CA2058833A1 - Self-activating setback thermostat - Google Patents
Self-activating setback thermostatInfo
- Publication number
- CA2058833A1 CA2058833A1 CA 2058833 CA2058833A CA2058833A1 CA 2058833 A1 CA2058833 A1 CA 2058833A1 CA 2058833 CA2058833 CA 2058833 CA 2058833 A CA2058833 A CA 2058833A CA 2058833 A1 CA2058833 A1 CA 2058833A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- temperature
- thermostat
- setback
- normal
- optionally
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- Air Conditioning Control Device (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An energy-saving setback thermostat system for controlling the operation of a temperature-modifying apparatus arranged to modify the temperature of a conditioned space, said apparatus having the capability to automatically control heating and air conditioning equipment. The device measures human activity in an area under surveillance. The device has two program-mable temperature set points, a "normal" set point, and a "setback" set point. The device's logic, incorporated in a microprocessor or electronic circuit, uses one or more pas-sive and/or active sensors to determine the presence of human activity. If the device senses human activity present, it remains at the normal set point. If human activity if not detected within a programmed polling interval, the device's logic will revert operation to the programmed "setback" set point to conserve energy.
An energy-saving setback thermostat system for controlling the operation of a temperature-modifying apparatus arranged to modify the temperature of a conditioned space, said apparatus having the capability to automatically control heating and air conditioning equipment. The device measures human activity in an area under surveillance. The device has two program-mable temperature set points, a "normal" set point, and a "setback" set point. The device's logic, incorporated in a microprocessor or electronic circuit, uses one or more pas-sive and/or active sensors to determine the presence of human activity. If the device senses human activity present, it remains at the normal set point. If human activity if not detected within a programmed polling interval, the device's logic will revert operation to the programmed "setback" set point to conserve energy.
Description
1 DISCLoSURE DOCUMENT: 2 ~ ~ 8 3 3 3 SELF-ACTIVATING SETBACK THERMOSTAT
FLEI,D OF INV~LQN~
The invention belongs -to a class oE devices that are used in the regulation of heating and cooling equipment.
~LC~IQ~ARY ~ 5~2~ L9r~ g~D-I~EQBMaIlQ~
THERMOSTAT - A device designed to automatically control the -tempera-ture oE air, liquid, or materials. The -thermostat usually consists oE
two elements, a sensing element and an actuating element. The sensing element is sensitive to temperature changes. The act.uating element translates the action of the sensing elemen-t to a con-trolling device, such as an electric switch.
A thermostat has two functions. The firs-t is to sense the temperature of a given area. The second is to regulate the mechanical systems, such as the heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning equipment to maintain the desired temperature. The sensing elements are usually either bimetal, solid-state, or fluid. The majority of residen-tial room thermostats are usually supplied with 24 volt power supplies.
SENSOR - A device used in many modern electronic products such as burglar alarms to determine the presence of specific conditions or objects.
USE OF THERMOSTATS IN THE CONTROL OF RESIDENTIAL AIR HEATING - The thermostat is usually located in the living room or kitchen. When the room temperature drops below the desired temperature, the thermostat closes the circuit and activates the furnace or burner. When the temperature rlses to the desired temperature, the -thermostat opens - the circuit and s-tops the furnace or burner. Thus, the room thermo-stat controls the opera-tion of the hea-t source, and consequen-tly, the air temperature.
HEAT/INFRARED SENSOR - A device commonly known as a ~Passive Infra-Red detector." De-tects motion by watching for changes in -the area under surveillance. Passive infrared sensors are sensitive to rapid changes in temperature within the protected zone. All objects having a temperature above absolute ~ero (that is, above minus 273 degrees Centigrade) give off infrared radiations to a greater or less degree.
This includes all the inanimate objects in the protected zone, such as walls, floors, ceiling, and furniture - which -the sensor can be adjus-ted to accept as normal. The sensor is programmed to ignore gradual fluctuations in temperature that occur over the course of the day, like those from sunligh-t, air-conditioning, and winter heating systems. Instead, i-t reacts only when there is some rapid change in tempera-ture caused by radiation emanating from -the body of a person passing through the protected ~one. Passive infrared detectors do not generate or project their own radia-tion, but react to the radiation they receive from objects in the range of 98 degrees Fahrenheit, or normal human body temperature.
NOISE/HUMAN VOICE SENSOR - A microphone-type device -tha-t listens for the existence of sounds, and preferably filtered to listed specifi-cally for the range of human voices, i.e. - 80 to 400 cycles per second Radar - An electronic device with the ability -to detect ob-jects by sending out radio waves and listening for -the reflected waves. ~Radar" is an acronym for "radio detec-ting and ranging. N It has the advantage of being able to locate objec-ts -thru most materi-als, except me-tal. Radar was originally developed in the 1930's and Dlsclosuro. SeU-Actjvatlna Setbacl~ Thermostat. Pa~o I
- ....
., ~ ' :, ' -;
:
~: . :
: :: `:
FLEI,D OF INV~LQN~
The invention belongs -to a class oE devices that are used in the regulation of heating and cooling equipment.
~LC~IQ~ARY ~ 5~2~ L9r~ g~D-I~EQBMaIlQ~
THERMOSTAT - A device designed to automatically control the -tempera-ture oE air, liquid, or materials. The -thermostat usually consists oE
two elements, a sensing element and an actuating element. The sensing element is sensitive to temperature changes. The act.uating element translates the action of the sensing elemen-t to a con-trolling device, such as an electric switch.
A thermostat has two functions. The firs-t is to sense the temperature of a given area. The second is to regulate the mechanical systems, such as the heating, ventilating, or air-conditioning equipment to maintain the desired temperature. The sensing elements are usually either bimetal, solid-state, or fluid. The majority of residen-tial room thermostats are usually supplied with 24 volt power supplies.
SENSOR - A device used in many modern electronic products such as burglar alarms to determine the presence of specific conditions or objects.
USE OF THERMOSTATS IN THE CONTROL OF RESIDENTIAL AIR HEATING - The thermostat is usually located in the living room or kitchen. When the room temperature drops below the desired temperature, the thermostat closes the circuit and activates the furnace or burner. When the temperature rlses to the desired temperature, the -thermostat opens - the circuit and s-tops the furnace or burner. Thus, the room thermo-stat controls the opera-tion of the hea-t source, and consequen-tly, the air temperature.
HEAT/INFRARED SENSOR - A device commonly known as a ~Passive Infra-Red detector." De-tects motion by watching for changes in -the area under surveillance. Passive infrared sensors are sensitive to rapid changes in temperature within the protected zone. All objects having a temperature above absolute ~ero (that is, above minus 273 degrees Centigrade) give off infrared radiations to a greater or less degree.
This includes all the inanimate objects in the protected zone, such as walls, floors, ceiling, and furniture - which -the sensor can be adjus-ted to accept as normal. The sensor is programmed to ignore gradual fluctuations in temperature that occur over the course of the day, like those from sunligh-t, air-conditioning, and winter heating systems. Instead, i-t reacts only when there is some rapid change in tempera-ture caused by radiation emanating from -the body of a person passing through the protected ~one. Passive infrared detectors do not generate or project their own radia-tion, but react to the radiation they receive from objects in the range of 98 degrees Fahrenheit, or normal human body temperature.
NOISE/HUMAN VOICE SENSOR - A microphone-type device -tha-t listens for the existence of sounds, and preferably filtered to listed specifi-cally for the range of human voices, i.e. - 80 to 400 cycles per second Radar - An electronic device with the ability -to detect ob-jects by sending out radio waves and listening for -the reflected waves. ~Radar" is an acronym for "radio detec-ting and ranging. N It has the advantage of being able to locate objec-ts -thru most materi-als, except me-tal. Radar was originally developed in the 1930's and Dlsclosuro. SeU-Actjvatlna Setbacl~ Thermostat. Pa~o I
- ....
., ~ ' :, ' -;
:
~: . :
: :: `:
2 B ~ 3 1 used by the mili-tary during World War II.
ULTRASONIC MOTION DETECTOR - De-tects motion using -the same principle as flying bats and dolphins. This active de-tector uses ultrasound, which are acoustic waves above the audible range. ~he frequenc:ies are usually greater than 19,000 per second (19kHz). The standard ul-tra-sonic sources are piezoelectric and magnetostrictive oscilla.-tors.
Ultrasonic -transducers were used duri.ng World War [I. The device senses motion by sending out ultrasound waves and listening for -the reflected waves. Ultrasonics are commonly used for burglar alarms.
REFLECTED LIGHT WAVES - This de-tector is an active system design. It is similar to the radar and ultrasound detectors, excep-t that ligh-t waves are used in place of radio and sound waves. This technology has been used for automatic focus mechanisms in modern cameras.
NOVEL COMBI~aTI~N QE ~LE~N~
This inven-tion combines the existi.ng -technologi.es of a "-thermostat"
along with various sensing systems to come up with a novel and useful device for saving energy.
~:aaL ~aTE~
Various types of thermos-tats, such as for temperature con-trol of a home furnace, already exist. The older -type of thermosta-t uses only the abili-ty to sense actual temperature regula-te heating or cooling equipment.
Currently, the latest energy-saving" design uses user-programmed time-and-date-dependent settings to lower and raise -temperature. This thermostat usually allows for 7-day programming by -the user. However, this type has various shortcomings, such as:
a) It does not know if the residen-ts are s-till in the building.
Consequen-tly, it may was-te energy if the programming does not always coincide wi-th the actual needs of the occupan-ts.
b) This said time-dependent thermos-tat design usually has a "manual override" bu-tton. However, the bu-tton simply overrides the current setting and tends to waste energy when -the resident is only present for say, 1 hour, and the override function affects an 8-hour timed setting.
c) The task of programming the time-dependent thermostat for an optimum setting is difficult. Often, residents do not go to sleep at the same time each night. Consequently, if the timed se-tback is pro-grammed for 11:00PM each night, it wastes energy whenever the resi-dents go to bed at 9:00PM, or some earli.er times.
d) Programming these thermosta-ts for various days of the week is complicated and require extensive reading of the manual. Often, the task is too daunting for children and homeowners withou-t a technical background.
e) When residen-ts go on holidays, or do not follow their normal daily pa-ttern, the pre-programmed settings are oEten not suitable and waste energy needlessly.
~OVELTY_~E~ ITY:
At the present time, the only commonly-available setback thermostats on the market base their logic on simple timed-settings; this commer-cial product is commonly known as "programmable thermostats." It isdesirable, therefore, to come up with a thermostat design -that does not depend on simple timed-settings, but rather, an ability to detec-t the presence of humans who actually need this comfortable environ-men-t.
~isc~osure. SeU~ g~ S~tback Tl~e~mostat. Paao 2 .. . . .
. .
: : ' :::
2Q~8~33 1 ~UMMa~Y~E_I~YE~.Igi_ The present inven-tion relates to a device for changing the desired temperature set-ting to an al-terna-te range (i.e.-for heat energy sav-ings, to set the desired -temperature to a lower setting.) by using sensors to determine -the absence or presence of human act:Lvlty.
The purpose of the present inven-tion, the /'Self-Activating Setback Thermosta-t, N iS to reduce energy consump-tion when the occupants of the house are not present, or when -the occupants are asleep. This smar-t thermostat design will also return to normal temperature se-t--tings when occupants are deemed to be present, and awake.
The USelf-Activating Setback Thermosta-t" has ma:ny advantages over "programmable," or atime-based" thermostats: One, this new design is much simpler to use; two, it is also more flexi:ble, as it does not rely on "timed set-tings, N; -three, because it does not necessita-te complex programming, it is more user-friendly.
SUMMAP~Y OF DRAWING~
Figure 1 is a frontal view of a the preferred embodiment of the //self-Activating Setback Thermostat"; Figure 2 is a simpli:Eied dia-gram of the invention's concept, and a drawing showing -the appara-tus in practical use; and Figure 3 is a schema-tic diagram of -the interac-tion between various elements.
D~TAILEl~SCRIP~ION: .
The "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" is a device for automa-ti- :
cally controlling heating and air conditioning equipment. The device measures human activity in an area under surveillance. The device has two programmable temperature set points, a /'normal" set point, and a "setback" set point.
The device's logic, incorpora-ted in a microprocessor or elec-tronic circuit, uses one or more passive and/or active sensors to determine the presence of human activity. If the device senses human ac-tivity present, it remains at the normal set poin-t. If human activity if not detected within a programmed polling interval, -the device's logic will revert operation to the programmed "setback" set point to con-serve energy.
The /'Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" is a thermostat design that combines already existent elements to come up with an apparatus that is capable of determining the presence of human activity.
Referring to the drawing, /'Figure 1/', supplied with -this patent ap-plica-tion, the various elements are described as follows:
40 A. An element sensitive to temperature changes. (This is an internal component, and i.s no-t shown in the external drawings.) B. The actuating element translates the action of the sensing element to a controlling device, such as an electric switch. (This is an internal component, and is no-t shown in the external drawings.) C. One or more active or passive sensors, to determine -the presence of specific conditions, objects, or human ac-tivi-ty. A more detailed description can be found in the subsequent paragraphs.
D. System logic incorporated in one or more electronic circuits, microprocessors, or other means, which said logical means capable of deciding whether to run at a Nnormal" set point or the al-ternative "se-tback" set point temperature.
. Optional. One or more switches or similar means to operate the device in HEAT mode, COOL mode, or OFF.
F. Optional. one or more swi-tches or similar means -to turn a fan Disclosure. Sel~-Activqtlna Setback Thermostat. Pa~ ~
:, ~, :: , : , : :
, 2 ~ 3 1 motor into Automatic, or ON mode.
G. Input devices in the form of swi-tches to select the desired normal tempera-ture.
H. Input devices in the form oE switches -to select -the desired Set-back tempera-ture (which is also called the NFallback" elsewhere in this pa-ten-t application)~
I. Optional. An element which allows the user to control -the sensi-tivity oE -the passive or active sensors. In the drawi.ng, a sliding swi-tch is shown, al-though o-ther means may be used.
J. Optional. An element which allows -the user -to set the polling interval for the sys-tem logic. For example, the thermos-ta-t could be set to revert to Setback mode if human ac-ti.vi-ty was no-t detected in 30 minutes, or any other time interval. tThis is an internal compo-nent, and is not shown in the ex-ternal drawings.) X. Optional. An element which indica-tes if the Normal mode is cur-rently active. A ligh-t-emit-ting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this element.
L. Optional. An element which indicates if -the thermosta-t is operat-ing in the Setback/Fallback mode. A light-emitting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this el.emen-t.
M. An element indicating the ac-tual temperature.
N. An element indicating the desired Normal Tempera-ture.
O. An element indicating the desired Setback temperature (whi.ch is also called Fallback temperature.) * NOTE: The "optional/' items are shown only for the purpose of show-ing a possible commercial produc-t, and may be dele-ted from an alter-- nate design. This paten-t application covers any and all combi.nation of components that result in the same function described in the said "Self-Ac-tivating Setback Thermostat".
~~IniL The /'Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" relies on one or more Nsensors" to determine whether occupants are present and ac-tive. Sensors can be either of an "ac-tive" or "passive" type. An "active" sensor sends out energy and deciphers the reflected waves. The "passive" sensors take periodic readings of the area under surveillance, and compare the latest read-ings for variance.
Listed below are some of the possible sensing systems which could be used to activate the "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat":
1) Heat/Infrared (passive).
2) Noise/Human volce (passive).
ULTRASONIC MOTION DETECTOR - De-tects motion using -the same principle as flying bats and dolphins. This active de-tector uses ultrasound, which are acoustic waves above the audible range. ~he frequenc:ies are usually greater than 19,000 per second (19kHz). The standard ul-tra-sonic sources are piezoelectric and magnetostrictive oscilla.-tors.
Ultrasonic -transducers were used duri.ng World War [I. The device senses motion by sending out ultrasound waves and listening for -the reflected waves. Ultrasonics are commonly used for burglar alarms.
REFLECTED LIGHT WAVES - This de-tector is an active system design. It is similar to the radar and ultrasound detectors, excep-t that ligh-t waves are used in place of radio and sound waves. This technology has been used for automatic focus mechanisms in modern cameras.
NOVEL COMBI~aTI~N QE ~LE~N~
This inven-tion combines the existi.ng -technologi.es of a "-thermostat"
along with various sensing systems to come up with a novel and useful device for saving energy.
~:aaL ~aTE~
Various types of thermos-tats, such as for temperature con-trol of a home furnace, already exist. The older -type of thermosta-t uses only the abili-ty to sense actual temperature regula-te heating or cooling equipment.
Currently, the latest energy-saving" design uses user-programmed time-and-date-dependent settings to lower and raise -temperature. This thermostat usually allows for 7-day programming by -the user. However, this type has various shortcomings, such as:
a) It does not know if the residen-ts are s-till in the building.
Consequen-tly, it may was-te energy if the programming does not always coincide wi-th the actual needs of the occupan-ts.
b) This said time-dependent thermos-tat design usually has a "manual override" bu-tton. However, the bu-tton simply overrides the current setting and tends to waste energy when -the resident is only present for say, 1 hour, and the override function affects an 8-hour timed setting.
c) The task of programming the time-dependent thermostat for an optimum setting is difficult. Often, residents do not go to sleep at the same time each night. Consequently, if the timed se-tback is pro-grammed for 11:00PM each night, it wastes energy whenever the resi-dents go to bed at 9:00PM, or some earli.er times.
d) Programming these thermosta-ts for various days of the week is complicated and require extensive reading of the manual. Often, the task is too daunting for children and homeowners withou-t a technical background.
e) When residen-ts go on holidays, or do not follow their normal daily pa-ttern, the pre-programmed settings are oEten not suitable and waste energy needlessly.
~OVELTY_~E~ ITY:
At the present time, the only commonly-available setback thermostats on the market base their logic on simple timed-settings; this commer-cial product is commonly known as "programmable thermostats." It isdesirable, therefore, to come up with a thermostat design -that does not depend on simple timed-settings, but rather, an ability to detec-t the presence of humans who actually need this comfortable environ-men-t.
~isc~osure. SeU~ g~ S~tback Tl~e~mostat. Paao 2 .. . . .
. .
: : ' :::
2Q~8~33 1 ~UMMa~Y~E_I~YE~.Igi_ The present inven-tion relates to a device for changing the desired temperature set-ting to an al-terna-te range (i.e.-for heat energy sav-ings, to set the desired -temperature to a lower setting.) by using sensors to determine -the absence or presence of human act:Lvlty.
The purpose of the present inven-tion, the /'Self-Activating Setback Thermosta-t, N iS to reduce energy consump-tion when the occupants of the house are not present, or when -the occupants are asleep. This smar-t thermostat design will also return to normal temperature se-t--tings when occupants are deemed to be present, and awake.
The USelf-Activating Setback Thermosta-t" has ma:ny advantages over "programmable," or atime-based" thermostats: One, this new design is much simpler to use; two, it is also more flexi:ble, as it does not rely on "timed set-tings, N; -three, because it does not necessita-te complex programming, it is more user-friendly.
SUMMAP~Y OF DRAWING~
Figure 1 is a frontal view of a the preferred embodiment of the //self-Activating Setback Thermostat"; Figure 2 is a simpli:Eied dia-gram of the invention's concept, and a drawing showing -the appara-tus in practical use; and Figure 3 is a schema-tic diagram of -the interac-tion between various elements.
D~TAILEl~SCRIP~ION: .
The "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" is a device for automa-ti- :
cally controlling heating and air conditioning equipment. The device measures human activity in an area under surveillance. The device has two programmable temperature set points, a /'normal" set point, and a "setback" set point.
The device's logic, incorpora-ted in a microprocessor or elec-tronic circuit, uses one or more passive and/or active sensors to determine the presence of human activity. If the device senses human ac-tivity present, it remains at the normal set poin-t. If human activity if not detected within a programmed polling interval, -the device's logic will revert operation to the programmed "setback" set point to con-serve energy.
The /'Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" is a thermostat design that combines already existent elements to come up with an apparatus that is capable of determining the presence of human activity.
Referring to the drawing, /'Figure 1/', supplied with -this patent ap-plica-tion, the various elements are described as follows:
40 A. An element sensitive to temperature changes. (This is an internal component, and i.s no-t shown in the external drawings.) B. The actuating element translates the action of the sensing element to a controlling device, such as an electric switch. (This is an internal component, and is no-t shown in the external drawings.) C. One or more active or passive sensors, to determine -the presence of specific conditions, objects, or human ac-tivi-ty. A more detailed description can be found in the subsequent paragraphs.
D. System logic incorporated in one or more electronic circuits, microprocessors, or other means, which said logical means capable of deciding whether to run at a Nnormal" set point or the al-ternative "se-tback" set point temperature.
. Optional. One or more switches or similar means to operate the device in HEAT mode, COOL mode, or OFF.
F. Optional. one or more swi-tches or similar means -to turn a fan Disclosure. Sel~-Activqtlna Setback Thermostat. Pa~ ~
:, ~, :: , : , : :
, 2 ~ 3 1 motor into Automatic, or ON mode.
G. Input devices in the form of swi-tches to select the desired normal tempera-ture.
H. Input devices in the form oE switches -to select -the desired Set-back tempera-ture (which is also called the NFallback" elsewhere in this pa-ten-t application)~
I. Optional. An element which allows the user to control -the sensi-tivity oE -the passive or active sensors. In the drawi.ng, a sliding swi-tch is shown, al-though o-ther means may be used.
J. Optional. An element which allows -the user -to set the polling interval for the sys-tem logic. For example, the thermos-ta-t could be set to revert to Setback mode if human ac-ti.vi-ty was no-t detected in 30 minutes, or any other time interval. tThis is an internal compo-nent, and is not shown in the ex-ternal drawings.) X. Optional. An element which indica-tes if the Normal mode is cur-rently active. A ligh-t-emit-ting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this element.
L. Optional. An element which indicates if -the thermosta-t is operat-ing in the Setback/Fallback mode. A light-emitting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this el.emen-t.
M. An element indicating the ac-tual temperature.
N. An element indicating the desired Normal Tempera-ture.
O. An element indicating the desired Setback temperature (whi.ch is also called Fallback temperature.) * NOTE: The "optional/' items are shown only for the purpose of show-ing a possible commercial produc-t, and may be dele-ted from an alter-- nate design. This paten-t application covers any and all combi.nation of components that result in the same function described in the said "Self-Ac-tivating Setback Thermostat".
~~IniL The /'Self-Activating Setback Thermostat" relies on one or more Nsensors" to determine whether occupants are present and ac-tive. Sensors can be either of an "ac-tive" or "passive" type. An "active" sensor sends out energy and deciphers the reflected waves. The "passive" sensors take periodic readings of the area under surveillance, and compare the latest read-ings for variance.
Listed below are some of the possible sensing systems which could be used to activate the "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat":
1) Heat/Infrared (passive).
2) Noise/Human volce (passive).
3) Radar (active).
4) Ultrasonic (active).
5) Reflec-ted light waves (active).
6) Any combination of some, or all, of -the above.
Note that other sensing technologies (not listed above) may be used as well. The /'Self-Activa-ting Setback Thermosta-t/' will determine that the occupants are inactive if the sensors have not had any "reading"
within a specified time, say 15 minutes (or whatever time frame the user requires.) When the occupants are inactive, the /'Self-Activating Setback Thermo-sta-tN will lower -the building temperature to -the Fallback Setting.
When the occupants return, or wake up, the thermostat will bring the temperature back to the Normal Setting.
The said apparatus can be used for both Heating and Cooling systems.
Dls~losura. SaU-A~l~vatlna Sfitk~ Th~rm~sra~. Paaa 4 :~
, ~ . :: : ' :
Note that other sensing technologies (not listed above) may be used as well. The /'Self-Activa-ting Setback Thermosta-t/' will determine that the occupants are inactive if the sensors have not had any "reading"
within a specified time, say 15 minutes (or whatever time frame the user requires.) When the occupants are inactive, the /'Self-Activating Setback Thermo-sta-tN will lower -the building temperature to -the Fallback Setting.
When the occupants return, or wake up, the thermostat will bring the temperature back to the Normal Setting.
The said apparatus can be used for both Heating and Cooling systems.
Dls~losura. SaU-A~l~vatlna Sfitk~ Th~rm~sra~. Paaa 4 :~
, ~ . :: : ' :
Claims (7)
1. A thermostat system for controlling the operation of a temperature-modifying apparatus arranged to modify the temperature of a conditioned space, said apparatus having the capability to automatically control heat-ing and air conditioning equipment. The device measures human activity in an area under surveillance. The device has two programmable temperature set points, a "normal" set point, and a "setback" set point. The device's logic, incorporated in a microprocessor or electronic circuit, uses one or more passive and/or active sensors to determine the presence of human ac-tivity. If the device senses human activity present, it remains at the normal set point. If human activity if not detected within a programmed polling interval, the device's logic will revert operation to the pro-grammed "setback" set point to conserve energy. The apparatus is comprised of:
an element sensitive to temperature changes;
an actuating element translates the action of the sensing element to a controlling device, such as an electric switch;
one or more active or passive sensors, to determine the presence of specific conditions, objects, or human activity. Listed herewith are some of the possible sensing elements which could be used to acti-vate the "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat":
1) Heat/Infrared (passive)
an element sensitive to temperature changes;
an actuating element translates the action of the sensing element to a controlling device, such as an electric switch;
one or more active or passive sensors, to determine the presence of specific conditions, objects, or human activity. Listed herewith are some of the possible sensing elements which could be used to acti-vate the "Self-Activating Setback Thermostat":
1) Heat/Infrared (passive)
2) Noise/Human voice (passive)
3) Radar (active)
4) Ultrasonic (active)
5) Reflected light waves (active)
6) A combination of some, or all, of the above system logic incorporated in one or more electronic circuits or microprocessors, which decides whether to run at a "normal" set point or the alternative "setback" set point temperature;
optionally, one or more switches to operate the device in HEAT mode, COOL mode, or OFF;
optionally, one or more switches to turn a fan motor into Automatic, or ON mode;
optionally, one or more input devices which may be in the form of switches or dials, to select the desired normal temperature;
one or more input devices which may be in the form of switches or dials, to select the desired Setback temperature;
optionally, an element which may be in the form of one or more vari-able switches or dials, allowing the user to adjust the sensitivity of the passive or active sensors;
optionally, an element which allows the user to adjust the polling interval for the system logic. This element could be in the form of a slider switch;
optionally, an element which indicates if the Normal mode is cur-rently active. This element could be in the form of a light-emit-ting-diode or small light bulb;
optionally, an element which indicates if the thermostat is operat-ing in the Setback/Fallback mode. A light-emitting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this element;
optionally, an element indicating the actual temperature. This could be in the form of a digital liquid crystal display;
optionally, an element indicating the desired Normal Temperature.
This could be in the form of a digital liquid crystal display; and optionally, an element indicating the desired Setback temperature (which is also called Fallback temperature.) This could be in the form of a readable digital liquid crystal display.
2. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, wherein other sensing technologies are used as elements.
3. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, comprised of more than one tempera-ture-sensing element.
4. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, comprised of more than one actuating element.
5. An energy saving thermostat designed to be connected to a temperature conditioning apparatus for controlling the temperature and/or humidity of air or water. The said thermostat maintains a first temperature during normal mode and a second energy saving temperature during a second mode.
The mode is selected by a logical system in conjunction with one or more active and passive sensors, the said sensors having the ability to detect activity or movement of humans in the area under surveillance. The said th-ermostat is comprised of:
a temperature responsive means responsive to space temperature;
one or more or sensing means responsive to movement and/or audible and/or inaudible waves;
control circuit means designed to be connected to the temperature conditioning apparatus;
means connecting said temperature responsive means to said control circuit;
means for establishing responsive means to control circuit, thereby maintaining the temperature;
system logic means for selecting normal or energy saving mode using inputs from said sensing means responsive to movement;
adjustment means allowing for the selection of setpoints in tempera-ture and sensitivity of the temperature responsive means;
adjustment means allowing for the selection of sensitivity of the sensing means; and switching means allowing for the selection of heating, cooling, and other modes of operation.
6. An energy saving thermostat as defined in claim 5, additionally compris-ing:
indicating means to indicate present temperature, mode of opera-tions, normal and energy savings temperature set points;
support means comprising a mountable base and hardware, said support means supporting said apparatus; and switching means to connect other said means to a source of electri-cal power.
optionally, one or more switches to operate the device in HEAT mode, COOL mode, or OFF;
optionally, one or more switches to turn a fan motor into Automatic, or ON mode;
optionally, one or more input devices which may be in the form of switches or dials, to select the desired normal temperature;
one or more input devices which may be in the form of switches or dials, to select the desired Setback temperature;
optionally, an element which may be in the form of one or more vari-able switches or dials, allowing the user to adjust the sensitivity of the passive or active sensors;
optionally, an element which allows the user to adjust the polling interval for the system logic. This element could be in the form of a slider switch;
optionally, an element which indicates if the Normal mode is cur-rently active. This element could be in the form of a light-emit-ting-diode or small light bulb;
optionally, an element which indicates if the thermostat is operat-ing in the Setback/Fallback mode. A light-emitting-diode or small light bulb could be used for this element;
optionally, an element indicating the actual temperature. This could be in the form of a digital liquid crystal display;
optionally, an element indicating the desired Normal Temperature.
This could be in the form of a digital liquid crystal display; and optionally, an element indicating the desired Setback temperature (which is also called Fallback temperature.) This could be in the form of a readable digital liquid crystal display.
2. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, wherein other sensing technologies are used as elements.
3. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, comprised of more than one tempera-ture-sensing element.
4. A thermostat as claimed in claim 1, comprised of more than one actuating element.
5. An energy saving thermostat designed to be connected to a temperature conditioning apparatus for controlling the temperature and/or humidity of air or water. The said thermostat maintains a first temperature during normal mode and a second energy saving temperature during a second mode.
The mode is selected by a logical system in conjunction with one or more active and passive sensors, the said sensors having the ability to detect activity or movement of humans in the area under surveillance. The said th-ermostat is comprised of:
a temperature responsive means responsive to space temperature;
one or more or sensing means responsive to movement and/or audible and/or inaudible waves;
control circuit means designed to be connected to the temperature conditioning apparatus;
means connecting said temperature responsive means to said control circuit;
means for establishing responsive means to control circuit, thereby maintaining the temperature;
system logic means for selecting normal or energy saving mode using inputs from said sensing means responsive to movement;
adjustment means allowing for the selection of setpoints in tempera-ture and sensitivity of the temperature responsive means;
adjustment means allowing for the selection of sensitivity of the sensing means; and switching means allowing for the selection of heating, cooling, and other modes of operation.
6. An energy saving thermostat as defined in claim 5, additionally compris-ing:
indicating means to indicate present temperature, mode of opera-tions, normal and energy savings temperature set points;
support means comprising a mountable base and hardware, said support means supporting said apparatus; and switching means to connect other said means to a source of electri-cal power.
7. An energy saving thermostat as defined in claim 5 and claim 6, wherein said sensing means can be mountable remotely; and communication means whereby signals from the sensing means are re-ceived by the system logic means.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2058833 CA2058833A1 (en) | 1992-01-06 | 1992-01-06 | Self-activating setback thermostat |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2058833 CA2058833A1 (en) | 1992-01-06 | 1992-01-06 | Self-activating setback thermostat |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2058833A1 true CA2058833A1 (en) | 1993-07-07 |
Family
ID=4149038
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2058833 Abandoned CA2058833A1 (en) | 1992-01-06 | 1992-01-06 | Self-activating setback thermostat |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2058833A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7432477B2 (en) | 2005-04-19 | 2008-10-07 | Robert Teti | Set-back control for both HVAC and water heater via a single programmable thermostat |
| US20160245569A1 (en) * | 2013-11-08 | 2016-08-25 | Mitsubishi Electric Corporation | Air-conditioning apparatus |
-
1992
- 1992-01-06 CA CA 2058833 patent/CA2058833A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7432477B2 (en) | 2005-04-19 | 2008-10-07 | Robert Teti | Set-back control for both HVAC and water heater via a single programmable thermostat |
| US20160245569A1 (en) * | 2013-11-08 | 2016-08-25 | Mitsubishi Electric Corporation | Air-conditioning apparatus |
| US10088211B2 (en) * | 2013-11-08 | 2018-10-02 | Mitsubishi Electric Corporation | Air-conditioning apparatus |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |