EP2844926B1

EP2844926B1 - Louver system

Info

Publication number: EP2844926B1
Application number: EP13765224.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Daniel P. Casey
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-03-19
Filing date: 2013-03-19
Publication date: 2018-05-09
Anticipated expiration: 2033-03-19
Also published as: WO2013142535A3; EP2844926A4; WO2013142535A2; EP2844926A2; CA2907531A1; CA2907531C

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Energy in various forms has been used to bring safety and comfort to the homes of people for generations. Even though there are numerous benefits associated with energy and its use, the associated costs can become quite significant. Fossil fuels are a frequently used, yet limited resource that must be managed wisely to preserve its availability for future generations. Conservation of energy not only helps today's user with their personal expenses, but it also helps society as a whole. The present invention teaches a system to control airflow from a duct from a forced air heating ventilation and air conditioning system to conserve energy.
US 20110053487 A1 discloses a louver system according to the preamble of claim 1.

SUMMARY

The present invention is defined in the claims and features a louver system for controlling airflow in a duct from a forced air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. In some embodiments, the system comprises a housing and a movable louver located on a mounting fascia.
In some embodiments, the system comprises a longitudinal slat located in the perimeter wall. In some embodiments, the system comprises a slat positioning assembly operatively coupled to the slat. In some embodiments, the system comprises a mainspring assembly operatively coupled to the slat positioning assembly. In some embodiments, the system comprises a winding assembly operatively coupled to the mainspring assembly. In some embodiments, the system comprises a motor and a hand crank operatively coupled to the winding assembly.
In some embodiments, the system comprises a local control system having a microprocessor, a transmitter, and a receiver that is operatively connected to the slat positioning assembly. In some embodiments, the local control system receives an activation signal then sends a positioning signal to the slat positioning assembly. In some embodiments, the slat positioning assembly rotates the slat to a specified position via power from the mainspring assembly.
In some embodiments, in the first position, the slat allows airflow. In some embodiments, in the second position, the slat inhibits airflow. In some embodiments, in a position between the first position and the second position, the slat allows a reduced airflow. In some embodiments, the mainspring assembly is wound via the winding assembly. In some embodiments, the winding assembly is actuated via the hand crank or the motor.
In some embodiments, the local control system is operatively connected to the motor. In some embodiments, the system comprises a power supply operatively connected to the motor and the local control system. In some embodiments, the system comprises an electricity generator comprising a turbine operatively connected to the power supply.
Additional advantages and aspects of the present invention are apparent in the following detailed description and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a rear view of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a side view of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view in a sagittal plane of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view in a sagittal plane of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view in a transverse plane of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view in a sagittal plane of an alternate embodiment of the slat of the present invention. (figures continued on page 21 paragraph [00140])

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Following is a list of elements corresponding to a particular element referred to herein:

100: Louver system
110: Duct
200: Housing
210: Housing perimeter wall
220: Housing front edge
230: Housing rear edge
240: Mounting fascia
250: Mounting aperture
260: Fastener
300: Louver
400: Slat
410: Slat first end
420: Slat second end
430: Slat first side edge
440: Slat second side edge
442: Slat third side edge
444: Slat fourth side edge
450: Slat first surface
460: Slat second surface
462: Slat third surface
464: Slat fourth surface
470: Bearing
480: Slat positioning wheel
500: Slat positioning assembly
510: Manual slat positioner
530: Main shaft
532: Main shaft first end
534: Slat positioner gear
540: Main shaft positioning wheel
550: Drive belt
560: Positioning gear
570: Solenoid actuator
580: Engagement tip
600: Mainspring assembly
610: Ratcheting mechanism
620: Spring coil
650: Winding assembly
660: Hand crank
700: Motor
750: Local control system
752: Remote system
760: Microprocessor
762: User interface
764: Thermostat
766: Wireless network communication card
768: Communication port
770: Transmitter
780: Receiver
800: Power supply
810: Rechargeable battery
850: Electricity generator
860: Turbine
900: Light emitter
910: Sound emitter

Referring now to FIG. 1-9, the present invention features a louver system (100) for controlling airflow in a duct (110) from a forced air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a housing (200) having a housing perimeter wall (210), a housing front edge (220), a housing rear edge (230), and a mounting fascia (240) located on the housing front edge (220). In some embodiments, the mounting fascia is able to be mounted (abutted) against an outside surface of a wall. In some embodiments, the housing perimeter wall (210) connects with a duct (110) in a wall. In some embodiments, the housing perimeter wall (210) connects with a duct (110) not located in a wall.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises an adjustable louver that can be rotated (300) located on the mounting fascia (240). In some embodiments, the positional louver (300) is manually positioned.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a longitudinal slat (400). In some embodiments, the slat (400) comprises a slat first end (410), a slat second end (420), a slat first side edge (430), a second side edge (440), a slat first surface (450), and a slat second surface (460). In some embodiments, the slat first end (410) is located in the housing perimeter wall (210) where it can rotate. In some embodiments, the slat second end (420) is located in the housing perimeter wall (210) where it can rotate. In some embodiments, a slat positioning wheel (480) is located on the slat first end (410). In some embodiments, a slat positioning wheel (480) is located on the slat second end (420).
In some embodiments, the longitudinal slat (400) comprises a slat third surface (462) and a slat fourth surface (464). In some embodiments, the longitudinal slat (400) comprises a slat third side edge (442), and a slat fourth side edge (444). In some embodiments, the longitudinal slat (400) comprises slat surfaces that are evenly spaced with respect to the angular position relative to one another when viewed from a sagittal plane.
In some embodiments, in a fully open position, the slat first side edge (430) is positioned toward the housing front edge (220) and the slat second side edge (440) is positioned toward the housing rear edge (230). In some embodiments, in a fully open position, the slat second side edge (440) is positioned toward the housing front edge (220) and the slat first side edge (430) is positioned toward the housing rear edge (230).
In some embodiments, the slat (400) is positioned fully in-line with a direction of airflow from a duct (110). In some embodiments, in the fully open position the slat (400) does not impede the airflow in the duct.
In some embodiments, in a fully closed position, the slat first side edge (430) is located toward the housing perimeter wall (210) and the slat second side edge (440) is located toward the housing perimeter wall (210). In some embodiments, the slat (400) is positioned fully perpendicular to the direction of airflow from the duct (110). In some embodiments, the slat first surface (450) or the slat second surface (460) faces the direction of airflow from the duct (110). In some embodiments, in the fully closed position the slat (400) impedes the airflow in the duct.
In some embodiments, the slat (400) is able to be rotated in a single continuous direction. In some embodiments, the slat (400) is able to be rotated in any direction. In some embodiments, the slat (400) is infinitely adjustable between the fully open position and the fully closed position.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a slat positioning assembly (500) located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the slat positioning assembly (500) comprises a centrally located main shaft (530). In some embodiments, the main shaft (530) has a main shaft positioning wheel (540) located on the main shaft (530) close to a main shaft first end (532). In some embodiments, the main shaft (530) is located parallel to the slat (400). In some embodiments, a drive belt (550) is located on and engages the main shaft positioning wheel (540) and the slat positioning wheel (480).
In some embodiments, a positioning gear (560) is located on the main shaft (530) close to the main shaft first end (532). In some embodiments, a solenoid actuator (570) is located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the solenoid actuator (570) comprises an engagement tip (580) for engaging the positioning gear (560). In some embodiments, the solenoid actuator (570) comprises an engagement wheel for engaging the positioning gear (560). In some embodiments, the solenoid actuator (570) comprises an engagement gear for engaging the positioning gear (560).
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a mainspring assembly (600) located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the mainspring assembly (600) comprises a ratcheting mechanism (610) operatively coupled to the main shaft (530). In some embodiments a spring coil (620) is operatively coupled to the ratcheting mechanism (610). In some embodiments, the ratcheting mechanism (610) holds the spring coil (620) in a static position of potential energy. In some embodiments, the ratcheting mechanism (610) allows the spring coil (620) to be wound into a position of potential energy.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a winding assembly (650) located in the housing (200) operatively coupled to the mainspring assembly (600). In some embodiments, the winding assembly (650) comprising a hand crank (660). In some embodiments, the hand crank (660) projects through an aperture disposed on the mounting fascia (240). In some embodiments, upon actuation of the hand crank, the mainspring assembly is rewound. In some embodiments, the hand crank (660) is a knob. In some embodiments, the hand crank (660) is a crank.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a motor (700) located in the housing (200) operatively coupled to the winding assembly (650). In some embodiments, the winding assembly (650) comprises a safety mechanism connected to the spring coil (620) to avoid over winding, for example, a ratcheting mechanism or a clutch mechanism.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a local control system (750) located in the housing (200) having a microprocessor (760), a transmitter (770), and a receiver (780). In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the slat positioning assembly (500). In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the motor (700). In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the solenoid actuator (570).
In some embodiments, the local control system (750) comprises a position sensor disposed on the main shaft (530). In some embodiments, the position sensor is disposed on the slat positioning assembly (500). In some embodiments, the position sensor is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, the position sensor sends a signal to the microprocessor (760) corresponding to the position of the slat (400).
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a power supply (800) located in the housing (200) operatively connected to the motor (700) and the local control system (750). In some embodiments, the power supply (800) is alternating current electricity. In some embodiments, the power supply (800) is direct current electricity.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises an electricity generator (850) located in the housing (200) comprising a turbine (860). In some embodiments, the electricity generator (850) and the turbine (860) can rotate. In some embodiments, the electricity generator (850) is operatively connected to the power supply (800). In some embodiments, when airflow is present, the turbine (860) rotates the electricity generator (850) thereby producing a current. In some embodiments, the current charges the power supply (800).
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a plurality of electricity generators (850) comprising turbines (860) located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the electricity generators (850) and turbines (860) can rotate.
In some embodiments, upon receiving an activation signal, the local control system (750) sends a positioning signal via the microprocessor (760) to the solenoid actuator (570). In some embodiments, the solenoid actuator (570) releases the stored energy from the mainspring assembly (600) via the disengagement of the engagement tip (580) from the positioning gear (560) to actuate the slat positioning assembly (500). In some embodiments, the slat positioning assembly (500) rotates the slat (400) to a specified position. In some embodiments, the specified position is determined by the position sensor.
In some embodiments, in the fully open position, the slat (400) allows airflow. In some embodiments, in the fully closed position, the slat (400) inhibits airflow. In some embodiments, in a position between the fully open position and the fully closed position (partially open), the slat (400) allows an inhibited rate of airflow.
In some embodiments, the mainspring assembly (600) is wound via the winding assembly (650). In some embodiments, the winding assembly (650) is actuated via the hand crank (660) or the motor (700). In some embodiments, the mainspring assembly (600) provides potential energy to rotate the slat positioning assembly (500). In some embodiments, the ratcheting mechanism (610) allows for winding the spring coil (620) in a manner to avoid overwinding.
In some embodiments, a sound emitter (910) located in the housing (200) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, upon receiving a signal from the microprocessor (760), the sound emitter (910) emits a sound. In some embodiments, operating power is supplied to the sound emitter (910) via the power supply (800), via the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, the sound from the sound emitter (910) is an alarm sound. In some embodiments, the sound from the sound emitter (910) is music, for example background music. In some embodiments, the sound from the sound emitter (910) is a voice, for example from an intercom system.
In some embodiments, a light emitter (900) located in the housing (200) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, upon receiving a signal from the microprocessor (760), the light emitter (900) emits light. In some embodiments, operating power is supplied to the light emitter (900) via the power supply (800), via the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, the light from the light emitter (900) is an emergency light. In some embodiments, the light from the light emitter (900) is a night light. In some embodiments, the light from the light emitter (900) is a standard light for room illumination. In some embodiments, the light from the light emitter (900) flashes.
In some embodiments, the light emitter (900) comprises a light emitting diode. In some embodiments, the light emitter (900) comprises a fluorescent light unit. In some embodiments, the light emitter (900) comprises an incandescent light bulb. In some embodiments, the light emitter (900) comprises a xenon light unit. In some embodiments, the light emitter (900) comprises a halogen light unit.
In some embodiments, a manual slat positioner (510) is located on the housing (200). In some embodiments, the manual slat positioner (510) is operatively connected to the slat positioning assembly (500) via the slat positioner gear (534). In some embodiments, the slat positioner gear (534) is disposed on the main shaft (530) proximal to the main shaft first end (532). In some embodiments, the manual slat positioner (510) is operatively connected to the main shaft (530) via the slat positioner gear (534). In some embodiments, the manual slat positioner (510) engages a ratcheting mechanism operatively coupled to the main shaft (530). In some embodiments, the ratcheting mechanism is operatively coupled to the slat positioner gear (534). In some embodiments, the ratcheting mechanism allows the main shaft (530) to rotate independent of the manual slat positioner (510) using standard will know practices.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a plurality of slats (400) that can be rotated, located in the housing perimeter wall (210). In some embodiments, in the fully closed position, a first slat first side edge (430) closely approaches a second slat second side edge (440) without interfacing. In some embodiments, a divider is positioned between the first slat first side edge (430) and the second slat second side edge (440). In some embodiments, in the fully closed position, a first slat first side edge (430) closely approaches the divider without interfacing. In some embodiments, in the fully closed position, a second slat second side edge (440) closely approaches the divider without interfacing.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises four slats (400). In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises three slats (400). In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises two slats (400). In some embodiments, the system comprises more than four slats (400).
In some embodiments, the slats (400) traverse the housing perimeter wall (210) in a series. In some embodiments, the slats (400) are operatively coupled together via a slat positioning wheel (480), a drive belt (550), and a main shaft positioning wheel (540). In some embodiments, in the fully open position, the slats (400) allow airflow. In some embodiments, in the fully closed position, the slats (400) inhibit airflow. In some embodiments, in a position between the fully open position and the fully closed position (partially open), the slats (400) allow an inhibited rate of airflow.
In some embodiments, the power supply (800) is a rechargeable battery (810).
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a user interface (762) located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the user interface (762) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, the user interface (762) comprises a keypad. In some embodiments, the user interface (762) comprises an infrared sensor. In some embodiments, the user interface (762) comprises an alphanumeric display. In some embodiments, the user interface (762) is a liquid crystal display. In some embodiments, the user interface (762) comprises light emitting diodes.
In some embodiments, the system (100) comprises a thermostat (764) located in the housing (200). In some embodiments, the thermostat (764) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760). In some embodiments, the thermostat controls the louver system (100) on which it is located. In some embodiments, the user interface (762) comprises a thermostat (764). In some embodiments, the local control system (750) comprises a thermostat (764).
In some embodiments, the slat positioning assembly (500) is coupled to the winding assembly (650). In some embodiments, upon receiving an activation signal via the microprocessor (760), solenoid actuator (570) and engagement tip (580) can disengage from the slat positioning gear (560) to allow the slat (400) to spin freely via the airflow that passes through the housing (200). In some embodiments, upon spinning freely, the slat (400) activates the winding assembly (650) to wind the mainspring assembly (600). In some embodiments, the slat (400) rotates in a direction opposite to the specific rotational direction of operation for slat (400) positioning in order to wind the mainspring assembly (600).
In some embodiments, a plurality of adjustable louvers (300) are located on the mounting fascia (240) and are able to be rotated. In some embodiments, the louvers (300) are coupled together and operate as a single unit.
In some embodiments, the housing (200) is generally rectangular. In some embodiments, the housing perimeter wall (210) is generally rectangular. In some embodiments, the housing (200) is generally circular or elliptical. In some embodiments, the housing perimeter wall (210) is generally circular or elliptical.
In some embodiments, the housing (200) comprises a power supply status indicator located thereon.
In some embodiments, the slat (400) comprises a curved shaped slat first surface (450) or slat second surface (460). In some embodiments, the slat (400) comprises a curved shaped slat third surface (462) or slat fourth surface (464). In some embodiments, a cross-section of the slat (400) in a sagittal plane is "S" shaped. In some embodiments, a cross-section of the slat (400) in a sagittal plane is "C" shaped. In some embodiments, a cross-section of the slat (400) in a sagittal plane is "0" shaped. In some embodiments, a cross-section of the slat (400) in a sagittal plane is "I" shaped. In some embodiments, a cross-section of the slat (400) in a sagittal plane is "X" shaped.
In some embodiments, the slat first end (410) comprises a bearing (470). In some embodiments, the slat second end (420) comprises a bearing (470). In some embodiments, the slat first end (410) is located in the housing perimeter wall (210) via the bearing (470) and able to be rotated. In some embodiments, the slat second end (420) is located in the housing perimeter wall (210) via the bearing (470) and able to be rotated.
In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to a remote system (752). In some embodiments, the receiver (780) of the local control system (750) receives a signal from the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the transmitter (770) of the local control system (750) sends a signal to the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the signal is sent via radio spectrum. In some embodiments, the remote system (752) is a central heat and air conditioning (HVAC) system for a building.
In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to a remote system (752). In some embodiments, the receiver (780) of the local control system (750) receives a signal from the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the transmitter (770) of the local control system (750) sends a signal to the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the signal is sent via infrared spectrum. In some embodiments, the remote system (752) is a central heat and air conditioning (HVAC) system for a building.
In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is operatively connected to a remote system (752). In some embodiments, the receiver (780) of the local control system (750) receives a signal from the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the transmitter (770) of the local control system (750) sends a signal to the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the signal is sent via analog signals or digital signals through the metal duct work. In some embodiments, the signal is send via digital signals riding on analog waves through the metal duct work. In some embodiments, the remote system (752) is a central heat and air conditioning (HVAC) system for a building.
In some embodiments, the local control system (750) comprises a wireless network communication card (766) operatively connected thereto. In some embodiments, the local control system (750) can be operated via a computer, or a mobile phone. In some embodiments, the local control system (750) is connected via wires, for example, an Ethernet (network) cable. In some embodiments, the local control system (750) comprises a communications port (768) operatively connected thereto.
In some embodiments, a plurality of louver systems (100) is used. In some embodiments, the plurality of louver systems (100) is operated by the remote system (752). In some embodiments, the plurality of louver systems (100) is operated by the local control system (750) of a master louver system (100).
In some embodiments, the housing (200) comprises a plurality of mounting apertures (250). In some embodiments, the housing (200) mounts to and interfaces with a duct (110) via fasteners (260) located through the mounting apertures (250).
Although there has been shown and described the preferred embodiment of the present invention, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made thereto which do not exceed the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the invention is only to be limited by the following claims.
The reference numbers recited in the below claims are solely for ease of examination of this patent application, and are exemplary, and are not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims to the particular features having the corresponding reference numbers in the drawings.

Claims

A louver system (100) for controlling airflow in a duct (110) from a forced air heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, comprising:
(a) a housing (200) having a housing perimeter wall (210), a housing front edge (220), a housing rear edge (230), and a mounting fascia (240) disposed on the housing front edge (220);

(b) a positionable louver (300) rotatably disposed on the mounting fascia (240);

(c) a longitudinal slat (400), wherein the slat (400) comprises a slat first end (410), a slat second end (420), a slat first side edge (430), a second side edge, a slat first surface (450), a slat second surface (460), and a slat positioning wheel (480) disposed on the slat first end (410), wherein the slat first end (410) is rotatably disposed in the housing perimeter wall (210), wherein the slat second end (420) is rotatably disposed in the housing perimeter wall (210), wherein, in a fully open position, the slat first side edge (430) is disposed toward the housing front edge (220) and the slat second side edge (440) is disposed toward the housing rear edge (230) or the slat second side edge (440) is disposed toward the housing front edge (220) and the slat first side edge (430) is disposed toward the housing rear edge (230), wherein the slat (400) is positioned fully in-line with a direction of airflow from a duct (110), whereby in the fully open position the slat (400) does not impede the airflow in the duct, wherein, in a fully closed position, the slat first side edge (430) is disposed toward the housing perimeter wall (210) and the slat second side edge (440) is disposed toward the housing perimeter wall (210), wherein the slat (400) is positioned fully perpendicular to the direction of airflow from the duct (110), wherein the slat first surface (450) or the slat second surface (460) faces the direction of airflow from the duct (110), whereby in the fully closed position the slat (400) impedes the airflow in the duct, wherein, the slat (400) is rotatable in a single continuous direction, wherein the slat (400) is infinitely positionable between the fully open position and the fully closed position,

(d) a slat positioning assembly (500) disposed in the housing (200) and comprising a centrally located main shaft (530) having a main shaft positioning wheel (540) disposed on the main shaft (530) proximal to a main shaft first end (532), wherein the main shaft (530) is disposed parallel to the slat (400), wherein a drive belt (550) is disposed on and engages the main shaft positioning wheel (540) and the slat positioning wheel (480), wherein a positioning gear (560) is disposed on the main shaft (530) proximal to the main shaft first end (532), wherein a solenoid actuator (570) is disposed in the housing (200);

(e) a local control system (750) disposed in the housing (200) and having a microprocessor (760), a transmitter (770), and a receiver (780), wherein the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the slat positioning assembly (500), wherein the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the motor (700),

(f) a power supply (800) disposed in the housing (200) and operatively connected to the motor (700) and the local control system (750); and

(g) an electricity generator (850) rotatably disposed in the housing (200) and comprising a turbine (860), wherein the electricity generator (850) is operatively connected to the power supply (800), wherein when airflow is present, the turbine (860) rotates the electricity generator (850) thereby producing a current, wherein the current charges the power supply (800);
characterized in that
(h) the solenoid actuator (570) comprises an engagement tip (580) for engaging the positioning gear (560);

(i) a mainspring assembly (600) is disposed in the housing (200), wherein the mainspring assembly (600) comprises a ratcheting mechanism (610) operatively coupled to the main shaft (530), wherein a spring coil (620) is operatively coupled to the ratcheting mechanism (610);

(j) a winding assembly (650) is disposed in the housing (200) and is operatively coupled to the mainspring assembly (600) comprising a hand crank (660), wherein the hand crank (660) projects through an aperture disposed on the mounting fascia (240), wherein upon actuation of the hand crank, the mainspring assembly is rewound;

(k) a motor (700) is disposed in the housing (200) and is operatively coupled to the winding assembly (650), wherein upon actuation of the motor, the mainspring assembly is rewound; and

(I) the local control system (750) is operatively connected to the solenoid actuator (570);
wherein upon receiving an activation signal, the local control system (750) sends a positioning signal via the microprocessor (760) to the solenoid actuator (570), wherein the solenoid actuator (570) releases the stored energy from the mainspring assembly (600) to actuate the slat positioning assembly (500) via the positioning gear (560) and the engagement tip (580), wherein the slat positioning assembly (500) rotates the slat (400) to a specified position, wherein in the fully open position, the slat (400) allows airflow, wherein in the fully closed position, the slat (400) inhibits airflow, wherein in a position between the fully open position and the fully closed position, i.e a partially open position , the slat (400) allows an inhibited rate of airflow, wherein the mainspring assembly (600) is wound via the winding assembly (650), wherein the winding assembly (650) is actuated via the hand crank (660) or the motor (700).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a sound emitter (910) disposed in the housing (200) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760), wherein upon receiving a signal from the microprocessor (760), the sound emitter (910) emits a sound, wherein operating power is supplied to the sound emitter (910) via the power supply (800), via the microprocessor (760).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a light emitter (900) disposed in the housing (200) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760), wherein upon receiving a signal from the microprocessor (760), the light emitter (900) emits light, wherein operating power is supplied to the light emitter (900) via the power supply (800), via the microprocessor (760).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a manual slat positioner (510) is disposed on the main shaft (530), wherein the manual slat positioner (510) is operatively connected to the slat positioning assembly (500), via a slat positioner gear (534).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a plurality of slats (400) rotatably disposed in the housing perimeter wall (210), wherein in the fully closed position, a first slat first side edge (430) closely approaches a second slat second side edge (440) without interfacing, wherein the slats (400) traverse the housing perimeter wall (210) in a series, wherein the slats (400) are operatively coupled together, wherein in the fully open position, the slats (400) allow airflow, wherein the fully closed position, the slats (400) inhibit airflow, wherein in a position between the fully open position and the fully closed position (partially open), the slats (400) allow an inhibited rate of airflow.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the power supply (800) is a rechargeable battery (810).
The system (100) of claim 1 wherein the system (100) comprises a user interface (762) disposed in the housing (200), wherein the user interface (762) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a thermostat (764) disposed in the housing (200), wherein the thermostat (764) is operatively connected to the microprocessor (760).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the slat positioning assembly (500) is coupled to the winding assembly (650), wherein upon receiving an activation signal via the microprocessor (760), the slat (400) can spin freely via the airflow that passes through the housing (200), wherein upon spinning freely, the slat (400) activates the winding assembly (650) to wind the mainspring assembly (600).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a plurality of positionable louvers (300) are rotatably disposed on the mounting fascia (240).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (200) is generally rectangular, wherein the housing perimeter wall (210) is generally rectangular.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (200) is generally circular or elliptical, wherein the housing perimeter wall (210) is generally circular or elliptical.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (200) comprises a power supply status indicator disposed thereon.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a plurality of electricity generators (850) comprising turbines (860) rotatably disposed in the housing (200).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the slat first surface (450) or slat second surface (460) comprises a curved surface.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the slat first end (410) comprises a bearing (470), wherein the slat second end (420) comprises a bearing (470), wherein the slat first end (410) is rotatably disposed in the housing perimeter wall (210) via the bearing (470), wherein the slat second end (420) is rotatably disposed in the housing perimeter wall (210) via the bearing (470).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the local control system (750) is operatively connected to a remote system (752), wherein the receiver (780) of the local control system (750) receives a signal from the remote system (752), wherein the transmitter (770) of the local control system (750) sends a signal to the remote system (752), wherein the signal is sent via radio spectrum.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the local control system (750) is operatively connected to a remote system (752), wherein the receiver (780) of the local control system (750) receives a signal from the remote system (752), wherein the transmitter (770) of the local control system (750) sends a signal to the remote system (752), wherein the signal is sent via infrared spectrum.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the local control system (750) comprises a wireless network communication card (766) operatively connected thereto.
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a plurality of louver systems (100) are used, wherein the plurality of louver systems (100) are operated by the remote system (752).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein a plurality of louver systems (100) are used, wherein the plurality of louver systems (100) are operated by the local control system (750) of a master louver system (100).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (200) comprises a plurality of mounting apertures (250), wherein the housing (200) mounts to and interfaces with a duct (110) via fasteners (260) disposed through the mounting apertures (250).
The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the local control system (750) comprises a communications port (768) operatively connected thereto.