Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080203178 | Method and Apparatus for Environmental Control - Automated methods, apparatuses and computer program products for controlling environmental parameters in a defined environment are disclosed herein. One method disclosed comprises the steps of: measuring values of temperature, relative humidity, and wind velocity in the environment, calculating a value of perceived temperature as a function of the measured values, and controlling the environmental parameters based on the calculated value. In certain embodiments, the defined environment comprises a chicken house and the temperature perceived by the chickens in the chicken house is calculated as a function of a characteristic of the chickens such as age or weight. | 08-28-2008 |
20080223943 | Variable Speed Blower Control In An HVAC System Having A Plurality of Zones - A zone control panel for use with an HVAC system having zone control and a variable speed blower, and a method for controlling a fluid temperature conditioning device. In one aspect, the zone control panel includes a plurality of thermostat terminals for receiving thermostat signals, a plurality of damper terminals for transmitting damper control signals, and one or more terminals for transmitting signals to control a fluid temperature conditioning device having a variable speed blower. The zone control panel also includes a blower terminal for transmitting a signal to a dehumidification terminal associated with the fluid temperature conditioning device, where the dehumidification terminal is labeled or indicated for use with a dehumidification operating mode or for initiating a dehumidification operating mode of the variable speed blower. The blower terminal changes state in response to the number of zones that are calling for conditioning and changes between only a first off state and a second alternating current (AC) signal state. The change in the state of the blower terminal causes the speed of the variable speed blower to change. | 09-18-2008 |
20080237361 | Method and System for Heat Dissipation - A heat dissipation method is described. A fan module is provided to circulate airflows towards a heat-generating source within a fan speed range. A current temperature of the heat-generating source is measured, wherein the current temperature varies within a temperature range including a lowest critical temperature. The temperature range is divided into a plurality of unique temperatures. The fan speed range is divided into a plurality of unique fan speeds. Each unique fan speed is initially assigned, from low to high, to each unique temperature, from low to high. When the current temperature is lower than the lowest critical temperature, the fan module is driven to rotate at the unique fan speed initially assigned to the current temperature. When the current temperature is higher than the lowest critical temperature, a desired fan speed is dynamically assigned to the current temperature based on a specific mechanism. | 10-02-2008 |
20080277486 | HVAC control system and method - An HVAC control system configured to control the environment of a building zone includes a means for determining a number of people occupying the building zone and a means for determining properties of other heat transferring objects located within the building zone. The HVAC control system may also include a controller, the controller being configured to compute a projected heat gain in a building zone based on the determined number of people occupying the building zone and the determined properties of the other heat transferring objects located within the building zone. The controller may use the computed projected heat gain to determine a zone ventilation setpoint for the building zone. | 11-13-2008 |
20080302878 | Method for Controlling an Air-Conditioning System of a Vehicle Whose Top is Opened - In a method for regulating an air-conditioning system of a vehicle whose top is open, air whose temperature and mass flow rate are regulated as a function of at least the control variables of the setpoint temperature of the passenger compartment and the actual temperature of the passenger compartment being fed to a passenger compartment of the vehicle via a plurality of vent openings. The speed of the vehicle is measured and, when it increases, the air-mass flow rate, which is fed to the passenger compartment through vent openings at lower positions, is reduced and the air-mass flow rate, which is fed to the passenger compartment through vent openings at higher positions, is increased. | 12-11-2008 |
20090001179 | Energy Efficient House Ventilation - A method and apparatus for maintaining an acceptable level of outside air exchange rate in a structure. The natural ventilation rate is determined as a function of the outdoor air temperature, and the amount of mechanically induced ventilation that is used to supplement the natural air ventilation is controlled such that the sum of the natural occurring ventilation and the mechanically induced ventilation is maintained by a substantially constant predetermined level. One approach is to use a stepper motor to modulate the position of the damper, while another approach is to use an on/off motor damper and to close the damper at outdoor temperatures below a threshold level and to otherwise leave the damper open and use the regular on/off cycle of the system blower to control the flow of outdoor air, with provision for allowing the fan to remain on for a calculated period of time after the system is cycled off to thereby maintain the desired level of ventilation. Can also vary the speed of the furnace blower or a separate ventilation fan motor. | 01-01-2009 |
20090014545 | INTERIOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM - It is aimed to provide a control system which can automatically control air-conditioners and other devices according to the temperatures inside and outside the room, thereby keeping the interior temperature to a comfortable level. | 01-15-2009 |
20090014546 | THERMAL CAPACITOR - A thermal capacitor cools servers when an active cooling system fails. The thermal capacitor includes cold insulation passages, fans, temperature sensors, and a control unit. The cold insulation passages each have a plurality of air flow channels obtained by dividing the air flow path into a plurality of air flow paths with different air flow path cross-sectional areas. The fan is mounted in each air flow path and the fan controls the air flow of each air flow channel. A temperature sensor is mounted in each outlet of the cold insulation passages. When a detected temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature, the control unit controls air flow so that the ratio of air flow by air flow passage with larger air flow path diameter to overall air flow of all air flow channel increases. | 01-15-2009 |
20090020618 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL OF AN ENCLOSURE - Unheated external air is drawn into an electronic component housing ( | 01-22-2009 |
20090065595 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ZONE HEATING AND COOLING USING CONTROLLABLE SUPPLY AND RETURN VENTS - 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 and the opening of an ECRV provided to a supply vent and the opening of an ECRV provided to a return vent. | 03-12-2009 |
20090078781 | AUTOMATIC HVAC FAN OPERATION DURING WARM-UP STAGE - A system and method for automatically operating an HVAC fan for an automotive vehicle is provided where the vehicle includes an occupant detection system and an HVAC system including an HVAC computer. The user sets the heating/cooling temperature of the HVAC system to maximum and then sets the HVAC system to an automatic mode. The occupant detection system determines if there is at least one occupant inside the vehicle. The HAVC computer then automatically operates the HVAC fan based on a response from the occupant detection system. | 03-26-2009 |
20090101725 | Climate Control System with Automatic Wiring Detection - A climate control system ( | 04-23-2009 |
20090108083 | Operation Unit - An operation unit includes: a plurality of operation members provided in an air conditioning system for conditioning air inside a passenger compartment of a vehicle in such a manner as to be operated to control the air conditioning system; a first rear-side member provided on a rear side of one of the plurality of operation members; at least one second rear-side member provided on a rear side of the operation members on which the first rear-side member is not provided; and an electrical functioning portion which is provided on the first rear-side member and has electrical functions for the operation member on which the rear-side member is provided and the operation members on which the second rear-side member is provided. | 04-30-2009 |
20090114731 | CONTROL OF A HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEM FOR A MULTI-LEVEL SPACE - A heating and cooling system for a multi-level space is provided that comprises at least one lower level return air duct and at least one upper level return air duct, and a thermostat for controlling the operation of the heating or cooling system through either a low voltage cooling activation signal or a low voltage heating activation signal. The heating and cooling system further comprises a first motorized damper having connection means for receiving at least a low voltage heating activation signal from the thermostat, the first motorized damper being installed in each lower level return duct and configured to drive the damper to an open position when the connection means receives a low voltage heating activation signal, wherein the first motorized damper is operatively closed when the thermostat alternatively transmits a low voltage cooling activation signal such that the cooling system substantially receives no air flow through each lower level return air duct and effectively receives only air flow from the upper level of the space. | 05-07-2009 |
20090140056 | HVAC CONTROLLER WITH QUICK SELECT FEATURE - An HVAC controller is described that is configured to be more intuitive and user friendly to program and operate than convention HVAC controllers. In some instances, the HVAC controller may include a touch screen interface that provides greater flexibility in displaying information to the user and/or soliciting information from the user. | 06-04-2009 |
20090140057 | DISPLAY FOR HVAC SYSTEMS IN REMOTE CONTROL UNITS - An HVAC remote controller for use in an HVAC system is described. In some instances, the HVAC remote controller may include a wireless interface for communicating with one or more HVAC controllers and/or other HVAC devices. The HVAC remote control unit may be configured to display two or more option on a display, wherein the user may be allowed to select one of the two or more options resulting in a selected option. The HVAC remote control unit may display a visual cue for the selected option that visually distinguishes the selected option from the remaining options. The visual cue may include a different border for the selected option than the remaining options and/or a marker within or adjacent to the border. It is also contemplated that a similar visual cue may be used in conjunction with an HVAC controller display, if desired. | 06-04-2009 |
20090140058 | REMOTE CONTROL FOR USE IN ZONED AND NON-ZONED HVAC SYSTEMS - An HVAC remote controller for use in an HVAC system is described. In some instances, the HVAC remote controller may include a wirelessly interface for communicating with one or more HVAC controllers and/or other HVAC devices. The HVAC remote controller may be configured to automatically determine whether the HVAC system is a zoned HVAC system or a non-zoned HVAC system, and operate accordingly. | 06-04-2009 |
20090230201 | SYSTEM TO SUPPORT TESTING OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES, TEMPERATURE CONTROL UNIT FOR THE SYSTEM, AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF CHAMBER OF THE SYSTEM - A system to support the testing of electronic devices and a temperature control unit for the system are disclosed. A temperature controlling method for a chamber of the system is also disclosed. Low or high temperature air is supplied to the inside of the chamber when the electronic devices are tested at low or high temperature. External air is supplied to the inside of the chamber when the electronic devices are tested at room temperature. | 09-17-2009 |
20090236432 | RETROFITTING A CONSTANT VOLUME AIR HANDLING UNIT WITH A VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVE - A system and methods providing real-time monitoring, management and control of a variable frequency drive retrofit to a constant volume air handling unit without making significant mechanical or control system changes. Customers and vendors are provided with a more informative and economically attractive air handling unit. The system also provides a finer granularity of control over conditioned air properties such as temperature, humidity and air quality. | 09-24-2009 |
20090250524 | WIRELESS REMOTE-CONTROL COOLER ASSEMBLY FOR MOTHERBOARD - A wireless remote-control cooler assembly adapted to be used with a motherboard include a fan, and a circuit unit electrically connected with the fan and adapted to be electrically connected with the motherboard for obtaining power supply from the motherboard. A first signal transceiver module is electrically connected to the circuit unit and provided with a first transmitter for transmitting a feedback signal indicating the operation status of the fan, and a first receiver. A second signal transceiver module is adapted to be electrically connected to the motherboard and provided with a second receiver for receiving the feedback signal, and a second transmitter for transmitting a control signal to the first receiver to regulate the operation status of the fan via the circuit unit. | 10-08-2009 |
20090266903 | DAMPER TO CONTROL FLUID FLOW AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A damper for controlling fluid flow includes a main body, a stator and a rotor. The stator may be carried by the main body and include at least one blade having a predetermined shape. The rotor may be moveably connected to the stator and carried by the main body. The rotor may include at least one blade having a predetermined shape and may be moveable between an opened position and a closed position. The predetermined shape of the at least one stator blade and the at least one rotor blade may form a converging-diverging nozzle, and the stator and the rotor may be carried by the main body so that fluid flows through the main body substantially perpendicular thereto. The opened position may be defined as the at least one stator blade being aligned with the at least one rotor blade, and the closed position may be defined as the at least one stator blade being offset from the at least one rotor blade. | 10-29-2009 |
20090302124 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO ROUTE AIRFLOW USING DYNAMICALLY CHANGING DUCTS - The invention generally relates to ventilation systems and methods, and more particularly to selectively configurable climate control systems and methods for use in data centers and the like. A method includes receiving or obtaining input data, generating at least one actuation signal to change a flow configuration of a re-configurable duct system based upon the input data, and transmitting the at least one actuation signal. | 12-10-2009 |
20090308941 | Method and apparatus for control of cooling system air quality and energy consumption - An energy saving air quality control system modulates supply fan speed by use of controlled, variable-frequency drive controls for automatic dampers or suction pressure to maintain adequate air flow across the evaporator coil at partial cooling loads. Demand ventilation in the system balances air quality and energy consumption by controlling the outdoor air damper in response to indoor CO | 12-17-2009 |
20100006659 | HVAC inside and outside return air control system - An inside and outside air return control system for a HVAC unit that includes an outside air conduit connected to the inside air return duct and a flap valve that selectively moves to control the delivery of inside air or outside air to the air return duct in the HVAC unit. The system also includes a programmable control panel connected to the HVAC unit's air conditioner or heat pump and to the furnace or air handler. The control panel is also connected to an inside thermometer and an outside thermometer. During operation, the control panel continuously monitors the air temperatures inside and outside the residence. During setup, a control temperature is selected in the control panel. The readings from the two thermometers are compared with the control temperature and used to control the movement of the flap valve so that the cooler air source is delivered to the air return duct. | 01-14-2010 |
20100012737 | MODULAR REGISTER VENT FOR ZONE HEATING AND COOLING - A modular 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 modular ECRV can be configured to various sizes and form-factors that conform 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. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones and provides heating and cooling to the various zones according to a cost budget. | 01-21-2010 |
20100019047 | REMOTE CLIMATE CONTROL DEVICE INCLUDING ELECTRICAL VENTILATION BLOWER FOR AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A remote climate control system is for an electric vehicle without a combustion engine and having a rechargeable electrical power source and an electrical Ventilation blower selectively powered thereby, a sensor associated with the rechargeable electrical power source, and a data communications bus extending throughout the hybrid vehicle. At least one of the electrical Ventilation blower and the sensor is coupled to the data communications bus. The remote climate control system includes a remote transmitter and a receiver to be positioned at the hybrid vehicle for receiving signals from said remote transmitter. A vehicle remote climate controller cooperates with said receiver and to be coupled to the data communications bus extending within the hybrid vehicle for communication thereover to selectively operate the electrical Ventilation blower responsive to the sensor and said remote transmitter. | 01-28-2010 |
20100044447 | Temperature control for positive pressure air purification unit - A temperature controller for a positive pressure room air purification unit is provided with a sensor for ambient room air temperature and supply duct air temperature. Based on the desired temperature, supply duct air may be drawn or drawn and heated. | 02-25-2010 |
20100044448 | Ventilation System and Method - An amount of time that air has been delivered from an air handler to a space is tracked, and based on the tracked amount of time, at least one turn-on time or one turn-off time of the delivery of air from the air handler to the space is controlled. Other features relate, among other things, to controlling a replacement air vent, and to user interfaces. | 02-25-2010 |
20100078492 | Solar Powered Smart Ventilation System - A ventilation system comprising a fan to bring air into a building or exhaust air out of the building, a rechargeable battery to power the fan in the absence of an alternative energy source, and an alternative energy harnessing device to power the fan and to recharge the rechargeable battery in the presence of an alternative energy source. A sensor may be operatively connected to a controller or logic circuit to measure environmental factors, wherein the controller utilizes the measured environmental condition to select the power source with which to activate the fan. The ventilation system is configured to be a modular device with versatile fasteners for easy installment in windows or attics without the need for modification of the building, such as cutting holes. | 04-01-2010 |
20100096466 | METHOD AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR DECREASING THE THERMAL LOAD ON ANIMALS - A method of controlling a cooling element in order to decrease the thermal load on animals includes the step:—to start the cooling element when the air temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value and/or a parameter, dependent on the relative humidity of air, exceeds a predetermined threshold value. | 04-22-2010 |
20100102136 | ALARM AND DIAGNOSTICS SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A DISTRIBUTED ARCHITECTURE HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING NETWORK - The disclosure includes an HVAC data processing and communication network and a method of manufacturing the same. In one embodiment the network includes a duct, a blower and a controller. The blower is configured to receive a control message from a data bus. The duct is configured to direct air flow from the blower. The controller is configured to publish the control message to the data bus. The controller thereby commands the blower to provide air to the duct at an initial volume rate and to increase the volume rate until the controller detects onset of a cutback mode of the blower. | 04-29-2010 |
20100123016 | System and Method for Oil Return in an HVAC System - A system and a method are provided for returning oil in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system by determining when an ambient zone temperature is equal to or less than a temperature limit and reversing a direction of refrigerant flow of the HVAC system based on the length of time. Also, a system and a method are provided for monitoring the length of operation in a first and a second heating mode and for reversing a direction of refrigerant flow based on the length of time operation occurs in the first and second heating modes. A system and a method having a first compressor, a first heating mode, a second heating mode, a defrost mode, and a controller is disclosed. The controller selectively controls initiation of the defrost mode in response to an HVAC system operating in a heating mode of operation for a predetermined amount of time. | 05-20-2010 |
20100147964 | Highly sensitive airflow direction sensing - Sensors, apparatus and methods are disclosed for detecting airflow direction between two volumes. The preferred airflow sensor includes a tube for conducting an airflow stream between the volumes, a first temperature sensor sensing ambient temperature in the first volume and a second temperature sensor sensing temperature of the airflow stream in the tube. A heat source heats air in the tube adjacent the end thereof communicating with the second volume and a comparator receives and compares output signals from the temperature sensors, providing an output indicative thereof. Various means are provided responsive to the output advancing appropriate response thereto. The disclosed sensors, apparatus and methods are particularly well adapted for indicating positive and negative pressure differentials at flues associated with combustion appliances. | 06-17-2010 |
20100163633 | Automatically Balancing Register for HVAC Systems - Distributed nodes, such as intelligent register controllers, of a heating, ventilating and/or air conditioning (HVAC) system wirelessly communicate with each other on a peer-to-peer basis, forming a network, and collectively control the HVAC system, without a central controller. The intelligent register controllers collectively control the amount of conditioned air introduced into each region. Each node may base its operation at least in part on information about one or more (ideally all) of the other nodes. Each intelligent register controller automatically determines how much conditioned air to allow into its region, or how much return air to allow to be withdrawn from its region, based on information collected by the register controller, such as: current temperature of the region; desired temperature of the region; calculated amount of conditioned air required to change the region's temperature to the desired temperature; temperature of conditioned air begin supplied by a duct to the register; current time, day of week, vacation or other schedule data; temperatures of other regions and their respective desired temperatures; calculated amounts of air required to be supplied or withdrawn by the other controlled registers to change their respective regions' temperatures to their desired temperatures; or combinations thereof. Each register controller automatically determines when and to what extent to operate its respective controllable damper. | 07-01-2010 |
20100176208 | AIR CONDITIONER AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SAME - An air conditioner and a method for controlling the air conditioner are provided. The air conditioner may include an air-conditioning device having a variety of components that provide air-conditioning of an indoor space, an input device that receives signals to manipulate the air-conditioning device and signals to select a sleep mode, and a controller that, when the input device receives a signal to select the sleep mode, controls the air-conditioning device to perform a rapid eye movement sleep operation at least one time to air-condition the indoor space at a temperature higher than a temperature that is set in accordance with the sleep mode. | 07-15-2010 |
20100187318 | VAV SOLID STATE VAV FAN SERIES AND PARALLEL FAN CONTROLLER - A VAV solid state VAV fan series and parallel fan controller for controlling a fan and at least one stage of reheat in a ventilation system in response to signals from an external VAV controller is disclosed. The VAV solid state VAV fan series and parallel fan controller is in connection with at least one transformer, external VAV controller, fan, speed adjuster, reheat device, and circuit breaker for conditioning an air volume. A sensor associated with the external VAV controller constantly monitors room temperature and generates signals for the controlled operation of the device. The preferred invention has a plurality of terminal blocks with each terminal block having single point connections. The invention includes at least one fan relay that initiates power to start the fan and at least one reheat relay that initiates power to reheat device in stages in response to the signals from the external VAV controller. | 07-29-2010 |
20100237155 | AIRCRAFT CABIN TEMPERATURE SENSOR FILTER - A method and apparatus are provided for detecting a temperature of a cabin within an airplane. The method includes the steps of providing a temperature sensor, enclosing the temperature sensor within an enclosure, coupling an inlet of the enclosure to the cabin of the airplane and an outlet to an air conditioning air return of the airplane and disposing a filter over the inlet. | 09-23-2010 |
20100252641 | SHIPPING AND INSTALLATION FOR HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) - A zone-control unit adapted for facile inclusion in a building's ductwork includes a mechanical terminal unit, inlet and outlet piping assemblies that are mechanically coupled together. The structure also includes at least one handle so the zone-control unit may be conveniently and safely handled both during shipping, and during installation into a HVAC system. Prior to installation into a HVAC system the fully-functional zone-control unit also includes a pair of caps respectively sealing the ends of the piping assemblies, and a pressure gauge for sensing pressurization of the piping assemblies and coil which the caps seal. Sealed in this way a pressure gauge permits testing to assure that the piping assemblies and coil are leak free, and readily assessing that zone-control units remain leak free until they are about to be installed into a building's HVAC system. | 10-07-2010 |
20100282857 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DYNAMICALLY VARIABLE COMPRESSOR DELAY IN THERMOSTAT TO REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION - Systems and methods are disclosed for reducing the usage of a ventilation system. For example, one or more of the exemplary systems comprise a thermostatic controller that has at least two settings for the delay occurring between turning the ventilation system off and then turning the system back on. One setting being for a first interval and at least a second setting for a second interval that is longer than the first interval. A processor is in communication with the thermostatic controller and is configured to evaluate one or more parameters including at least the temperature outside the structure conditioned by the ventilation system. The processor is further configured to determine whether to adopt the first interval or the second interval based upon the values of the parameters. | 11-11-2010 |
20100294845 | WIRING CONNECTOR HOUSING - A wiring connector housing including a housing body having first and second ends and at least one interference tab extending outwardly from the second end is provided. The wiring connector housing further comprises spaced apart channels located through the housing body extending from the first end to the second end with the first end of the channels each configured to receive a quick connector therein. Each of the second ends of the spaced apart channels being located to register with and receive corresponding quick connect terminals therein. The at least one interference tab is configured to contact an isolation ridge of an electrical relay and thereby prevent the second ends of the spaced apart channels from being improperly registered with the corresponding quick connect terminals. | 11-25-2010 |
20100301123 | Air Quality Control System - The present invention provides methods, devices and systems for improving air quality. In one exemplary embodiment, the invention provides an air quality control system for maintaining or improving air quality within a room. The air quality control system includes a fan in fluid communication with a room. The fan is configured to vent air from within the room to control air quality therein. The air quality control system further includes a fluid flow sensor located proximate to a conduit. The fluid flow sensor is in communication with a wireless transmitter configured to generate a signal based upon fluid flow through the conduit. The air quality control system also includes a receiver configured to receive the wireless signal generated by the wireless transmitter, wherein the receiver is in communication with the fan to cause activation of the fan based upon the signal generated by the wireless transmitter. | 12-02-2010 |
20100327070 | TOUCH SENSITIVE INTERFACE FOR HEATING OR AIR CONDITIONING A VEHICLE, AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING SAME - A touch-sensitive interface ( | 12-30-2010 |
20110006123 | ELECTRICAL LOAD DISCONNECT DEVICE WITH ELECTRONIC CONTROL - Electrical load spreading arrangements reduce peak power demand. An enclosure houses an electronic circuit board, which receives at a first input terminal a first thermostat control signal from a thermostat intended to control a first air conditioning unit and at a second input terminal a second thermostat control signal from a thermostat intended to control a second AC unit. A controller on the circuit board is programmed with instructions stored in a memory coupled to the controller causing the controller to monitor the first and second input terminals to determine the timing and duration of the thermostat control signals passed to the output terminals for activating or deactivating the AC units such that overlapping operation of the AC units is reduced particularly during peak demand periods. A similar arrangement may be applied to a broader class of HVAC equipment, including water heaters, for example. | 01-13-2011 |
20110049252 | Temperature Moderation System with Temperature Difference Considerations Between Indoors and Outdoors, Its Device, Its Air Condition Device, and Its Method Thereof - A temperature moderation system with temperature difference considerations between indoors and outdoors for facilitating an air conditioner in operation control, comprises an indoor unit and an outdoor unit connected with each other. The outdoor unit has an outdoor temperature detection element. The indoor unit has a processor for generating and sending a target temperature to the air conditioner for operation control. The target temperature is one selected from the indoor setting temperature and a pre-set temperature, which is more approximated to the outdoor temperature. | 03-03-2011 |
20110057044 | AIR CONDITIONER MANAGING APPARATUS - An air conditioner managing apparatus includes a storage unit configured to accumulate operation data about numerous indoor units, a first screen generating unit, a second screen generating unit and a display switching unit. The first screen generating unit is configured to generate a first screen on which a plurality of the numerous indoor units with a problem can be visually verified based on the operation data. The second screen generating unit is configured to generate a second screen on which the operation data related to a specific one of the plurality of indoor units can be visually verified. The display switching unit is configured to switch to the second screen relating to the specific one of the plurality of indoor units when the specific one of the plurality of indoor units displayed on the first screen is selected and an input of a prescribed button is accepted. | 03-10-2011 |
20110114739 | Vehicular air conditioner - When there is no occupant in seats other than a driver seat during a foot mode, an air-conditioning controller executes a single seat concentration mode to prevent blowing of warm air to a passenger seat and a backseat by closing foot outlets on a passenger seat side and a backseat side. In this case, in order to maintain an air volume blown from the foot outlet on a driver seat side when the controller changes the mode from the normal foot mode to the single seat concentration mode, the controller sets a blower level to be lower than in the case of the normal foot mode with respect to the same target blown air temperature. Thus, an electric power consumed by an electric motor of a blower can be reduced, thereby realizing energy saving. | 05-19-2011 |
20110127340 | Occupancy-based demand controlled ventilation system - In a demand control ventilation (DCV) system, ID codes of tags worn by occupants are detected in each room by a tag detector and wirelessly communicated to a zonal occupancy compiler. The zonal occupancy count arrived at by the compiler is transmitted to a DCV microprocessor, which interfaces with the ventilation controller of the building's HVAC system and sets the zonal ventilation rate based on the occupancy count and applicable ASHRAE standards. | 06-02-2011 |
20110174889 | HVAC SENSOR ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - An HVAC sensor assembly for sensor deployment within an HVAC air passage defined by passage walls is provided. In some instances, the HVAC sensor assembly includes a base mountable to a passage wall of an HVAC air passage, and a support member attached to and extending out from the base and configured to project into the HVAC air passage. The HVAC sensor assembly may include one or more HVAC sensors secured to the support member such that the one or more HVAC sensors are positionable and then maintainable at a field configurable distance from the base. | 07-21-2011 |
20110180617 | ELECTRIC HEATING DEVICE AND VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONER - [Problem to be Solved] An object is to provide an electric heating device that can heat fluid efficiently at a time of intermediate output, and a vehicle air conditioner including the electric heating device. | 07-28-2011 |
20110198404 | AUTOMATIC AIR DUCT REGISTER - An automatic air duct register system operating within an HVAC system comprises an automatically controlled register. The register includes louvers which are electromechanically adjusted in order to control the airflow through the register. The register may be opened or closed, responsive to a programmable electronic timer or clock, an occupancy sensor, or in response to a measured temperature. The register system may be part of a control network, wherein the network communicates programming information to the register system, and wherein the network reads information from the register system. The register system may be self-powered, utilizing an electrical generator powered from airflow from the duct attached to the register system. | 08-18-2011 |
20110233288 | Control device for use in a vehicle - The invention relates to a control device for use in a vehicle having a climate-control system. Means are provided for switching the ventilation to recirculated air operation. A first sensor for measuring the tendency of the window to become misted is arranged behind the recirculated air flap at the side facing the inner space of the vehicle. | 09-29-2011 |
20110253796 | ZONE-BASED HVAC SYSTEM - A zone-based heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system uses occupant sensors and controllable vents to favor environmental conditions in occupied areas. A plurality of comfort delivery devices are provided, each being associated with at least one of the zones, each comfort delivery device being responsible for delivering a change in climate to its respective zone through the HVAC unit. A sending unit is disposed in each zone, the sending unit including a first sensor for determining whether the zone is occupied by one or more persons, a second sensor for determining an environmental condition in the zone, and a communications device for outputting a signal relating to the occupancy and environmental condition. A control unit includes an input for receiving the signal from each sending unit and selectively activating and deactivating the comfort delivery devices to prioritize the climate control provided by the HVAC unit to zones that are occupied. The control unit further may incorporate information from other sources, both internal and external, and learned behavior from previous measurements. Unoccupied areas may be utilized as sources of pre-conditioned air, previously stored for efficiency or economy reasons. | 10-20-2011 |
20110290893 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING A MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICE TO OPTIMIZE AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - Embodiments of the invention comprise systems and methods for using the geographic location of networked consumer electronics devices as indications of occupancy of a structure for purposes of automatically adjusting the temperature setpoint on a thermostatic HVAC control. At least one thermostat is located inside a structure and is used to control an HVAC system in the structure. At least one mobile electronic device is used to indicate the state of occupancy of the structure. The state of occupancy is used to alter the setpoint on the thermostatic HVAC control to reduce unneeded conditioning of unoccupied spaces. | 12-01-2011 |
20110290894 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING COOLING IN A DATA STORAGE SYSTEM - A system having: a midplane having air flow channels therein; a disk drive mounted to a first side of the midplane; and a temperature sensors mounted to the midplane. The system includes a pair of electrical chassis connected to a second side of the midplane. A first one of the chassis has therein: a fan; and a fan controller for controlling speed of the fan in response to a temperature control signal. A second one of the chassis has therein: a microprocessor for: detecting temperature signals produced by the temperature sensors; comparing differences between the detected temperature signals; and selecting one of the detected temperature control signal from the compared differences as the temperature control signal. A faulty one of the temperature sensors is detected by: selecting one of the detected temperature control signal as the faulty one of the plurality of temperature sensors from the compared differences. | 12-01-2011 |
20120012661 | Apparatus and method for tractor cab environment control system - A tractor cooling system for chilling the cabin of a trucking tractor vehicle towing a refrigerated trailer. The cooling system is a closed loop recirculation system that utilizes a high thermal conductivity heat exchanger that isolates chilled air and through flexible hoses that supply and return forced air at a constant volume and thereby providing comfort to the driver during warm weather and without idling the engine and while stationary. | 01-19-2012 |
20120024969 | ELECTRONICALLY-CONTROLLED REGISTER VENT FOR ZONE HEATING AND COOLING - 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. | 02-02-2012 |
20120031983 | INDOOR UNIT OF AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS AND AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS - An indoor unit includes: a casing formed with a suction port and a blow-out port; a plurality of fans provided in parallel in the casing; a heat exchanger provided on the downstream side of the fans and on the upstream side of the blow-out port; a horizontal wind direction control vane provided at the blow-out port to control the horizontal direction of an airflow blown out from the blow-out port; a vertical wind direction control vane provided at the blow-out port to control the vertical direction of the airflow blown out from the blow-out port; and an infrared ray human detection sensor configured to detect the position of a person present in a room, and air volumes, the orientation of the horizontal wind direction control vane, and the orientation of the vertical wind direction control vane of the fans are each controlled according to results of detection by the infrared ray sensor. | 02-09-2012 |
20120031984 | Personalized Building Comfort Control - In exemplary implementations of this invention, control apparatus for a HVAC system provides personalized comfort control. It can adjust local conditions in different rooms within a building in order to maximize the perceived comfort of individual occupants. The control apparatus locates individuals within a building. For each individual, it senses temperature, humidity and other parameters at the individual's location, calculates a comfort metric indicative of the user's comfort, and can control the flow of chilled or heated air to the individual's location in order to adjust local conditions to maximize the individual's comfort. | 02-09-2012 |
20120037713 | DRIVE FOR FIRE DAMPER - A drive apparatus ( | 02-16-2012 |
20120037714 | AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS - Provided is an easy-to-design, inexpensive air-conditioning apparatus in which an external static pressure and an airflow are calculated without using a static-pressure detector and an indoor-unit-side fan is controlled using those values. An air-conditioning apparatus according to the present invention is configured such that a control unit (indoor-unit-side control unit stores an external static pressure of an indoor unit calculated from a rotation speed of an indoor-unit-side fan when the airflow of the indoor-unit-side fan is controlled to a predetermined rated airflow and controls the rotation of the indoor-unit-side fan so that the external static pressure of the indoor unit obtained thereafter from the rotation speed of the indoor-unit-side fan approaches the stored external static pressure. | 02-16-2012 |
20120074236 | CONTROL METHOD OF AIR CONDITIONER IN ELECTRICAL VEHICLE - A control method is provided for an air conditioning control system which includes determining whether either a desired discharge temperature from an air-conditioning system to maintain the internal temperature of a vehicle at a desired internal cabin temperature and a desired evaporator temperature that is temperature of an evaporator satisfies a heater operating condition. The heater is then operated in accordance with temperature and traveling conditions of the vehicle to output a desired discharge temperature when the heater operating conditions are satisfied. When, however, a heater discharge temperature from the heater is greater than or equal to a reference heater or the heater discharge temperature is greater than the desired discharge temperature by at least a predetermined temperature or more, then the heater is turned off to prevent over consumption of electricity. | 03-29-2012 |
20120080532 | TEMPERATURE CONDITIONING SYSTEM FOR OUTDOOR DIGITAL SIGNAGE AND METHOD THEREOF - A temperature conditioning system for outdoor digital signage and method thereof comprises a central control module, a system temperature sensor, a fan temperature sensor, a digital signage control module, an internal power supply module, a display module, a heating module and an external fan, wherein the central control module is responsible for receiving temperature signals detected by the system temperature sensor and the fan temperature sensor; in case the detected temperature is lower than a certain range, the central control module activates the heating module, the external fan and the display module in order to start and display the warm-up process of the outdoor digital signage. Consequently, when the temperature elevates to a certain range, the digital signage control module activates the power source of the outdoor digital signage such that the outdoor digital signage operates within a normal temperature range thereby preventing the dew formed by excessively low outdoor temperature from causing malfunction problems in the outdoor digital signage. | 04-05-2012 |
20120085830 | TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEM - A temperature regulation system for air inside of a vehicle regardless of the on/off state of the vehicle's ignition or engine includes a rechargeable battery for supplying power to an air moving system and a heat exchanger in accordance with demand signals from a thermostat. A motor-generator has a motor mode wherein electrical energy from the battery is converted into rotational kinetic energy and coupled to an AC compressor, and a generator mode wherein rotational kinetic energy from the engine is converted into electrical energy to recharge the battery. A control circuit is electrically connected with the motor-generator and adapted to activate the motor mode when the engine is off and the air temperature inside the vehicle exceeds the desired temperature range, the motor-generator otherwise being in the generator mode. Alternate embodiments includes a motor-compressor that replaces the stock compressor of the vehicle. | 04-12-2012 |
20120097748 | AIR-CONDITIONING APPARATUS - An air-conditioning apparatus includes a temperature sensor for detecting a heat exchanger temperature or an inlet air temperature, a controller that performs variable control of the direction of the indoor unit air blow vane or the air flow speed or rate of the blower fan, and a remote controller that remote-controls indoor unit operation, wherein temperatures set via the remote controller are divided into two set temperature ranges and during heating operation the controller sets at least the air blow vane to a horizontal or downward direction on the basis of the two set temperature ranges and the heat exchanger temperature or the inlet air temperature. | 04-26-2012 |
20120104108 | FAN CONTROL DEVICE FOR A HEATING OR COOLING SYSTEM - A fan controller device runs the cooling and heating system fan in between cycles, thus maintaining all rooms of a building at a more even temperature. The fan controller device includes a plurality of sensors, a timing controller device operatively connected to the plurality of sensors, and a fan relay device operatively connected to the timing controller device. The fan controller device is adapted to be connected to a thermostat on a heating and air conditioning system. | 05-03-2012 |
20120118985 | CONTROL FOR AIR HANDLER - The present invention provides for a control for activating and deactivating heating, cooling and fan recirculate modes having an interval timer switchable between a timer on (TON) state and a timer off (TOFF) state, both the TON and TOFF state durations are variable according to comparisons between room temperature and a set point temperature of the control and the control activating the fan recirculate mode when the room temperature deviates from the set point temperature of the control. An interval spacer is provided to prevent back to back fan on states. | 05-17-2012 |
20120118986 | CONTROLLING DEVICE AND METHOD - An air conditioning controlling device controlling the volume of a thermal medium that is supplied to an air conditioner through the degree of opening of a control valve, has a room temperature setting value obtaining portion obtaining a room temperature setting value for a controlled area; a supply air temperature measured value obtaining portion obtaining a measured value for a temperature of supply air that is supplied to the controlled area from the air conditioner; a supply air temperature changing portion changing the supply air temperature setting value in accordance with a change in the room temperature setting value; an operating quantity calculating portion calculating an operating quantity based on a deviation between the supply air temperature measured value and the supply air temperature setting value; and an operating quantity outputting portion outputting an operating quantity to a control valve to control the degree of opening of the control valve. | 05-17-2012 |
20120145802 | INTELLIGENT CIRCULATION CONTROL METHODS AND SYSTEMS - Adaptive intelligent circulation control methods and systems are used to help increase the comfort and/or reduce energy usage and equipment wear. In one illustrative embodiment, the circulation and/or ventilation time is adjusted based on one or more environmental conditions inside or outside the building structure. In another illustrative embodiment, the circulation and/or ventilation time may be adjusted based on the current time of day, current time of year, and/or the current schedule period. In another illustrative embodiment, the circulation and/or ventilation time is randomized over time. The start time, end time, and/or length of a circulation and/or ventilation cycle may be randomly set. | 06-14-2012 |
20120145803 | Smart Ventilation System - A ventilation system utilizing fans to bring air into a building and exhaust air out of the building using solar panels that can be quickly and easily mounted on the building, such as on roof vents, windows, and the like, with quick application fasteners adjacent to the fans. A sensor may be operatively connected to a controller or logic circuit to measure environmental factors to determine whether to activate the fans. The ventilation system is configured to be a modular device with versatile fasteners for easy installment in windows or attics without the need for modification of the building, such as cutting holes. | 06-14-2012 |
20120248206 | Automated Self-Sealing Diffuser and Related Method of Use - The invention is directed to an automated self-powered HVAC diffuser system having a central control unit that determines room-specific temperature. The system fits within a standard HVAC diffuser through a housing rod having a front side, a rear side and a middle portion. A central rod perpendicularly attached to the front side of the housing rod maintains an expandable damper fan through a damper head. A micro-motor attaches to the expandable damper fan through a drive shaft which expands and contracts the expandable damper fan to regulate conditioned air flowing out of the HVAC diffuser based upon instructions from the central control unit. In addition, a sensory board affixed to the rear end of the housing rod includes an infrared that communicates with the central control unit. A rechargeable battery stores energy, created by an airflow prop rotating through contact with conditioned air, creates electricity via a generator. | 10-04-2012 |
20130015251 | BIN AERATION SYSTEMAANM Bloemendaal; Brent J.AACI ZionsvilleAAST INAACO USAAGP Bloemendaal; Brent J. Zionsville IN USAANM Mielke; Ross AlanAACI WestfieldAAST INAACO USAAGP Mielke; Ross Alan Westfield IN USAANM Mullen; Brandon StephenAACI WhitestownAAST INAACO USAAGP Mullen; Brandon Stephen Whitestown IN US - A system for controlling the aeration of a grain bin storage device. The system comprises a grain bin storage device, a ventilation fan, a variable fan drive motor, and a controller configured to receive user input and grain bin storage device parameters. The system controls operation of the ventilation fan at various speeds to maintain a desired volumetric flow rate per bushel of grain. The controller monitors the static pressure within the grain bin storage device and adjusts the speed of the ventilation fan based on an optimal static pressure derived from the user input and grain bin storage device parameters. | 01-17-2013 |
20130037620 | CONTROLLING AIR MOVERS BASED ON ACOUSTIC SIGNATURE - In a system that employs multiple air movers (e.g., fans) within an enclosure, the air movers are controlled in an attempt to optimize cooling efficiency of the system. In some aspects, current cooling efficiency is indicated based on one or more characteristics of an acoustic signature in the enclosure. In particular, a reduction in cooling efficiency may be indicated by spreading of an acoustic peak of the acoustic signature. Accordingly, improved cooling efficiency may be achieved by controlling the air movers in a manner that reduces spreading of such an acoustic peak. | 02-14-2013 |
20130068846 | WIRELESS CONTROLLED DAMPER - A wireless radial damper system includes at least one radial damper having a motor connected thereto to rotate the radial damper between an open position and a closed position inside a duct. A receiver is connected to the motor for communicating with the motor via a wireless signal. A wireless thermostat remote from the receiver sends the wireless signal to the receiver which in turn operates the motor to control the radial damper. The wireless thermostat allows for the radial damper to be temperature controlled rather than user controlled. A wireless remote controller, a wireless wand or some other type of wireless device may be used in place of a wireless thermostat. | 03-21-2013 |
20130082115 | Remote Controlled Vent Register - A remote controlled air vent register having a mounting plate with a hole; a rotating assembly disposed within the hole, the rotating assembly having a bottom plate and one or more louvers disposed within the bottom plate; a motor statically mounted to a duct-side face of the mounting plate, the motor having a drive shaft and a drive shaft gear mounted to the drive shaft, the drive shaft gear being in geared communication with a geared surface on said rotating assembly; a processor in communication with the motor and powered by a power source; and a receiver within the processor, the receiver being configured to receive a signal from a remote control. | 04-04-2013 |
20130161403 | HVAC SYSTEM, A CONTROLLER THEREFOR AND A METHOD OF MEASURING AND MANAGING VENTILATION AIRFLOW OF AN HVAC SYSTEM - A controller, an HVAC system employing the controller and a computer programmable product to implement a method of measuring and managing ventilation airflow of an HVAC system is disclosed. In one embodiment, the controller includes: ( | 06-27-2013 |
20130228631 | Outdoor Electronic Equipment Enclosures And Related Methods - An electronic equipment enclosure for outdoor deployment includes a housing defining an interior and having an intake port, an exhaust port, an airflow path extending from the intake port to the exhaust port, and an equipment bay for receiving the electronic equipment. The equipment bay is positioned in the airflow path. The equipment enclosure further includes an intake fan for creating positive pressure within the interior of the housing and a pressure-activated damper having an open position for allowing air to exit the enclosure through the exhaust port in response to positive pressure within the interior of the housing and a closed position for preventing external air and/or water from entering the enclosure through the exhaust port when the intake fan is not operating. Other example equipment enclosures and methods are also disclosed. | 09-05-2013 |
20130306746 | Retrofit Flap Damper Assembly System for Cone Type Damper Variable Air Volume Boxes - A retrofitting flap damper assembly system for cone type damper variable air volume (VAV) boxes includes specifically modified mounting hardware to secure a flap damper assembly inside an existing cone type damper VAV box. A flap damper having a housing with a front opening and a rear opening is secured between an existing cone type damper VAV inlet and at least one back plate. A plurality of bolts secure the flap damper in place using back plate and the VAV box housing. | 11-21-2013 |
20130334325 | STANDOFF FOR USE WITH AN INSULATED HVAC DUCT - An illustrative damper system includes a damper blade, a damper actuator, and a standoff, where the standoff may be configured for use with an insulated duct having an outer surface of the duct, an insulating layer around the outer surface of the duct, and an outer surface of the insulating layer. Illustratively, the standoff may include a body, a mounting mechanism including a first flange, and a second flange spaced from the first flange, where the body, the first flange and the second flange may form an opening or space configured to receive the insulating layer. In some cases, the standoff may include one or more ribs extending between the body and the first and second flanges. | 12-19-2013 |
20140131459 | REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING OPERATION OF A FAN ASSEMBLY - A remote control system for controlling operation of a fan assembly is provided. The system includes a first sensor module having a first housing, a first sensor, a first microprocessor, and a first RF transmitter. The first microprocessor is programmed to generate a first control signal to induce the first RF transmitter to transmit a first RF signal in response to a sensor signal from the first sensor. The first RF signal has a first address value and a first command value. The remote control system further includes a fan control module having a second housing, a second microprocessor, an AC power plug, an AC/DC voltage converter, a controllable switch, and an RF receiver. The RF receiver is configured to receive the first RF signal. | 05-15-2014 |
20140209695 | Adjustable register vent and grill assembly designed to fit all size standard air distribution boot openings - An apparatus, methods and systems for an independent air register vent assembly having means to adjust register frame and louver components, rotatable and non-rotatable, to match standard length and width openings in a manner that arranges the entire assembly to conform to all common standard size vent boot outlets. In one example, the main register frame assembly has a small programmable wireless receiver attached to an electric battery motorized to self-regulate the air register assembly, an adjustable housing frame, and adjustable louvers in the housing frame regulating the air flow volume, with a separate wireless remote controlled linear sliding potentiometer transmitter plate, a digital thermometer fixed to a wireless transmitter device, indicating changes in room temperatures as a result of adjusting the degree of the remote controlled adjustable louvers. | 07-31-2014 |
20140306020 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENGAGING A PLURALITY OF FANS - A system and method for engaging fans is disclosed. The system may include a notification system, a plurality of camera arrays and a plurality of rig servers, a venue server and a virtual server that stores the new files from the venue server. The method for engaging fans may include registering a fan user a seat location within a venue utilizing an application, photographing with one or more camera arrays when an event trigger occurs, transferring the photographs from the one or more camera arrays to a camera rig server, aggregating and uploading the photographs to a virtual server based on registered user priority, associating the photographs to each of the registered fan users and sending the registered fan users a push notification that the photographs are available for download to a registered user's application. | 10-16-2014 |
20140312126 | Smart Vent System - Smart Vent System is the automation of air vents that are used in centralized heating and cooling systems(HVAC). Smart Vent is the air vent which can automatically open/close/partially close, controlling the air flow that passes through it. Smart vent receives the control commands from the Smart Vent System's Hub using wireless communication protocols. Smart Vent System's Hub determines the opening/closing of the Smart Vent(s) based on the temperature reading it receives from Temperature Collectors that are places at various locations in the room(s)/area(s), using wireless communication protocols and the desired temperature(s) stored in it. Smart Vent System Hub is programmed using web browser on a computer or a smart phone/tablet application, for various Time(s)/Temperature/Room(s)/Area combinations that are desired. Smart Vent Hub is also programmed for pairing(s), that creates affinity of Temperature Collectors with Smart Vents. All the Smart Vents & Temperature Collectors send the heart beat signals to the Smart Vents Hub from time to time, which are used for system diagnostics. | 10-23-2014 |
20140326794 | Adjustable register vent and grill assembly designed to fit all size standard air distribution boot openings - An apparatus, methods and systems for an independent air register vent assembly having a register frame assembly, louver components, and a means to adjust the register frame assembly and louver components to a range of lengths and/or widths. A length and/or width adjustable grill assembly covers the register frame assembly. A removable motor-receiver is attached to operate the louver components. The motor-receiver places the louvers into open, closed, and one or more intermediate positions. The louvers may also be manually operated. A remote transmitter controls the motor-receiver. An optional digital thermometer on the transmitter passively displays the room temperature. Low battery and re-powering conditions move the louvers into fully open positions. The air register vent assembly is installable in one or more configurations: manual only, with motor-receiver, and/or with remote transmitter, depending on the option selected. The register vent assembly option can be changed in the field. | 11-06-2014 |
20140339316 | USING CUSTOMER PREMISES TO PROVIDE ANCILLARY SERVICES FOR A POWER GRID - Techniques for providing ancillary services to a power grid using customer premises such as commercial buildings. The techniques may involve receiving a regulation signal from a grid operator that is specific to a commercial building and modifying power consumption by at least one power consumption component in the building based on the regulation signal. The power consumption component may be a fan of a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Conducted experiments demonstrate that up to 15% of fan power capacity may be deployed for regulation purposes while maintaining indoor temperature deviation to no more than 0.2° C. The regulation signal may be tracked in a frequency band from about 4 seconds to 10 minutes. | 11-20-2014 |
20140346237 | CONTROL TECHNIQUES IN A HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING NETWORK BASED ON ENVIRONMENTAL DATA - The disclosure provides embodiments of an HVAC controller. In one embodiment, the controller includes: (1) an interface coupled to an air quality sensor proximate to the premises and coupled to a data source external to the HVAC system, the interface configured to receive environmental data from both the air quality sensor and the external data source and (2) a processor configured to automatically operate a demand unit of the HVAC system based on the environmental data. | 11-27-2014 |
20140361092 | MONITORING CONTROL DEVICE, MONITORING CONTROL METHOD, AND RECORDING MEDIUM - A card control unit for controlling a line card includes a detecting section, a collecting section, and an estimating section. The detecting section detects mounting of a module into a mounting port in the communication card equipped with multiple cages that each have a mounting port into which a module is removably mounted. When mounting of a module has been detected, the collecting section collects an environmental temperature around a mounting port into which the module has been mounted, a power consumption and specified temperature of the module, and thermal resistance information of a cage mounted with the module. The estimating section estimates an environmental temperature after activation of the module on the basis of the collected environmental temperature, power consumption, specified temperature, and thermal resistance information before the module of which the mounting has been detected is activated. | 12-11-2014 |
20150102113 | 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. | 04-16-2015 |
20150115044 | THERMOSTAT UNIT - Disclosed is a thermostat unit having at least two thermostats, which are held at a normed rail. The two thermostats are arranged transversely to the rail axis. | 04-30-2015 |
20160025362 | SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING AMBIENT CONDITIONS WITHIN A GIVEN AREA WITH AUTOMATED FLUID REGISTER - A system for controlling temperature within a given area or room by regulating the inflow of heated or cooled air thereto. At least one vent communicates with the area and is positionable in either an open orientation or a closed orientation, thereby respectively facilitating or restricting the flow of conditioned air into the area. A control assembly is operatively associated with the one vent and structured to control its disposition between the open and closed orientations. A temperature sensor is disposed within the area and determines “temperature data” therein. In turn the temperature data is determinative of positioning the vent in either the open or closed orientations. Wireless communication facilities may be associated with the temperature sensor and the control assembly to transmit, by wireless communication, the determined temperature data from the temperature sensor to the control assembly. | 01-28-2016 |
20160087556 | FLUIDIC ENERGY HARVESTER USING ACTIVE MATERIAL - An array of energy harvesting units is disclosed. Each unit has a flexible, elongated support with the proximate end fixedly connected to a stationary support such that the flexible beam experiences a mechanical vibration due to flow of a fluid. An active material is disposed on the flexible support that generates an electric current in response to the mechanical vibration. A coupler is provided on each energy harvesting unit such that each is connected to at least one adjacent unit. The resulting array provides an energy output that is greater than the sum of two, uncoupled units. | 03-24-2016 |
20160091216 | AIR VENTILATION SYSTEM - An air ventilation system. The system may comprise an air flow control box and a control module, wherein the air flow control box may comprise: a damper housing, ventilation cap, damper assembly, control arms, and damper motor. The damper housing may define a passage traversing from a proximal end to a distal end of the damper housing and may comprise a ventilation opening. The ventilation cap may be hingedly connected to the damper housing for selective movement between an open position and a closed position. The damper assembly may be in covering relation with the passage and may comprise damper blades that pivot together for selective movement between an open position and a closed position. The damper motor may actuate the selective movement of the ventilation cap and the plurality of damper blades via the control arms. The control module may actuate the damper motor of the air flow control box. | 03-31-2016 |
20160146486 | Superior Central Air Ventilation System - An air ventilation system. The ventilation system may comprise: a ventilation control box; and a ventilation circuit control. The ventilation control box may comprise: a ventilation cap; a ventilation hole opening; a spring; one or more vent blades; one or more vent blade stoppers; a hinge; one or more control arms; a damper motor; and a plurality of damper blades. The ventilation control box further may comprise an adjustable counter weight. The ventilation circuit control may comprise: a transformer, an auto shut-off timer; a thermostat; a 4 PDT relay; and a furnace circuit control board. | 05-26-2016 |
20160146489 | VENT APPARATUS AND METHOD - A smart vent comprises a thermoelectric generator coupled to a power storage. The thermoelectric generator that generates voltage or electrical energy based on a temperature differential between a room temperature and a temperature in a duct where the smart vent is installed. The generator charges the storage using the generated voltage. A radio is coupled to the power storage and receives a wireless command from a device to open a vent so that air flows from the duct to the room. A processor, coupled to the storage and the radio, determines if there is sufficient charge in the power storage to open the vent apparatus; sends a command to a motor to open the vent if there is sufficient charge. A motor, coupled to the storage and processor, opens the vent upon receiving the command, thereby ceasing charging the power storage as the temperature differential decreases. | 05-26-2016 |
20160165753 | THERMALLY ACTUATED VENTS FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES - Thermally actuated vents for electronic devices. An embodiment of an apparatus includes a vent having a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is an open position and the second position is a closed position; a muscle wire, a first end of the muscle wire being coupled with a connection to the vent and a second end of the muscle wire being coupled with an anchor point; and a tension element, a first end of the tension element being coupled with the vent at a connection point. The muscle wire is to apply a force to the vent to move the vent to the open position upon the muscle wire entering a contracted state, and the tension element pulling the vent to the closed position upon the muscle wire entering a relaxed state. | 06-09-2016 |
20160178228 | SMART AIR DUCT COVER | 06-23-2016 |