NZ608998A - Cable for a powered device - Google Patents

Abstract

Cabling and a cable (10) for use with a powered device (22) are disclosed. The cabling includes a first connection end (12), a controller (16) located on the cabling in proximity to the first connection end, and a second connection end (14). Both connection ends are of the same connection type. The cabling and cable may be used, for example, with any powered device having a controller, to enable the location of the controller to be altered. The cabling and cable may find particular use in a ventilation system, although their application is not so limited.

Description

Patents Form No: 5 NEW ZEALAND Patents Act 1953 Complete Specification Title of invention: CABLE FOR A POWERED DEVICE We, CSR Building Products Limited of Triniti 3, 39 Delhi Road NORTH RYDE NSW 2113 AUSTRALIA hereby declare the invention for which we pray that a patent may be granted to us, and the method by which it is to be performed, to be particularly described in and by the following statement: (followed by page 2) 4218146_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 CABLE FOR A POWERED DEVICE TECHNICAL FIELD Cabling and a cable for use with a powered device are disclosed. The cabling and cable may be used, for example, with any powered device having a controller, to enable the location of the controller to be altered. The cabling and cable may find particular use in a ventilation system, although their application is not so limited.

BACKGROUND ART Various types of cables for connecting a powered device to a power source are known. Some cables having different connection ends may be used to increase the distance between the device and power source, such as an electrical extension cord, or a USB extension. Other cables having the same connection-type at each end may also be used to connect like-components. For example US 2005/0176266 discloses a cable having two male electrical connectors to connect the female end of a string of Christmas tree lights with the female end of an extension cord.

Cables having integrated controllers can be employed to control equipment such as, for example, ventilators, air handling units, humidifiers, floor lamps, appliances, etc.

Such equipment often requires manual or automatic control performed via a controller that may be positioned on a wire connected between a power source and the equipment.

The above references to the background art do not constitute an admission that the art forms a part of the common general knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the cable and cabling as disclosed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE According to a first aspect, cabling for a powered device is disclosed. The cabling comprises a first connection end, a controller located on the cabling in proximity to the first connection end, and a second connection end. In this aspect, both connection ends are of the same connection type. For example, the connection ends may be a female-type connector (e.g. a socket). As both connection ends are of the same connection type, the cabling can be reversed to change the location of the 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA controller. Such cabling may be useful for incorporation into the cabling for any powered device in which the device may be located away from its power source. Such devices may include ventilators (including sub-floor, roof and vehicle ventilators), lighting (such as desk lamps or floor lamps), fans (such as pedestal fans), audio, heaters, etc.

In one embodiment, the cabling may further comprise one or more sensors for automatic adjustment of output of the controller. The (or each) sensor may sense for temperature, humidity, light, or other factors which may otherwise influence use of the device.

In one embodiment the controller may be adapted for controlling an output (e.g. fan speed, light level, temperature, etc.) in response to the or each parameter sensed by the sensor. For example, the lower the sensed light levels of a space, the higher the light level is adjusted by the controller. The relationship may be linear (e.g. proportional) or it may comprise another modality (e.g. exponential response). Each parameter sensed by the sensor may form an input signal to the controller.

In one embodiment, the sensor may be formed as a unit with the controller. This may result in a compact design which may, for example, take up less space within an e.g. overcrowded plant room. This arrangement may also be suitable for packaging and transportation.

In one embodiment the sensor may be adapted for disconnection from the output of the controller. In this respect, one or more fixed output levels may be manually set.

For example, if one piece of equipment of several installed in a structure does not require automatic control, the same cable as described above may be used for all of the installed pieces of equipment, but the cable attached to the non-automatic piece of equipment may have the sensor disconnected.

In one embodiment, the cabling may be integrated into a device power cable.

The power cable may comprise two distinct portions. The first power cable portion may comprise an end for connection to a power source and its other end may be adapted for connection to a connection end of the cabling. For example, the end of the first power cable portion may be in the form of a male-type connector (e.g. a plug) for connection with a female-type connector (e.g. a socket). The second power cable portion may be attached to the powered device and may comprise an end adapted for 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA connection to a connection end of the cabling. For example, and similar to the first power cable portion, the end of the second power cable portion may be in the form of a male-type connector (e.g. a plug) for connection with a female-type connector (e.g. a socket). This can enable a user of the powered device to alter the location of the controller according to personal preference, or to simplify use of the powered device. A floor lamp, for example, may be located some distance away from its power supply.

Depending on the layout of the user’s room, it may be preferable to have the controller near the power supply, as this is where the user may usually be seated when using the floor lamp. Alternatively, it may be preferable to have the controller near the lamp, as the power supply may be difficult or awkward to access regularly.

According to a second aspect, a cable for a powered device is disclosed. The cable comprises first, second and third distinct portions. The first cable portion is connected to the powered device at one end thereof and the second end thereof is adapted for connection to the second cable portion. The second cable portion comprises a first connection end for connection to the second end of the first cable portion, a second connection end, and a controller located on the second cable portion in proximity to the second connection end. The third cable portion comprises an end for connection to a power source and the second end is adapted for connection to the second connection end of the second cable portion. The first and second connection ends of the second cable portion are of the same connection type. The second ends of the first and third cable portions are adapted for connection with the same connection type. This thereby enables the second cable portion to be reversed, altering the location of the controller with respect to the powered device and the power source.

In one embodiment, the cable may further comprise a power transformer that is able to modify or regulate voltage and amperage. The power transformer may be located on the third cable portion. In this respect, the power transformer may be able to modify or regulate voltage and amperage of electricity from the power source such that it is suitable for the controller and other equipment connected to the cable.

According to a third aspect, a ventilation system for ventilating air from within, or into, a structure is disclosed. The ventilation system comprises a motor-driven 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA ventilator for mounting to a structure. The ventilation system also comprises a cable connected between the motor and a power source. The ventilation system further comprises a sensor for sensing at least one parameter within the structure. The cable comprises first, second and third distinct portions. The first cable portion is connected to the ventilator motor at one end thereof. The second connection end of the first cable portion is adapted for connection to the second cable portion. The second cable portion comprises a first connection end for connection to the second connection end of the first cable portion. The second cable portion also comprises a second connection end, and a controller located on the second cable portion in proximity to the second connection end. The first and second connection ends of the second cable portion are of the same connection type. The third cable portion comprises an end for connection to a power source and a second connection end adapted for connection to the second connection end of the second cable portion. For example, the second connection ends of the first and third cables may be plugs (e.g. male type connectors) for connection with sockets (e.g. female type connectors) of the first and second connection ends of the second cable portion. Alternatively, the second connection ends of the first and third cable portions may be sockets, and the connection ends of the second cable portion may be plugs. In this respect, the location of the controller may be adjusted by reversing the orientation of the second cable portion between the power source and the motor.

The second cable portion may be connected between the first and third cable portions in a first orientation, whereby for example, the first connection end of the second cable portion is connected to the first cable portion, and the second connection end of the second cable portion is connected to the third cable portion (thereby having the controller located in proximity to the power source). However, the orientation of the second cable portion can be reversed, such that, for example, in a second orientation the first connection end of the second cable portion is connected to the third cable portion, and the second connection end of the second cable portion is connected to the first cable portion (thereby having the controller located in proximity to the ventilator motor). In this respect, the controller, located on the second cable portion, may be in proximity to the connection with the first or third cable portions, dependent on the orientation of the second cable portion.

This allows a user to decide the best or most convenient location for the 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA controller. For example, in some structures it may be easier to access the power supply, so it is more convenient to have the controller located in proximity to the power supply.

In structures it may be easier to access the ventilator, so it would be more convenient to have the controller located in proximity to the ventilator. The alterable cabling provides flexibility for the installer and/or end user of the ventilator, whilst providing a “universal” control cable, thus eliminating the need to produce different cables and/or ventilators for different uses. Also cables with differing controller locations therealong can be interchanged in between the first and third cables.

The sensed parameter may include temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide levels, mould spore counts, fungal spore counts, odour detection, or other parameters which may be indicative of poor ventilation in a roof space. The sensor may be multi- functional, or a number of respective sensors may be provided.

In one example, the length of cable between the second connection end of the second cable portion and the controller may be only, for example, 5 – 50cm. The length of cable between the first connection end and the controller may be, for example, 1 – 50m.

In one embodiment the controller is adapted for controlling the speed of the ventilator motor in a dependent relationship with the or each parameter sensed by the sensor. For example, the higher the sensed temperature of the enclosed space, the faster the motor speed is adjusted by the controller. The relationship may be linear (e.g. proportional) or it may comprise another modality (e.g. exponential response). Each parameter sensed by the sensor may form an input signal to the controller. The controller may be further adapted to output a control signal to the motor to control the motor speed in response, and in proportion to, the input signal.

In one embodiment, the sensor is formed as a unit with the controller. This may result in a compact design which may, for example, take up less space within an e.g. overcrowded plant room. This arrangement may also be suitable for packaging and transportation.

In one embodiment the sensor may be adapted for disconnection from the controller. In this respect, one or more fixed motor speeds may be set. For example, if one ventilator of several installed in a structure does not require automatic control, the same cable as described above may be used for all of the installed ventilators, but the 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA cable attached to the non-automatic ventilator may have the sensor disconnected.

In one embodiment the motor-driven ventilator may comprise a powered fan.

The speed of the motor may control the speed at which the fan is rotated, and thus how much exhaust, or supply, of air is provided. The speed of the fan may therefore be altered depending on the prevailing conditions in the structure. The ventilator may be mounted to a sub-floor structure, or may be a roof mounted ventilator. In this case, the speed of the fan may be altered depending on the conditions in a sub-floor space or roof space respectively.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the cabling and cable as set forth in the Summary, specific embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic illustration of cabling for use with a powered device; Figures 2A and 2B show schematic illustrations of cabling for a powered device with a controller located in proximity to the power source and the device, respectively; Figure 3 shows a detail of the schematic set-up of Figure 2; and Figures 4A and 4B show schematic illustrations of two embodiments of powered devices with the cabling as shown in Figure 2.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS Referring firstly to Figure 1, a portion of cable 10, for use with a powered device, is shown. The cable 10 has first and second connection ends, in the form of connectors 12, 14, which are of the same connection type. The connectors 12, 14, shown, are of the female-type, although a male-type connector may alternatively be used. The cable 10 also comprises a controller 16, which may be used as a simple on/off switch for the powered device, or may be more complex, such as for controlling the amount of power provided to the device. The controller 16 is shown being closer to first female connector 12, and further away from second female connector 14. In this regard, the cable 10 comprises a short part 18, and a long part 20 (i.e. the distance of the short part 18 between the controller 16 and the first female connector 12, is shorter than 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA the distance of the long part 20, between the controller 16 and the second female connector 14). As the female connectors 12, 14 are of the same type, the location of the controller 16, with respect to the device, can be altered by reversing the way in which the cable 10 is connected to the device and power source.

Referring now to Figures 2A and 2B, cable 10 is shown in use in a powered device system in first and second orientations, 21A and 21B respectively, with respect to powered device 22 and power source 24. Device cable 26, connected to powered device 22 at one end thereof, and power supply cable 28, for connection to the power source 24 at one end thereof, are also shown. Device cable 26 and power cable 28 are shown at the other, respective, end thereof having a connection end, in the form of connectors 30, 32. The connectors 30, 32, shown, are of the male-type, although a female-type connector may alternatively be used. The female connectors 12, 14 of cable 10 allow the male connectors 30, 32, of device cable 26 and power cable 28, to be inserted thereinto, thereby completing the electrical connection from the powered device 22 to the power source 24.

In system 21A (Figure 2A) the controller 16 is located in proximity to the powered device 22, whereas in system 21B (Figure 2B) the controller 16 is located in proximity to the power source 24. Referring firstly to system 21A, the short cable part 18 can be connected via the female connector 12 to the male cable connector 30 located at the end of device cable 26. The long cable part 20 can be connected via the female connector 14 to the male connector 32 of the power cable 28 extending from a power supply 34 (e.g. a transformer). The power supply 34 is in turn connected to the power source 24 (e.g. a mains power source) via a plug 36. This thereby positions the controller 16 in proximity to the device 22.

As cable 10 is fully reversible, and as shown by system 21B in Figure 2B, the controller 16 can alternatively be located in proximity to the power source 24. In this ‘reversed’ configuration, the short cable part 18 can be connected via the female connector 12 to the male connector 32 located at the end of power cable 28. The long cable part 20 can be connected via the female connector 14 to the male connector 30 of the device cable 26 extending from the device 22. This thereby positions the controller 16 in proximity to the power source 24. 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA As also shown in Figure 3, the cable 10, including short part 18 and long part , is fully reversible, with normal function still being maintained, in that female connector 12 can be connected to the male connector 30 or 32, and, similarly, female connector 14 can be connected to the male connector 30 or 32. This reversibility can allow the controller 16 to be moved closer to or further from the device 22 and power source 24.

Various embodiments of controller 16 may be utilised in the cable 10. For example, the controller may be an on/off switch, or may be used as a dimmer switch (e.g. for a lamp), or may be used to alter the volume of an audio device, or may be used to control the speed of a fan, etc. In each of these examples, the controller may be manually operated (i.e. a user can adjust the output of the controller). In other examples, a sensor may be used to automatically adjust the output of the controller, based on the parameter being sensed. For example, temperature or humidity may be sensed, and the speed of a fan may be altered based on this parameter. Similarly, the amount of light may be sensed, and the corresponding output of light from a lamp may be altered accordingly.

Two embodiments of powered devices incorporating cable 10, in the form of ventilation systems for a roof-mounted ventilator (Figure 4A) and a sub-floor ventilator (Figure 4B), will now also be described. However, it should also be appreciated that other embodiments, such as for light, audio and other powered devices, are also suitable for employing the cable and cabling disclosed herein.

In Figure 4A, the ventilation system 40 shown enables the roof-mounted, fan ventilator 42 to operate in automatic, temperature sensing, variable speed control modalities. In this regard, in an automatic temperature sensing mode, the speed of the fan, located in ventilator 42, can be increased (and thus the airflow therethrough increased) in proportion to roof space temperature.

The system 40 comprises the fan ventilator 42. The system 40 also comprises a controller, in the form of a speed controller 41, for controlling the speed of the ventilator motor unit. The controller controls the speed of the ventilator motor unit in response to the temperature sensed within the roof space. The system 40 further comprises a temperature sensor 44 for sensing temperature within the roof space. 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA As described in detail below, the temperature sensor 44 is located within a housing unit 46 for the speed controller 41, in conjunction with control electronics (e.g. to be supplied and used as an integrated unit). However, the temperature sensor 44 may be supplied and used in a stand-alone mode, and may then be coupled electrically, electronically or by emf to the speed controller 41. The unit 46 may be able to be retrofitted to existing (e.g. installed) systems.

In this embodiment, as the roof space temperature is being sensed, and as the sensor 44 is located within unit 46, it is preferable that the cable 10 is oriented such that controller 41 is located in proximity to the fan ventilator 42. If the sensor were a stand- alone component, and a manual control were provided on the unit 46, it may be preferable that cable 10 was oriented in the ‘reverse’ configuration (i.e. so that the controller 41 is located in proximity to the power source 24).

The temperature sensor 44 outputs a control signal to the motor unit of ventilator 42 relative to the measured temperature. For example, the output signal can switch on to run the motor unit and fan of ventilator 42 at a low speed when e.g. roof space temperature reaches 30°C. As the temperature rises the speed controller 41 can be programmed to adjust the output signal proportionally to increase the speed proportionally until a maximum fan speed is reached at e.g. 45°C. For example, the higher the sensed temperature of the roof space, the faster the motor unit speed is adjusted by the controller 41. The proportionality between temperature and motor speed may be linear or it may comprise another modality (e.g. an exponential response).

This control also means that the fan is only drawing as much power as is needed to keep the roof space cool, thereby also minimising noise emissions from the fan/blades. The system 40 thus stands in distinct contrast to existing fixed speed systems that either run continuously, or are simply switched on or off with a fixed speed by a thermostat switch.

In another mode of use, the speed controller 41 may be disconnected (e.g. manually or automatically switched off) from the temperature sensor 44. In this mode, one or more fixed motor speeds can then be set. For example, the unit 46 can be configured at a switch 48 to be switched between an automatic mode (speed controller 41 and temperature sensor 44 connected) and a manual mode. In the manual mode the switch 48 may be switched (moved) between one of, for example, three speeds of a 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA three-speed controller. While the speed controller 41 is disclosed in this embodiment as having three set speeds, the speed controller may comprise fewer, or more, than three set speeds.

In the unit 46 the proportional relationship of temperature with speed may be pre-wired or pre-programmed (e.g. as part of a control circuit) into the unit. However, if a micro-processor is employed in the unit 46, the relationship may be able to be varied. The unit 46 may also be adapted to select (e.g. in a pre-programmed way or via a programmable switching) between the automatic and manual modes. The unit 46 may also be integrated as part of a larger cooling system for a building (e.g. to be activated by that system).

The power supply 34 is typically adapted to an alternating current source and may accommodate voltages ranging from e.g. 100 to 415 volts (e.g. 110 or 240 volt mains power supply). The power supply 34 may accommodate single phase or three phase power supply. The power supply 34 may also be adapted to direct current supply (e.g. from batteries or solar panels). Components of the system may be able to be retro- fitted to known ventilators.

Referring now to Figure 4B, a sub-floor ventilation system 50 is shown. The sub-floor ventilation system 50 incorporates cable 10, and the other cable components described in relation to Figure 2. The device cable 26 attaches to the motor unit 52 at one end 54 and the second end is in the form of a male connector 30 (i.e. a plug). Cable comprises first and second connection ends in the form of female connectors 12, 14 (i.e. sockets). A controller 16 is located in proximity to socket 12. The power cable 28 comprises an end (e.g. a power plug) 36 for connection to a power source 24 and the second end is in the form of a male connector 32 (i.e. a plug). The power cable 28 is also shown having a power transformer 34. Transformer 34 can modify or regulate the voltage and amperage provided to the motor, depending on the power supply. Plugs 30 and 32 are of the same type, and sockets 12, 14 are of the same type, allowing the location of the controller 16 to be changed by simply reversing the way cable 10 connects to the device and power cables 26, 28 respectively. When socket 14 of cable 10 is connected to the plug 30 of the device cable 26, and socket 12 of cable 10 is connected to the plug 32 of the power cable 28, the controller 16 is located near the power supply 24 (i.e. power point) of the sub-floor ventilator . When these connections 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA are reversed (i.e. when socket 14 of cable 10 is connected to the plug 32 of the power cable 28, and socket 12 of cable 10 is connected to the plug 30 of the device cable 26), the controller 16 will be located near the motor unit 22 and fan. This allows a user to decide the best or most convenient location for the controller. For example, in some sub-floor structures it may be easier to access the power supply, so it is more convenient to have the controller located in proximity to the power supply. In other sub-floor structures it may be easier to access the sub-floor ventilator, so it would be more convenient to have the controller located in proximity to the sub-floor ventilator.

Whilst not shown in Figure 4B, the controller may also comprise a sensor for sensing an environmental parameter in the sub-floor space. The sensor may sense for one or more of a variety of parameters which are indicative of the need to ventilate (or increase the ventilation of) the sub-floor space. Where the controller includes such a sensor, the ability to alter the location of the controller can also enable the controller to be placed in the most appropriate location for sensing the parameters of the sub-floor space. The alterable cabling provides flexibility for the installer and/or end user of the sub-floor ventilator, whilst providing a “universal” control cable, thus eliminating the need to produce different cables and/or sub-floor ventilators for different uses.

In this embodiment, the controller 16 controls or varies the speed of the motor unit 22. The speed of the motor unit 22 controls the speed at which the fan, and thus fan blades, rotates. This alters how much exhaust, or supply, of air is provided. The speed of the fan can therefore be altered depending on the prevailing conditions in the sub-floor space. The controller 16 can also comprise a sensor for automatic adjustment of the controller 16. The sensor may sense the temperature, humidity, odour levels, or mould and fungus spore counts, present in the sub-floor structure. The sensor can also be used to automatically turn the motor on or off, depending on the prevailing conditions.

While cable 10 is shown attached to a roof mounted ventilator and a sub-floor ventilator in Figures 4A and 4B, it should be appreciated that the cable 10 may be used for any powered device having a controller. Such cabling may be useful as cabling for any powered device in which the device may be located away from its power source.

Such devices may include ventilators (including sub-floor, roof and vehicle ventilators), 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA lighting (such as desk lamps or floor lamps), fans (such as pedestal fans), heaters, audio devices, etc. The controller for any powered device may also comprise a sensor for automatic adjustment of the controller. The sensor may sense for temperature, humidity, light, or other factors which may otherwise influence use of the device.

While cable 10 has been broadly described as a cable for a powered device, it should also be appreciated that the cable 10, as described above, may also be integrated into a device power cable. The device power cable may comprise two distinct portions, and the cable 10 may complete the electrical connection. This enables a user of a powered device to alter the location of the controller according to their personal preference, or to simplify use of the powered device. A floor lamp, for example, may be located some distance away from its power supply. Depending on the layout of the user’s room, it may be preferable to have the controller near the power supply, as this is where the user may usually be seated when using the floor lamp. Alternatively, it may be preferable to have the controller near the lamp, as the power supply may be difficult or awkward to access regularly.

Whilst a number of cable and cabling embodiments have been described, it should be appreciated that the cable and cabling may be embodied in many other forms.

In the claims which follow, and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” and variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the cable and cabling as disclosed herein. 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA

Claims (19)

CLAIMS 1.:

1. Cabling for a powered device comprising a first connection end, a controller located on the cabling in proximity to the first connection end, and a second connection 5 end, wherein both connection ends are of the same connection type.

2. Cabling as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a sensor for automatic adjustment of output of the controller.

3. Cabling as claimed in claim 2 wherein the controller is adapted for controlling an output in response to one or more parameters sensed by the sensor. 10

4. Cabling as claimed in claim 3 wherein the controller is adapted for controlling the output in a proportional relationship with the or each parameter sensed by the sensor.

5. Cabling as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein the sensor is formed as a unit with the controller. 15

6. Cabling as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein the sensor is adapted for disconnection from the output of the controller, and whereby one or more fixed output levels can be manually set.

7. Cabling as claimed in any one of the previous claims, integrated into a device power cable, wherein the power cable comprises two distinct portions: the first power 20 cable portion comprising an end for connection to a power source and an end adapted for connection to a connection end of the cabling; the second power cable portion connected to the powered device and comprising an end adapted for connection to a connection end of the cabling.

8. A cable for a powered device, the cable comprising first, second and third 25 distinct portions: the first cable portion connected to the powered device at one end thereof and a second connection end thereof adapted for connection to the second cable portion; the second cable portion comprising a first connection end for connection to the second connection end of the first cable portion, a second connection end, and a 30 controller located on the second cable portion in proximity to the second connection 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA end; the third cable portion comprising an end for connection to a power source and a second connection end adapted for connection to the second connection end of the second cable portion; 5 wherein the first and second connection ends of the second cable portion are of the same connection type, and the second ends of the first and third cable portions are adapted for connection with the same connection type.

9. A cable as claimed in claim 8 further comprising a power transformer able to modify or regulate voltage and amperage.

10 10. A cable as claimed in claim 9 wherein the power transformer is located on the third cable portion.

11. A ventilation system for ventilating air from within, or into, a structure, the ventilation system comprising: − a motor-driven ventilator for mounting to the structure; 15 − a cable connected between the ventilator motor and a power source; and − a sensor for sensing at least one parameter within the structure; the cable comprising first, second and third distinct portions, wherein the first cable portion is connected to the ventilator motor at one end thereof and a second connection end thereof is adapted for connection to the second cable portion, and wherein the 20 second cable portion comprises a first connection end for connection to the second connection end of the first cable portion, a second connection end, and a controller located on the second cable portion in proximity to the second connection end, and wherein the third cable portion comprises an end for connection to a power source and a second connection end adapted for connection to the second connection end of the 25 second cable portion; wherein the first and second connection ends of the second cable portion are of the same connection type, and the location of the controller may be adjusted by reversing the orientation of the second cable portion between the power source and motor.

12. A ventilation system as claimed in claim 11 wherein the sensor is formed as a 30 unit with the controller. 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA

13. A ventilation system as claimed in claim 11 or 12, wherein the controller is adapted for controlling the speed of the ventilator motor in response to the or each parameter sensed within the structure.

14. A ventilation system as claimed in claim 13 wherein the controller is adapted for 5 controlling the speed of the ventilator motor in a proportional relationship with the or each parameter sensed by the sensor.

15. A ventilation system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the or each parameter sensed by the sensor forms an input signal to the controller, and wherein the controller is adapted to, in response and in proportion to the or each parameter input 10 signal, output a control signal to the motor to control the motor speed.

16. A ventilation system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 15 wherein the sensor is adapted for disconnection from the motor, and whereby one or more fixed motor speeds can be set.

17. A ventilation system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 16 wherein the 15 motor-driven ventilator comprises a powered fan.

18. A ventilation system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 17 wherein the ventilator is mounted to a sub-floor structure.

19. A ventilation system as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 17 wherein the ventilator is mounted to a roof structure. 6141827_1 (GHMatters) P89849.NZ.1 SAMANTHA