivot connectors, which rotates the thermostat clockwise or counter-clockwise. When rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, contact buttons attached to the back of the thermostat come into contact with the trigger tabs of a stationary trigger plate mounted to a wall through use of an electromagnetic attraction between a steel disc and a magnet. When the trigger tabs press the contact buttons, the contact buttons send a signal to the central processing unit of the thermostat's internal circuit board to modulate the temperature setting. In addition, the wireless wall thermostat can be detachable by utilizing a magnetic release smart mount. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150323211 | HVAC SYSTEM GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first tracking module increments a first period of time when a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is ON during a predetermined period of time. A second tracking module increments a second period of time when, during the predetermined period of time: (i) the HVAC system is ON and (ii) a split temperature of the HVAC system is outside of a temperature range of the HVAC system. A grade determination module determines a grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time based on both the first period of time and the second period of time. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. The report includes the grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323212 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323941 | THERMOSTAT WITH INTEGRATED PARTICLE SENSOR - A residential or commercial thermostat incorporating an airborne particle sensor. A standard thermostat device incorporating at least one temperature sensor and at least activation of heating and/or cooling with the addition of an on-board particle sensor. The particulate information could simply be displayed, or could be part of controlling filtration or air-handling equipment. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150330658 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330659 | HVAC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY PACKAGING SYSTEM - Embodiments of a HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system within an ultimate enclosure are provided. The HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system provides serviceability, safety, manufacturability, and system management failure diagnostic reporting enhancements over conventional packaging systems while conforming to agency safety requirements. The embodiments disclosed herein also reduce equipment and service costs for HVAC electrical system power supply components provided within the HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system by reducing delays in servicing these components. Thus, customer uptime of the HVAC system can be increased. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330660 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150331432 | HVAC CONTROLLER HAVING MULTIPLEXED INPUT SIGNAL DETECTION AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controller, a method of detecting multiplexed input signals and an HVAC system employing the controller or the method. In one embodiment, the HVAC controller includes: (1) a signal conditioner configured to convert received alternating current (AC) input signals into corresponding square wave signals of a digital logic voltage, (2) a multiplexer coupled to the signal conditioner and configured to select one of the square wave signals and (3) a sample analyzer coupled to the multiplexer and configured to evaluate multiple samples of the selected one of the square wave signals to derive a binary state. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150345818 | Wireless Thermostat With Dual Stage Failsafe Circuits - A multi-mode thermostat includes, a sensor of ambient temperature and control circuits coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuits are responsive to signals from the sensor to maintain a predetermined regional temperature. First electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a sensed operational power level, to alter a status signal transmission rate by the control circuits. Second electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a lower sensed operational power level to provide a backup, lower regional temperature electromechanically. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150354846 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL UNIT WITH A VARIABLE ASSIST ROTATIONAL INTERFACE AND DISPLAY - Provided according to one or more embodiments is a method of processing rotational inputs to a control device having a an electronic display and user interface, such as a programmable thermostat. Methods and systems include displaying on the electronic display associated with the control device at least a portion of an initial display element selected from a sequence of display elements. In response to seeing such information, the user applies a rotational input applied to a rotational input device, such as a rotatable ring around the electronic display. A variable scroll assist engine receives this information and determines an angular movement as provided by the user through the rotational input device. In order to reduce the rotational input required by the user, the variable assist scroll engine applies one or more heuristics to variably assist with a scrolling movement of a sequence of display elements on the electronic display. The variable scroll assist engine may reduce the rotational user input required to traverse an arbitrary number of display elements to as little as a quarter-revolution of the rotational input device in order that a user is better able to operate the control device and utilize the rotational input device when navigating the user interface of the control device. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354848 | Device for Influencing the room climate - The invention relates to a device for influencing the room climate which offers convenient operation at low costs with regard to procurement, installation, and ongoing operation, in order to influence the room climate in heated or air-conditioned rooms while avoiding unnecessary energy losses, and which expands the application range in the room air conditioning by means of a simple retrofitting possibility. According to the invention, the control apparatus for the room temperature is integrated into an electrical measuring and display apparatus, which is intended as a room operating apparatus for measuring, displaying, evaluating, and providing room climate values, and adjustments to the control apparatus are made by means of the room operating apparatus. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150355371 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH PROXIMITY SENSOR - An HVAC controller such as a thermostat may include a housing having an aperture formed within the housing and a proximity sensor that is disposed within the housing proximate the aperture. The proximity sensor may include a sense die that has a first IR detector and a second IR detector, and a lens element disposed in front of the sense die. The lens element may be shifted to one side to preferentially direct incident IR energy to the first IR detector at the expense of the second IR detector. An IR energy transparent element may be disposed in front of the lens element, and may include a portion that fits into and seals the aperture formed within the housing. A controller may be configured to receive an electrical signal from the proximity sensor indicating an approach of an individual towards the thermostat, and in response, wake-up a user interface. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150362208 | BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly releasably securable to the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a housing having the back and a cover, a printed circuit board at least substantially enclosed by the housing, a battery compartment formed in the back of the housing for receiving one or more batteries, and a display exposed for viewing through an aperture in the cover of the housing for viewing the display by a user. The printed circuit board may include one or more battery terminals that extend from the printed circuit board through the back of the housing and into the battery compartment. In some cases, the battery compartment may define a cup-shaped reservoir that may be configured to collect leakage from one or more of the batteries. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150369506 | Battery Power Management in a Thermostat With a Wireless Transceiver - A thermostat includes a controller for controlling the thermostat, a battery supplying power for the thermostat, and a wireless transceiver for receiving control information from a remote device and for transmitting information to the remote device. The controller sets a default time schedule for enabling the wireless transceiver. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150369510 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT - A HVAC unit manufacturing method and a HVAC system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the HVAC system includes: a controller having control board terminals, a parallel wiring harness having a first and a second connection header, the first connection header coupled to the control board terminals, and a switch having terminals. The terminals of the switch including: a pair of functional terminals configured to indicate a status of the switch and a pair of jumpered terminals independent of the pair of functional terminals and internally connected together within the switch, wherein designated combinations of the terminals indicate a circuit configuration for employing the switch in the HVAC system with each of the terminals having a particular design that dictates a specific corresponding connection header be used for each of the designated combinations, wherein a single one of the designated combinations of the terminals corresponds to the second connection header. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150370268 | BYPASS SWITCH FOR IN-LINE POWER STEAL - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices. The power supply unit may keep electromagnetic interference emissions and harmonics at a minimum. A unit may have enough power for triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing which require switching transistors which can generate emissions. In-line thermostats using MOSFETS power steal may do the power steal during an ON state (triac, relay or silicon controlled rectifier activated). Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. All that may be needed, during an OFF state as a bypass, is a high voltage controllable switch. The need may be achieved using high voltage MOSFETS. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150373926 | SYSTEM FOR OPTIMALLY CONTROLLING SENSORY TEMPERATURE BASED ON HUMIDITY - The present invention can provide an optimum sensory temperature and can increase productivity by a system having a variable fan provided in a vinyl greenhouse, receiving optimum temperature (A) and humidity (B), detecting internal temperature (A′) and humidity (B′), calculating temperature (A″) according to the humidity, and providing the temperature (A″) suitable for the humidity (B′) detected through an operational control of the variable fan. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160003492 | Thermistor Emulating CT Clamp - A heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with a thermostat operable to receive, process, and display power consumption information received via a thermistor input of the thermostat. The thermostat receives power consumption information from a measurement device in communication with the thermostat via a wired interface and the thermistor input, wherein the measurement device comprises a clamp portion positionable about an electric conductor, a measurement portion, and a conditioning component. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160010888 | HVAC System with Location Based Operation | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160025368 | Thermostats and Operational Methods - Thermostats and operational methods are described. According to one aspect, a thermostat includes an interface configured to receive a control signal, wherein the control signal comprises fast components and slow components, and the fast components change at an increased rate compared with slow components of the control signal, control circuitry including a fast response controller configured to use the fast components of the control signal to generate a fast temperature offset, a slow response controller configured to use the slow components of the control signal to generate a slow temperature offset, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to use the fast temperature offset and the slow temperature offset to control a conditioning apparatus to at least one of heat and cool a conditioned area at a plurality of moments in time. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160025369 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - An air conditioning system is provided. The air conditioning system may include at least one air handler that conditions indoor air; an interface that controls the at least one air handler; and a central controller that includes at least one input/output device having an input/output port through which an electric signal is input and output between a plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler; and a controller that communicates with the interface to control the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. The interface may be configured based on a configuration of the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler recognized through the at least one input/output device, and the interface may be reconfigured in accordance with a change in the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160040900 | HVAC System with SMS Capability - Systems and methods are disclosed that include providing a system controller in a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with an SMS module. Initialization and/or actuation of an SMS initiator input may cause the SMS module to generate, transmit, and/or to allow a request for generation and/or transmittal of a predetermined SMS message to alter a setting and/or an operation of a smartphone that allows the smartphone to produce an audible alert, even when the smartphone is configured in a so-called silent mode. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160047569 | USER-FRIENDLY, NETWORK CONNECTED LEARNING THERMOSTAT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A thermostat for controlling an HVAC system in an enclosure may include a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, and an electronic display having a first mode and a second mode. The thermostat may also include one or more processors programmed to change a setpoint temperature of the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature upon detection of a non-occupancy condition for the enclosure. The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor. The processor(s) may also be programmed to change the electronic display from the first mode to the second mode upon detection of a person approaching the thermostat. The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160061471 | HVAC CONTROLLER ASSEMBLY - An HVAC control mounting assembly including a housing, including at least one communication module receptacle, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. An HVAC controller assembly including an HVAC control unit, and a mounting assembly operably coupled to the HVAC control unit the mounting assembly including: a housing including at least one communication module receptacle disposed therein, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160084517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMMANDING TEMPERATURES TARGETED BY AIR CONDITIONER - On the screen of a display unit, period border lines are displayed. The period border lines divide hours (for example 24 hours) for a user's desired one day into a plurality of periods and present line segments movable on the screen in a predetermined direction. Each of the line segments acts as a border lien between mutually adjacent periods. On the screen, target temperatures which are set for the respective periods are also displayed. Dragging the period border liens (K | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160107189 | SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLE PREPARATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING METHOD - The present invention provides a system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle configured to regulate an air environment within a coating chamber for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle by coating a microneedle with a coating liquid containing a drug, the system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle comprising an air compressor, a humidity regulator configured to regulate humidity of air supplied from the air compressor, and an air filter configured to eliminate microorganisms from air to be supplied to the inside of the coating chamber. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160116183 | MAGNETICALLY MOUNTED WALL THERMOSTAT - One aspect of this disclosure provides a thermostat that can be magnetically attached to the wall using one or more magnets that allow the thermostat to be rotated about the wall, once mounted, or easily removed from the wall altogether to operate as a remote unit. Other devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160138820 | REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE - A remote control device according to the present invention includes an operation unit for switching and setting an operation state of an apparatus performing at least one of a heating operation and a cooling operation, a display unit that displays a screen on which an operation at the operation unit is reflected, and a controller that controls a display operation of the display unit. The controller causes the display unit to display at least one of a type and a range of an operation state that is able to be switched and set by the operation unit. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138823 | ADAPTIVE POWER-STEALING THERMOSTAT - A method of harvesting power from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system using an HVAC controller may include harvesting power from the HVAC system and measuring an electrical characteristic of the HVAC controller. The electrical characteristic may indicate whether the power harvested from the HVAC system is high enough to risk interfering with a normal operation of the HVAC system. The method may also include increasing the power harvested from the HVAC system until the electrical characteristic indicates that the HVAC controller is at risk of interfering with the normal operation of the HVAC system. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160169548 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160178230 | Rotatable Wall-Mounted Thermostat Having a Leveling Feature | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160178231 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHODS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160187021 | MONITORING APPARATUS AND MONITORING METHOD - A monitoring apparatus includes an information obtaining unit that obtains, from a target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored, a room temperature and a variable air volume; a room temperature display processing unit that displays, in a form of a graph, the room temperature obtained from the target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored; a controllable range calculating unit that calculates a length of a bar of a bar graph indicating a controllable range on the basis of the variable air volume; and a controllable range display processing unit that displays the bar graph including the bar having the length calculated by the controllable range calculating unit such that the bar graph is overlapped with the room temperature. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187023 | FLOATING THERMOSTAT PLATE - Methods and systems are described for operating a wall mounted thermostat. An example computer-implemented method includes receiving an indication of a physical touch to an exposed portion of a housing of the thermostat, wherein the housing is movable when touched. The method also includes determining a thermostat command associated with where the housing is touched and movement of the housing in response to the touch, and operating the thermostat according to the determined thermostat command. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187898 | Compensating for Sensor Thermal Lag - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a method of compensating for thermal lag in a temperature control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a method is performed by a controller of the temperature control system. The method includes receiving a first temperature obtained by a temperature sensing device at an end of a temperature control cycle. A second temperature obtained by the temperature sensing device is received at a pre-defined time after the end of the temperature control cycle. The method includes changing an operational set-point temperature of the temperature control system using a difference between the received temperatures. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160195072 | ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT CONTROL ASSEMBLY | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160195294 | THERMOSTAT SWITCHING CIRCUITRY ROBUST AGAINST ANOMALOUS HVAC CONTROL LINE CONDITIONS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160202711 | TWO CONDUCTOR WIRELINE GUIDED CONTROL AND AN HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE SAME | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160252264 | Staging Climate Control System Controller Functions Based on Available Power | 09-01-2016 |
| 20170234565 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237210 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR TERMINAL CONFIGURATION | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023839 | THERMOSTAT WITH DISPLAY AND PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD | 01-25-2018 |
| 20130277438 | Converter Building - A converter building including at least one room having a solid room wall enclosing an interior space and an electrical active part contained in the interior space, the room wall having at least one opening, which is designed such that it allows a human to enter the interior space. The opening is sealable, the room wall encloses the interior space in a gas-tight manner when the opening is sealed, and the interior space contains a dielectric insulation medium including a dielectric insulation component other than air. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20150115047 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY - An air conditioning system processes sensible heat load and latent heat load of a target space, and adjusts temperature and humidity of the target space. The air conditioning system includes a cooling heat exchanger circulating a heating medium to cool and dehumidify air blown into the target space, a heater heating the air cooled and dehumidified by the heat exchanger, a stage speed variable blower fan creating a flow of the air blown into the target space through the heat exchanger and the heater, and control unit. The control unit has a quantity of cooling adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of cooling supplied from the heating medium to the air in the heat exchanger, a quantity of heating adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of heating supplied from the heater to the air, and a blown air flow volume adjusting unit adjusting an air flow volume supplied by the blower fan. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20130075484 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS UTILIZING A WIRELESS MESH NETWORK - In some examples, a wireless controller is utilized within a wireless mesh network. The wireless controller includes a control module configured to manage at least one energy device via a pneumatic pressure line based on one or more parts of an energy profile; and a network interface module configured to transmit energy data to a management server and receive the one or more parts of the energy profile from the management server. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130313332 | TEMPERATURE INFORMATION GENERATION CIRCUIT, OSCILLATOR, ELECTRONIC APPARATUS, TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION SYSTEM, AND TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION METHOD OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENT - A temperature information generation circuit includes a temperature sensor (a first temperature detection section), a high-sensitivity temperature sensor (one or plural second temperature detection sections) having higher sensitivity than that of the temperature sensor, an output selection circuit, and a control section. The output selection circuit and the control section select a detection signal of the high-sensitivity temperature sensor upon supply of a power supply voltage, and then perform switching so as to select a detection signal of the temperature sensor at a predetermined timing. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140103125 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF A MEMORY DEVICE - A system and method for thermal management of a memory device is described. In an embodiment, one or more thermal sensors sends a signal to a thermal control module indicating that a pre-determined temperature threshold for a memory device or devices has been reached. The thermal control module may then begin tracking memory thermals or initiate thermal management operations based on the signal and history of memory device temperatures over time. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20160061538 | Active Cryogenic Electronic Envelope - A data acquisition module is disclosed for use with electronic components such as superconductive magnets wherein the electronic components and the data acquisition module may reside inside a cryostat. The data acquisition module allows conventional electronic technologies to work inside cryostats at cryogenic temperatures as low as 4° K. This is achieved by management of heat inside the module to keep the module operating at a temperature above the cryogenic temperature. This approach avoids the difficulties that arise from changes in carrier mobility in semiconductors operating at deep cryogenic temperatures. A cryogenic system comprises a cryostat containing a cryogenic fluid and at least one sensor, and a data acquisition module located within the cryostat, the module in communication with the at least one sensor to acquire data, wherein the module comprises a thermal package, a conditioning and digitizing electronic module, a controller module, a power module, and a thermal management module. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20080251590 | HVAC STAGING CONTROL - A controller for an HVAC system having a plurality of zones and having a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of thermostat signals and to transmit a signal to control one of a plurality of flow control devices in response to a call for conditioning in one of the plurality of zones. The controller also includes one or more timers that are connected to the thermostat terminals, where the one or more timers are configured to initiate a separate timing count upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones. In addition, the controller includes one or more staging terminals for transmitting staging signals to control a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device, where the transmission of the staging signals determines whether the conditioning device will operate at a relatively higher output stage. The controller is also configured to make a timing count determination to determine if any one of the separate timing counts initiated upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones exceeds a timing delay parameter. The transmission of staging signals depends on the timing count determination. A method is also disclosed. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20090166442 | Constant air volume/variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090255997 | Apparatus and Method for Flexibly and Efficiently Varying Air Temperatures in Multiple Rooms - The invention enables coordinated, flexible, agile, and energy efficient temperature variation among a plurality of rooms, as found in a hotel, an apartment building, or a group of exercise rooms, by transferring heat between the rooms. Air can be moved by fans and/or heat can be transferred by a heat pump. Heat transfer between exercise rooms can be powered partly by exertion of individuals in the rooms. Rapid air exchange can quickly equalize temperatures in adjacent rooms. Embodiments exchange heat between rooms and interior and/or exterior reservoirs of warmer and cooler air and/or water, and some embodiments move air from the reservoirs into and out of the rooms. Heat can be pumped into or out of the system, and air and/or water can be added or extracted from the reservoirs. In some embodiments heat is moved sequentially through a variable series of rooms, creating a monotonic variation of temperatures. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20100314458 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEAT PUMP ORIENTED ZONE CONTROL - A system and method to control environmental parameters of pre-defined zones within an environment using an electronic controller. An electronic controller monitors a loop temperature of a loop field of a geo-thermal heat pump as detected by a temperature sensor connected to the loop field. The electronic controller selects a staging combination of the geo-thermal heat pump and an auxiliary HVAC equipment based on at least the loop temperature. The electronic controller activates the selected staging combination, to modify at least a portion of the environmental parameters, using non-proprietary activating signals provided by the electronic controller. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100320277 | Constant air volume / variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20110031322 | Novel air regulation device and air conditioning system - A multiple zone HVAC system comprises powered flow rate adjustable registers. It can further comprise zone controllers that can wirelessly control the registers, and a central controller that controls the HVAC unit and coordinates zone controllers. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20140097257 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM, TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT METHOD, SYSTEM CONTROLLER, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - The first temperature measurer measures an first air temperature in a first place and transmits a measurement result to a system controller. The second temperature measurer measures an second air temperature in a second place and transmits a measurement result to the system controller. The sucker sucks air from the first place into a duet installed in the building. The discharger discharges the air taken from the first place via the duct into the second place. The system controller determines whether it is necessary to adjust an air temperature difference between the first and second places based on the first air temperature and the second air temperature. If the system controller determines that the adjustment is necessary, the system controller orders the sucker and discharger to start operation. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140158778 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158779 | BATTERY CHARGING BY MECHANICAL IMPELLER AT FORCED AIR VENT OUTPUTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158780 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL WITH INTEGRATED BATTERY STATUS COMMUNICATIONS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158781 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158782 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL VIA A CENTRAL CONTROLLER - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140209696 | INDOOR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - An indoor climate control system is configured to adjust a first temperature of a first room within a structure. The indoor climate control system has a receiver mechanically coupled to an HVAC unit configured to turn the HVAC unit on and off. A portable wireless thermostat communicatively coupled to the receiver. The portable wireless thermostat transmits a desired climate information to the receiver which then engages the HVAC unit to adjust the first temperature of the first room. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20150108230 | MULTIPLE ZONE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A multiple heating/cooling zone control system is disclosed. A heating/cooling system control device continuously monitors heating/cooling zone demand and matches the heating/cooling device output capacity to the total space or heat input required. Within the calculated heating/cooling device output capacity the heating/cooling device is modulated based on zone temperature setpoint to further adjust heating/cooling device output. As heat/cooling loss is increased heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are increased. Should heat/cooling loss decrease heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are decreased. Since heat/cooling output is adjusted based on the heat loss(gain) the heating/cooling device can be immediately adjusted to the proper or matching heating/cooling rate even before water/air temperature based adjustments can be made. Hence, the overall effect of the control device is a reduction in cycles of the heating/cooling device and the life of the heating/cooling device is extended and subsequent energy is saved. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150354844 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESSLY-ENABLED HVAC CONTROL - Various forms of wirelessly-enabled thermostats for multi-area HVAC control are presented. Such a thermostat may include: a controller; a temperature sensor included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller; a user input device that permits a user to input a setpoint temperature and an area priority, and a wireless communication system included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller. The controller may be configured to communicate temperature readings to a remotely-located central system and receive, from the user input device, the setpoint temperature and the area priority. The controller may be configured to communicate the setpoint temperature and the area priority to the central system. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150369507 | HVAC ZONING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be zoned into one or more zone. The HVAC system may include HVAC components, sensors, and one or more register vents that may include vent dampers (e.g., electronically controllable vent dampers or manually operated vent dampers). Opening and closing of the vent dampers may facilitate creating zones or sub-zones in the HVAC system configuration. An HVAC control system may receive a request for conditioned air in one or more of the zones, determine a damper setting for at least one of the vent dampers, communicate the determined damper setting to a vent damper or user interface, determine which HVAC components should be active, if any, and/or provide controls signals to activate or keep active the HVAC components that are determined to be active. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150377502 | Thermo Electric Register system - The invention is a thermostatically controlled vent installed in the existing outflow ventilation ducts of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning system. When the central heating/cooling unit is operating, temperature variation is achieved by an electronic control which opens and closes air flow fins on the vent based on the settings of an individual thermostat for each room in a building that has the device installed. The individual thermostat of each vent in the system is connected to the primary building thermostat and therefore has the ability to signal the need to turn on/off the heating/cooling unit as appropriate. In addition, the invention can purify the air flow by means of an ultraviolet sterilization lamp. It is possible to remotely set the temperature settings via an internet enabled software app. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160025363 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160091220 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160201932 | AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL SYSTEM, SENSOR DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 07-14-2016 |
| 236001000 |
Multistage controls | 2 |
| 20130228633 | Systems and Methods for Power Stealing - A thermostat includes a power stealing circuit selectively configured to provide power to the thermostat and to circuit(s) ancillary to the thermostat from power source(s) external to the thermostat, without requiring a common or neutral connection between the thermostat and the power source(s). Exemplary embodiments also are disclosed of a climate control system that includes such a thermostat. This thermostat can power-steal off of existing load wires (e.g., a W and/or Y terminal, etc.) and can provide power for a continuous backlight and/or other device (e.g., a remote sensor and/or low-power transceiver, etc.). | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130206850 | TEMPERATURE-BASED FLOW REGULATOR - A flow regulator for a solid fuel grill may include a housing having an opening and configured for coupling to a solid fuel grill over a vent opening of the grill and the regulator may also include a damper assembly arranged on the housing where the damper assembly may include a damper arranged to operably and variably open and close the opening and the damper assembly may also include a temperature sensitive damper controller operably connected to the housing and the damper to open and close the damper based on temperature changes. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20080217418 | Temperature compensation method for thermostats - An air conditioning control system and method for compensating for heat gain or loss in an air conditioned space due to window area and temperature differential between outdoor temperature and indoor temperature. For predetermined amounts of window area, as a percent of total wall area defining an enclosed space, the thermostat setpoint or measured temperature is adjusted as a function of the temperature differential between the enclosed space and the outdoor ambient temperature, for example. Data may be accumulated and stored in a controller memory for various types of structures and rates of heat transfer therethrough for various amounts and type of window area as a percent of the total wall area, for example. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080272199 | METHODS USING A DRAPED LIQUID WARMING DEVICE - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080283621 | OCCUPANT CONTROLLED ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN A MULTI-UNIT BUILDING - A system and a method for allowing an occupant of a single unit of a multi-unit building to select an operating state of the unit which consumes less energy than a normal operating state. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080314998 | Temperature control in variable-capacity HVAC system - Relatively constant temperatures are maintained in a space by varying the capacity of heating or cooling equipment. A proportional band is used to adjust capacity to compensate for changes in heating or cooling load, and the proportional band is adjusted to bring the actual temperature within the space closer to the set point temperature. Such an adjustment may be made by determining the difference between the present temperature and the set point temperature, and adjusting a floating temperature set point by a percentage (e.g., ten percent) of the difference. Such a process may be repeated, for example, at regular intervals, such as once per minute. As a result, the temperature within the space approaches (e.g., asymptotically) the set point temperature whether the heating or cooling load is high or low. Methods, systems, and apparatuses are contemplated, including HVAC units and controls, including for residential applications, including using variable-speed drives. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090014547 | LIQUID WARMING DEVICE WITH BASIN DETECTION - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090026278 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING A SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY TO CONTROL TEMPERATURE - This invention relates generally to shape memory alloys, and more specifically, to systems and methods for using a shape memory alloy to control temperature. In one embodiment, the invention includes obtaining a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first shape; deforming the SMA to a second shape, the deformed SMA releasing thermal energy resulting in heat; distributing the heat from the SMA in a first direction; reforming the SMA to approximately the first shape, the reformed SMA consuming thermal energy resulting in cold; distributing the cold from the SMA in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction, wherein the first direction is towards a location whereby increased temperatures are desired and the second direction is towards a location whereby decreased temperatures are desired. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090140065 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH SAVE A WIRE TERMINAL - A HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building is described. In one illustrative embodiment, an HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building by activating and deactivating one or more HVAC components is provided. The HVAC controller may include a special purpose save a wire terminal that provides a multiplexed or otherwise encoded control signal. The HVAC controller may be configured to multiplex, for example, two or more of a call for heat (W) signal, a call for cool (Y) signal, and/or a call for fan (G) signal onto the special purpose save a wire terminal of the HVAC controller. This may free up a wire in a four wire installation to carry, for example, a common (C) signal. A demultiplexer module may be provided adjacent to the one or more HVAC components to demultiplex the multiplexed control signal. This may substantially reduce the cost and complexity of, for example, retrofitting a four wire installation with a 24 VAC powered HVAC controller. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20100025483 | Sensor-Based Occupancy and Behavior Prediction Method for Intelligently Controlling Energy Consumption Within a Building - A method for controlling energy consumption within a building includes providing at least one environment sensing device and at least one energy consumption sensing device associated with the building. Current data is collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device along with associated time-of-day data. A value of a future energy consumption parameter is predicted based upon the collected current data, the associated time-of-day data, and historic data collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device. A profile of future costs per unit of energy consumption as a function of time is determined. Energy consumption is controlled dependent upon the predicted future energy consumption parameter value and the determined profile of energy consumption costs. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20120126020 | THERMOSTAT WIRING CONNECTOR - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system. The thermostat includes wiring terminals adapted and configured to make an electrical connection with an HVAC system wires such as common, heating and cooling control and return wires. The making of the connection with a common wire actuates switching open a loop of an electrical circuit used for power harvesting. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal includes actuation of a moveable part of the terminal so as to accommodate the common wire that in turn actuates the switching open the power harvesting loop. More than one other loop can be switched. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used to automatically connect and/or disconnect Rc and Rh circuits when one or both Rc and Rh wires are present. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used for electronically sensing the presence of the HVAC system wire. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126021 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY FOR CONNECTION TO HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system having one or two separate transformers for supplying power to the HVAC system. The thermostat includes isolation circuitry housed within the thermostat to safely connect to the HVAC control wires and power wire(s) whether the HVAC system has one or two separate transformers without the use of removable jumpers or manual rewiring. The thermostat can include a processor that sends DC signals for turning on and turning off each of the HVAC functions, and an isolator adapted to electrically isolate the processor from the control wires and power wire(s). The isolator can include a transformer, such as a low cost Ethernet transformer. The circuitry can include one or more field effect transistors adapted and arranged so as to open or close an electrical connections between the control and power wires, thereby turning on or off the associated HVAC function. According to some embodiments, the Rc and Rh terminals are permanently connected using a fuse. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120168524 | SWITCH FOR MULTI FUNCTION CONTROL - The invention provides for a controller such as a thermostat for an HVAC system comprising a housing having a circuit board and a display screen, the display screen having at least one alpha-numeric icon and a group of touch pads comprising at least two displayable touch pads. A microprocessor is provided for controlling the display screen. A sole mechanical button or switch is mounted in the housing and the button has a first end and second end and a touch surface extending between the first end and second end. The sole mechanical button signals the microprocessor in order to adjust the alpha-numeric icon(s), so that the combination of inputs received by the microprocessor from the group of touch pads and sole mechanical button provide for each and every adjustment required for all of the operational functions of the controller. The mechanical button may be a rocker switch. The controller may also include a navigation button. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120199660 | ADAPTIVE POWER STEALING THERMOSTAT - An electronic thermostat and associated methods are disclosed for power stealing from an HVAC triggering circuit. The methods include making voltage measurements while controlling the amount of current drawn by the power stealing circuitry so as to determine a relationship that can be used to select how much current to draw during power stealing. Through the use of the described methods, the likelihood of inadvertent switching of the HVAC function (on or off) can be significantly reduced. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120217316 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF ADVANCED FAN SPEED CONTROL - According to some embodiments, a method, system, and apparatus to provide thermal management control. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, by a control mechanism, a plurality of temperature representative signals from a plurality of temperature sensors, receiving a command signal from the control mechanism by an output weighting matrix mechanism, and controlling at least one thermal cooling device with at least one weighted output signal from the output weighting matrix mechanism. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120248210 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN ENERGY BUFFERED BUILDING CONTROL UNIT - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit configured to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The powering circuit has a power extraction circuit configured to extract electrical power from one or more of the plurality of received HVAC control wires up to a first level of electrical power, a rechargeable battery, and a power control circuit coupled to the power extraction circuit, the rechargeable battery, and the thermostat processing and control circuit. The power control circuit is configured to provide the electrical load power using power from the power extraction circuit and the rechargeable battery. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120248211 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120256009 | POWER-PRESERVING COMMUNICATIONS ARCHITECTURE WITH LONG-POLLING PERSISTENT CLOUD CHANNEL FOR WIRELESS NETWORK-CONNECTED THERMOSTAT - Provided according to one or more embodiments herein are methods, systems and related architectures for facilitating network communications between a wireless network-connected thermostat and a cloud-based management server in a manner that promotes reduced power usage and extended service life of a rechargeable battery of the thermostat, while at the same time accomplishing timely data transfer between the thermostat and the cloud-based management server for suitable and time-appropriate control of an HVAC system. The thermostat further comprises powering circuitry configured to: extract electrical power from one or more HVAC control wires in a manner that does not require a “common” wire; supply electrical power for thermostat operation; recharge the rechargeable battery (if needed) using any surplus extracted power; and discharge the rechargeable battery to assist in supplying electrical power for thermostat operation during intervals in which the extracted power alone is insufficient for thermostat operation. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120273580 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120325919 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130026243 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN HEATING DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN HEATING INSTALLATION - A control device for a heating device includes: a thermostat having a control unit, the control unit being connected to an energy source which is used to operate the control unit. The energy source is configured to generate energy in response to the presence of temperature differences between two reference points. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130087629 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a housing, a user interface, and a processing system configured to control an HVAC system using setpoint temperature values. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable based on a user response to an inquiry presented on the user interface, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130099008 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AMBIENT TEMPERATURE - A mechanism for indicating ambient temperature of an enclosure from temperatures determined within the enclosure. The temperatures may be obtained from two or more sensors at each of two or more locations within the enclosure. The enclosure may include heat generating components such as electronics. The enclosure may also incorporate one or more dynamic components that emanate sudden amounts of heat. The present mechanism compensates for such heat sources with a compensating scheme. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099009 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099010 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099011 | ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTING SCHEDULE LEARNING ALGORITHMS FOR INTELLIGENT THERMOSTAT - A user-friendly programmable thermostat is described that includes receiving an immediate-control input to change set point temperature, controlling temperature according to the set point temperature for a predetermined time interval, and then automatically resetting the set point temperature upon the ending of the predetermined time interval such that the user is urged to make further immediate-control inputs. A schedule for the programmable thermostat is automatically generated based on the immediate-control inputs. Methods are also described for receiving user input relating to the user's preference regarding automatically generating a schedule, and determining whether or not to automatically adopt an automatically generated schedule based on the received user input. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130221117 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN SINGLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS AND IN MULTIPLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit operative to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The thermostat includes circuitry and methods for maximizing efficiency of energy harvested from the HVAC system connected to the thermostat, and depending on which system is connected to the thermostat, different power schemes can be implemented in order to obtain power from the HVAC system. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130292481 | BUILDING CONTROL UNIT METHOD AND CONTROLS - Embodiments of the invention provide thermostat controls having improved tactile feedback. According to one embodiment, a thermostat includes a bottom member, a switch, a top member, and a motion guiding member or assembly that operationally couples the top member with the bottom member so that the top member is inwardly pressable by a user relative to the bottom member to allow the thermostat to receive input from the user by contacting the switch with a component of the top member or the bottom member. The motion guiding member or assembly contacts the top member near its outer periphery to control the inward motion of the top member relative to the bottom member to provide the improved tactile feedback. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130313331 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140084072 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140091152 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR USING ALUMINUM CAPILLARY - A temperature sensor assembly is provided. The temperature sensor includes an aluminum capillary soldered to an actuation unit. The actuation unit operably fluidly couples to the capillary to define an internal cavity storing a working fluid. The working fluid configured to manipulate the actuation unit when the working fluid changes temperature. Solder sealingly couples the capillary to the actuation unit. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140091153 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a processing system configured to control an HVAC system. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140158783 | HVAC Systems - A system includes a heat pump configured to match a working fluid's temperature to a fluid temperature set-point, a fluid pump in fluid communication with the heat pump through the working fluid and configured to match the working fluid's pressure/flow to a fluid pressure/flow set-point, at least one heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid pump, and a supervisory controller in signal communication with the at least one heat exchanger, the fluid pump, and the heat pump. The at least one heat exchanger includes a proportional valve and a return air temperature gauge configured to monitor return air temperature associated therewith. The supervisory controller is configured to vary the fluid temperature set-point and vary the fluid pressure/flow set-point based upon a position of the proportional valve and the return air temperature. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140191048 | Rotating Control Panel - A control panel for an enclosed space, set into a cutout in the wall of the enclosed space, that can rotate at least 180 degrees so as to be accessible from either the inside or the outside of the enclosed space. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140217185 | HVAC System With Camera and Microphone - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has an input configured to receive at least one of a first heating setting, a first ventilation setting, a first cooling setting, a first humidity setting, and a first air quality setting, at least one of an image sensor and a microphone connected to at least one component in the HVAC system, the image sensor and/or microphone being configured to capture an data from a first zone, and a controller connected to the input and at least one of the image sensor and microphone, the controller configured to control at least one of the first heating setting, the first ventilation setting, the first cooling setting, the first humidity setting, and the first air quality setting in response to receiving the data from at least one of the image sensor and the microphone. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140217186 | Wireless Thermostat and System - A secure wireless thermostat and system comprising the thermostat are described and taught. The temperature control unit replaces the traditional thermostat by attaching to the wall and using the existing wiring from the traditional thermostat. This temperature control unit has no display or programming buttons, rather a user interacts with the temperature control unit via electronic devices such as smart phones, laptop computers, and desktop computers. The settings of the system can be modified by the user from these access ports. If the user opts to interact with the system via a third party IP server, a local DHCP web server can be employed to store data safely and securely. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231530 | ACTIVE POWER STEALING - A thermostat and related methods are described for controlling one or more functions, such as heating and cooling in an HVAC. According to some embodiments the thermostat includes a switching circuit for controlling an HVAC function, where closing the switching circuit activates the HVAC function. The thermostat may also include power harvesting circuitry adapted and arranged to harvest power from the HVAC system, where during times when the HVAC function is active the switching circuit opens for a time interval. The power harvesting circuitry may harvest power from the HVAC system during the time interval, and the time interval may be short enough that the HVAC function remains activated without interruption during the time interval. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140239078 | Thermostat Control System with IR Sensor - A thermostat control system is suitable for mounting within a substantially sealed housing, and comprises an infrared sensor within the substantially sealed housing that monitors the interior surface temperature of at least a portion of a housing wall. The monitored portion of the interior wall, as well as the thermal path between the monitored wall portion and an exterior housing surface is highly thermally conductive to minimize the lag between temperature changes exterior to the housing and the consequential monitored temperature changes of the interior wall surface. The monitored portion of the interior wall surface is also characterized by high emissivity. Because the interior of the housing is substantially sealed from the external steam bath environment, electronic components within the housing, including the sensor, are protected from the moist environment of a steam bath or other submersible environment. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140263679 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284391 | Method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising multiple rooms, and apparatus for carrying out the method - A method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising a plurality of rooms, the room temperature in a room or in a plurality of rooms is regulated by regulating the mass flow of a heat-carrying fluid flowing through a heat exchanger according to a determined current room temperature. A temperature sensor in the room can be dispensed with in that, in order to determine the current room temperature, in each case the mass flow of the heat carrying fluid through the heat exchanger and the flow temperature prevailing at the input to the heat exchanger and the return temperature prevailing at the output of the heat exchanger are measured, and that a temperature assigned to the determined values of the mass flow, the flow temperature and the return temperature is output as the current room temperature and used for regulation. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140299670 | Current Control for Power Stealing - A thermostat for use in a climate control system has a power stealing circuit that provides power from a voltage supply through a load of the climate control system when the load is in an “off” mode. The power stealing circuit has a current limiting circuit that provides a maximum level of instantaneous current predetermined to be a threshold beyond which the load is switched to an “on” mode. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140312131 | TRIAC OR BYPASS CIRCUIT AND MOSFET POWER STEAL COMBINATION - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices requiring power. A power supply unit may be designed to keep electromagnetic interference emissions at a minimum, particularly at a level that does not violate governmental regulations. A unit may be designed so that there is enough power for a triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source rather than line power to reduce emissions on the power line. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing. Power stealing may require switching transistors which can generate emissions. Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140319234 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH FIXED SEGMENT DISPLAY HAVING FIXED SEGMENT ICONS AND ANIMATION - An HVAC controller including a controller and a display operatively coupled to the controller. The display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more programmable options of the HVAC controller in the first region of the display for selection by a user, where the programmable options may be used to set settings that are capable of controlling subsequent operations and/or functionality of the HVAC controller. The controller may be configured to selectively animate one or more of the programmable options displayed in the first region. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319235 | USER INTERFACE FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller including a controller and a touch screen display operatively coupled to the controller. The touch screen display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more selectable options in the first region of the display for selection by a user and to accept selection of a displayed selectable option by detecting a user touch of the displayed selectable option via the touch screen display. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319236 | SELF-SETTING CIRCUIT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC Controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly capable of releasably engaging the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a first housing and a printed circuit board having a controller for providing one or more control signals, where the printed circuit board may be secured relative to the first housing. The second sub-assembly may include a second housing, a power source, one or more output terminals, and a second printed circuit board. The second printed circuit board may be secured relative to the second housing and may have circuitry thereon that is powered by the power source and configured to receive the one or more control signals from the first printed circuit board. The circuitry of the second sub-assembly may set output terminals thereof to a predetermined state when the first sub-assembly is released from the second sub-assembly. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326795 | Training Room and Use Thereof - A training gym is a closed windowless room provided with at least one access door, and infrared heater, a humidistat for regulating the ambient humidity in said indoor space; lighting; and at least one vent. In use the training gym is maintained at a temperature of at least about 37° C. and a relative humidity of 50 to 60% to promote increased effectiveness of exercise and optimum benefit of a training session for physical and sports training, fitness, functional rehabilitation, and post-traumatic or post-operative reathletization for athletes at beginner, experienced or expert levels (elite athletes) making use of the training gym. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140346241 | Round Thermostat with Flanged Rotatable User Input Member and Wall-Facing Optical Sensor that Senses Rotation - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140367475 | ROUND THERMOSTAT WITH ROTATABLE USER INPUT MEMBER AND TEMPERATURE SENSING ELEMENT DISPOSED IN PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION WITH A FRONT THERMOSTAT COVER - An electronic thermostat is described that includes a head unit, a rotatable ring, a backplate, an electronic display that is viewable by a user in front of the thermostat, a printed circuit board, and a daughter circuit. The daughter circuit is coupled to the printed circuit board, and senses motion of the rotatable ring and includes a first temperature sensor. A second temperature sensor separated from the first temperature sensor, are both used to calculate ambient temperature. The first temperature sensor is positioned at least partially within a cavity formed between a front surface of the head unit and the printed circuit board. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374497 | HEAT SOURCE SYSTEM, CONTROL DEVICE THEREOF, AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A technique of suppressing power consumption of a system so as to be equal to or less than contracted power when a refrigerator is used as a heat source is provided. A system control device ( | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150034729 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat compatible with single-HVAC- and dual-HVAC-transformer systems may include a first power return wire connector, a second power return wire connector, and a user-moveable mechanical element that physically blocks wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a first position and physically allows wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a second position. The thermostat may also include a switching circuit that may be in a first configuration when the mechanical element is in the first position, and in a second configuration when the mechanical element is in the second position. The first wire connector may be electrically coupled to the second wire connector in the first configuration, and first wire connector may be electrically isolated from the second wire connector in the second configuration to promote foolproofing against undesired isolation of the first and second wire connectors. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150053779 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. Voice recognition software identifies a trigger phrase included in the natural language audio message and in response the HVAC controller performs an action. The voice recognition software may be used to create a natural language text based message from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, where the natural language text based message is translated into the command recognizable by the HVAC controller. In response to the command, the HVAC controller may perform an action and/or respond with a natural language text based or audio message. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053780 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat and may include a housing that at least partially houses a control module, a microphone, a speaker, a display, and a voice recognition module. The voice recognition module recognizes a predetermined audible trigger from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, and in response, provide one or more audio clips via the speaker and/or video clips via the display to assist users in operating the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053781 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat including a housing that houses a temperature sensor, a microphone, and a controller. The controller may identify a trigger phrase in an audio stream provided by the microphone. In response to identifying the trigger phrase, the controller initiates processing of the audio stream to identify a command following the trigger phrase and to generate a command understandable by the thermostat that instructs the controller to perform the identified command. The controller then executes the generated command understandable by the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the microphone of the thermostat and/or a remote device having a microphone. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150083812 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - Temperature adjustment systems and methods for adjusting thermostat temperature settings are provided. A system includes an oven appliance sensor in communication with an oven appliance, the oven appliance sensor operable to sense an operation of the oven appliance. The system further includes a thermostat in communication with the oven appliance sensor, the thermostat operable to adjust a temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. A method includes sensing an operation of an oven appliance, communicating the operation of the oven appliance to the thermostat, and adjusting the thermostat temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083813 | Soliciting user input for thermostat control - A device or arrangement may be configured to receive a temperature limit such as an acceptable maximum temperature as well as a tolerance measure such as a number of acceptable events, the events causing the temperature to be outside of the temperature limit. An air comfort device may be operated based on the received temperature limit and the tolerance measure. A potential cost value may be provided based on a temperature limit and tolerance measure. A temperature limit and tolerance measure may be calculated based on a target cost value such that the arrangement may modify a temperature limit and/or tolerance measure to achieve the target cost value. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150115045 | Determining Power Stealing Capability of a Climate Control System Controller - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for determining a power stealing capability of a climate control system controller. In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for use in a climate control system generally includes a capacitor chargeable by current flowing through an off-mode load of the climate control system. A voltage detect circuit detects a voltage across the capacitor. The controller includes a timer for determining a charge time of the capacitor from a first specific voltage to a second specific voltage based on input from the voltage detect circuit. The controller determines a resistance of the off-mode load based on the charge time and, based on the determined resistance, determines a level of current for power stealing through the off-mode load. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150115046 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically connected. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122900 | DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND THERMOSTATS INCLUDING DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS - A DC voltage-limiting circuit generally includes first, second, and third transistors. The first transistor is connected between a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first transistor has a collector connected to the voltage input terminal, an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal, and a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first resistor. The second transistor has a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first voltage regulator and a second resistor, a collector connected to the base of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal. The third transistor has a collector connected to the base of the first transistor via a third resistor, an emitter grounded, and a base connected to the voltage output terminal via a second voltage regulator and a fourth resistor. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150136862 | System and Method for Environmental Control - In an exemplary embodiment, an Environmental Optimization System (“EOS”) provides a system for the intelligent control and monitoring of a poultry or livestock house environment through the utilization of a solar thermal collection system, a variety of environmental and livestock behavior sensors, apparatus for controlling the thermal collection and existing interior heating/air conditioning/ventilation (“HVAC”) systems, and Internet or cloud based intelligent control and monitoring capabilities of the system. In various embodiments central sensor data aggregation is utilized to provide improved optimization control for individual structures based on data from multiple structures. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150144705 | METHODS SYSTEMS AND TOOLS FOR DETERMINING A WIRING CONFIGURATION FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - A wiring configuration tool may be configured to determine a new wiring configuration for a replacement HVAC controller based, at least in part, on the existing wiring configuration for a current HVAC controller and, for example, the make and model of the replacement HVAC controller. The wiring configuration tool may be hosted by a server that provides a user interface for interacting with the user. The user may access the wiring configuration tool via a web services interface, a smart phone application or in any other suitable manner. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150144706 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY TO CONTROL POWER USAGE - An operation alteration of a network attached thermostat to control power usage. Control wires for a heating and air conditioning system may be connected to a thermostat control circuit configured to control the system. A power extraction circuit may be coupled to the control wires configured to extract power from the control wires. The power may be put into a storage device. The power may be provided to the thermostat control circuit and a WiFi radio module. The radio module may provide a network connection for the thermostat. Circuitry and techniques may be provided to reduce power usage by the thermostat components. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150316285 | WIRELESS WALL THERMOSTAT - The wireless wall thermostat of the present invention utilizes a push-contact mechanical system that allows a user to raise or lower the temperature within a space by applying a force on the top or bottom center of the front of the thermostat. The perpendicular force applied by the user generates a moment arm around pivot connectors, which rotates the thermostat clockwise or counter-clockwise. When rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, contact buttons attached to the back of the thermostat come into contact with the trigger tabs of a stationary trigger plate mounted to a wall through use of an electromagnetic attraction between a steel disc and a magnet. When the trigger tabs press the contact buttons, the contact buttons send a signal to the central processing unit of the thermostat's internal circuit board to modulate the temperature setting. In addition, the wireless wall thermostat can be detachable by utilizing a magnetic release smart mount. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150323211 | HVAC SYSTEM GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first tracking module increments a first period of time when a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is ON during a predetermined period of time. A second tracking module increments a second period of time when, during the predetermined period of time: (i) the HVAC system is ON and (ii) a split temperature of the HVAC system is outside of a temperature range of the HVAC system. A grade determination module determines a grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time based on both the first period of time and the second period of time. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. The report includes the grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323212 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323941 | THERMOSTAT WITH INTEGRATED PARTICLE SENSOR - A residential or commercial thermostat incorporating an airborne particle sensor. A standard thermostat device incorporating at least one temperature sensor and at least activation of heating and/or cooling with the addition of an on-board particle sensor. The particulate information could simply be displayed, or could be part of controlling filtration or air-handling equipment. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150330658 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330659 | HVAC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY PACKAGING SYSTEM - Embodiments of a HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system within an ultimate enclosure are provided. The HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system provides serviceability, safety, manufacturability, and system management failure diagnostic reporting enhancements over conventional packaging systems while conforming to agency safety requirements. The embodiments disclosed herein also reduce equipment and service costs for HVAC electrical system power supply components provided within the HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system by reducing delays in servicing these components. Thus, customer uptime of the HVAC system can be increased. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330660 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150331432 | HVAC CONTROLLER HAVING MULTIPLEXED INPUT SIGNAL DETECTION AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controller, a method of detecting multiplexed input signals and an HVAC system employing the controller or the method. In one embodiment, the HVAC controller includes: (1) a signal conditioner configured to convert received alternating current (AC) input signals into corresponding square wave signals of a digital logic voltage, (2) a multiplexer coupled to the signal conditioner and configured to select one of the square wave signals and (3) a sample analyzer coupled to the multiplexer and configured to evaluate multiple samples of the selected one of the square wave signals to derive a binary state. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150345818 | Wireless Thermostat With Dual Stage Failsafe Circuits - A multi-mode thermostat includes, a sensor of ambient temperature and control circuits coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuits are responsive to signals from the sensor to maintain a predetermined regional temperature. First electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a sensed operational power level, to alter a status signal transmission rate by the control circuits. Second electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a lower sensed operational power level to provide a backup, lower regional temperature electromechanically. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150354846 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL UNIT WITH A VARIABLE ASSIST ROTATIONAL INTERFACE AND DISPLAY - Provided according to one or more embodiments is a method of processing rotational inputs to a control device having a an electronic display and user interface, such as a programmable thermostat. Methods and systems include displaying on the electronic display associated with the control device at least a portion of an initial display element selected from a sequence of display elements. In response to seeing such information, the user applies a rotational input applied to a rotational input device, such as a rotatable ring around the electronic display. A variable scroll assist engine receives this information and determines an angular movement as provided by the user through the rotational input device. In order to reduce the rotational input required by the user, the variable assist scroll engine applies one or more heuristics to variably assist with a scrolling movement of a sequence of display elements on the electronic display. The variable scroll assist engine may reduce the rotational user input required to traverse an arbitrary number of display elements to as little as a quarter-revolution of the rotational input device in order that a user is better able to operate the control device and utilize the rotational input device when navigating the user interface of the control device. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354848 | Device for Influencing the room climate - The invention relates to a device for influencing the room climate which offers convenient operation at low costs with regard to procurement, installation, and ongoing operation, in order to influence the room climate in heated or air-conditioned rooms while avoiding unnecessary energy losses, and which expands the application range in the room air conditioning by means of a simple retrofitting possibility. According to the invention, the control apparatus for the room temperature is integrated into an electrical measuring and display apparatus, which is intended as a room operating apparatus for measuring, displaying, evaluating, and providing room climate values, and adjustments to the control apparatus are made by means of the room operating apparatus. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150355371 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH PROXIMITY SENSOR - An HVAC controller such as a thermostat may include a housing having an aperture formed within the housing and a proximity sensor that is disposed within the housing proximate the aperture. The proximity sensor may include a sense die that has a first IR detector and a second IR detector, and a lens element disposed in front of the sense die. The lens element may be shifted to one side to preferentially direct incident IR energy to the first IR detector at the expense of the second IR detector. An IR energy transparent element may be disposed in front of the lens element, and may include a portion that fits into and seals the aperture formed within the housing. A controller may be configured to receive an electrical signal from the proximity sensor indicating an approach of an individual towards the thermostat, and in response, wake-up a user interface. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150362208 | BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly releasably securable to the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a housing having the back and a cover, a printed circuit board at least substantially enclosed by the housing, a battery compartment formed in the back of the housing for receiving one or more batteries, and a display exposed for viewing through an aperture in the cover of the housing for viewing the display by a user. The printed circuit board may include one or more battery terminals that extend from the printed circuit board through the back of the housing and into the battery compartment. In some cases, the battery compartment may define a cup-shaped reservoir that may be configured to collect leakage from one or more of the batteries. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150369506 | Battery Power Management in a Thermostat With a Wireless Transceiver - A thermostat includes a controller for controlling the thermostat, a battery supplying power for the thermostat, and a wireless transceiver for receiving control information from a remote device and for transmitting information to the remote device. The controller sets a default time schedule for enabling the wireless transceiver. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150369510 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT - A HVAC unit manufacturing method and a HVAC system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the HVAC system includes: a controller having control board terminals, a parallel wiring harness having a first and a second connection header, the first connection header coupled to the control board terminals, and a switch having terminals. The terminals of the switch including: a pair of functional terminals configured to indicate a status of the switch and a pair of jumpered terminals independent of the pair of functional terminals and internally connected together within the switch, wherein designated combinations of the terminals indicate a circuit configuration for employing the switch in the HVAC system with each of the terminals having a particular design that dictates a specific corresponding connection header be used for each of the designated combinations, wherein a single one of the designated combinations of the terminals corresponds to the second connection header. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150370268 | BYPASS SWITCH FOR IN-LINE POWER STEAL - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices. The power supply unit may keep electromagnetic interference emissions and harmonics at a minimum. A unit may have enough power for triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing which require switching transistors which can generate emissions. In-line thermostats using MOSFETS power steal may do the power steal during an ON state (triac, relay or silicon controlled rectifier activated). Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. All that may be needed, during an OFF state as a bypass, is a high voltage controllable switch. The need may be achieved using high voltage MOSFETS. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150373926 | SYSTEM FOR OPTIMALLY CONTROLLING SENSORY TEMPERATURE BASED ON HUMIDITY - The present invention can provide an optimum sensory temperature and can increase productivity by a system having a variable fan provided in a vinyl greenhouse, receiving optimum temperature (A) and humidity (B), detecting internal temperature (A′) and humidity (B′), calculating temperature (A″) according to the humidity, and providing the temperature (A″) suitable for the humidity (B′) detected through an operational control of the variable fan. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160003492 | Thermistor Emulating CT Clamp - A heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with a thermostat operable to receive, process, and display power consumption information received via a thermistor input of the thermostat. The thermostat receives power consumption information from a measurement device in communication with the thermostat via a wired interface and the thermistor input, wherein the measurement device comprises a clamp portion positionable about an electric conductor, a measurement portion, and a conditioning component. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160010888 | HVAC System with Location Based Operation | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160025368 | Thermostats and Operational Methods - Thermostats and operational methods are described. According to one aspect, a thermostat includes an interface configured to receive a control signal, wherein the control signal comprises fast components and slow components, and the fast components change at an increased rate compared with slow components of the control signal, control circuitry including a fast response controller configured to use the fast components of the control signal to generate a fast temperature offset, a slow response controller configured to use the slow components of the control signal to generate a slow temperature offset, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to use the fast temperature offset and the slow temperature offset to control a conditioning apparatus to at least one of heat and cool a conditioned area at a plurality of moments in time. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160025369 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - An air conditioning system is provided. The air conditioning system may include at least one air handler that conditions indoor air; an interface that controls the at least one air handler; and a central controller that includes at least one input/output device having an input/output port through which an electric signal is input and output between a plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler; and a controller that communicates with the interface to control the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. The interface may be configured based on a configuration of the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler recognized through the at least one input/output device, and the interface may be reconfigured in accordance with a change in the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160040900 | HVAC System with SMS Capability - Systems and methods are disclosed that include providing a system controller in a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with an SMS module. Initialization and/or actuation of an SMS initiator input may cause the SMS module to generate, transmit, and/or to allow a request for generation and/or transmittal of a predetermined SMS message to alter a setting and/or an operation of a smartphone that allows the smartphone to produce an audible alert, even when the smartphone is configured in a so-called silent mode. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160047569 | USER-FRIENDLY, NETWORK CONNECTED LEARNING THERMOSTAT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A thermostat for controlling an HVAC system in an enclosure may include a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, and an electronic display having a first mode and a second mode. The thermostat may also include one or more processors programmed to change a setpoint temperature of the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature upon detection of a non-occupancy condition for the enclosure. The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor. The processor(s) may also be programmed to change the electronic display from the first mode to the second mode upon detection of a person approaching the thermostat. The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160061471 | HVAC CONTROLLER ASSEMBLY - An HVAC control mounting assembly including a housing, including at least one communication module receptacle, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. An HVAC controller assembly including an HVAC control unit, and a mounting assembly operably coupled to the HVAC control unit the mounting assembly including: a housing including at least one communication module receptacle disposed therein, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160084517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMMANDING TEMPERATURES TARGETED BY AIR CONDITIONER - On the screen of a display unit, period border lines are displayed. The period border lines divide hours (for example 24 hours) for a user's desired one day into a plurality of periods and present line segments movable on the screen in a predetermined direction. Each of the line segments acts as a border lien between mutually adjacent periods. On the screen, target temperatures which are set for the respective periods are also displayed. Dragging the period border liens (K | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160107189 | SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLE PREPARATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING METHOD - The present invention provides a system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle configured to regulate an air environment within a coating chamber for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle by coating a microneedle with a coating liquid containing a drug, the system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle comprising an air compressor, a humidity regulator configured to regulate humidity of air supplied from the air compressor, and an air filter configured to eliminate microorganisms from air to be supplied to the inside of the coating chamber. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160116183 | MAGNETICALLY MOUNTED WALL THERMOSTAT - One aspect of this disclosure provides a thermostat that can be magnetically attached to the wall using one or more magnets that allow the thermostat to be rotated about the wall, once mounted, or easily removed from the wall altogether to operate as a remote unit. Other devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160138820 | REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE - A remote control device according to the present invention includes an operation unit for switching and setting an operation state of an apparatus performing at least one of a heating operation and a cooling operation, a display unit that displays a screen on which an operation at the operation unit is reflected, and a controller that controls a display operation of the display unit. The controller causes the display unit to display at least one of a type and a range of an operation state that is able to be switched and set by the operation unit. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138823 | ADAPTIVE POWER-STEALING THERMOSTAT - A method of harvesting power from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system using an HVAC controller may include harvesting power from the HVAC system and measuring an electrical characteristic of the HVAC controller. The electrical characteristic may indicate whether the power harvested from the HVAC system is high enough to risk interfering with a normal operation of the HVAC system. The method may also include increasing the power harvested from the HVAC system until the electrical characteristic indicates that the HVAC controller is at risk of interfering with the normal operation of the HVAC system. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160169548 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160178230 | Rotatable Wall-Mounted Thermostat Having a Leveling Feature | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160178231 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHODS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160187021 | MONITORING APPARATUS AND MONITORING METHOD - A monitoring apparatus includes an information obtaining unit that obtains, from a target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored, a room temperature and a variable air volume; a room temperature display processing unit that displays, in a form of a graph, the room temperature obtained from the target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored; a controllable range calculating unit that calculates a length of a bar of a bar graph indicating a controllable range on the basis of the variable air volume; and a controllable range display processing unit that displays the bar graph including the bar having the length calculated by the controllable range calculating unit such that the bar graph is overlapped with the room temperature. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187023 | FLOATING THERMOSTAT PLATE - Methods and systems are described for operating a wall mounted thermostat. An example computer-implemented method includes receiving an indication of a physical touch to an exposed portion of a housing of the thermostat, wherein the housing is movable when touched. The method also includes determining a thermostat command associated with where the housing is touched and movement of the housing in response to the touch, and operating the thermostat according to the determined thermostat command. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187898 | Compensating for Sensor Thermal Lag - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a method of compensating for thermal lag in a temperature control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a method is performed by a controller of the temperature control system. The method includes receiving a first temperature obtained by a temperature sensing device at an end of a temperature control cycle. A second temperature obtained by the temperature sensing device is received at a pre-defined time after the end of the temperature control cycle. The method includes changing an operational set-point temperature of the temperature control system using a difference between the received temperatures. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160195072 | ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT CONTROL ASSEMBLY | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160195294 | THERMOSTAT SWITCHING CIRCUITRY ROBUST AGAINST ANOMALOUS HVAC CONTROL LINE CONDITIONS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160202711 | TWO CONDUCTOR WIRELINE GUIDED CONTROL AND AN HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE SAME | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160252264 | Staging Climate Control System Controller Functions Based on Available Power | 09-01-2016 |
| 20170234565 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237210 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR TERMINAL CONFIGURATION | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023839 | THERMOSTAT WITH DISPLAY AND PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD | 01-25-2018 |
| 20130277438 | Converter Building - A converter building including at least one room having a solid room wall enclosing an interior space and an electrical active part contained in the interior space, the room wall having at least one opening, which is designed such that it allows a human to enter the interior space. The opening is sealable, the room wall encloses the interior space in a gas-tight manner when the opening is sealed, and the interior space contains a dielectric insulation medium including a dielectric insulation component other than air. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20150115047 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY - An air conditioning system processes sensible heat load and latent heat load of a target space, and adjusts temperature and humidity of the target space. The air conditioning system includes a cooling heat exchanger circulating a heating medium to cool and dehumidify air blown into the target space, a heater heating the air cooled and dehumidified by the heat exchanger, a stage speed variable blower fan creating a flow of the air blown into the target space through the heat exchanger and the heater, and control unit. The control unit has a quantity of cooling adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of cooling supplied from the heating medium to the air in the heat exchanger, a quantity of heating adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of heating supplied from the heater to the air, and a blown air flow volume adjusting unit adjusting an air flow volume supplied by the blower fan. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20130075484 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS UTILIZING A WIRELESS MESH NETWORK - In some examples, a wireless controller is utilized within a wireless mesh network. The wireless controller includes a control module configured to manage at least one energy device via a pneumatic pressure line based on one or more parts of an energy profile; and a network interface module configured to transmit energy data to a management server and receive the one or more parts of the energy profile from the management server. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130313332 | TEMPERATURE INFORMATION GENERATION CIRCUIT, OSCILLATOR, ELECTRONIC APPARATUS, TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION SYSTEM, AND TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION METHOD OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENT - A temperature information generation circuit includes a temperature sensor (a first temperature detection section), a high-sensitivity temperature sensor (one or plural second temperature detection sections) having higher sensitivity than that of the temperature sensor, an output selection circuit, and a control section. The output selection circuit and the control section select a detection signal of the high-sensitivity temperature sensor upon supply of a power supply voltage, and then perform switching so as to select a detection signal of the temperature sensor at a predetermined timing. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140103125 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF A MEMORY DEVICE - A system and method for thermal management of a memory device is described. In an embodiment, one or more thermal sensors sends a signal to a thermal control module indicating that a pre-determined temperature threshold for a memory device or devices has been reached. The thermal control module may then begin tracking memory thermals or initiate thermal management operations based on the signal and history of memory device temperatures over time. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20160061538 | Active Cryogenic Electronic Envelope - A data acquisition module is disclosed for use with electronic components such as superconductive magnets wherein the electronic components and the data acquisition module may reside inside a cryostat. The data acquisition module allows conventional electronic technologies to work inside cryostats at cryogenic temperatures as low as 4° K. This is achieved by management of heat inside the module to keep the module operating at a temperature above the cryogenic temperature. This approach avoids the difficulties that arise from changes in carrier mobility in semiconductors operating at deep cryogenic temperatures. A cryogenic system comprises a cryostat containing a cryogenic fluid and at least one sensor, and a data acquisition module located within the cryostat, the module in communication with the at least one sensor to acquire data, wherein the module comprises a thermal package, a conditioning and digitizing electronic module, a controller module, a power module, and a thermal management module. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20080251590 | HVAC STAGING CONTROL - A controller for an HVAC system having a plurality of zones and having a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of thermostat signals and to transmit a signal to control one of a plurality of flow control devices in response to a call for conditioning in one of the plurality of zones. The controller also includes one or more timers that are connected to the thermostat terminals, where the one or more timers are configured to initiate a separate timing count upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones. In addition, the controller includes one or more staging terminals for transmitting staging signals to control a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device, where the transmission of the staging signals determines whether the conditioning device will operate at a relatively higher output stage. The controller is also configured to make a timing count determination to determine if any one of the separate timing counts initiated upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones exceeds a timing delay parameter. The transmission of staging signals depends on the timing count determination. A method is also disclosed. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20090166442 | Constant air volume/variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090255997 | Apparatus and Method for Flexibly and Efficiently Varying Air Temperatures in Multiple Rooms - The invention enables coordinated, flexible, agile, and energy efficient temperature variation among a plurality of rooms, as found in a hotel, an apartment building, or a group of exercise rooms, by transferring heat between the rooms. Air can be moved by fans and/or heat can be transferred by a heat pump. Heat transfer between exercise rooms can be powered partly by exertion of individuals in the rooms. Rapid air exchange can quickly equalize temperatures in adjacent rooms. Embodiments exchange heat between rooms and interior and/or exterior reservoirs of warmer and cooler air and/or water, and some embodiments move air from the reservoirs into and out of the rooms. Heat can be pumped into or out of the system, and air and/or water can be added or extracted from the reservoirs. In some embodiments heat is moved sequentially through a variable series of rooms, creating a monotonic variation of temperatures. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20100314458 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEAT PUMP ORIENTED ZONE CONTROL - A system and method to control environmental parameters of pre-defined zones within an environment using an electronic controller. An electronic controller monitors a loop temperature of a loop field of a geo-thermal heat pump as detected by a temperature sensor connected to the loop field. The electronic controller selects a staging combination of the geo-thermal heat pump and an auxiliary HVAC equipment based on at least the loop temperature. The electronic controller activates the selected staging combination, to modify at least a portion of the environmental parameters, using non-proprietary activating signals provided by the electronic controller. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100320277 | Constant air volume / variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20110031322 | Novel air regulation device and air conditioning system - A multiple zone HVAC system comprises powered flow rate adjustable registers. It can further comprise zone controllers that can wirelessly control the registers, and a central controller that controls the HVAC unit and coordinates zone controllers. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20140097257 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM, TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT METHOD, SYSTEM CONTROLLER, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - The first temperature measurer measures an first air temperature in a first place and transmits a measurement result to a system controller. The second temperature measurer measures an second air temperature in a second place and transmits a measurement result to the system controller. The sucker sucks air from the first place into a duet installed in the building. The discharger discharges the air taken from the first place via the duct into the second place. The system controller determines whether it is necessary to adjust an air temperature difference between the first and second places based on the first air temperature and the second air temperature. If the system controller determines that the adjustment is necessary, the system controller orders the sucker and discharger to start operation. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140158778 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158779 | BATTERY CHARGING BY MECHANICAL IMPELLER AT FORCED AIR VENT OUTPUTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158780 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL WITH INTEGRATED BATTERY STATUS COMMUNICATIONS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158781 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158782 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL VIA A CENTRAL CONTROLLER - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140209696 | INDOOR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - An indoor climate control system is configured to adjust a first temperature of a first room within a structure. The indoor climate control system has a receiver mechanically coupled to an HVAC unit configured to turn the HVAC unit on and off. A portable wireless thermostat communicatively coupled to the receiver. The portable wireless thermostat transmits a desired climate information to the receiver which then engages the HVAC unit to adjust the first temperature of the first room. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20150108230 | MULTIPLE ZONE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A multiple heating/cooling zone control system is disclosed. A heating/cooling system control device continuously monitors heating/cooling zone demand and matches the heating/cooling device output capacity to the total space or heat input required. Within the calculated heating/cooling device output capacity the heating/cooling device is modulated based on zone temperature setpoint to further adjust heating/cooling device output. As heat/cooling loss is increased heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are increased. Should heat/cooling loss decrease heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are decreased. Since heat/cooling output is adjusted based on the heat loss(gain) the heating/cooling device can be immediately adjusted to the proper or matching heating/cooling rate even before water/air temperature based adjustments can be made. Hence, the overall effect of the control device is a reduction in cycles of the heating/cooling device and the life of the heating/cooling device is extended and subsequent energy is saved. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150354844 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESSLY-ENABLED HVAC CONTROL - Various forms of wirelessly-enabled thermostats for multi-area HVAC control are presented. Such a thermostat may include: a controller; a temperature sensor included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller; a user input device that permits a user to input a setpoint temperature and an area priority, and a wireless communication system included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller. The controller may be configured to communicate temperature readings to a remotely-located central system and receive, from the user input device, the setpoint temperature and the area priority. The controller may be configured to communicate the setpoint temperature and the area priority to the central system. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150369507 | HVAC ZONING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be zoned into one or more zone. The HVAC system may include HVAC components, sensors, and one or more register vents that may include vent dampers (e.g., electronically controllable vent dampers or manually operated vent dampers). Opening and closing of the vent dampers may facilitate creating zones or sub-zones in the HVAC system configuration. An HVAC control system may receive a request for conditioned air in one or more of the zones, determine a damper setting for at least one of the vent dampers, communicate the determined damper setting to a vent damper or user interface, determine which HVAC components should be active, if any, and/or provide controls signals to activate or keep active the HVAC components that are determined to be active. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150377502 | Thermo Electric Register system - The invention is a thermostatically controlled vent installed in the existing outflow ventilation ducts of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning system. When the central heating/cooling unit is operating, temperature variation is achieved by an electronic control which opens and closes air flow fins on the vent based on the settings of an individual thermostat for each room in a building that has the device installed. The individual thermostat of each vent in the system is connected to the primary building thermostat and therefore has the ability to signal the need to turn on/off the heating/cooling unit as appropriate. In addition, the invention can purify the air flow by means of an ultraviolet sterilization lamp. It is possible to remotely set the temperature settings via an internet enabled software app. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160025363 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160091220 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160201932 | AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL SYSTEM, SENSOR DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 07-14-2016 |
| 236001000 |
Heat conserving damper control | 1 |
| 20130228633 | Systems and Methods for Power Stealing - A thermostat includes a power stealing circuit selectively configured to provide power to the thermostat and to circuit(s) ancillary to the thermostat from power source(s) external to the thermostat, without requiring a common or neutral connection between the thermostat and the power source(s). Exemplary embodiments also are disclosed of a climate control system that includes such a thermostat. This thermostat can power-steal off of existing load wires (e.g., a W and/or Y terminal, etc.) and can provide power for a continuous backlight and/or other device (e.g., a remote sensor and/or low-power transceiver, etc.). | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130206850 | TEMPERATURE-BASED FLOW REGULATOR - A flow regulator for a solid fuel grill may include a housing having an opening and configured for coupling to a solid fuel grill over a vent opening of the grill and the regulator may also include a damper assembly arranged on the housing where the damper assembly may include a damper arranged to operably and variably open and close the opening and the damper assembly may also include a temperature sensitive damper controller operably connected to the housing and the damper to open and close the damper based on temperature changes. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20080217418 | Temperature compensation method for thermostats - An air conditioning control system and method for compensating for heat gain or loss in an air conditioned space due to window area and temperature differential between outdoor temperature and indoor temperature. For predetermined amounts of window area, as a percent of total wall area defining an enclosed space, the thermostat setpoint or measured temperature is adjusted as a function of the temperature differential between the enclosed space and the outdoor ambient temperature, for example. Data may be accumulated and stored in a controller memory for various types of structures and rates of heat transfer therethrough for various amounts and type of window area as a percent of the total wall area, for example. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080272199 | METHODS USING A DRAPED LIQUID WARMING DEVICE - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080283621 | OCCUPANT CONTROLLED ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN A MULTI-UNIT BUILDING - A system and a method for allowing an occupant of a single unit of a multi-unit building to select an operating state of the unit which consumes less energy than a normal operating state. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080314998 | Temperature control in variable-capacity HVAC system - Relatively constant temperatures are maintained in a space by varying the capacity of heating or cooling equipment. A proportional band is used to adjust capacity to compensate for changes in heating or cooling load, and the proportional band is adjusted to bring the actual temperature within the space closer to the set point temperature. Such an adjustment may be made by determining the difference between the present temperature and the set point temperature, and adjusting a floating temperature set point by a percentage (e.g., ten percent) of the difference. Such a process may be repeated, for example, at regular intervals, such as once per minute. As a result, the temperature within the space approaches (e.g., asymptotically) the set point temperature whether the heating or cooling load is high or low. Methods, systems, and apparatuses are contemplated, including HVAC units and controls, including for residential applications, including using variable-speed drives. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090014547 | LIQUID WARMING DEVICE WITH BASIN DETECTION - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090026278 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING A SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY TO CONTROL TEMPERATURE - This invention relates generally to shape memory alloys, and more specifically, to systems and methods for using a shape memory alloy to control temperature. In one embodiment, the invention includes obtaining a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first shape; deforming the SMA to a second shape, the deformed SMA releasing thermal energy resulting in heat; distributing the heat from the SMA in a first direction; reforming the SMA to approximately the first shape, the reformed SMA consuming thermal energy resulting in cold; distributing the cold from the SMA in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction, wherein the first direction is towards a location whereby increased temperatures are desired and the second direction is towards a location whereby decreased temperatures are desired. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090140065 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH SAVE A WIRE TERMINAL - A HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building is described. In one illustrative embodiment, an HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building by activating and deactivating one or more HVAC components is provided. The HVAC controller may include a special purpose save a wire terminal that provides a multiplexed or otherwise encoded control signal. The HVAC controller may be configured to multiplex, for example, two or more of a call for heat (W) signal, a call for cool (Y) signal, and/or a call for fan (G) signal onto the special purpose save a wire terminal of the HVAC controller. This may free up a wire in a four wire installation to carry, for example, a common (C) signal. A demultiplexer module may be provided adjacent to the one or more HVAC components to demultiplex the multiplexed control signal. This may substantially reduce the cost and complexity of, for example, retrofitting a four wire installation with a 24 VAC powered HVAC controller. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20100025483 | Sensor-Based Occupancy and Behavior Prediction Method for Intelligently Controlling Energy Consumption Within a Building - A method for controlling energy consumption within a building includes providing at least one environment sensing device and at least one energy consumption sensing device associated with the building. Current data is collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device along with associated time-of-day data. A value of a future energy consumption parameter is predicted based upon the collected current data, the associated time-of-day data, and historic data collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device. A profile of future costs per unit of energy consumption as a function of time is determined. Energy consumption is controlled dependent upon the predicted future energy consumption parameter value and the determined profile of energy consumption costs. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20120126020 | THERMOSTAT WIRING CONNECTOR - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system. The thermostat includes wiring terminals adapted and configured to make an electrical connection with an HVAC system wires such as common, heating and cooling control and return wires. The making of the connection with a common wire actuates switching open a loop of an electrical circuit used for power harvesting. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal includes actuation of a moveable part of the terminal so as to accommodate the common wire that in turn actuates the switching open the power harvesting loop. More than one other loop can be switched. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used to automatically connect and/or disconnect Rc and Rh circuits when one or both Rc and Rh wires are present. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used for electronically sensing the presence of the HVAC system wire. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126021 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY FOR CONNECTION TO HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system having one or two separate transformers for supplying power to the HVAC system. The thermostat includes isolation circuitry housed within the thermostat to safely connect to the HVAC control wires and power wire(s) whether the HVAC system has one or two separate transformers without the use of removable jumpers or manual rewiring. The thermostat can include a processor that sends DC signals for turning on and turning off each of the HVAC functions, and an isolator adapted to electrically isolate the processor from the control wires and power wire(s). The isolator can include a transformer, such as a low cost Ethernet transformer. The circuitry can include one or more field effect transistors adapted and arranged so as to open or close an electrical connections between the control and power wires, thereby turning on or off the associated HVAC function. According to some embodiments, the Rc and Rh terminals are permanently connected using a fuse. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120168524 | SWITCH FOR MULTI FUNCTION CONTROL - The invention provides for a controller such as a thermostat for an HVAC system comprising a housing having a circuit board and a display screen, the display screen having at least one alpha-numeric icon and a group of touch pads comprising at least two displayable touch pads. A microprocessor is provided for controlling the display screen. A sole mechanical button or switch is mounted in the housing and the button has a first end and second end and a touch surface extending between the first end and second end. The sole mechanical button signals the microprocessor in order to adjust the alpha-numeric icon(s), so that the combination of inputs received by the microprocessor from the group of touch pads and sole mechanical button provide for each and every adjustment required for all of the operational functions of the controller. The mechanical button may be a rocker switch. The controller may also include a navigation button. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120199660 | ADAPTIVE POWER STEALING THERMOSTAT - An electronic thermostat and associated methods are disclosed for power stealing from an HVAC triggering circuit. The methods include making voltage measurements while controlling the amount of current drawn by the power stealing circuitry so as to determine a relationship that can be used to select how much current to draw during power stealing. Through the use of the described methods, the likelihood of inadvertent switching of the HVAC function (on or off) can be significantly reduced. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120217316 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF ADVANCED FAN SPEED CONTROL - According to some embodiments, a method, system, and apparatus to provide thermal management control. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, by a control mechanism, a plurality of temperature representative signals from a plurality of temperature sensors, receiving a command signal from the control mechanism by an output weighting matrix mechanism, and controlling at least one thermal cooling device with at least one weighted output signal from the output weighting matrix mechanism. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120248210 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN ENERGY BUFFERED BUILDING CONTROL UNIT - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit configured to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The powering circuit has a power extraction circuit configured to extract electrical power from one or more of the plurality of received HVAC control wires up to a first level of electrical power, a rechargeable battery, and a power control circuit coupled to the power extraction circuit, the rechargeable battery, and the thermostat processing and control circuit. The power control circuit is configured to provide the electrical load power using power from the power extraction circuit and the rechargeable battery. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120248211 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120256009 | POWER-PRESERVING COMMUNICATIONS ARCHITECTURE WITH LONG-POLLING PERSISTENT CLOUD CHANNEL FOR WIRELESS NETWORK-CONNECTED THERMOSTAT - Provided according to one or more embodiments herein are methods, systems and related architectures for facilitating network communications between a wireless network-connected thermostat and a cloud-based management server in a manner that promotes reduced power usage and extended service life of a rechargeable battery of the thermostat, while at the same time accomplishing timely data transfer between the thermostat and the cloud-based management server for suitable and time-appropriate control of an HVAC system. The thermostat further comprises powering circuitry configured to: extract electrical power from one or more HVAC control wires in a manner that does not require a “common” wire; supply electrical power for thermostat operation; recharge the rechargeable battery (if needed) using any surplus extracted power; and discharge the rechargeable battery to assist in supplying electrical power for thermostat operation during intervals in which the extracted power alone is insufficient for thermostat operation. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120273580 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120325919 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130026243 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN HEATING DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN HEATING INSTALLATION - A control device for a heating device includes: a thermostat having a control unit, the control unit being connected to an energy source which is used to operate the control unit. The energy source is configured to generate energy in response to the presence of temperature differences between two reference points. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130087629 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a housing, a user interface, and a processing system configured to control an HVAC system using setpoint temperature values. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable based on a user response to an inquiry presented on the user interface, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130099008 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AMBIENT TEMPERATURE - A mechanism for indicating ambient temperature of an enclosure from temperatures determined within the enclosure. The temperatures may be obtained from two or more sensors at each of two or more locations within the enclosure. The enclosure may include heat generating components such as electronics. The enclosure may also incorporate one or more dynamic components that emanate sudden amounts of heat. The present mechanism compensates for such heat sources with a compensating scheme. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099009 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099010 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099011 | ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTING SCHEDULE LEARNING ALGORITHMS FOR INTELLIGENT THERMOSTAT - A user-friendly programmable thermostat is described that includes receiving an immediate-control input to change set point temperature, controlling temperature according to the set point temperature for a predetermined time interval, and then automatically resetting the set point temperature upon the ending of the predetermined time interval such that the user is urged to make further immediate-control inputs. A schedule for the programmable thermostat is automatically generated based on the immediate-control inputs. Methods are also described for receiving user input relating to the user's preference regarding automatically generating a schedule, and determining whether or not to automatically adopt an automatically generated schedule based on the received user input. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130221117 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN SINGLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS AND IN MULTIPLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit operative to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The thermostat includes circuitry and methods for maximizing efficiency of energy harvested from the HVAC system connected to the thermostat, and depending on which system is connected to the thermostat, different power schemes can be implemented in order to obtain power from the HVAC system. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130292481 | BUILDING CONTROL UNIT METHOD AND CONTROLS - Embodiments of the invention provide thermostat controls having improved tactile feedback. According to one embodiment, a thermostat includes a bottom member, a switch, a top member, and a motion guiding member or assembly that operationally couples the top member with the bottom member so that the top member is inwardly pressable by a user relative to the bottom member to allow the thermostat to receive input from the user by contacting the switch with a component of the top member or the bottom member. The motion guiding member or assembly contacts the top member near its outer periphery to control the inward motion of the top member relative to the bottom member to provide the improved tactile feedback. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130313331 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140084072 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140091152 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR USING ALUMINUM CAPILLARY - A temperature sensor assembly is provided. The temperature sensor includes an aluminum capillary soldered to an actuation unit. The actuation unit operably fluidly couples to the capillary to define an internal cavity storing a working fluid. The working fluid configured to manipulate the actuation unit when the working fluid changes temperature. Solder sealingly couples the capillary to the actuation unit. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140091153 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a processing system configured to control an HVAC system. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140158783 | HVAC Systems - A system includes a heat pump configured to match a working fluid's temperature to a fluid temperature set-point, a fluid pump in fluid communication with the heat pump through the working fluid and configured to match the working fluid's pressure/flow to a fluid pressure/flow set-point, at least one heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid pump, and a supervisory controller in signal communication with the at least one heat exchanger, the fluid pump, and the heat pump. The at least one heat exchanger includes a proportional valve and a return air temperature gauge configured to monitor return air temperature associated therewith. The supervisory controller is configured to vary the fluid temperature set-point and vary the fluid pressure/flow set-point based upon a position of the proportional valve and the return air temperature. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140191048 | Rotating Control Panel - A control panel for an enclosed space, set into a cutout in the wall of the enclosed space, that can rotate at least 180 degrees so as to be accessible from either the inside or the outside of the enclosed space. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140217185 | HVAC System With Camera and Microphone - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has an input configured to receive at least one of a first heating setting, a first ventilation setting, a first cooling setting, a first humidity setting, and a first air quality setting, at least one of an image sensor and a microphone connected to at least one component in the HVAC system, the image sensor and/or microphone being configured to capture an data from a first zone, and a controller connected to the input and at least one of the image sensor and microphone, the controller configured to control at least one of the first heating setting, the first ventilation setting, the first cooling setting, the first humidity setting, and the first air quality setting in response to receiving the data from at least one of the image sensor and the microphone. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140217186 | Wireless Thermostat and System - A secure wireless thermostat and system comprising the thermostat are described and taught. The temperature control unit replaces the traditional thermostat by attaching to the wall and using the existing wiring from the traditional thermostat. This temperature control unit has no display or programming buttons, rather a user interacts with the temperature control unit via electronic devices such as smart phones, laptop computers, and desktop computers. The settings of the system can be modified by the user from these access ports. If the user opts to interact with the system via a third party IP server, a local DHCP web server can be employed to store data safely and securely. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231530 | ACTIVE POWER STEALING - A thermostat and related methods are described for controlling one or more functions, such as heating and cooling in an HVAC. According to some embodiments the thermostat includes a switching circuit for controlling an HVAC function, where closing the switching circuit activates the HVAC function. The thermostat may also include power harvesting circuitry adapted and arranged to harvest power from the HVAC system, where during times when the HVAC function is active the switching circuit opens for a time interval. The power harvesting circuitry may harvest power from the HVAC system during the time interval, and the time interval may be short enough that the HVAC function remains activated without interruption during the time interval. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140239078 | Thermostat Control System with IR Sensor - A thermostat control system is suitable for mounting within a substantially sealed housing, and comprises an infrared sensor within the substantially sealed housing that monitors the interior surface temperature of at least a portion of a housing wall. The monitored portion of the interior wall, as well as the thermal path between the monitored wall portion and an exterior housing surface is highly thermally conductive to minimize the lag between temperature changes exterior to the housing and the consequential monitored temperature changes of the interior wall surface. The monitored portion of the interior wall surface is also characterized by high emissivity. Because the interior of the housing is substantially sealed from the external steam bath environment, electronic components within the housing, including the sensor, are protected from the moist environment of a steam bath or other submersible environment. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140263679 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284391 | Method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising multiple rooms, and apparatus for carrying out the method - A method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising a plurality of rooms, the room temperature in a room or in a plurality of rooms is regulated by regulating the mass flow of a heat-carrying fluid flowing through a heat exchanger according to a determined current room temperature. A temperature sensor in the room can be dispensed with in that, in order to determine the current room temperature, in each case the mass flow of the heat carrying fluid through the heat exchanger and the flow temperature prevailing at the input to the heat exchanger and the return temperature prevailing at the output of the heat exchanger are measured, and that a temperature assigned to the determined values of the mass flow, the flow temperature and the return temperature is output as the current room temperature and used for regulation. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140299670 | Current Control for Power Stealing - A thermostat for use in a climate control system has a power stealing circuit that provides power from a voltage supply through a load of the climate control system when the load is in an “off” mode. The power stealing circuit has a current limiting circuit that provides a maximum level of instantaneous current predetermined to be a threshold beyond which the load is switched to an “on” mode. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140312131 | TRIAC OR BYPASS CIRCUIT AND MOSFET POWER STEAL COMBINATION - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices requiring power. A power supply unit may be designed to keep electromagnetic interference emissions at a minimum, particularly at a level that does not violate governmental regulations. A unit may be designed so that there is enough power for a triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source rather than line power to reduce emissions on the power line. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing. Power stealing may require switching transistors which can generate emissions. Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140319234 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH FIXED SEGMENT DISPLAY HAVING FIXED SEGMENT ICONS AND ANIMATION - An HVAC controller including a controller and a display operatively coupled to the controller. The display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more programmable options of the HVAC controller in the first region of the display for selection by a user, where the programmable options may be used to set settings that are capable of controlling subsequent operations and/or functionality of the HVAC controller. The controller may be configured to selectively animate one or more of the programmable options displayed in the first region. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319235 | USER INTERFACE FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller including a controller and a touch screen display operatively coupled to the controller. The touch screen display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more selectable options in the first region of the display for selection by a user and to accept selection of a displayed selectable option by detecting a user touch of the displayed selectable option via the touch screen display. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319236 | SELF-SETTING CIRCUIT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC Controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly capable of releasably engaging the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a first housing and a printed circuit board having a controller for providing one or more control signals, where the printed circuit board may be secured relative to the first housing. The second sub-assembly may include a second housing, a power source, one or more output terminals, and a second printed circuit board. The second printed circuit board may be secured relative to the second housing and may have circuitry thereon that is powered by the power source and configured to receive the one or more control signals from the first printed circuit board. The circuitry of the second sub-assembly may set output terminals thereof to a predetermined state when the first sub-assembly is released from the second sub-assembly. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326795 | Training Room and Use Thereof - A training gym is a closed windowless room provided with at least one access door, and infrared heater, a humidistat for regulating the ambient humidity in said indoor space; lighting; and at least one vent. In use the training gym is maintained at a temperature of at least about 37° C. and a relative humidity of 50 to 60% to promote increased effectiveness of exercise and optimum benefit of a training session for physical and sports training, fitness, functional rehabilitation, and post-traumatic or post-operative reathletization for athletes at beginner, experienced or expert levels (elite athletes) making use of the training gym. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140346241 | Round Thermostat with Flanged Rotatable User Input Member and Wall-Facing Optical Sensor that Senses Rotation - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140367475 | ROUND THERMOSTAT WITH ROTATABLE USER INPUT MEMBER AND TEMPERATURE SENSING ELEMENT DISPOSED IN PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION WITH A FRONT THERMOSTAT COVER - An electronic thermostat is described that includes a head unit, a rotatable ring, a backplate, an electronic display that is viewable by a user in front of the thermostat, a printed circuit board, and a daughter circuit. The daughter circuit is coupled to the printed circuit board, and senses motion of the rotatable ring and includes a first temperature sensor. A second temperature sensor separated from the first temperature sensor, are both used to calculate ambient temperature. The first temperature sensor is positioned at least partially within a cavity formed between a front surface of the head unit and the printed circuit board. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374497 | HEAT SOURCE SYSTEM, CONTROL DEVICE THEREOF, AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A technique of suppressing power consumption of a system so as to be equal to or less than contracted power when a refrigerator is used as a heat source is provided. A system control device ( | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150034729 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat compatible with single-HVAC- and dual-HVAC-transformer systems may include a first power return wire connector, a second power return wire connector, and a user-moveable mechanical element that physically blocks wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a first position and physically allows wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a second position. The thermostat may also include a switching circuit that may be in a first configuration when the mechanical element is in the first position, and in a second configuration when the mechanical element is in the second position. The first wire connector may be electrically coupled to the second wire connector in the first configuration, and first wire connector may be electrically isolated from the second wire connector in the second configuration to promote foolproofing against undesired isolation of the first and second wire connectors. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150053779 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. Voice recognition software identifies a trigger phrase included in the natural language audio message and in response the HVAC controller performs an action. The voice recognition software may be used to create a natural language text based message from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, where the natural language text based message is translated into the command recognizable by the HVAC controller. In response to the command, the HVAC controller may perform an action and/or respond with a natural language text based or audio message. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053780 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat and may include a housing that at least partially houses a control module, a microphone, a speaker, a display, and a voice recognition module. The voice recognition module recognizes a predetermined audible trigger from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, and in response, provide one or more audio clips via the speaker and/or video clips via the display to assist users in operating the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053781 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat including a housing that houses a temperature sensor, a microphone, and a controller. The controller may identify a trigger phrase in an audio stream provided by the microphone. In response to identifying the trigger phrase, the controller initiates processing of the audio stream to identify a command following the trigger phrase and to generate a command understandable by the thermostat that instructs the controller to perform the identified command. The controller then executes the generated command understandable by the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the microphone of the thermostat and/or a remote device having a microphone. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150083812 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - Temperature adjustment systems and methods for adjusting thermostat temperature settings are provided. A system includes an oven appliance sensor in communication with an oven appliance, the oven appliance sensor operable to sense an operation of the oven appliance. The system further includes a thermostat in communication with the oven appliance sensor, the thermostat operable to adjust a temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. A method includes sensing an operation of an oven appliance, communicating the operation of the oven appliance to the thermostat, and adjusting the thermostat temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083813 | Soliciting user input for thermostat control - A device or arrangement may be configured to receive a temperature limit such as an acceptable maximum temperature as well as a tolerance measure such as a number of acceptable events, the events causing the temperature to be outside of the temperature limit. An air comfort device may be operated based on the received temperature limit and the tolerance measure. A potential cost value may be provided based on a temperature limit and tolerance measure. A temperature limit and tolerance measure may be calculated based on a target cost value such that the arrangement may modify a temperature limit and/or tolerance measure to achieve the target cost value. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150115045 | Determining Power Stealing Capability of a Climate Control System Controller - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for determining a power stealing capability of a climate control system controller. In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for use in a climate control system generally includes a capacitor chargeable by current flowing through an off-mode load of the climate control system. A voltage detect circuit detects a voltage across the capacitor. The controller includes a timer for determining a charge time of the capacitor from a first specific voltage to a second specific voltage based on input from the voltage detect circuit. The controller determines a resistance of the off-mode load based on the charge time and, based on the determined resistance, determines a level of current for power stealing through the off-mode load. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150115046 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically connected. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122900 | DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND THERMOSTATS INCLUDING DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS - A DC voltage-limiting circuit generally includes first, second, and third transistors. The first transistor is connected between a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first transistor has a collector connected to the voltage input terminal, an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal, and a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first resistor. The second transistor has a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first voltage regulator and a second resistor, a collector connected to the base of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal. The third transistor has a collector connected to the base of the first transistor via a third resistor, an emitter grounded, and a base connected to the voltage output terminal via a second voltage regulator and a fourth resistor. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150136862 | System and Method for Environmental Control - In an exemplary embodiment, an Environmental Optimization System (“EOS”) provides a system for the intelligent control and monitoring of a poultry or livestock house environment through the utilization of a solar thermal collection system, a variety of environmental and livestock behavior sensors, apparatus for controlling the thermal collection and existing interior heating/air conditioning/ventilation (“HVAC”) systems, and Internet or cloud based intelligent control and monitoring capabilities of the system. In various embodiments central sensor data aggregation is utilized to provide improved optimization control for individual structures based on data from multiple structures. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150144705 | METHODS SYSTEMS AND TOOLS FOR DETERMINING A WIRING CONFIGURATION FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - A wiring configuration tool may be configured to determine a new wiring configuration for a replacement HVAC controller based, at least in part, on the existing wiring configuration for a current HVAC controller and, for example, the make and model of the replacement HVAC controller. The wiring configuration tool may be hosted by a server that provides a user interface for interacting with the user. The user may access the wiring configuration tool via a web services interface, a smart phone application or in any other suitable manner. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150144706 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY TO CONTROL POWER USAGE - An operation alteration of a network attached thermostat to control power usage. Control wires for a heating and air conditioning system may be connected to a thermostat control circuit configured to control the system. A power extraction circuit may be coupled to the control wires configured to extract power from the control wires. The power may be put into a storage device. The power may be provided to the thermostat control circuit and a WiFi radio module. The radio module may provide a network connection for the thermostat. Circuitry and techniques may be provided to reduce power usage by the thermostat components. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150316285 | WIRELESS WALL THERMOSTAT - The wireless wall thermostat of the present invention utilizes a push-contact mechanical system that allows a user to raise or lower the temperature within a space by applying a force on the top or bottom center of the front of the thermostat. The perpendicular force applied by the user generates a moment arm around pivot connectors, which rotates the thermostat clockwise or counter-clockwise. When rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, contact buttons attached to the back of the thermostat come into contact with the trigger tabs of a stationary trigger plate mounted to a wall through use of an electromagnetic attraction between a steel disc and a magnet. When the trigger tabs press the contact buttons, the contact buttons send a signal to the central processing unit of the thermostat's internal circuit board to modulate the temperature setting. In addition, the wireless wall thermostat can be detachable by utilizing a magnetic release smart mount. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150323211 | HVAC SYSTEM GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first tracking module increments a first period of time when a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is ON during a predetermined period of time. A second tracking module increments a second period of time when, during the predetermined period of time: (i) the HVAC system is ON and (ii) a split temperature of the HVAC system is outside of a temperature range of the HVAC system. A grade determination module determines a grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time based on both the first period of time and the second period of time. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. The report includes the grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323212 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323941 | THERMOSTAT WITH INTEGRATED PARTICLE SENSOR - A residential or commercial thermostat incorporating an airborne particle sensor. A standard thermostat device incorporating at least one temperature sensor and at least activation of heating and/or cooling with the addition of an on-board particle sensor. The particulate information could simply be displayed, or could be part of controlling filtration or air-handling equipment. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150330658 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330659 | HVAC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY PACKAGING SYSTEM - Embodiments of a HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system within an ultimate enclosure are provided. The HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system provides serviceability, safety, manufacturability, and system management failure diagnostic reporting enhancements over conventional packaging systems while conforming to agency safety requirements. The embodiments disclosed herein also reduce equipment and service costs for HVAC electrical system power supply components provided within the HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system by reducing delays in servicing these components. Thus, customer uptime of the HVAC system can be increased. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330660 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150331432 | HVAC CONTROLLER HAVING MULTIPLEXED INPUT SIGNAL DETECTION AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controller, a method of detecting multiplexed input signals and an HVAC system employing the controller or the method. In one embodiment, the HVAC controller includes: (1) a signal conditioner configured to convert received alternating current (AC) input signals into corresponding square wave signals of a digital logic voltage, (2) a multiplexer coupled to the signal conditioner and configured to select one of the square wave signals and (3) a sample analyzer coupled to the multiplexer and configured to evaluate multiple samples of the selected one of the square wave signals to derive a binary state. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150345818 | Wireless Thermostat With Dual Stage Failsafe Circuits - A multi-mode thermostat includes, a sensor of ambient temperature and control circuits coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuits are responsive to signals from the sensor to maintain a predetermined regional temperature. First electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a sensed operational power level, to alter a status signal transmission rate by the control circuits. Second electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a lower sensed operational power level to provide a backup, lower regional temperature electromechanically. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150354846 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL UNIT WITH A VARIABLE ASSIST ROTATIONAL INTERFACE AND DISPLAY - Provided according to one or more embodiments is a method of processing rotational inputs to a control device having a an electronic display and user interface, such as a programmable thermostat. Methods and systems include displaying on the electronic display associated with the control device at least a portion of an initial display element selected from a sequence of display elements. In response to seeing such information, the user applies a rotational input applied to a rotational input device, such as a rotatable ring around the electronic display. A variable scroll assist engine receives this information and determines an angular movement as provided by the user through the rotational input device. In order to reduce the rotational input required by the user, the variable assist scroll engine applies one or more heuristics to variably assist with a scrolling movement of a sequence of display elements on the electronic display. The variable scroll assist engine may reduce the rotational user input required to traverse an arbitrary number of display elements to as little as a quarter-revolution of the rotational input device in order that a user is better able to operate the control device and utilize the rotational input device when navigating the user interface of the control device. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354848 | Device for Influencing the room climate - The invention relates to a device for influencing the room climate which offers convenient operation at low costs with regard to procurement, installation, and ongoing operation, in order to influence the room climate in heated or air-conditioned rooms while avoiding unnecessary energy losses, and which expands the application range in the room air conditioning by means of a simple retrofitting possibility. According to the invention, the control apparatus for the room temperature is integrated into an electrical measuring and display apparatus, which is intended as a room operating apparatus for measuring, displaying, evaluating, and providing room climate values, and adjustments to the control apparatus are made by means of the room operating apparatus. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150355371 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH PROXIMITY SENSOR - An HVAC controller such as a thermostat may include a housing having an aperture formed within the housing and a proximity sensor that is disposed within the housing proximate the aperture. The proximity sensor may include a sense die that has a first IR detector and a second IR detector, and a lens element disposed in front of the sense die. The lens element may be shifted to one side to preferentially direct incident IR energy to the first IR detector at the expense of the second IR detector. An IR energy transparent element may be disposed in front of the lens element, and may include a portion that fits into and seals the aperture formed within the housing. A controller may be configured to receive an electrical signal from the proximity sensor indicating an approach of an individual towards the thermostat, and in response, wake-up a user interface. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150362208 | BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly releasably securable to the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a housing having the back and a cover, a printed circuit board at least substantially enclosed by the housing, a battery compartment formed in the back of the housing for receiving one or more batteries, and a display exposed for viewing through an aperture in the cover of the housing for viewing the display by a user. The printed circuit board may include one or more battery terminals that extend from the printed circuit board through the back of the housing and into the battery compartment. In some cases, the battery compartment may define a cup-shaped reservoir that may be configured to collect leakage from one or more of the batteries. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150369506 | Battery Power Management in a Thermostat With a Wireless Transceiver - A thermostat includes a controller for controlling the thermostat, a battery supplying power for the thermostat, and a wireless transceiver for receiving control information from a remote device and for transmitting information to the remote device. The controller sets a default time schedule for enabling the wireless transceiver. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150369510 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT - A HVAC unit manufacturing method and a HVAC system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the HVAC system includes: a controller having control board terminals, a parallel wiring harness having a first and a second connection header, the first connection header coupled to the control board terminals, and a switch having terminals. The terminals of the switch including: a pair of functional terminals configured to indicate a status of the switch and a pair of jumpered terminals independent of the pair of functional terminals and internally connected together within the switch, wherein designated combinations of the terminals indicate a circuit configuration for employing the switch in the HVAC system with each of the terminals having a particular design that dictates a specific corresponding connection header be used for each of the designated combinations, wherein a single one of the designated combinations of the terminals corresponds to the second connection header. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150370268 | BYPASS SWITCH FOR IN-LINE POWER STEAL - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices. The power supply unit may keep electromagnetic interference emissions and harmonics at a minimum. A unit may have enough power for triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing which require switching transistors which can generate emissions. In-line thermostats using MOSFETS power steal may do the power steal during an ON state (triac, relay or silicon controlled rectifier activated). Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. All that may be needed, during an OFF state as a bypass, is a high voltage controllable switch. The need may be achieved using high voltage MOSFETS. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150373926 | SYSTEM FOR OPTIMALLY CONTROLLING SENSORY TEMPERATURE BASED ON HUMIDITY - The present invention can provide an optimum sensory temperature and can increase productivity by a system having a variable fan provided in a vinyl greenhouse, receiving optimum temperature (A) and humidity (B), detecting internal temperature (A′) and humidity (B′), calculating temperature (A″) according to the humidity, and providing the temperature (A″) suitable for the humidity (B′) detected through an operational control of the variable fan. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160003492 | Thermistor Emulating CT Clamp - A heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with a thermostat operable to receive, process, and display power consumption information received via a thermistor input of the thermostat. The thermostat receives power consumption information from a measurement device in communication with the thermostat via a wired interface and the thermistor input, wherein the measurement device comprises a clamp portion positionable about an electric conductor, a measurement portion, and a conditioning component. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160010888 | HVAC System with Location Based Operation | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160025368 | Thermostats and Operational Methods - Thermostats and operational methods are described. According to one aspect, a thermostat includes an interface configured to receive a control signal, wherein the control signal comprises fast components and slow components, and the fast components change at an increased rate compared with slow components of the control signal, control circuitry including a fast response controller configured to use the fast components of the control signal to generate a fast temperature offset, a slow response controller configured to use the slow components of the control signal to generate a slow temperature offset, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to use the fast temperature offset and the slow temperature offset to control a conditioning apparatus to at least one of heat and cool a conditioned area at a plurality of moments in time. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160025369 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - An air conditioning system is provided. The air conditioning system may include at least one air handler that conditions indoor air; an interface that controls the at least one air handler; and a central controller that includes at least one input/output device having an input/output port through which an electric signal is input and output between a plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler; and a controller that communicates with the interface to control the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. The interface may be configured based on a configuration of the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler recognized through the at least one input/output device, and the interface may be reconfigured in accordance with a change in the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160040900 | HVAC System with SMS Capability - Systems and methods are disclosed that include providing a system controller in a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with an SMS module. Initialization and/or actuation of an SMS initiator input may cause the SMS module to generate, transmit, and/or to allow a request for generation and/or transmittal of a predetermined SMS message to alter a setting and/or an operation of a smartphone that allows the smartphone to produce an audible alert, even when the smartphone is configured in a so-called silent mode. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160047569 | USER-FRIENDLY, NETWORK CONNECTED LEARNING THERMOSTAT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A thermostat for controlling an HVAC system in an enclosure may include a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, and an electronic display having a first mode and a second mode. The thermostat may also include one or more processors programmed to change a setpoint temperature of the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature upon detection of a non-occupancy condition for the enclosure. The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor. The processor(s) may also be programmed to change the electronic display from the first mode to the second mode upon detection of a person approaching the thermostat. The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160061471 | HVAC CONTROLLER ASSEMBLY - An HVAC control mounting assembly including a housing, including at least one communication module receptacle, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. An HVAC controller assembly including an HVAC control unit, and a mounting assembly operably coupled to the HVAC control unit the mounting assembly including: a housing including at least one communication module receptacle disposed therein, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160084517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMMANDING TEMPERATURES TARGETED BY AIR CONDITIONER - On the screen of a display unit, period border lines are displayed. The period border lines divide hours (for example 24 hours) for a user's desired one day into a plurality of periods and present line segments movable on the screen in a predetermined direction. Each of the line segments acts as a border lien between mutually adjacent periods. On the screen, target temperatures which are set for the respective periods are also displayed. Dragging the period border liens (K | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160107189 | SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLE PREPARATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING METHOD - The present invention provides a system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle configured to regulate an air environment within a coating chamber for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle by coating a microneedle with a coating liquid containing a drug, the system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle comprising an air compressor, a humidity regulator configured to regulate humidity of air supplied from the air compressor, and an air filter configured to eliminate microorganisms from air to be supplied to the inside of the coating chamber. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160116183 | MAGNETICALLY MOUNTED WALL THERMOSTAT - One aspect of this disclosure provides a thermostat that can be magnetically attached to the wall using one or more magnets that allow the thermostat to be rotated about the wall, once mounted, or easily removed from the wall altogether to operate as a remote unit. Other devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160138820 | REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE - A remote control device according to the present invention includes an operation unit for switching and setting an operation state of an apparatus performing at least one of a heating operation and a cooling operation, a display unit that displays a screen on which an operation at the operation unit is reflected, and a controller that controls a display operation of the display unit. The controller causes the display unit to display at least one of a type and a range of an operation state that is able to be switched and set by the operation unit. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138823 | ADAPTIVE POWER-STEALING THERMOSTAT - A method of harvesting power from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system using an HVAC controller may include harvesting power from the HVAC system and measuring an electrical characteristic of the HVAC controller. The electrical characteristic may indicate whether the power harvested from the HVAC system is high enough to risk interfering with a normal operation of the HVAC system. The method may also include increasing the power harvested from the HVAC system until the electrical characteristic indicates that the HVAC controller is at risk of interfering with the normal operation of the HVAC system. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160169548 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160178230 | Rotatable Wall-Mounted Thermostat Having a Leveling Feature | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160178231 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHODS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160187021 | MONITORING APPARATUS AND MONITORING METHOD - A monitoring apparatus includes an information obtaining unit that obtains, from a target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored, a room temperature and a variable air volume; a room temperature display processing unit that displays, in a form of a graph, the room temperature obtained from the target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored; a controllable range calculating unit that calculates a length of a bar of a bar graph indicating a controllable range on the basis of the variable air volume; and a controllable range display processing unit that displays the bar graph including the bar having the length calculated by the controllable range calculating unit such that the bar graph is overlapped with the room temperature. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187023 | FLOATING THERMOSTAT PLATE - Methods and systems are described for operating a wall mounted thermostat. An example computer-implemented method includes receiving an indication of a physical touch to an exposed portion of a housing of the thermostat, wherein the housing is movable when touched. The method also includes determining a thermostat command associated with where the housing is touched and movement of the housing in response to the touch, and operating the thermostat according to the determined thermostat command. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187898 | Compensating for Sensor Thermal Lag - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a method of compensating for thermal lag in a temperature control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a method is performed by a controller of the temperature control system. The method includes receiving a first temperature obtained by a temperature sensing device at an end of a temperature control cycle. A second temperature obtained by the temperature sensing device is received at a pre-defined time after the end of the temperature control cycle. The method includes changing an operational set-point temperature of the temperature control system using a difference between the received temperatures. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160195072 | ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT CONTROL ASSEMBLY | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160195294 | THERMOSTAT SWITCHING CIRCUITRY ROBUST AGAINST ANOMALOUS HVAC CONTROL LINE CONDITIONS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160202711 | TWO CONDUCTOR WIRELINE GUIDED CONTROL AND AN HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE SAME | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160252264 | Staging Climate Control System Controller Functions Based on Available Power | 09-01-2016 |
| 20170234565 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237210 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR TERMINAL CONFIGURATION | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023839 | THERMOSTAT WITH DISPLAY AND PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD | 01-25-2018 |
| 20130277438 | Converter Building - A converter building including at least one room having a solid room wall enclosing an interior space and an electrical active part contained in the interior space, the room wall having at least one opening, which is designed such that it allows a human to enter the interior space. The opening is sealable, the room wall encloses the interior space in a gas-tight manner when the opening is sealed, and the interior space contains a dielectric insulation medium including a dielectric insulation component other than air. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20150115047 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY - An air conditioning system processes sensible heat load and latent heat load of a target space, and adjusts temperature and humidity of the target space. The air conditioning system includes a cooling heat exchanger circulating a heating medium to cool and dehumidify air blown into the target space, a heater heating the air cooled and dehumidified by the heat exchanger, a stage speed variable blower fan creating a flow of the air blown into the target space through the heat exchanger and the heater, and control unit. The control unit has a quantity of cooling adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of cooling supplied from the heating medium to the air in the heat exchanger, a quantity of heating adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of heating supplied from the heater to the air, and a blown air flow volume adjusting unit adjusting an air flow volume supplied by the blower fan. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20130075484 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS UTILIZING A WIRELESS MESH NETWORK - In some examples, a wireless controller is utilized within a wireless mesh network. The wireless controller includes a control module configured to manage at least one energy device via a pneumatic pressure line based on one or more parts of an energy profile; and a network interface module configured to transmit energy data to a management server and receive the one or more parts of the energy profile from the management server. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130313332 | TEMPERATURE INFORMATION GENERATION CIRCUIT, OSCILLATOR, ELECTRONIC APPARATUS, TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION SYSTEM, AND TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION METHOD OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENT - A temperature information generation circuit includes a temperature sensor (a first temperature detection section), a high-sensitivity temperature sensor (one or plural second temperature detection sections) having higher sensitivity than that of the temperature sensor, an output selection circuit, and a control section. The output selection circuit and the control section select a detection signal of the high-sensitivity temperature sensor upon supply of a power supply voltage, and then perform switching so as to select a detection signal of the temperature sensor at a predetermined timing. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140103125 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF A MEMORY DEVICE - A system and method for thermal management of a memory device is described. In an embodiment, one or more thermal sensors sends a signal to a thermal control module indicating that a pre-determined temperature threshold for a memory device or devices has been reached. The thermal control module may then begin tracking memory thermals or initiate thermal management operations based on the signal and history of memory device temperatures over time. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20160061538 | Active Cryogenic Electronic Envelope - A data acquisition module is disclosed for use with electronic components such as superconductive magnets wherein the electronic components and the data acquisition module may reside inside a cryostat. The data acquisition module allows conventional electronic technologies to work inside cryostats at cryogenic temperatures as low as 4° K. This is achieved by management of heat inside the module to keep the module operating at a temperature above the cryogenic temperature. This approach avoids the difficulties that arise from changes in carrier mobility in semiconductors operating at deep cryogenic temperatures. A cryogenic system comprises a cryostat containing a cryogenic fluid and at least one sensor, and a data acquisition module located within the cryostat, the module in communication with the at least one sensor to acquire data, wherein the module comprises a thermal package, a conditioning and digitizing electronic module, a controller module, a power module, and a thermal management module. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20080251590 | HVAC STAGING CONTROL - A controller for an HVAC system having a plurality of zones and having a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of thermostat signals and to transmit a signal to control one of a plurality of flow control devices in response to a call for conditioning in one of the plurality of zones. The controller also includes one or more timers that are connected to the thermostat terminals, where the one or more timers are configured to initiate a separate timing count upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones. In addition, the controller includes one or more staging terminals for transmitting staging signals to control a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device, where the transmission of the staging signals determines whether the conditioning device will operate at a relatively higher output stage. The controller is also configured to make a timing count determination to determine if any one of the separate timing counts initiated upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones exceeds a timing delay parameter. The transmission of staging signals depends on the timing count determination. A method is also disclosed. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20090166442 | Constant air volume/variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090255997 | Apparatus and Method for Flexibly and Efficiently Varying Air Temperatures in Multiple Rooms - The invention enables coordinated, flexible, agile, and energy efficient temperature variation among a plurality of rooms, as found in a hotel, an apartment building, or a group of exercise rooms, by transferring heat between the rooms. Air can be moved by fans and/or heat can be transferred by a heat pump. Heat transfer between exercise rooms can be powered partly by exertion of individuals in the rooms. Rapid air exchange can quickly equalize temperatures in adjacent rooms. Embodiments exchange heat between rooms and interior and/or exterior reservoirs of warmer and cooler air and/or water, and some embodiments move air from the reservoirs into and out of the rooms. Heat can be pumped into or out of the system, and air and/or water can be added or extracted from the reservoirs. In some embodiments heat is moved sequentially through a variable series of rooms, creating a monotonic variation of temperatures. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20100314458 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEAT PUMP ORIENTED ZONE CONTROL - A system and method to control environmental parameters of pre-defined zones within an environment using an electronic controller. An electronic controller monitors a loop temperature of a loop field of a geo-thermal heat pump as detected by a temperature sensor connected to the loop field. The electronic controller selects a staging combination of the geo-thermal heat pump and an auxiliary HVAC equipment based on at least the loop temperature. The electronic controller activates the selected staging combination, to modify at least a portion of the environmental parameters, using non-proprietary activating signals provided by the electronic controller. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100320277 | Constant air volume / variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20110031322 | Novel air regulation device and air conditioning system - A multiple zone HVAC system comprises powered flow rate adjustable registers. It can further comprise zone controllers that can wirelessly control the registers, and a central controller that controls the HVAC unit and coordinates zone controllers. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20140097257 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM, TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT METHOD, SYSTEM CONTROLLER, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - The first temperature measurer measures an first air temperature in a first place and transmits a measurement result to a system controller. The second temperature measurer measures an second air temperature in a second place and transmits a measurement result to the system controller. The sucker sucks air from the first place into a duet installed in the building. The discharger discharges the air taken from the first place via the duct into the second place. The system controller determines whether it is necessary to adjust an air temperature difference between the first and second places based on the first air temperature and the second air temperature. If the system controller determines that the adjustment is necessary, the system controller orders the sucker and discharger to start operation. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140158778 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158779 | BATTERY CHARGING BY MECHANICAL IMPELLER AT FORCED AIR VENT OUTPUTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158780 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL WITH INTEGRATED BATTERY STATUS COMMUNICATIONS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158781 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158782 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL VIA A CENTRAL CONTROLLER - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140209696 | INDOOR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - An indoor climate control system is configured to adjust a first temperature of a first room within a structure. The indoor climate control system has a receiver mechanically coupled to an HVAC unit configured to turn the HVAC unit on and off. A portable wireless thermostat communicatively coupled to the receiver. The portable wireless thermostat transmits a desired climate information to the receiver which then engages the HVAC unit to adjust the first temperature of the first room. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20150108230 | MULTIPLE ZONE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A multiple heating/cooling zone control system is disclosed. A heating/cooling system control device continuously monitors heating/cooling zone demand and matches the heating/cooling device output capacity to the total space or heat input required. Within the calculated heating/cooling device output capacity the heating/cooling device is modulated based on zone temperature setpoint to further adjust heating/cooling device output. As heat/cooling loss is increased heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are increased. Should heat/cooling loss decrease heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are decreased. Since heat/cooling output is adjusted based on the heat loss(gain) the heating/cooling device can be immediately adjusted to the proper or matching heating/cooling rate even before water/air temperature based adjustments can be made. Hence, the overall effect of the control device is a reduction in cycles of the heating/cooling device and the life of the heating/cooling device is extended and subsequent energy is saved. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150354844 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESSLY-ENABLED HVAC CONTROL - Various forms of wirelessly-enabled thermostats for multi-area HVAC control are presented. Such a thermostat may include: a controller; a temperature sensor included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller; a user input device that permits a user to input a setpoint temperature and an area priority, and a wireless communication system included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller. The controller may be configured to communicate temperature readings to a remotely-located central system and receive, from the user input device, the setpoint temperature and the area priority. The controller may be configured to communicate the setpoint temperature and the area priority to the central system. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150369507 | HVAC ZONING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be zoned into one or more zone. The HVAC system may include HVAC components, sensors, and one or more register vents that may include vent dampers (e.g., electronically controllable vent dampers or manually operated vent dampers). Opening and closing of the vent dampers may facilitate creating zones or sub-zones in the HVAC system configuration. An HVAC control system may receive a request for conditioned air in one or more of the zones, determine a damper setting for at least one of the vent dampers, communicate the determined damper setting to a vent damper or user interface, determine which HVAC components should be active, if any, and/or provide controls signals to activate or keep active the HVAC components that are determined to be active. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150377502 | Thermo Electric Register system - The invention is a thermostatically controlled vent installed in the existing outflow ventilation ducts of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning system. When the central heating/cooling unit is operating, temperature variation is achieved by an electronic control which opens and closes air flow fins on the vent based on the settings of an individual thermostat for each room in a building that has the device installed. The individual thermostat of each vent in the system is connected to the primary building thermostat and therefore has the ability to signal the need to turn on/off the heating/cooling unit as appropriate. In addition, the invention can purify the air flow by means of an ultraviolet sterilization lamp. It is possible to remotely set the temperature settings via an internet enabled software app. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160025363 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160091220 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160201932 | AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL SYSTEM, SENSOR DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 07-14-2016 |
| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20130228633 | Systems and Methods for Power Stealing - A thermostat includes a power stealing circuit selectively configured to provide power to the thermostat and to circuit(s) ancillary to the thermostat from power source(s) external to the thermostat, without requiring a common or neutral connection between the thermostat and the power source(s). Exemplary embodiments also are disclosed of a climate control system that includes such a thermostat. This thermostat can power-steal off of existing load wires (e.g., a W and/or Y terminal, etc.) and can provide power for a continuous backlight and/or other device (e.g., a remote sensor and/or low-power transceiver, etc.). | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130206850 | TEMPERATURE-BASED FLOW REGULATOR - A flow regulator for a solid fuel grill may include a housing having an opening and configured for coupling to a solid fuel grill over a vent opening of the grill and the regulator may also include a damper assembly arranged on the housing where the damper assembly may include a damper arranged to operably and variably open and close the opening and the damper assembly may also include a temperature sensitive damper controller operably connected to the housing and the damper to open and close the damper based on temperature changes. | 08-15-2013 |
| 20080217418 | Temperature compensation method for thermostats - An air conditioning control system and method for compensating for heat gain or loss in an air conditioned space due to window area and temperature differential between outdoor temperature and indoor temperature. For predetermined amounts of window area, as a percent of total wall area defining an enclosed space, the thermostat setpoint or measured temperature is adjusted as a function of the temperature differential between the enclosed space and the outdoor ambient temperature, for example. Data may be accumulated and stored in a controller memory for various types of structures and rates of heat transfer therethrough for various amounts and type of window area as a percent of the total wall area, for example. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080272199 | METHODS USING A DRAPED LIQUID WARMING DEVICE - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. The interactions between a temperature sensor and a temperature well integrated in the removable basin are disclosed. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 11-06-2008 |
| 20080283621 | OCCUPANT CONTROLLED ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN A MULTI-UNIT BUILDING - A system and a method for allowing an occupant of a single unit of a multi-unit building to select an operating state of the unit which consumes less energy than a normal operating state. | 11-20-2008 |
| 20080314998 | Temperature control in variable-capacity HVAC system - Relatively constant temperatures are maintained in a space by varying the capacity of heating or cooling equipment. A proportional band is used to adjust capacity to compensate for changes in heating or cooling load, and the proportional band is adjusted to bring the actual temperature within the space closer to the set point temperature. Such an adjustment may be made by determining the difference between the present temperature and the set point temperature, and adjusting a floating temperature set point by a percentage (e.g., ten percent) of the difference. Such a process may be repeated, for example, at regular intervals, such as once per minute. As a result, the temperature within the space approaches (e.g., asymptotically) the set point temperature whether the heating or cooling load is high or low. Methods, systems, and apparatuses are contemplated, including HVAC units and controls, including for residential applications, including using variable-speed drives. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090014547 | LIQUID WARMING DEVICE WITH BASIN DETECTION - A liquid warming device for heating sterile fluids in a removable basin is described with emphasis on the properties of the basin interaction with the liquid warming device and with a drape that works with the basin to maintain a sterile field above the drape and the top of the basin. Also disclosed are various desirable aspects for a control system for a liquid warming device. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20090026278 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING A SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY TO CONTROL TEMPERATURE - This invention relates generally to shape memory alloys, and more specifically, to systems and methods for using a shape memory alloy to control temperature. In one embodiment, the invention includes obtaining a shape memory alloy (SMA) having a first shape; deforming the SMA to a second shape, the deformed SMA releasing thermal energy resulting in heat; distributing the heat from the SMA in a first direction; reforming the SMA to approximately the first shape, the reformed SMA consuming thermal energy resulting in cold; distributing the cold from the SMA in a second direction, the second direction being different from the first direction, wherein the first direction is towards a location whereby increased temperatures are desired and the second direction is towards a location whereby decreased temperatures are desired. | 01-29-2009 |
| 20090140065 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH SAVE A WIRE TERMINAL - A HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building is described. In one illustrative embodiment, an HVAC controller for controlling the comfort level of at least a portion of a building by activating and deactivating one or more HVAC components is provided. The HVAC controller may include a special purpose save a wire terminal that provides a multiplexed or otherwise encoded control signal. The HVAC controller may be configured to multiplex, for example, two or more of a call for heat (W) signal, a call for cool (Y) signal, and/or a call for fan (G) signal onto the special purpose save a wire terminal of the HVAC controller. This may free up a wire in a four wire installation to carry, for example, a common (C) signal. A demultiplexer module may be provided adjacent to the one or more HVAC components to demultiplex the multiplexed control signal. This may substantially reduce the cost and complexity of, for example, retrofitting a four wire installation with a 24 VAC powered HVAC controller. | 06-04-2009 |
| 20100025483 | Sensor-Based Occupancy and Behavior Prediction Method for Intelligently Controlling Energy Consumption Within a Building - A method for controlling energy consumption within a building includes providing at least one environment sensing device and at least one energy consumption sensing device associated with the building. Current data is collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device along with associated time-of-day data. A value of a future energy consumption parameter is predicted based upon the collected current data, the associated time-of-day data, and historic data collected from the environment sensing device and the energy consumption sensing device. A profile of future costs per unit of energy consumption as a function of time is determined. Energy consumption is controlled dependent upon the predicted future energy consumption parameter value and the determined profile of energy consumption costs. | 02-04-2010 |
| 20120126020 | THERMOSTAT WIRING CONNECTOR - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system. The thermostat includes wiring terminals adapted and configured to make an electrical connection with an HVAC system wires such as common, heating and cooling control and return wires. The making of the connection with a common wire actuates switching open a loop of an electrical circuit used for power harvesting. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal includes actuation of a moveable part of the terminal so as to accommodate the common wire that in turn actuates the switching open the power harvesting loop. More than one other loop can be switched. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used to automatically connect and/or disconnect Rc and Rh circuits when one or both Rc and Rh wires are present. According to some embodiments, the wiring terminal can be used for electronically sensing the presence of the HVAC system wire. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120126021 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY FOR CONNECTION TO HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat and related methods is provided for controlling an HVAC system having one or two separate transformers for supplying power to the HVAC system. The thermostat includes isolation circuitry housed within the thermostat to safely connect to the HVAC control wires and power wire(s) whether the HVAC system has one or two separate transformers without the use of removable jumpers or manual rewiring. The thermostat can include a processor that sends DC signals for turning on and turning off each of the HVAC functions, and an isolator adapted to electrically isolate the processor from the control wires and power wire(s). The isolator can include a transformer, such as a low cost Ethernet transformer. The circuitry can include one or more field effect transistors adapted and arranged so as to open or close an electrical connections between the control and power wires, thereby turning on or off the associated HVAC function. According to some embodiments, the Rc and Rh terminals are permanently connected using a fuse. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120168524 | SWITCH FOR MULTI FUNCTION CONTROL - The invention provides for a controller such as a thermostat for an HVAC system comprising a housing having a circuit board and a display screen, the display screen having at least one alpha-numeric icon and a group of touch pads comprising at least two displayable touch pads. A microprocessor is provided for controlling the display screen. A sole mechanical button or switch is mounted in the housing and the button has a first end and second end and a touch surface extending between the first end and second end. The sole mechanical button signals the microprocessor in order to adjust the alpha-numeric icon(s), so that the combination of inputs received by the microprocessor from the group of touch pads and sole mechanical button provide for each and every adjustment required for all of the operational functions of the controller. The mechanical button may be a rocker switch. The controller may also include a navigation button. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120199660 | ADAPTIVE POWER STEALING THERMOSTAT - An electronic thermostat and associated methods are disclosed for power stealing from an HVAC triggering circuit. The methods include making voltage measurements while controlling the amount of current drawn by the power stealing circuitry so as to determine a relationship that can be used to select how much current to draw during power stealing. Through the use of the described methods, the likelihood of inadvertent switching of the HVAC function (on or off) can be significantly reduced. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120217316 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF ADVANCED FAN SPEED CONTROL - According to some embodiments, a method, system, and apparatus to provide thermal management control. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving, by a control mechanism, a plurality of temperature representative signals from a plurality of temperature sensors, receiving a command signal from the control mechanism by an output weighting matrix mechanism, and controlling at least one thermal cooling device with at least one weighted output signal from the output weighting matrix mechanism. | 08-30-2012 |
| 20120248210 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN ENERGY BUFFERED BUILDING CONTROL UNIT - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit configured to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The powering circuit has a power extraction circuit configured to extract electrical power from one or more of the plurality of received HVAC control wires up to a first level of electrical power, a rechargeable battery, and a power control circuit coupled to the power extraction circuit, the rechargeable battery, and the thermostat processing and control circuit. The power control circuit is configured to provide the electrical load power using power from the power extraction circuit and the rechargeable battery. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120248211 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120256009 | POWER-PRESERVING COMMUNICATIONS ARCHITECTURE WITH LONG-POLLING PERSISTENT CLOUD CHANNEL FOR WIRELESS NETWORK-CONNECTED THERMOSTAT - Provided according to one or more embodiments herein are methods, systems and related architectures for facilitating network communications between a wireless network-connected thermostat and a cloud-based management server in a manner that promotes reduced power usage and extended service life of a rechargeable battery of the thermostat, while at the same time accomplishing timely data transfer between the thermostat and the cloud-based management server for suitable and time-appropriate control of an HVAC system. The thermostat further comprises powering circuitry configured to: extract electrical power from one or more HVAC control wires in a manner that does not require a “common” wire; supply electrical power for thermostat operation; recharge the rechargeable battery (if needed) using any surplus extracted power; and discharge the rechargeable battery to assist in supplying electrical power for thermostat operation during intervals in which the extracted power alone is insufficient for thermostat operation. | 10-11-2012 |
| 20120273580 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120325919 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 12-27-2012 |
| 20130026243 | CONTROL DEVICE FOR AN HEATING DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AN HEATING INSTALLATION - A control device for a heating device includes: a thermostat having a control unit, the control unit being connected to an energy source which is used to operate the control unit. The energy source is configured to generate energy in response to the presence of temperature differences between two reference points. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130087629 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a housing, a user interface, and a processing system configured to control an HVAC system using setpoint temperature values. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable based on a user response to an inquiry presented on the user interface, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130099008 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING AMBIENT TEMPERATURE - A mechanism for indicating ambient temperature of an enclosure from temperatures determined within the enclosure. The temperatures may be obtained from two or more sensors at each of two or more locations within the enclosure. The enclosure may include heat generating components such as electronics. The enclosure may also incorporate one or more dynamic components that emanate sudden amounts of heat. The present mechanism compensates for such heat sources with a compensating scheme. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099009 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099010 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130099011 | ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROMOTING SCHEDULE LEARNING ALGORITHMS FOR INTELLIGENT THERMOSTAT - A user-friendly programmable thermostat is described that includes receiving an immediate-control input to change set point temperature, controlling temperature according to the set point temperature for a predetermined time interval, and then automatically resetting the set point temperature upon the ending of the predetermined time interval such that the user is urged to make further immediate-control inputs. A schedule for the programmable thermostat is automatically generated based on the immediate-control inputs. Methods are also described for receiving user input relating to the user's preference regarding automatically generating a schedule, and determining whether or not to automatically adopt an automatically generated schedule based on the received user input. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130221117 | POWER MANAGEMENT IN SINGLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS AND IN MULTIPLE CIRCUIT HVAC SYSTEMS - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors for receiving a plurality of HVAC control wires corresponding to an HVAC system. The thermostat also includes a thermostat processing and control circuit operative to at least partially control the operation of the HVAC system and a powering circuit coupled to the HVAC wire connectors and configured to provide an electrical load power to the thermostat processing and control circuit. The thermostat includes circuitry and methods for maximizing efficiency of energy harvested from the HVAC system connected to the thermostat, and depending on which system is connected to the thermostat, different power schemes can be implemented in order to obtain power from the HVAC system. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130292481 | BUILDING CONTROL UNIT METHOD AND CONTROLS - Embodiments of the invention provide thermostat controls having improved tactile feedback. According to one embodiment, a thermostat includes a bottom member, a switch, a top member, and a motion guiding member or assembly that operationally couples the top member with the bottom member so that the top member is inwardly pressable by a user relative to the bottom member to allow the thermostat to receive input from the user by contacting the switch with a component of the top member or the bottom member. The motion guiding member or assembly contacts the top member near its outer periphery to control the inward motion of the top member relative to the bottom member to provide the improved tactile feedback. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130313331 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140084072 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140091152 | TEMPERATURE SENSOR USING ALUMINUM CAPILLARY - A temperature sensor assembly is provided. The temperature sensor includes an aluminum capillary soldered to an actuation unit. The actuation unit operably fluidly couples to the capillary to define an internal cavity storing a working fluid. The working fluid configured to manipulate the actuation unit when the working fluid changes temperature. Solder sealingly couples the capillary to the actuation unit. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140091153 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH USER-FRIENDLY INSTALLATION FEATURES FACILITATING BOTH DO-IT-YOURSELF AND PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION SCENARIOS - A thermostat includes a processing system configured to control an HVAC system. The thermostat may also include a plurality of HVAC connectors configured to receive corresponding HVAC control wires, and a connection sensing module configured to determine the identities of HVAC connectors into which corresponding wires have been inserted. The processing system may be further configured to identify, based on the subset of HVAC connectors, whether (i) only a single possible HVAC system configuration is indicated thereby, or (ii) multiple possible HVAC system configurations are indicated thereby, resolve a particular one of the multiple possible HVAC system configurations that is applicable, and operate the HVAC system according to the HVAC system configuration. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140158783 | HVAC Systems - A system includes a heat pump configured to match a working fluid's temperature to a fluid temperature set-point, a fluid pump in fluid communication with the heat pump through the working fluid and configured to match the working fluid's pressure/flow to a fluid pressure/flow set-point, at least one heat exchanger in fluid communication with the fluid pump, and a supervisory controller in signal communication with the at least one heat exchanger, the fluid pump, and the heat pump. The at least one heat exchanger includes a proportional valve and a return air temperature gauge configured to monitor return air temperature associated therewith. The supervisory controller is configured to vary the fluid temperature set-point and vary the fluid pressure/flow set-point based upon a position of the proportional valve and the return air temperature. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140191048 | Rotating Control Panel - A control panel for an enclosed space, set into a cutout in the wall of the enclosed space, that can rotate at least 180 degrees so as to be accessible from either the inside or the outside of the enclosed space. | 07-10-2014 |
| 20140217185 | HVAC System With Camera and Microphone - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system has an input configured to receive at least one of a first heating setting, a first ventilation setting, a first cooling setting, a first humidity setting, and a first air quality setting, at least one of an image sensor and a microphone connected to at least one component in the HVAC system, the image sensor and/or microphone being configured to capture an data from a first zone, and a controller connected to the input and at least one of the image sensor and microphone, the controller configured to control at least one of the first heating setting, the first ventilation setting, the first cooling setting, the first humidity setting, and the first air quality setting in response to receiving the data from at least one of the image sensor and the microphone. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140217186 | Wireless Thermostat and System - A secure wireless thermostat and system comprising the thermostat are described and taught. The temperature control unit replaces the traditional thermostat by attaching to the wall and using the existing wiring from the traditional thermostat. This temperature control unit has no display or programming buttons, rather a user interacts with the temperature control unit via electronic devices such as smart phones, laptop computers, and desktop computers. The settings of the system can be modified by the user from these access ports. If the user opts to interact with the system via a third party IP server, a local DHCP web server can be employed to store data safely and securely. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140231530 | ACTIVE POWER STEALING - A thermostat and related methods are described for controlling one or more functions, such as heating and cooling in an HVAC. According to some embodiments the thermostat includes a switching circuit for controlling an HVAC function, where closing the switching circuit activates the HVAC function. The thermostat may also include power harvesting circuitry adapted and arranged to harvest power from the HVAC system, where during times when the HVAC function is active the switching circuit opens for a time interval. The power harvesting circuitry may harvest power from the HVAC system during the time interval, and the time interval may be short enough that the HVAC function remains activated without interruption during the time interval. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140239078 | Thermostat Control System with IR Sensor - A thermostat control system is suitable for mounting within a substantially sealed housing, and comprises an infrared sensor within the substantially sealed housing that monitors the interior surface temperature of at least a portion of a housing wall. The monitored portion of the interior wall, as well as the thermal path between the monitored wall portion and an exterior housing surface is highly thermally conductive to minimize the lag between temperature changes exterior to the housing and the consequential monitored temperature changes of the interior wall surface. The monitored portion of the interior wall surface is also characterized by high emissivity. Because the interior of the housing is substantially sealed from the external steam bath environment, electronic components within the housing, including the sensor, are protected from the moist environment of a steam bath or other submersible environment. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140263679 | THERMOSTAT SYSTEM WITH SOFTWARE-REPURPOSABLE WIRING TERMINALS ADAPTABLE FOR HVAC SYSTEMS OF DIFFERENT RANGES OF COMPLEXITY - An auxiliary hardware box is described that can be installed at or near the HVAC system. The auxiliary box includes a large number of wiring terminals, for example 16 or more, for connecting to a relatively large number of HVAC control wires. The auxiliary box can include a “train map” type graphic display that is visible to the installer and provides a graphical indication as to which relays or switches are currently open and which are currently closed. A small sleek visually pleasing thermostat is also described that can be connected either directly to an HVAC system or to the auxiliary box, and can automatically detect an purpose the connected wires according to which it is connected to. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140284391 | Method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising multiple rooms, and apparatus for carrying out the method - A method for regulating the room temperature in a room or in a group comprising a plurality of rooms, the room temperature in a room or in a plurality of rooms is regulated by regulating the mass flow of a heat-carrying fluid flowing through a heat exchanger according to a determined current room temperature. A temperature sensor in the room can be dispensed with in that, in order to determine the current room temperature, in each case the mass flow of the heat carrying fluid through the heat exchanger and the flow temperature prevailing at the input to the heat exchanger and the return temperature prevailing at the output of the heat exchanger are measured, and that a temperature assigned to the determined values of the mass flow, the flow temperature and the return temperature is output as the current room temperature and used for regulation. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140299670 | Current Control for Power Stealing - A thermostat for use in a climate control system has a power stealing circuit that provides power from a voltage supply through a load of the climate control system when the load is in an “off” mode. The power stealing circuit has a current limiting circuit that provides a maximum level of instantaneous current predetermined to be a threshold beyond which the load is switched to an “on” mode. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140312131 | TRIAC OR BYPASS CIRCUIT AND MOSFET POWER STEAL COMBINATION - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices requiring power. A power supply unit may be designed to keep electromagnetic interference emissions at a minimum, particularly at a level that does not violate governmental regulations. A unit may be designed so that there is enough power for a triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source rather than line power to reduce emissions on the power line. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing. Power stealing may require switching transistors which can generate emissions. Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. | 10-23-2014 |
| 20140319234 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH FIXED SEGMENT DISPLAY HAVING FIXED SEGMENT ICONS AND ANIMATION - An HVAC controller including a controller and a display operatively coupled to the controller. The display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more programmable options of the HVAC controller in the first region of the display for selection by a user, where the programmable options may be used to set settings that are capable of controlling subsequent operations and/or functionality of the HVAC controller. The controller may be configured to selectively animate one or more of the programmable options displayed in the first region. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319235 | USER INTERFACE FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller including a controller and a touch screen display operatively coupled to the controller. The touch screen display may include a first region and a second region. The first region of the display may have an array of pixels arranged in a plurality of rows and a plurality of columns for displaying an image in a dot matrix format. The second region of the display may have a plurality of predefined fixed segment graphical icons. The controller may be configured to display one or more selectable options in the first region of the display for selection by a user and to accept selection of a displayed selectable option by detecting a user touch of the displayed selectable option via the touch screen display. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140319236 | SELF-SETTING CIRCUIT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC Controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly capable of releasably engaging the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a first housing and a printed circuit board having a controller for providing one or more control signals, where the printed circuit board may be secured relative to the first housing. The second sub-assembly may include a second housing, a power source, one or more output terminals, and a second printed circuit board. The second printed circuit board may be secured relative to the second housing and may have circuitry thereon that is powered by the power source and configured to receive the one or more control signals from the first printed circuit board. The circuitry of the second sub-assembly may set output terminals thereof to a predetermined state when the first sub-assembly is released from the second sub-assembly. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140326795 | Training Room and Use Thereof - A training gym is a closed windowless room provided with at least one access door, and infrared heater, a humidistat for regulating the ambient humidity in said indoor space; lighting; and at least one vent. In use the training gym is maintained at a temperature of at least about 37° C. and a relative humidity of 50 to 60% to promote increased effectiveness of exercise and optimum benefit of a training session for physical and sports training, fitness, functional rehabilitation, and post-traumatic or post-operative reathletization for athletes at beginner, experienced or expert levels (elite athletes) making use of the training gym. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140346241 | Round Thermostat with Flanged Rotatable User Input Member and Wall-Facing Optical Sensor that Senses Rotation - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140367475 | ROUND THERMOSTAT WITH ROTATABLE USER INPUT MEMBER AND TEMPERATURE SENSING ELEMENT DISPOSED IN PHYSICAL COMMUNICATION WITH A FRONT THERMOSTAT COVER - An electronic thermostat is described that includes a head unit, a rotatable ring, a backplate, an electronic display that is viewable by a user in front of the thermostat, a printed circuit board, and a daughter circuit. The daughter circuit is coupled to the printed circuit board, and senses motion of the rotatable ring and includes a first temperature sensor. A second temperature sensor separated from the first temperature sensor, are both used to calculate ambient temperature. The first temperature sensor is positioned at least partially within a cavity formed between a front surface of the head unit and the printed circuit board. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140374497 | HEAT SOURCE SYSTEM, CONTROL DEVICE THEREOF, AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A technique of suppressing power consumption of a system so as to be equal to or less than contracted power when a refrigerator is used as a heat source is provided. A system control device ( | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150034729 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat compatible with single-HVAC- and dual-HVAC-transformer systems may include a first power return wire connector, a second power return wire connector, and a user-moveable mechanical element that physically blocks wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a first position and physically allows wire insertion into the first wire connector when in a second position. The thermostat may also include a switching circuit that may be in a first configuration when the mechanical element is in the first position, and in a second configuration when the mechanical element is in the second position. The first wire connector may be electrically coupled to the second wire connector in the first configuration, and first wire connector may be electrically isolated from the second wire connector in the second configuration to promote foolproofing against undesired isolation of the first and second wire connectors. | 02-05-2015 |
| 20150053779 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. Voice recognition software identifies a trigger phrase included in the natural language audio message and in response the HVAC controller performs an action. The voice recognition software may be used to create a natural language text based message from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, where the natural language text based message is translated into the command recognizable by the HVAC controller. In response to the command, the HVAC controller may perform an action and/or respond with a natural language text based or audio message. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053780 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat and may include a housing that at least partially houses a control module, a microphone, a speaker, a display, and a voice recognition module. The voice recognition module recognizes a predetermined audible trigger from a recorded voice message or streamed voice message, and in response, provide one or more audio clips via the speaker and/or video clips via the display to assist users in operating the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the thermostat and/or a remote device. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150053781 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR INTERACTING WITH AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may be controlled in response to a natural language audio message that is not recognizable by the HVAC controller as a command, where the natural language audio message is translated into a command recognizable by the HVAC controller. The HVAC controller may be a thermostat including a housing that houses a temperature sensor, a microphone, and a controller. The controller may identify a trigger phrase in an audio stream provided by the microphone. In response to identifying the trigger phrase, the controller initiates processing of the audio stream to identify a command following the trigger phrase and to generate a command understandable by the thermostat that instructs the controller to perform the identified command. The controller then executes the generated command understandable by the thermostat. A user may communicate with the thermostat via the microphone of the thermostat and/or a remote device having a microphone. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150083812 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD - Temperature adjustment systems and methods for adjusting thermostat temperature settings are provided. A system includes an oven appliance sensor in communication with an oven appliance, the oven appliance sensor operable to sense an operation of the oven appliance. The system further includes a thermostat in communication with the oven appliance sensor, the thermostat operable to adjust a temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. A method includes sensing an operation of an oven appliance, communicating the operation of the oven appliance to the thermostat, and adjusting the thermostat temperature setting based on the sensed operation of the oven appliance. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150083813 | Soliciting user input for thermostat control - A device or arrangement may be configured to receive a temperature limit such as an acceptable maximum temperature as well as a tolerance measure such as a number of acceptable events, the events causing the temperature to be outside of the temperature limit. An air comfort device may be operated based on the received temperature limit and the tolerance measure. A potential cost value may be provided based on a temperature limit and tolerance measure. A temperature limit and tolerance measure may be calculated based on a target cost value such that the arrangement may modify a temperature limit and/or tolerance measure to achieve the target cost value. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150115045 | Determining Power Stealing Capability of a Climate Control System Controller - Disclosed are exemplary embodiments of systems and methods for determining a power stealing capability of a climate control system controller. In an exemplary embodiment, a controller for use in a climate control system generally includes a capacitor chargeable by current flowing through an off-mode load of the climate control system. A voltage detect circuit detects a voltage across the capacitor. The controller includes a timer for determining a charge time of the capacitor from a first specific voltage to a second specific voltage based on input from the voltage detect circuit. The controller determines a resistance of the off-mode load based on the charge time and, based on the determined resistance, determines a level of current for power stealing through the off-mode load. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150115046 | THERMOSTAT WITH SELF-CONFIGURING CONNECTIONS TO FACILITATE DO-IT-YOURSELF INSTALLATION - A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically connected. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150122900 | DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND THERMOSTATS INCLUDING DC VOLTAGE-LIMITING CIRCUITS - A DC voltage-limiting circuit generally includes first, second, and third transistors. The first transistor is connected between a voltage input terminal and a voltage output terminal. The first transistor has a collector connected to the voltage input terminal, an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal, and a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first resistor. The second transistor has a base connected to the voltage input terminal via a first voltage regulator and a second resistor, a collector connected to the base of the first transistor, and an emitter connected to the voltage output terminal. The third transistor has a collector connected to the base of the first transistor via a third resistor, an emitter grounded, and a base connected to the voltage output terminal via a second voltage regulator and a fourth resistor. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150136862 | System and Method for Environmental Control - In an exemplary embodiment, an Environmental Optimization System (“EOS”) provides a system for the intelligent control and monitoring of a poultry or livestock house environment through the utilization of a solar thermal collection system, a variety of environmental and livestock behavior sensors, apparatus for controlling the thermal collection and existing interior heating/air conditioning/ventilation (“HVAC”) systems, and Internet or cloud based intelligent control and monitoring capabilities of the system. In various embodiments central sensor data aggregation is utilized to provide improved optimization control for individual structures based on data from multiple structures. | 05-21-2015 |
| 20150144705 | METHODS SYSTEMS AND TOOLS FOR DETERMINING A WIRING CONFIGURATION FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - A wiring configuration tool may be configured to determine a new wiring configuration for a replacement HVAC controller based, at least in part, on the existing wiring configuration for a current HVAC controller and, for example, the make and model of the replacement HVAC controller. The wiring configuration tool may be hosted by a server that provides a user interface for interacting with the user. The user may access the wiring configuration tool via a web services interface, a smart phone application or in any other suitable manner. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150144706 | THERMOSTAT CIRCUITRY TO CONTROL POWER USAGE - An operation alteration of a network attached thermostat to control power usage. Control wires for a heating and air conditioning system may be connected to a thermostat control circuit configured to control the system. A power extraction circuit may be coupled to the control wires configured to extract power from the control wires. The power may be put into a storage device. The power may be provided to the thermostat control circuit and a WiFi radio module. The radio module may provide a network connection for the thermostat. Circuitry and techniques may be provided to reduce power usage by the thermostat components. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150316285 | WIRELESS WALL THERMOSTAT - The wireless wall thermostat of the present invention utilizes a push-contact mechanical system that allows a user to raise or lower the temperature within a space by applying a force on the top or bottom center of the front of the thermostat. The perpendicular force applied by the user generates a moment arm around pivot connectors, which rotates the thermostat clockwise or counter-clockwise. When rotated clockwise or counter-clockwise, contact buttons attached to the back of the thermostat come into contact with the trigger tabs of a stationary trigger plate mounted to a wall through use of an electromagnetic attraction between a steel disc and a magnet. When the trigger tabs press the contact buttons, the contact buttons send a signal to the central processing unit of the thermostat's internal circuit board to modulate the temperature setting. In addition, the wireless wall thermostat can be detachable by utilizing a magnetic release smart mount. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150323211 | HVAC SYSTEM GRADING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A first tracking module increments a first period of time when a heating, ventilation, or air conditioning (HVAC) system of a building is ON during a predetermined period of time. A second tracking module increments a second period of time when, during the predetermined period of time: (i) the HVAC system is ON and (ii) a split temperature of the HVAC system is outside of a temperature range of the HVAC system. A grade determination module determines a grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time based on both the first period of time and the second period of time. A reporting module generates a displayable report for the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. The report includes the grade of the HVAC system for the predetermined period of time. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323212 | THERMOSTAT WITH POWER STEALING DELAY INTERVAL AT TRANSITIONS BETWEEN POWER STEALING STATES - A thermostat includes a plurality of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) wire connectors including a connection to at least one call relay wire. The thermostat may also include a powering circuit, including a rechargeable battery, which is configured to provide electrical power to the thermostat by power stealing from a selected call relay wire. The power stealing may comprise an active power stealing mode, in which power is taken from the same selected call relay wire that is used to call for an HVAC function, and an inactive power stealing mode in which, in which no active call is being made. The powering circuit may be configured to substantially suspend (or at least reduce the level of) power stealing for at least a first time period following each transition of the thermostat from between operating states. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323941 | THERMOSTAT WITH INTEGRATED PARTICLE SENSOR - A residential or commercial thermostat incorporating an airborne particle sensor. A standard thermostat device incorporating at least one temperature sensor and at least activation of heating and/or cooling with the addition of an on-board particle sensor. The particulate information could simply be displayed, or could be part of controlling filtration or air-handling equipment. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150330658 | THERMOSTAT WITH RING-SHAPED CONTROL MEMBER - A sleek, low-profile wall-mountable thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a ring-shaped controller that rotates about a central axis, and an optical sensor directed away from the central axis and toward a radially inward-facing surface of the ring-shaped controller so as to accurately detect optical signals indicating controller's rotational movement. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330659 | HVAC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM POWER SUPPLY PACKAGING SYSTEM - Embodiments of a HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system within an ultimate enclosure are provided. The HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system provides serviceability, safety, manufacturability, and system management failure diagnostic reporting enhancements over conventional packaging systems while conforming to agency safety requirements. The embodiments disclosed herein also reduce equipment and service costs for HVAC electrical system power supply components provided within the HVAC electrical system power supply packaging system by reducing delays in servicing these components. Thus, customer uptime of the HVAC system can be increased. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150330660 | THERMOSTAT WITH WIRING TERMINALS CONFIGURED FOR SPATIAL COMPACTNESS AND EASE OF WIRE INSTALLATION - A wall-mountable programmable electronic thermostat for controlling an HVAC system is described. The thermostat includes a circular wall-mountable backplate with a central opening to allow for the passage of HVAC wires for electrical connection to the thermostat. The head unit body is also circular and is removeably mountable to the back plate. A plurality of wedge-shaped wiring terminals are mounted on the backplate for making a tool-free connection to HVAC wires. Each wiring terminal has button that a user can depress while a wire is inserted in a wire hole. The terminals are arranged along one or more circular arcs about the central opening of the backplate such that the wire holes face the central opening and the buttons are located close to the outer periphery of the backplate. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150331432 | HVAC CONTROLLER HAVING MULTIPLEXED INPUT SIGNAL DETECTION AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controller, a method of detecting multiplexed input signals and an HVAC system employing the controller or the method. In one embodiment, the HVAC controller includes: (1) a signal conditioner configured to convert received alternating current (AC) input signals into corresponding square wave signals of a digital logic voltage, (2) a multiplexer coupled to the signal conditioner and configured to select one of the square wave signals and (3) a sample analyzer coupled to the multiplexer and configured to evaluate multiple samples of the selected one of the square wave signals to derive a binary state. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150345818 | Wireless Thermostat With Dual Stage Failsafe Circuits - A multi-mode thermostat includes, a sensor of ambient temperature and control circuits coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuits are responsive to signals from the sensor to maintain a predetermined regional temperature. First electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a sensed operational power level, to alter a status signal transmission rate by the control circuits. Second electrically actuated backup circuits, responsive to a lower sensed operational power level to provide a backup, lower regional temperature electromechanically. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150354846 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROL UNIT WITH A VARIABLE ASSIST ROTATIONAL INTERFACE AND DISPLAY - Provided according to one or more embodiments is a method of processing rotational inputs to a control device having a an electronic display and user interface, such as a programmable thermostat. Methods and systems include displaying on the electronic display associated with the control device at least a portion of an initial display element selected from a sequence of display elements. In response to seeing such information, the user applies a rotational input applied to a rotational input device, such as a rotatable ring around the electronic display. A variable scroll assist engine receives this information and determines an angular movement as provided by the user through the rotational input device. In order to reduce the rotational input required by the user, the variable assist scroll engine applies one or more heuristics to variably assist with a scrolling movement of a sequence of display elements on the electronic display. The variable scroll assist engine may reduce the rotational user input required to traverse an arbitrary number of display elements to as little as a quarter-revolution of the rotational input device in order that a user is better able to operate the control device and utilize the rotational input device when navigating the user interface of the control device. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150354848 | Device for Influencing the room climate - The invention relates to a device for influencing the room climate which offers convenient operation at low costs with regard to procurement, installation, and ongoing operation, in order to influence the room climate in heated or air-conditioned rooms while avoiding unnecessary energy losses, and which expands the application range in the room air conditioning by means of a simple retrofitting possibility. According to the invention, the control apparatus for the room temperature is integrated into an electrical measuring and display apparatus, which is intended as a room operating apparatus for measuring, displaying, evaluating, and providing room climate values, and adjustments to the control apparatus are made by means of the room operating apparatus. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150355371 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH PROXIMITY SENSOR - An HVAC controller such as a thermostat may include a housing having an aperture formed within the housing and a proximity sensor that is disposed within the housing proximate the aperture. The proximity sensor may include a sense die that has a first IR detector and a second IR detector, and a lens element disposed in front of the sense die. The lens element may be shifted to one side to preferentially direct incident IR energy to the first IR detector at the expense of the second IR detector. An IR energy transparent element may be disposed in front of the lens element, and may include a portion that fits into and seals the aperture formed within the housing. A controller may be configured to receive an electrical signal from the proximity sensor indicating an approach of an individual towards the thermostat, and in response, wake-up a user interface. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150362208 | BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER - An HVAC controller may include a first sub-assembly and a second sub-assembly releasably securable to the first sub-assembly. The first sub-assembly may include a housing having the back and a cover, a printed circuit board at least substantially enclosed by the housing, a battery compartment formed in the back of the housing for receiving one or more batteries, and a display exposed for viewing through an aperture in the cover of the housing for viewing the display by a user. The printed circuit board may include one or more battery terminals that extend from the printed circuit board through the back of the housing and into the battery compartment. In some cases, the battery compartment may define a cup-shaped reservoir that may be configured to collect leakage from one or more of the batteries. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150369506 | Battery Power Management in a Thermostat With a Wireless Transceiver - A thermostat includes a controller for controlling the thermostat, a battery supplying power for the thermostat, and a wireless transceiver for receiving control information from a remote device and for transmitting information to the remote device. The controller sets a default time schedule for enabling the wireless transceiver. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150369510 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT - A HVAC unit manufacturing method and a HVAC system are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the HVAC system includes: a controller having control board terminals, a parallel wiring harness having a first and a second connection header, the first connection header coupled to the control board terminals, and a switch having terminals. The terminals of the switch including: a pair of functional terminals configured to indicate a status of the switch and a pair of jumpered terminals independent of the pair of functional terminals and internally connected together within the switch, wherein designated combinations of the terminals indicate a circuit configuration for employing the switch in the HVAC system with each of the terminals having a particular design that dictates a specific corresponding connection header be used for each of the designated combinations, wherein a single one of the designated combinations of the terminals corresponds to the second connection header. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150370268 | BYPASS SWITCH FOR IN-LINE POWER STEAL - A power supply unit for use with thermostats or other like devices. The power supply unit may keep electromagnetic interference emissions and harmonics at a minimum. A unit may have enough power for triggering a switch at about a cross over point of a waveform of input power to the unit. Power for triggering may come from a storage source. Power for the storage source may be provided with power stealing which require switching transistors which can generate emissions. In-line thermostats using MOSFETS power steal may do the power steal during an ON state (triac, relay or silicon controlled rectifier activated). Gate signals to the transistors may be especially shaped to keep emissions from transistor switching at a minimum. All that may be needed, during an OFF state as a bypass, is a high voltage controllable switch. The need may be achieved using high voltage MOSFETS. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150373926 | SYSTEM FOR OPTIMALLY CONTROLLING SENSORY TEMPERATURE BASED ON HUMIDITY - The present invention can provide an optimum sensory temperature and can increase productivity by a system having a variable fan provided in a vinyl greenhouse, receiving optimum temperature (A) and humidity (B), detecting internal temperature (A′) and humidity (B′), calculating temperature (A″) according to the humidity, and providing the temperature (A″) suitable for the humidity (B′) detected through an operational control of the variable fan. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160003492 | Thermistor Emulating CT Clamp - A heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with a thermostat operable to receive, process, and display power consumption information received via a thermistor input of the thermostat. The thermostat receives power consumption information from a measurement device in communication with the thermostat via a wired interface and the thermistor input, wherein the measurement device comprises a clamp portion positionable about an electric conductor, a measurement portion, and a conditioning component. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160010888 | HVAC System with Location Based Operation | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160025368 | Thermostats and Operational Methods - Thermostats and operational methods are described. According to one aspect, a thermostat includes an interface configured to receive a control signal, wherein the control signal comprises fast components and slow components, and the fast components change at an increased rate compared with slow components of the control signal, control circuitry including a fast response controller configured to use the fast components of the control signal to generate a fast temperature offset, a slow response controller configured to use the slow components of the control signal to generate a slow temperature offset, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to use the fast temperature offset and the slow temperature offset to control a conditioning apparatus to at least one of heat and cool a conditioned area at a plurality of moments in time. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160025369 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - An air conditioning system is provided. The air conditioning system may include at least one air handler that conditions indoor air; an interface that controls the at least one air handler; and a central controller that includes at least one input/output device having an input/output port through which an electric signal is input and output between a plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler; and a controller that communicates with the interface to control the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. The interface may be configured based on a configuration of the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler recognized through the at least one input/output device, and the interface may be reconfigured in accordance with a change in the plurality of devices forming the at least one air handler. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160040900 | HVAC System with SMS Capability - Systems and methods are disclosed that include providing a system controller in a heating, ventilation, and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system with an SMS module. Initialization and/or actuation of an SMS initiator input may cause the SMS module to generate, transmit, and/or to allow a request for generation and/or transmittal of a predetermined SMS message to alter a setting and/or an operation of a smartphone that allows the smartphone to produce an audible alert, even when the smartphone is configured in a so-called silent mode. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160047569 | USER-FRIENDLY, NETWORK CONNECTED LEARNING THERMOSTAT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A thermostat for controlling an HVAC system in an enclosure may include a passive infrared sensor, an active infrared sensor, and an electronic display having a first mode and a second mode. The thermostat may also include one or more processors programmed to change a setpoint temperature of the thermostat to an energy-saving temperature upon detection of a non-occupancy condition for the enclosure. The processor(s) may detect the non-occupancy condition based at least in part on readings received from the passive infrared sensor. The processor(s) may also be programmed to change the electronic display from the first mode to the second mode upon detection of a person approaching the thermostat. The processor(s) may detect a person approaching the thermostat based at least in part on readings received from the active infrared sensor. | 02-18-2016 |
| 20160061471 | HVAC CONTROLLER ASSEMBLY - An HVAC control mounting assembly including a housing, including at least one communication module receptacle, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. An HVAC controller assembly including an HVAC control unit, and a mounting assembly operably coupled to the HVAC control unit the mounting assembly including: a housing including at least one communication module receptacle disposed therein, and a communication module disposed in at least one of the at least one communication module receptacles. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160084517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMMANDING TEMPERATURES TARGETED BY AIR CONDITIONER - On the screen of a display unit, period border lines are displayed. The period border lines divide hours (for example 24 hours) for a user's desired one day into a plurality of periods and present line segments movable on the screen in a predetermined direction. Each of the line segments acts as a border lien between mutually adjacent periods. On the screen, target temperatures which are set for the respective periods are also displayed. Dragging the period border liens (K | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160107189 | SYSTEM FOR MANUFACTURING MICRONEEDLE PREPARATION, AND AIR-CONDITIONING METHOD - The present invention provides a system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle configured to regulate an air environment within a coating chamber for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle by coating a microneedle with a coating liquid containing a drug, the system for manufacturing a therapeutic microneedle comprising an air compressor, a humidity regulator configured to regulate humidity of air supplied from the air compressor, and an air filter configured to eliminate microorganisms from air to be supplied to the inside of the coating chamber. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160116183 | MAGNETICALLY MOUNTED WALL THERMOSTAT - One aspect of this disclosure provides a thermostat that can be magnetically attached to the wall using one or more magnets that allow the thermostat to be rotated about the wall, once mounted, or easily removed from the wall altogether to operate as a remote unit. Other devices, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160138820 | REMOTE CONTROL DEVICE - A remote control device according to the present invention includes an operation unit for switching and setting an operation state of an apparatus performing at least one of a heating operation and a cooling operation, a display unit that displays a screen on which an operation at the operation unit is reflected, and a controller that controls a display operation of the display unit. The controller causes the display unit to display at least one of a type and a range of an operation state that is able to be switched and set by the operation unit. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160138823 | ADAPTIVE POWER-STEALING THERMOSTAT - A method of harvesting power from a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system using an HVAC controller may include harvesting power from the HVAC system and measuring an electrical characteristic of the HVAC controller. The electrical characteristic may indicate whether the power harvested from the HVAC system is high enough to risk interfering with a normal operation of the HVAC system. The method may also include increasing the power harvested from the HVAC system until the electrical characteristic indicates that the HVAC controller is at risk of interfering with the normal operation of the HVAC system. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160169548 | DEVICE EMPLOYABLE IN DIFFERENT CIRCUIT CONFIGURATIONS USING PARALLEL WIRING HARNESSES, A HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE DEVICE AND A METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A HVAC UNIT | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160178230 | Rotatable Wall-Mounted Thermostat Having a Leveling Feature | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160178231 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHODS | 06-23-2016 |
| 20160187021 | MONITORING APPARATUS AND MONITORING METHOD - A monitoring apparatus includes an information obtaining unit that obtains, from a target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored, a room temperature and a variable air volume; a room temperature display processing unit that displays, in a form of a graph, the room temperature obtained from the target VAV air conditioning system to be monitored; a controllable range calculating unit that calculates a length of a bar of a bar graph indicating a controllable range on the basis of the variable air volume; and a controllable range display processing unit that displays the bar graph including the bar having the length calculated by the controllable range calculating unit such that the bar graph is overlapped with the room temperature. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187023 | FLOATING THERMOSTAT PLATE - Methods and systems are described for operating a wall mounted thermostat. An example computer-implemented method includes receiving an indication of a physical touch to an exposed portion of a housing of the thermostat, wherein the housing is movable when touched. The method also includes determining a thermostat command associated with where the housing is touched and movement of the housing in response to the touch, and operating the thermostat according to the determined thermostat command. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160187898 | Compensating for Sensor Thermal Lag - Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of a method of compensating for thermal lag in a temperature control system. In an exemplary embodiment, a method is performed by a controller of the temperature control system. The method includes receiving a first temperature obtained by a temperature sensing device at an end of a temperature control cycle. A second temperature obtained by the temperature sensing device is received at a pre-defined time after the end of the temperature control cycle. The method includes changing an operational set-point temperature of the temperature control system using a difference between the received temperatures. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160195072 | ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECT CONTROL ASSEMBLY | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160195294 | THERMOSTAT SWITCHING CIRCUITRY ROBUST AGAINST ANOMALOUS HVAC CONTROL LINE CONDITIONS | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160202711 | TWO CONDUCTOR WIRELINE GUIDED CONTROL AND AN HVAC SYSTEM EMPLOYING THE SAME | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160252264 | Staging Climate Control System Controller Functions Based on Available Power | 09-01-2016 |
| 20170234565 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR FOR AN HVAC CONTROLLER | 08-17-2017 |
| 20170237210 | WALL MOUNTABLE CONNECTOR TERMINAL CONFIGURATION | 08-17-2017 |
| 20180023839 | THERMOSTAT WITH DISPLAY AND PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD | 01-25-2018 |
| 20130277438 | Converter Building - A converter building including at least one room having a solid room wall enclosing an interior space and an electrical active part contained in the interior space, the room wall having at least one opening, which is designed such that it allows a human to enter the interior space. The opening is sealable, the room wall encloses the interior space in a gas-tight manner when the opening is sealed, and the interior space contains a dielectric insulation medium including a dielectric insulation component other than air. | 10-24-2013 |
| 20150115047 | AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY - An air conditioning system processes sensible heat load and latent heat load of a target space, and adjusts temperature and humidity of the target space. The air conditioning system includes a cooling heat exchanger circulating a heating medium to cool and dehumidify air blown into the target space, a heater heating the air cooled and dehumidified by the heat exchanger, a stage speed variable blower fan creating a flow of the air blown into the target space through the heat exchanger and the heater, and control unit. The control unit has a quantity of cooling adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of cooling supplied from the heating medium to the air in the heat exchanger, a quantity of heating adjusting unit adjusting a quantity of heating supplied from the heater to the air, and a blown air flow volume adjusting unit adjusting an air flow volume supplied by the blower fan. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20130075484 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS UTILIZING A WIRELESS MESH NETWORK - In some examples, a wireless controller is utilized within a wireless mesh network. The wireless controller includes a control module configured to manage at least one energy device via a pneumatic pressure line based on one or more parts of an energy profile; and a network interface module configured to transmit energy data to a management server and receive the one or more parts of the energy profile from the management server. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130313332 | TEMPERATURE INFORMATION GENERATION CIRCUIT, OSCILLATOR, ELECTRONIC APPARATUS, TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION SYSTEM, AND TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION METHOD OF ELECTRONIC COMPONENT - A temperature information generation circuit includes a temperature sensor (a first temperature detection section), a high-sensitivity temperature sensor (one or plural second temperature detection sections) having higher sensitivity than that of the temperature sensor, an output selection circuit, and a control section. The output selection circuit and the control section select a detection signal of the high-sensitivity temperature sensor upon supply of a power supply voltage, and then perform switching so as to select a detection signal of the temperature sensor at a predetermined timing. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20140103125 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR THERMAL MANAGEMENT OF A MEMORY DEVICE - A system and method for thermal management of a memory device is described. In an embodiment, one or more thermal sensors sends a signal to a thermal control module indicating that a pre-determined temperature threshold for a memory device or devices has been reached. The thermal control module may then begin tracking memory thermals or initiate thermal management operations based on the signal and history of memory device temperatures over time. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20160061538 | Active Cryogenic Electronic Envelope - A data acquisition module is disclosed for use with electronic components such as superconductive magnets wherein the electronic components and the data acquisition module may reside inside a cryostat. The data acquisition module allows conventional electronic technologies to work inside cryostats at cryogenic temperatures as low as 4° K. This is achieved by management of heat inside the module to keep the module operating at a temperature above the cryogenic temperature. This approach avoids the difficulties that arise from changes in carrier mobility in semiconductors operating at deep cryogenic temperatures. A cryogenic system comprises a cryostat containing a cryogenic fluid and at least one sensor, and a data acquisition module located within the cryostat, the module in communication with the at least one sensor to acquire data, wherein the module comprises a thermal package, a conditioning and digitizing electronic module, a controller module, a power module, and a thermal management module. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20080251590 | HVAC STAGING CONTROL - A controller for an HVAC system having a plurality of zones and having a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device. The controller is configured to receive a plurality of thermostat signals and to transmit a signal to control one of a plurality of flow control devices in response to a call for conditioning in one of the plurality of zones. The controller also includes one or more timers that are connected to the thermostat terminals, where the one or more timers are configured to initiate a separate timing count upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones. In addition, the controller includes one or more staging terminals for transmitting staging signals to control a multiple stage fluid temperature conditioning device, where the transmission of the staging signals determines whether the conditioning device will operate at a relatively higher output stage. The controller is also configured to make a timing count determination to determine if any one of the separate timing counts initiated upon each call for conditioning in any one of the plurality of zones exceeds a timing delay parameter. The transmission of staging signals depends on the timing count determination. A method is also disclosed. | 10-16-2008 |
| 20090166442 | Constant air volume/variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090255997 | Apparatus and Method for Flexibly and Efficiently Varying Air Temperatures in Multiple Rooms - The invention enables coordinated, flexible, agile, and energy efficient temperature variation among a plurality of rooms, as found in a hotel, an apartment building, or a group of exercise rooms, by transferring heat between the rooms. Air can be moved by fans and/or heat can be transferred by a heat pump. Heat transfer between exercise rooms can be powered partly by exertion of individuals in the rooms. Rapid air exchange can quickly equalize temperatures in adjacent rooms. Embodiments exchange heat between rooms and interior and/or exterior reservoirs of warmer and cooler air and/or water, and some embodiments move air from the reservoirs into and out of the rooms. Heat can be pumped into or out of the system, and air and/or water can be added or extracted from the reservoirs. In some embodiments heat is moved sequentially through a variable series of rooms, creating a monotonic variation of temperatures. | 10-15-2009 |
| 20100314458 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HEAT PUMP ORIENTED ZONE CONTROL - A system and method to control environmental parameters of pre-defined zones within an environment using an electronic controller. An electronic controller monitors a loop temperature of a loop field of a geo-thermal heat pump as detected by a temperature sensor connected to the loop field. The electronic controller selects a staging combination of the geo-thermal heat pump and an auxiliary HVAC equipment based on at least the loop temperature. The electronic controller activates the selected staging combination, to modify at least a portion of the environmental parameters, using non-proprietary activating signals provided by the electronic controller. | 12-16-2010 |
| 20100320277 | Constant air volume / variable air temperature zone temperature and humidity control system - A method for providing energy-efficient temperature and humidity control with uniform ventilation air distribution in a constant-volume zoned heating and cooling systems. The method utilizes an air-to-air heat exchanger that regulates the temperature of the supply air to a space, using the temperature differential between supply air and return (room) air and regulating the flow of return air through the heat exchanger. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20110031322 | Novel air regulation device and air conditioning system - A multiple zone HVAC system comprises powered flow rate adjustable registers. It can further comprise zone controllers that can wirelessly control the registers, and a central controller that controls the HVAC unit and coordinates zone controllers. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20140097257 | TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT SYSTEM, TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT METHOD, SYSTEM CONTROLLER, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - The first temperature measurer measures an first air temperature in a first place and transmits a measurement result to a system controller. The second temperature measurer measures an second air temperature in a second place and transmits a measurement result to the system controller. The sucker sucks air from the first place into a duet installed in the building. The discharger discharges the air taken from the first place via the duct into the second place. The system controller determines whether it is necessary to adjust an air temperature difference between the first and second places based on the first air temperature and the second air temperature. If the system controller determines that the adjustment is necessary, the system controller orders the sucker and discharger to start operation. | 04-10-2014 |
| 20140158778 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158779 | BATTERY CHARGING BY MECHANICAL IMPELLER AT FORCED AIR VENT OUTPUTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158780 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL WITH INTEGRATED BATTERY STATUS COMMUNICATIONS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158781 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140158782 | MULTIPLE ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE CONTROL VIA A CENTRAL CONTROLLER - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140209696 | INDOOR CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM - An indoor climate control system is configured to adjust a first temperature of a first room within a structure. The indoor climate control system has a receiver mechanically coupled to an HVAC unit configured to turn the HVAC unit on and off. A portable wireless thermostat communicatively coupled to the receiver. The portable wireless thermostat transmits a desired climate information to the receiver which then engages the HVAC unit to adjust the first temperature of the first room. | 07-31-2014 |
| 20150108230 | MULTIPLE ZONE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A multiple heating/cooling zone control system is disclosed. A heating/cooling system control device continuously monitors heating/cooling zone demand and matches the heating/cooling device output capacity to the total space or heat input required. Within the calculated heating/cooling device output capacity the heating/cooling device is modulated based on zone temperature setpoint to further adjust heating/cooling device output. As heat/cooling loss is increased heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are increased. Should heat/cooling loss decrease heating/cooling device capacity and modulation are decreased. Since heat/cooling output is adjusted based on the heat loss(gain) the heating/cooling device can be immediately adjusted to the proper or matching heating/cooling rate even before water/air temperature based adjustments can be made. Hence, the overall effect of the control device is a reduction in cycles of the heating/cooling device and the life of the heating/cooling device is extended and subsequent energy is saved. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150354844 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESSLY-ENABLED HVAC CONTROL - Various forms of wirelessly-enabled thermostats for multi-area HVAC control are presented. Such a thermostat may include: a controller; a temperature sensor included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller; a user input device that permits a user to input a setpoint temperature and an area priority, and a wireless communication system included in the wireless-enabled thermostat that is in communication with the controller. The controller may be configured to communicate temperature readings to a remotely-located central system and receive, from the user input device, the setpoint temperature and the area priority. The controller may be configured to communicate the setpoint temperature and the area priority to the central system. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150369507 | HVAC ZONING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system may be zoned into one or more zone. The HVAC system may include HVAC components, sensors, and one or more register vents that may include vent dampers (e.g., electronically controllable vent dampers or manually operated vent dampers). Opening and closing of the vent dampers may facilitate creating zones or sub-zones in the HVAC system configuration. An HVAC control system may receive a request for conditioned air in one or more of the zones, determine a damper setting for at least one of the vent dampers, communicate the determined damper setting to a vent damper or user interface, determine which HVAC components should be active, if any, and/or provide controls signals to activate or keep active the HVAC components that are determined to be active. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150377502 | Thermo Electric Register system - The invention is a thermostatically controlled vent installed in the existing outflow ventilation ducts of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning system. When the central heating/cooling unit is operating, temperature variation is achieved by an electronic control which opens and closes air flow fins on the vent based on the settings of an individual thermostat for each room in a building that has the device installed. The individual thermostat of each vent in the system is connected to the primary building thermostat and therefore has the ability to signal the need to turn on/off the heating/cooling unit as appropriate. In addition, the invention can purify the air flow by means of an ultraviolet sterilization lamp. It is possible to remotely set the temperature settings via an internet enabled software app. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160025363 | BATTERY-OPERATED WIRELESS ZONE CONTROLLERS HAVING MULTIPLE STATES OF POWER-RELATED OPERATION - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160091220 | WIRELESS ZONE CONTROL VIA MECHANICALLY ADJUSTABLE AIRFLOW ELEMENTS - An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones. | 03-31-2016 |
| 20160201932 | AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL SYSTEM, SENSOR DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM | 07-14-2016 |
