US20140349566A1

US20140349566A1 - HVAC Zoning System Having Distributed Intelligence and Method of Manufacture

Info

Publication number: US20140349566A1
Application number: US14/202,643
Authority: US
Inventors: Craig Adam Lamb; Eugene William Kuntz, JR.; Craig Mike Lamb
Original assignee: SMART FORCED AIR Inc
Current assignee: SMART FORCED AIR Inc
Priority date: 2013-03-11
Filing date: 2014-03-10
Publication date: 2014-11-27

Abstract

The present application discloses a method of converting a single zone HVAC system to a multi-zoned HVAC system. More specifically, the present application discloses coupling at least one interface module to at least one controller of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly. Further, at least one thermostat may be positioned within each desired zone of a multi-zoned structure. The user may then position at least one register on at least one terminus of a duct within each zone. Thereafter, each thermostat within each zone is associated or linked via a communication channel or network with at least one register within the same zone, thereby forming at least one thermostat/register regime within each zone of a structure. The interface module may then be associated with the various thermostat/register regimes. The user may the input at least one of a maximum temperature and minimum set temperature for each zone via at least one of the interface module, a thermostat within each zone, and a register within the zone. Once operating, the thermostat with each zone will measure the temperature within that zone and provide the measured temperature to the associated register. In response, the register can restrict of permit the flow of air to the zone by opening and closing the register based on the temperature measured by thermostat within that zone.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Appl. Ser. No. 61/776,304, filed on Mar. 11, 2013, entitled “HVAC Zoning System with Distributed Intelligence,” the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (hereinafter HVAC systems) are commonly used for thermal and ventilation control and in residential and commercial structures. Typically these systems include a heating unit, an air conditioning system, or both a heater unit and an air conditioning system configured to heat and/or cool air, or an alternate fluid, to a desired temperature. Further, a blower, compressor or other device, in fluid communication with the heater and/or air conditioning system, is used to direct the heated and/or cooled air to a desired location via one or more ducts, passages, or other conduits within the structure or positioned proximate thereto. In addition, present HVAC systems include at least one thermostat or other user-interface device permitting the user to control the temperature of the air delivered to a desired area, zone, or region of the structure.
Often, it is desirable to establish differential heating zones or regions within a structure. In the alternative, often it is desirable to maintain a constant temperature within a structure composed of multiple zones wherein the zones may have different thermal load characteristics. For example, in some commercial and residential settings, it may be desirable to have the temperature of a first zone within the structure maintained at a first temperature while a second zone within the structure may be maintained at a second temperature. Optionally, zones established within a structure may be heated and cooled at differing times. For example, within a residential structure, a bedroom may be heated or cooled more frequently during the night when in use rather than during the day when use is more sporadic. As such, these zoned heating architectures have been shown to increase user comfort while reducing energy usage by eliminating wasteful heating and cooling cycles in unused or under-used zones or regions within a structure.
Unfortunately, a majority of newly constructed and existing structures include non-zoned HVAC systems. Further, upgrading a non-zoned HVAC architecture to a multi-zone HVAC architecture has proven to be a time-consuming, labor intensive endeavor. Moreover, the cost of upgrading a non-zoned HVAC architecture to a multi-zone HVAC architecture can be cost prohibitive.
In light of the foregoing, a number of HVAC products have been produced seeking to add some zone temperature control to an existing structure. FIG. 1 shows an example of a prior art retrofit zoning system configured to enable some degree of zoned thermal control over a non-zoned HVAC system. As shown, the prior art HVAC system includes a heating/cooling unit 3 and a blower 5 coupled to the heating/cooling unit 3. Further, the prior art HVAC system 1 includes a duct system 7 having at first duct branch 9, a second duct branch 11, and a third duct branch 13 extending therefrom. The first duct branch 9 terminates within a first room 15. Similarly, the second branch 11 terminates within a second room 25, and the third duct branch 13 terminates within a third room 35. Further, a first register 17 positioned on or proximate the termination of the first duct branch 9. A first thermostat 19 is positioned within the first room 15. The first thermostat is in communication with the heating/cooling unit 3 and acts as a master control for the HVAC system 1, initiating the heating/cooling cycles at predetermined intervals or at pre-selected temperatures. Further, the retrofit HVAC system 1 includes a second register 27 positioned on or proximate the termination of the second duct branch 11 is in communication with a second thermostat 29 positioned within the second room 25, and a third register 37 positioned on or proximate the termination of the third duct branch 13 is in communication with a third thermostat 39 positioned within the third room 35. Typically, the second and third registers 27, 37, respectively, are in communication with the second and third thermostats 29, 39, respectively, while the first thermostat 19 is in communication with the heating/cooling unit 3. During, use, the user may set different temperature in the first, second, and third thermostats 19, 29, and 39. Typically, the first thermostat 19 is in communication with the heating/cooling unit 3 via a conduit 41. In contrast, the second and third thermostats 29, 39 are configured to transmit, via a conduit or, in the alternative, wirelessly transmit, a signal to the respective second and third registers 27, 37. As a result, the individual registers second and third registers 27, 37 may selectively open and/or close the register to permit or restrict the flow of warm or cold air from the duct into the room. In the alternative, the user may pre-set a thermostat in the room to a pre-determined temperature. Thereafter, the thermostat will monitor the temperature within the room and permit and/or restrict the flow of heated and/or cooled air via the register.
While these retrofit systems have proven somewhat successful in the past, a number of shortcomings have been identified. For example, the second and third thermostats 29, 39 within the second and third rooms 25, 35 rooms are incapable of controlling the central HVAC system. Thus, the second and/or third registers 27, 37 within the second and third rooms 25, 35 rooms may be open, however, the heating/cooling unit 3 may not be operating as the first thermostat 19 acts as a master controller. As a result, the temperatures within the second and third rooms 25, 35 rooms, which may be undesirably hot or cold, may remain unchanged until the first thermostat 19 initiates a heating/cooling cycle.
Thus, in light of the foregoing, there is an ongoing need for a HVAC zoning system wherein individual zoning modules are capable of distributed intelligence and control.

SUMMARY

The present application is directed to HVAC zoning systems having distributed intelligence. More specifically, in one embodiment, the present application discloses a system for controlling a forced air HVAC system and includes at least one interface module in communication with at least one of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly of the HVAC system. Further, at least one thermostat may be positioned within in a zone within a structure. The thermostat may include at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon. Further, the thermostat may be in communication with the interface module. In addition, at least one register may be coupled to one or more ducts of the HVAC system within the zone. The register may be in communication with the interface unit and configured to selectively permit and restrict the flow of air to the zone from at least one of the heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly of the HVAC system based on data from at least one of the interface module, the register, and thermostat.
In another embodiment, the present application discloses a method of converting a single zone HVAC system to a multi-zoned HVAC system. More specifically, the present application discloses coupling at least one interface module to at least one controller of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly. Further, at least one thermostat may be positioned within each desired zone of a multi-zoned structure. The user may then position at least one register on at least one terminus of a duct within each zone. Thereafter, each thermostat within each zone is associated or linked via a communication channel or network with at least one register within the same zone, thereby forming at least one thermostat/register regime within each zone of a structure. The interface module may then be associated with the various thermostat/register regimes. The user may the input at least one of a maximum set target temperature and minimum set target temperature for each zone via at least one of the interface module, a thermostat within each zone, and a register within the zone. Once operating, the thermostat with each zone will measure the temperature within that zone and provide the temperature data to the associated register, either directly or via the interface module and/or repeater module. In response, the register can restrict of permit the flow of air to the zone by opening and closing the register based on the temperature data provided by thermostat within that zone.
In another embodiment, the present application discloses another method of converting a single zone HVAC system to a multi-zoned HVAC system. More specifically, the present application discloses the steps of coupling at least one interface module to at least one controller of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly and positioning at least one thermostat in each zone of a multi-zoned structure. Thereafter, at least one register is positioned on at least one terminus of a duct within each zone. The thermostat and register within the same zone are associated or linked via at least one communication channel or network, thereby forming at least one thermostat/register regime within each zone of a structure. Similarly, the interface module and at least one of the thermostat and register are associated or linked The user may define and input at least one of a maximum temperature and minimum set temperature for each zone via at least one of the interface module, a thermostat within each zone, and a register within the zone. Once operational, the temperature within each zone is measured using at least one of the thermostat and register within that zone and provided to the interface module. The interface module restricts and/or permits the flow of air to each zone by opening and closing the register in a desired zone based on at least one command sent by the interface module to that register based on a comparison of the temperature data to the stored set temperature.
The present application further discloses a system for controlling a forced air HVAC system, which includes at least one interface module in communication with at least one of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly of the HVAC system, at least one thermostat positioned within in a zone within a structure, the thermostat having at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon, at least one repeater module having at least one memory device therein, the repeater module including at least one temperature sensor, the repeater in communication with at least one AC power source and at least one DC power source, at least one register coupled to one or more ducts of the HVAC system within the zone, the register having at least one flow regulator configured to permit and restrict the flow of air through the register therein, and at least one computer network wirelessly coupling the interface module, thermostat, repeater module, and register, the computer network configured to permit communication between at least one of the interface module, thermostat, repeater module, and register.
In addition, the present application discloses a system for controlling a forced water HVAC system. More specifically, the system includes at least one interface module in communication with at least one of a heating unit, cooling unit, and pump of the force water HVAC system, at least one manifold coupled to the pump, the manifold having multiple valved outlets thereon, a number of fluid circuits formed with a structure each defining a thermal zone within a structure, the fluid circuit coupled to an in fluid communication with at least one valved outlet, at least one thermostat positioned within in each thermal zone, the thermostat having at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon, and at least one computer network in communication with the interface module, the valved outlets, and the thermostats, wherein at least one thermostat with the thermal zone measures the temperature with the thermal zone and provides the temperature data to the interface module, wherein the valved outlets are in communication with the interface module and configured to selectively permit and restrict the flow of fluid there through based on direction from the interface module.
Other features and advantages of the HVAC system having distributed intelligence as described herein will become more apparent from a consideration of the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the HVAC system having distributed intelligence will be explained in more detail by way of the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic of an embodiment of a prior art system for adding zoning capabilities to a non-zoned forced air HVAC system;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic of an embodiment of a forced air HVAC system having distributed intelligence to convert a non-zoned HVAC architecture to a zoned HVAC architecture;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic of the command and control architecture of the forced air HVAC system shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 shows a schematic of another embodiment of a forced air HVAC system having distributed intelligence to convert a non-zoned HVAC architecture to a zoned HVAC architecture;

FIG. 5 shows a schematic of the command and control architecture of the forced air HVAC system shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic of another embodiment of a forced air HVAC system having distributed intelligence to convert a non-zoned HVAC architecture to a zoned HVAC architecture;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic of the command and control architecture of the forced air HVAC system shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a planar front view of an embodiment of a register used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7;

FIG. 9 shows a planar side view of an embodiment of a register used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7;

FIG. 10 shows a partial planar rear view of an embodiment of a register used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7, the register in a closed position;

FIG. 11 shows a partial planar rear view of an embodiment of a register used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7, the register in an open position;

FIG. 12 shows an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a thermostat used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7;

FIG. 13 shows an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of a heating/cooling interface module used in the forced air HVAC system shown in FIGS. 2-7; and

FIG. 14 shows a schematic of an embodiment of a forced water HVAC system having distributed intelligence.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a novel HVAC system configured to provide a zoned heating and cooling capabilities to a structure. In one embodiment, the novel HVAC system disclosed herein is configured to enable a structure employing a non-zoned heating and cooling architecture to be quickly and easily upgraded to a zoned heating and cooling architecture. In another embodiment, the novel HVAC system disclosed herein is configured to quickly and easily permit the installation of a zoned HVAC system in a newly constructed structure.
As shown in FIG. 2, the novel HVAC system 100 includes at least one heating and/or cooling unit 102 (hereinafter H/C unit) having at least one blower assembly or forcing assembly 104 is communication therewith. In one embodiment, the H/C unit 102 comprises at least one furnace, boiler, or the like configured to heat at least one transport media. Exemplary transport media includes, without limitations, air, fluids, and the like. As such, the HVAC system 100 shown in FIG. 2 comprises a forced air HVAC system. Further, the H/C unit 102 may include also include one or more air conditioning units, heat exchangers, humidifiers, de-humidifiers, and the like. Optionally, the H/C unit 102 may comprise one or more air conditioning units, heat exchangers, humidifiers, de-humidifiers, and the like, and need not include a heating device. As shown in FIG. 2, at least one HVAC interface module 150 (hereinafter HIM) may be positioned on or in communication with the H/C unit 102. For example, in one embodiment the HIM 150 is in communication with at least one controller (not shown) of the H/C unit 102. Optionally, the HIM 150 may include one or more controllers, processors, communication devices, power systems, battery systems, memory devices, signal repeaters, sensors, meters, user interface devices, and the like. For example, in one embodiment, the HIM 150 includes at least one processor, at least one wireless communication system, and at least one memory device.
Referring again to FIG. 2, the blower assembly 104 is in fluid communication with the H/C unit 102 and is configured to flow one or more transport media through the H/C unit 102 and direct the transport media to one or more rooms, space, or other locations within the structure via at least one duct 106 coupled thereto. Optionally, the blower assembly 104 may have at least one blower interface module 152 (hereinafter BIM) thereon. Like the HIM 150 described above, the BIM 152 may include one or more controllers, processors, communication devices, power systems, battery systems, memory devices, signal repeaters, sensors, flow meters, user interface devices, and the like. For example, the HIM 150, the BIM 152, or both may in communication with at least one pressure sensor positioned within or proximate to duct 106, thereby permitting the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both to monitor flow pressure within the duct 106. Further, the BIM 152 may be configured to communicate, either via at least one conduit or wirelessly, with at least one of the H/C unit 102 and/or the HIM 150. Further, the BIM 152 may be in communication with at least one controller configured to control the blower assembly 104. Optionally, the blower assembly 104 need not include a BIM 152. In one embodiment, the HVAC system 100 may be configured to operate with at least one HIM 150, thereby foregoing the need for a BIM 152. In another embodiment, the HVAC system 100 is configured to operate with at least one BIM 152, forgoing the need for a HIM 150. In yet another embodiment, the HVAC system 100 is configured to utilize at least one HIM 150 and at least one BIM 152.
As shown in FIG. 2, the duct 106 may have any number of duct branches coupled thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, a first duct branch 108, and second duct branch 110, and a third duct branch 112 are coupled to the duct 106. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the HVAC system 100 disclosed herein may include any number of H/C units 102, blower assemblies 104, ducts 106, and/or duct branches 108, 110, 112. Although not shown, it is understood in the art that the HVAC system 100 may include one or more return vents or inlets within the system.
Referring again to FIG. 2, the first duct branch 108 terminates within or proximate to the first room or zone 118 within the structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the first duct 108 includes at least a first register 120 affixed thereon or positioned proximate thereto. In one embodiment, the first register 120 includes at least one control system coupled thereto or in communication there with. Optionally, the first register 120 may include one or more user interface devices thereon, thereby permitting a user to selectively control the flow of air through the first register 120. Further, the first register 120 may include one or more processors, sensors, regulators, memory devices, communication devices, battery systems, power supplies, and the like therein. For example, in one embodiment, the first register 120 includes at least one processor, at least one pressure sensor, and at least one wireless communication system therein.
FIGS. 2 and 3 show the communication pathways of the various components forming the HVAC system 100. At least one thermostat or controller 122 may be positioned within the first room 118. As shown, in one embodiment, thermostat 122 is configured to measure the temperature with room 118 and provide at least one signal 124 to at least one of the HIM 150 and/or the BIM 152. Further, the thermostat 122 may be configured to provide one or more signals 126 to the first register 120 positioned within the first room 118. In one embodiment, the thermostat 122 includes at least one thermal sensor. Further, the thermostat 122 may include any number of additional components, including, without limitations, sensors, user interface devices, memory devices, communication systems and devices, and the like. For example, in one embodiment the thermostat 122 includes at least one thermal sensor, at least one user interface device, at least one clock, and wireless communication device configured to transmit thermal data from the room 118 to and may also be configured to receive data from at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM 152, or both. In another embodiment, the thermostat 122 may be configured to transmit and receive data 126 from the first register 120. In another embodiment, the first thermostat 122 is in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, the first register 120, and/or at least one repeater module 154 wirelessly. Further, at least one of the first thermostat 122 and the first register 120 may further include at least one wireless signal receiver therein. In another embodiment, the first thermostat 122 may be in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, and/or the first register 120 via at least one conduit.
With reference to FIG. 2 (as well as FIGS. 3-5 and additional embodiments described in this application), at least one repeater module 154 may be included and may provide additional capabilities to the HVAC system 100. In one embodiment, the repeater module 154 receives and re-transmits any signals used in the command and control aspects of the HVAC system 100. In the alternative, the repeater module 154 may include any number of sensors, processors, back-up systems, memory devices, IR cameras, camera, occupancy monitors, and the like therein. For example, in one embodiment, the repeater module 154 acts as an independent temperature monitor. More specifically, the repeater module 154 may be configured to establish and maintain a minimum and/or maximum temperature within a room or zone or, in the alternative maintain a minimum and/or maximum temperature within the structure as a whole. As such, the repeater module 154 may be in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, BIM 152, the thermostats 122, 132, 142, and/or the registers 120, 130, 140. In another embodiment, the repeater module 154 may include at least one processor and memory device configured to provide redundancy should a thermostat 122, 132, 142 and/or register 120, 130, 140 fail or lose power. In yet another embodiment, the repeater module 154 may be configured to be coupled to AC power, DC power, or both. For example, the repeater module 154 may be coupled to an AC power source and include one or more battery backup power systems therein. Optionally, the repeater module 154 may further serve as a memory device preserving historical operation data of the HVAC system 100. In another embodiment, the repeater module 154 may include one or more sensors. For example, multiple repeater modules 154 may be used throughout the structure, each repeater module 154 containing one or more sensor, including, without limitations, power interrupt sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, smoke detectors, emergency and/or supplemental lighting devices, nightlights, motion detectors, cameras, and the like.
As shown in FIG. 2, the second duct branch 110 terminates within or proximate to the second room or zone 128 within the structure. The second duct 110 also includes at least a second register 130 affixed thereon to positioned proximate thereto. The second register 130 may include at least one control system coupled thereto or in communication there with. Optionally, the second register 130 may also include one or more user interface devices thereon, thereby permitting a user to selectively control the flow of air through the second register 130. Exemplary user interface devices include, without limitations, touch screens, switches, pin switches, levers, electronic displays, buttons, and the like. Further, the second register 130 may include one or more processors, sensors, regulators, memory devices, communication devices, battery systems, power supplies, and the like therein. For example, in one embodiment, the second register 130 includes at least one processor, at least one pressure sensor, and at least one wireless communication system therein.
Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, at least one thermostat or controller 132 may be positioned within the second room 128. The thermostat 132 may be configured to measure the temperature with room 128 and provide at least one signal 134 to at least one of the HIM 150 and/or the BIM 152. Further, the thermostat 132 may be configured to provide one or more signals 136 to the second register 130 positioned within the room 128. In one embodiment, the thermostat 132 includes at least one thermal sensor. Further, the thermostat 132 may include any number of additional components, including, without limitations, sensors, user interface devices, memory devices, communication systems and devices, signal repeaters, and the like. For example, in one embodiment the thermostat 132 includes at least one thermal sensor, at least one user interface device, at least one clock, and wireless communication device configured to transmit thermal data from the room 128 to and receive data from at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM 152, or both. In another embodiment, the thermostat 132 may be configured to transmit and receive data 136 from the second register 130. In another embodiment, the thermostat 132 is in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, the second register 130, the first thermostat 118, the first register 120, and or a repeater module 154 wirelessly. Further, at least one of the second thermostat 132 and the second register 130 may further include at least one wireless signal receiver therein. In another embodiment, the second thermostat 132 may be in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, the second register 130, the first thermostat 118, and/or the first register 120 via at least one conduit.
As shown in FIG. 2, like the previous duct branches, the third duct branch 140 terminates within or proximate to the third room or zone 138 within the structure. The third duct 140 also includes at least a third register 140 affixed thereon to positioned proximate thereto. The third register 140 may include at least one control system coupled thereto or in communication there with. Optionally, the third register 140 may also include one or more user interface devices thereon, thereby permitting a user to selectively control the flow of air through the third register 140. Exemplary user interface devices include, without limitations, touch screens, switches, pin switches, levers, electronic displays, buttons, and the like. Further, the third register 140 may include one or more processors, sensors, regulators, memory devices, communication devices, battery systems, power supplies, and the like therein. For example, in one embodiment, the third register 140 includes at least one processor, at least one pressure sensor, and at least one wireless communication system therein.
Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 3, at least one thermostat or controller 142 may be positioned within the third room 138. The thermostat 142 may be configured to measure the temperature with third room 138 and provide at least one signal 144 to at least one of the HIM 150 and/or the BIM 152. Further, the third thermostat 142 may be configured to provide one or more signals 146 to the third register 140 positioned within the third room 138. In one embodiment, the third thermostat 142 includes at least one thermal sensor. Further, the third thermostat 142 may include any number of additional components, including, without limitations, sensors, user interface devices, memory devices, communication systems and devices, signal repeaters, and the like. For example, in one embodiment the third thermostat 142 includes at least one thermal sensor, at least one user interface device, at least one clock, and wireless communication device configured to transmit thermal data from the third room 138 to and receive data from at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM 152, or both. In another embodiment, the third thermostat 142 may be configured to transmit and receive data 146 from the third register 140. In another embodiment, the third thermostat 142 is in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, the third register 140, the first and second thermostat 118, 128, the first and second register 120, 130, and/or at least one repeater module 154 wirelessly. Further, at least one of the third thermostat 142 and the third register 140 may further include at least one wireless signal receiver therein. In another embodiment, the third thermostat 142 may be in communication with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, the third register 140, the first and second thermostat 118, 128, and/or the first and second register 120, 130 via at least one conduit.
FIGS. 4 and 5 show an alternate embodiment of the HVAC system 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As such, the reference numbers of components shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 are corresponding to the same or similar components shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Like the previous embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the HVAC system 100 includes at least one H/C unit 102 in fluid communication with at least one blower assembly 104. Further, the H/C unit 102 may include at least one HIM 150 thereon. Similarly, the blower assembly 104 may include at least one BIM 152 thereon. Like the previous embodiment, the HVAC system 100 may include at least one HIM 150 and forgo the need for a BIM 152. In the alternative, the HVAC system 100 may include at least one BIM 152 and forego the need the need for a HIM 150. Optionally, the HVAC system 100 may be operated with at least one HIM 150 and at least one BIM 152.
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, at least one duct 106 having any number of duct branches coupled thereto may be in fluid communication with the blower assembly 104. In the illustrated embodiment, a first duct branch 108, and second duct branch 110, and a third duct branch 112 are coupled to the duct 106. More specifically, the first duct branch 108 terminates within or proximate to the first room or zone 118 within the structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the first duct 108 includes at least a first register 120 affixed thereon to positioned proximate thereto. Similarly, the second duct 110 terminates with a second register 130 located within or proximate to a second room or zone 128. Further, the third branch 112 terminates with a third register 140 affixed thereto, the third register 140 positioned within or proximate to a third room or zone 138. In one embodiment, at least one of the first, second, and/or third registers 120, 130, 140 includes at least one control system coupled thereto or in communication there with. Optionally, at least one of the first, second, and/or third registers 120, 130, 140 may include one or more processors, pressure sensors and regulators, and user interface devices thereon, thereby permitting a user to selectively control the flow of air through the at least one of the first, second, and/or third registers 120, 130, 140.
FIGS. 4 and 5 show the communication pathways of the various components forming the HVAC system 100. At least one thermostat or controller 122 may be positioned within the first room 118. As shown, in one embodiment, thermostat 122 includes at least one temperature sensor therein and is configured to measure the temperature with room 118 and provide temperature data 126 to the first register 120. In one embodiment, the thermostat 122 is direct communication with the register 120. In another embodiment, the thermostat 122 may communicate with the register 120 via at least one of the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or at least one repeater module 154. Optionally, the thermostat 120 may include any number of additional sensors, including, for example, carbon monoxide sensors, smoke detectors, humidity sensors, and the like. Further, the thermostat 122 may include any number of additional components, including, without limitations, sensors, user interface devices, memory devices, communication systems and devices, battery backup devices, occupancy sensors, and the like. For example, in one embodiment the thermostat 122 includes at least one thermal sensor, at least one user interface device, at least one clock, and wireless communication device configured to transmit thermal data from the room 118 to the first register 120. Optionally, the thermostat 120 may be configured to operate from alternating current and may include a battery back-up system therein. Optionally, the thermostat 120 may operate as a temperature sensor and provide a user-interface device enabling the user to provide temperature settings for a specific room and/or zone to the HVAC system 100.
Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 5, the first register 120 receives the data 126 related to the first room 118 from the first thermostat 122. The first register 120 may transmit this information 124 to the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both and receive information from the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. Further, the first register 120 may measure the flow of air to the register 120 and regulate the flow there through. Optionally, the first register 120 may be enabled to initiate a heating or cooling cycle based on the temperature data received from the first thermostat 120 and the measured flow information.
As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the second duct branch 110 terminates within or proximate to the second room or zone 128 within the structure. The second duct 110 also includes at least a second register 130 affixed thereon to positioned proximate thereto. The second register 130 may be configured to receive the data 136 related to the second room 128 from the second thermostat 132. As such, the second thermostat 132, like the first thermostat 122 described in paragraph [0025] may include various sensors, processors user interface devices, and the like. The second register 130 may transmit data 134, and any other information such as temperature and flow pressure data to the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both and receive information from the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. As such, the second register 130 may be configured to measure the flow of air to the second register 130 and regulate the flow there through. Optionally, the second register 130 may be enabled to initiate a heating or cooling cycle based on the temperature data received from the second thermostat 130 and the measured flow information.
Referring again to FIGS. 4 and 5, the third duct branch 112 terminates within or proximate to the third room or zone 138 within the structure. The third duct branch 112 also includes at least a third register 130 affixed thereon to positioned proximate thereto. The third register 130 may be configured to receive the data 146 related to the third room 138 from the third thermostat 142. As such, the third thermostat 142, like the first thermostat 122 described in paragraph [0025] may include various sensors, processors user interface devices, and the like. The third register 140 may transmit temperature, flow pressure, and other data 144 to the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both and receive information from the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. Again, the third register 140 may measure the flow of air to the third register 140 and regulate the flow there through. Optionally, the third register 140 may be enabled to initiate a heating or cooling cycle based on the temperature data received from the third thermostat 140 and the measured flow information.
FIGS. 6 and 7 show another alternate embodiment of the HVAC system 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As such, the reference numbers of components shown in FIGS. 6 and 5 correspond to the same or similar components shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 Unlike the previous embodiments, the HVAC system 100 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 includes separate data pathways between the registers 120, 130, 140 and the thermostats 122, 132, 142. As such, the first register 120 provides and receives data 124 from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both. Similarly, the second register 130 provides and receives data 134 from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both. Lastly, the third register 140 provides and receives data 144 from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both. Further, the first thermostat 122 provides and receives data 124′ from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both, the second thermostat 132 provides and receives data 134′ from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both, and the third thermostat 142 provides and receives data 124′ from the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both Unlike the previous embodiments, all data exchange between the registers and the thermostats is channeled through the HIM 150, BIM 152, and/or both.
FIGS. 8-11 show more detailed views of the embodiment of the first register 120 used in the HVAC system 100 shown in FIGS. 2-7, although one or more of the illustrated register 120 may be used anywhere within system. As such, the flowing description of the first register 120 illustrates the capabilities of any register used within the HVAC system 100. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the HVAC system 100 may be used with any variety of registers. Further, the any number of selectively controllable registers may be used with the present system. As shown, the register 120 includes a register body 170 configured to be detachably coupled to at least one duct branch 108, 110, 112. Optionally, the register body 170 may be non-detachably coupled to the at least one duct branch 108, 110, 112.Further, the register 120 includes a first surface 174 have one or more passages 172 formed thereon. One or more flow regulators 176 may be positioned on the register body 170 proximate to the passages 172. The flow regulators 176 may be configured to selectively permit and/or restrict the flow of a fluid through the passages 172. As such, the flow regulators 176 may be coupled to or otherwise in communication with at least one actuator 180 configured to selectively move the flow regulators 176 thereby permit and/or restrict the flow of a fluid through the passages 172. Exemplary actuators 180 include, for example piezo drives, stepper motors, electro-mechanical motors, automated plenum devices, and the like.
Further, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 the register 120 may include any number or variety of flow regulators 176 therein. For example, in one embodiment, the flow regulator 176 includes a continuous body configured to restrict the flow of air through the register 120. In the alterative, FIGS. 10 and 11 show an embodiment of a flow regulator 120 having non-continuous flow regulator 176. For example, in the illustrated embodiment the flow regulator 176 comprises a brush seal body comprises of multiple brush elements or bristles configured to selectively engage the regulator body 170 restrict the flow of air through the flow regulator 120 (See FIG. 10) and selectively disengage the regulator body 170 controllably permit the flow of air through the flow regulator 120 (see FIG. 11). As shown, one or more brush bodies 188 may be coupled to at least one actuation body 184 which is turn may be coupled to an actuator drive device 182 in communication with the actuator 180. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuator 180 and actuator drive device 182 rotates the actuation body 184 causing the brush bodies 188 coupled to the actuation body 184 to engage or disengage the regulator body 172. In one embodiment, the brush bodies 184 are detachably coupled to the actuation body 184 thereby permitting the brush bodies to be removed for cleaning and/or replacement. Optionally, the brush bodies 184 may be non-detachably coupled to the actuation body 184. Further, the flow regulator 176 may include at least one deviating or discontinuous surface or edge (such as the ends of the brush bodies 184) thereby reducing or eliminating noise emanating from the register 120 when air is flowing there through.
Referring again to FIGS. 8-11, the register 120 includes at least one control panel or region 190 thereon. In one embodiment, the control panel 190 is detachably coupled to the register body 170. In another embodiment, the control panel 190 is non-detachably coupled to the register body 170. The control panel 190 may include at least one information display device 192 and at least one user interface device 194. Exemplary display devices 192 include, for example, LED displays, LCD display, LED devices, and the like. Further, exemplary user interface devices 194 include, without limitations, buttons, slides, touch screens, and the like. In one embodiment, the control panel 190 includes at least one processor, communication device, sensor, and/or similar device. As such, the control panel 190 may include at least one power supply (not shown). Exemplary power supplies include, for example, batteries, capacitors, and conduits enabling the register 120 to be coupled to a source of AC power, DC power, or both. During use, the control panel 190 may display information, provide power and control to the actuator 180, and communicate with at least one of the HIM 150, the BIM, 152, a thermostat (e.g. 122) associated with the register 120, at least one repeater module 154 (See FIG. 2). Further, the register 120 may include one or more sensors, processors, memory devices, and the like therein. In one embodiment, the register 120 includes at least one pressure sensor, at least one communication device, and at least one processor. During use, the processor and sensor located on or proximate to the register 120 may be configured to measure and/or calculate the back pressure, flow pressure, temperature, and the like of air flowing through the register 120 and provide this information to at least one of the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. Optionally, the registers 120, 130, 140 may be configured to communication with other registers 120, 130, 140, thereby enabling at least one register 120, 130, 140 to determine which registers are open, calculate flow pressures and back pressure, and open and/or close other registers to adjust the flow pressures through the HVAC system 100.
FIG. 12 shows a more detailed view of an embodiment of the thermostat 122 shown in FIGS. 2-7. The illustrated thermostat may be used in various locations throughout the HVAC system 100. Further, any number of thermostats may be used in the any of rooms or zones formed within a structure. Further, each thermostat e.g. thermostat 118, 128, 138 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) may be configured to be in communication with and provide and/or receive information from the register (e.g. registers 120, 130, 140 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) located within the same room or zone. Optionally, the thermostat 118, 128, 138 may be in communication with the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. Further, the registers 120, 130, 140 may be configured to permit and/or restrict the flow of fluid there through based on data generated or measured by the register, based on historical data from the registers 120, 130, 140, or the HIM 150/BIM 152, the thermostats 122, 132, 142, the repeater modules 154, and/or user input.
Referring again to FIG. 12, the thermostat 122 comprises a thermostat body 200 having a first surface 202. At least one temperature sensor (not shown) may be located within the thermostat body 200 or in communication with the thermostat 122. Further, one or more processors, memory devices, communication devices, power supplies, batteries, and the like may be located within the thermostat body 200. At least one information display 204 may be located on the thermostat body 200 and may be in communication with at least one or the processors, memory devices, sensors, communication devices, power supplies, batteries, and the like located therein. Further, one or more user interface devices 206 may be located on the thermostat body 200 and may be in communication with at least one or the processors, memory devices, communication devices, power supplies, batteries, and the like located therein. Exemplary user interface devices 206 include, without limitations, buttons, touch screens and the like. The thermostat 122 may be configured to be in communication with and provide and/or receive information (e.g. temperature of the room in which the thermostat is located) to and from the register (e.g. registers 120, 130, 140 shown in FIGS. 2-5) located within the same room or zone. In another embodiment, the thermostats 122, 132, 142 may be in communication with the HIM 150, BIM 152, or both. For example, in one embodiment, the thermostat 122 is configured to measure the temperature of the room in which the thermometer is located, provide a command (e.g. wirelessly) to the register 120 located in the same zone directing the register 120 to permit the flow of air there through, and provide the temperature data to the HIM 150, the BIM 152 (if present), or both to enable the efficient and timely heating or cooling of the specific room or zone. In the alternative, the thermostat 122 may be configured to measure the temperature of the room 118 in which the thermometer 122 is located, provide the temperature data (e.g. wirelessly) to the register 120. Thereafter the register 120 is configured restrict or permit the flow of air the permit the flow of air there through, and provide the temperature data and flow pressure data to the HIM 150, the BIM 152 (if present), or both to enable the efficient and timely heating or cooling of the specific room or zone.
FIG. 13 shows an embodiment of the HIM shown in FIGS. 2-7. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the HIM 150 and BIM 152 may offer similar capabilities. As such, the HVAC system 100 may include one or more HIMs 150, BIMs 152 or both. Further, the HVAC system 100 may be operated with a single HIM 150, thereby negating the need for a BIM 152. Similarly, the HVAC system 100 may be operated with a single BIM 152, thereby negating the need for a HIM 150. As such, for the sake of this discussion, the capabilities of the HIM 150 are understood to be equally applicable to the BIM 152, if present. While the following description discusses the attributes of the HIM 150, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the BIL 152 (if present) may offer similar capabilities. Moreover, the BIM 152 may offer a redundant control system should the HIM 150 fail. Further, those skilled in the art the HIM 150 and/or BIM 152 may, in combination with the registers 120, 130, 140, thermostats 122, 132, 142, and/or repeater modules 154, may cooperatively form a distributed intelligence and control system wherein data processing and control of the HVAC system resides in the HVAC network formed by the various components (HIM 150, BIM 152, registers 120, 130, 140, thermostats 122, 132, 142, and/or repeater modules 154) rather than a single component of the system. Thus, unlike prior art HVAC systems, the HVAC system 100 described herein may form a multi-redundant system via a distributed computer network architecture.
As shown in FIG. 13, in one embodiment the HIM 150 provides an internal computer network (intranet) for the various components of the HVAC system 100. More specifically, unlike prior art HVAC systems, the HIM 150 is configured to be capable of communicating with each thermostat ( e.g. thermostat 122, 132, 142 of FIG. 2) and/or each register 120, 130, 140. In one embodiment, the HIM 150 is configured to communicate with at least one thermostat and/or register wirelessly. Optionally, the HIM 150 may communicate with the thermostats and/or registers via at least one conduit. In one embodiment, the HIM 150 comprises a computer system or device. As such, the HIM 150 may include at least one processor, communication devices or system, power source, battery system, sensor, and the like. For example, in one embodiment, the HIM 150 includes at least processor in communication with or in substitution for the control circuit of the H/C unit 102, at least one communication system in communication with the at the thermostats ( e.g. thermostat 122, 132, 142), and a memory device to store data. Further, the HIM 150 may be configured to user accessible via at least one thermostats ( e.g. thermostat 122, 132, 142), a computer network, and the like. Optionally, the HIM 150 may be in communication with various external computer or communication networks. For example, in one embodiment the HIM 150 is in communication with various sensors, including, for example, fuel level sensors, faults detectors, fire detectors, CO₂detectors, air sampling sensors, radon detectors, and the like. As such, the HIM 150 may be easily configured to independently contact maintenance systems, emergency response systems, and the like, either wirelessly or via a conduit.
As shown in FIG. 13, the HIM 150 includes a HIM body 220 having a first surface 222 formed thereon. The at least one information display 224 may be formed on the first surface 222 of the HIM body 220. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, at least one user interface device 226 may be positioned on the HIM body 220. Exemplary interface devices include, for example buttons, switched, and the like. Optionally, the HIM body 220 need not include a user interface device 226. For example, optionally, the information display 224 may comprise a touch screen device thereby negating the need for an additional user interface device 226.
The following paragraphs will describe one method of creating a zoned HVAC architecture having distributed intelligence using the HVAC system 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. The HIM 150 (and/or BIM 152 as each may be used in combination or exclusively) is electronically coupled to or replaces the control unit of the H/C unit 102. As a result, the HIM 150 provides the data infrastructure configured to provide and receive information from at least one of thermostats 122, 132, 142, the registers 120, 130, 140, and/or both. For example, in one embodiment, the HIM 150 is in wireless communication with the thermostats 122, 132, 142, while the thermostats 122, 132, 142 are in communication with the HIM 150 and at least one register 120, 130, 140. As such, the HIM 150 may communicate with the thermostats 122, 132, 142 via a wireless network, computer network, conduit, or the like.
With the HIM 150 coupled to and controlling the H/C unit 102 and available via at least one communication network (e.g. wireless HVAC network), the user positions at least one thermostat in each room or zone. Typically, a single thermostat is positioned in each room or zone. Optionally, particularly in large areas, multiple thermostats may be positioned within a single room or zone. As shown in FIG. 2, each room 118, 128, 138 includes a single thermostat 122, 132, 142, respectively, located therein. The user may the access the HVAC network from each thermostat 122, 132, 142, thereby creating an individual temperature profile for each room. For example, the user may establish room temperatures, time-dependent room temperature profiles, HVAC cycle times, flow rates, and the like via the thermostat 122, 132, 142. As a result, each thermostat 122, 132, 142, is associated with each room 118, 128, 138.
With the thermostat registered with the HIM 150, the user may associate the individual registers 120, 130, 140 with the corresponding thermostat 122, 132, 142. For example, the registers 120, 130, 140 may communicate with the thermostats 122, 132, 142 via the HVAC network, via an alternate wireless network, or via a conduit. Once the registers 120, 130, 140 are associated with their corresponding thermostats 122, 132, 142, the user simply replaces the existing registers coupled to the duct work of the structure with the registers 120, 130, 140 Unlike prior art device, each thermostat is capable of directly communicating with the HIM 150 and any registers associated with that thermostat. Moreover, unlike prior art retrofit zoning systems, the HVAC of the instant patent application includes multiple thermostats, each capable of not only selectively controlling the opening and closing of the registers associated therewith, but individually directing the heating and cooling cycling of the H/C unit 102. As such, unlike prior art HVAC system which utilized a single master controller thermostat to control the H/C unit and numerous slave thermostats to open and close registers, the present system offers true distributed intelligence wherein the master controller is formed collectively by the HIM 150, and the thermostats 122, 132, 142.
FIGS. 2-9 describe a zoned HVAC system 100 having distributed intelligence for use in a forced air HVAC architecture. In contrast, FIG. 14 shows an alternate embodiment of a zoned HVAC system 100 having distributed intelligence configured for use with a water-based HVAC architecture. More specifically, FIG. 14 shows a zoned HVAC system 100 having distributed intelligence for use with a radiant heating architecture. As shown, the HVAC system 300 includes at least one H/C unit in fluid communication with at least one boiler 304. Optionally, the H/C unit 302 and boiler 304 may be combined into a single unit. Further, optionally, the H/C unit 302, the boiler 304, or both may be combined in one or more on-demand water heaters or chillers. As such, individual zones or room within a structure may have multiple on-demand water heater/chillers for various room or zones.
Referring again to FIG. 14, at least one pump 306 may be coupled to or otherwise in communication with at least one of the H/C unit 302 and the boiler 304. Further, at least one manifold 310 is in communication the pump 306 via at least one conduit or pipe 308. The manifold 310 may include one or more valved outlets 312, 314, 316 thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the structure includes a first room or zone 320, a third room or zone 330, and a third room or zone 340. The first room 320 includes a floor 322 having at least one fluid circuit 324 positioned therein. The fluid circuit 324 is in coupled to the manifold 310 via the valved outlet 312. In one embodiment, the fluid circuit 324 is manufactured from cross-linked polyethylene (e.g. PEX), polymer materials, copper, or the like. Further, at least one thermostat 326 is located with the room 320.
Similarly, the third room 330 includes a floor 332 having at least one fluid circuit 334 positioned therein. The fluid circuit 334 is in coupled to the manifold 310 via the valved outlet 314. Similar to the first room 320, the third room 330 includes at least one thermostat 326 therein. Lastly, the third room 340 includes a floor 342 having at least one fluid circuit 344 positioned therein. The fluid circuit 344 is in coupled to the manifold 310 via the valved outlet 316. At least one thermostat 346 is located with the third room 340.
As shown in FIG. 14, at least H/C unit Interface Module 350 (hereinafter HIM 350) is positioned on at least one of the H/C unit 302, the boiler 304, and/or the pump 306. In the illustrated embodiment, the HIM 350 is positioned on the pump 306. Like the previous embodiment, the HIM 350 and first, third, and third thermostats 326, 336, 346 cooperatively form a master controller configured to independently regulate the temperature of each room of the structure. As such, like the previous embodiment, the HIM 350 and thermostats 326, 336, 346 are configured to communicate via at least one HVAC network, wireless network, or via at least one conduit. In addition, at least one of the HIM 350 and thermostats 326, 336, 346 may be configured to selectively open and close individual valved outlets 312, 314, 316 thereby permitting separate control of the temperature of each room. As such, the valved outlets 312, 314, 316 may also include at least one communication device thereon in in communication therewith. For example, at least one valve controller 352 may be positioned proximate to the manifold 310 and configured to selectively open and close individual valved outlets 312, 314, 316 on direction from at least one of the HIM 350 and thermostats 326, 336, 346. Like the previous HVAC system, the various components of the HVAC system 300 may be configured to communicate via at least one computer network, wireless network, or conduit.
The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative of the principles of the invention. Other modifications may be employed which are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the devices disclosed in the present application are not limited to that precisely as shown and described herein.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system for controlling a forced air HVAC system, comprising:

at least one interface module in communication with at least one of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly of the HVAC system;

at least one thermostat positioned within in a zone within a structure, the thermostat having at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon, the thermostat is communication with the interface module; and

at least one register coupled to one or more ducts of the HVAC system within the zone, the register in communication with the interface unit, the register configured to selectively permit and restrict the flow of air to the zone from at least one of the heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly of the HVAC system based on data from at least one of the interface module, the register, and thermostat.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein the interface module includes at least one device selected from the group consisting of processors, memory devices, sensors, detectors, user interface devices, display devices, computer network communication devices, and communication devices.

3. The system of claim 2 wherein the interface module is in wireless communication with at least one computer network.

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the interface module comprises a computer device.

5. The system of claim 1 wherein the interface module includes at least one pressure sensor configured to measure the flow pressure of air flowing through the HVAC system.

6. The system of claim 1 wherein the thermostat is configured to communicate with at least one of the interface module and the register wirelessly.

7. The system of claim 1 wherein the thermostat is configured to communicate with at least one of the interface module and the register via at least one conduit.

8. The system of claim 1 wherein the register includes at least one user interface device thereon.

9. The system of claim 1 wherein the register is configured to communicate with at least one of the interface module and the thermostat wirelessly.

10. The system of claim 1 wherein the register is configured to communicate with at least one of the interface module and the thermostat via at least one conduit.

11. The system of claim 1 wherein the register includes at least one pressure sensor thereon, the pressure sensor configured to measure the flow of air through the register.

12. The system of claim 11 wherein a first register is in communication with at least a second register, the first register configured to calculate a back pressure of the HVAC system based on flow information receive from at least one of the first register and the second register.

13. The system of claim 1 wherein the register includes at least one temperature sensor thereon.

14. The system of claim 1 wherein the register includes at least one actuator thereon, the actuator coupled to at least one flow regulator configured to selectively permit and restrict the flow of air through the register.

15. The system of claim 14 wherein the flow regulator comprises at least one brush body configured to selectively engage a body of the register to restrict the flow of air through the register and selectively disengage the body of the register to controllably permit the flow of air through the register.

16. The system of claim 1 further comprising at least one HVAC system computer network formed by at least one processor positioned within the interface module, register, and thermostat, the HVAC system network forming a distributed computing network.

17. The system of claim 16 wherein the HVAC system computer network is in communication with an externally accessible computer network.

18. The system of claim 16 further comprising at least one repeater module in communication with at least one of the HVAC system computer network, the interface module, the register, and the thermostat, the repeater module configured to receive and repeat at least one signal transmitted through the HVAC system computer network.

19. The system of claim 16 further comprising at least one temperature sensor contained within the repeater module, the temperature sensor configured to measure at least one temperature within a structure.

20. The system of claim 16 further wherein the repeater module is in communication with at least one of an AC power source and a DC power source, the repeater module configured to provide a redundant temperature reading within a structure.

21. The system of claim 16 wherein the repeater module include at least one user interface configured to permit a user to user set a minimum temperature and maximum temperature with the structure.

22. The system of claim 16 wherein at least one of the interface module, thermostat, register, and repeater module includes at least one auxiliary component selected from the group consisting of carbon monoxide sensors, smoke detectors, radon detectors, occupancy sensors, emergency light devices, cameras, motion detectors, and security devices.

23. A method of converting a single zone HVAC system to a multi-zoned HVAC system, comprising:

coupling at least one interface module to at least one controller of a heating unit, cooling unit, and blower assembly;

positioning at least one thermostat in each zone of a multi-zoned structure;

positioning at least one register on at least one terminus of a duct within each zone;

associating at least one thermostat within each zone with at least one register within the same zone, thereby forming at least one thermostat/register regime within each zone of a structure;

associating at least one register within each thermostat/register regime with interface module;

inputting at least one of a maximum set target temperature and minimum set target temperature for each zone via at least one of the interface module, a thermostat within each zone, and a register within the zone;

measuring a temperature within a zone using the thermostat of the associated thermostat/register regime to providing temperature data to the register of the associated thermostat/register regime; and

restricting and permitting the flow of air to the zone by opening and closing the register of the associated thermostat/register regime based on the temperature data provided by thermostat within the same zone.

24. The method of claim 23 wherein the thermostat and register within each zone communicate wirelessly.

25. The method of claim 23 wherein the thermostat and register within each zone communicate via at least one conduit.

26. The method of claim 23 wherein the register and interface module communicate wirelessly.

27. The method of claim 23 wherein the register and interface module communicate via at least one conduit.

28. The method of claim 23 wherein at least one thermostat within each zone is in communication with the interface module.

29. The method of claim 28 wherein the thermostat communicates with the interface module wirelessly.

30. The method of claim 28 wherein the thermostat communicates with the interface module via at least one conduit.

31. The method of claim 23 wherein at least one of the thermostat, register, and interface module communicate via at least one computer network.

32. The method of claim 23 wherein:

a user inputs at least one of a maximum and minimum set temperature for each zone via at least one thermostat within the zone;

the set temperatures are transmitted to and stored by at least one register within the same zone;

the register restricts or permits the flow of air through the register by comparing the stored set temperatures to the temperatures measured by the thermostat within the same zone.

33. The method of claim 23 wherein:

a user inputs at least one of a maximum and minimum set target temperature for each zone via the interface module;

the set temperatures are stored by the interface module;

at least one thermostat within each zone measures the temperature with that zone and transmits the temperature data to the interface module;

the interface module compares the stored set temperatures to the temperature data within each zone;

the interface module transmits a register command to at least one register within each zone based on the comparison of the temperature data and set temperature; and

the register restricts or permits the flow of air through the register based on the register command.

34. The method of claim 23 wherein:

a user inputs at least one of a maximum and minimum set temperature for each zone via at least one register within a zone;

the set temperatures are stored by the register;

at least one thermostat within each zone measures the temperature with that zone and transmits the temperature data to the register;

the register compares the stored set temperatures to the temperature data with each zone; and

the register restricts or permits the flow of air through the register based on the comparison of the temperature data to the stored set temperature.

35. The method of claim 23 further comprising measuring at least one of a flow pressure and back pressure within the HVAC system with at least one sensor within the register and controlling any number of registers in communication with the interface module to optimize flow pressure through the HVAC system

36. A method of converting a single zone HVAC system to a multi-zoned HVAC system, comprising:

positioning at least one thermostat in each zone of a multi-zoned structure;

associating the thermostat within each zone with the register within the same zone, thereby forming at least one thermostat/register regime within each zone of a structure;

associating at least one of the thermostat and register with the interface module;

inputting at least one of a maximum temperature and minimum set target temperature for each zone via at least one of the interface module, a thermostat within each zone, and a register within the zone;

measuring a temperature within a zone using at least one of the thermostat and register;

providing the temperature data to the interface module; and

restricting and permitting the flow of air to the zone by opening and closing the register based on at least one command sent by the interface module to the register based on at least one comparison of the temperature data to the stored set temperature.

37. The method of claim 36 wherein at least one of the thermostat, register, and interface module communicate via at least one computer network.

38. The method of claim 36 wherein at least one of the thermostat, register, and interface module communicate wirelessly.

39. A system for controlling a forced air HVAC system, comprising:

at least one pressure sensor in communication with the interface module and at least one duct of the HVAC system, the pressure sensor configured to measure a flow pressure within the HVAC system;

at least one thermostat positioned within in a zone within a structure, the thermostat having at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon;

at least one repeater module having at least one memory device therein, the repeater module in communication with at least one AC power source and at least one DC power source;

at least one register coupled to one or more ducts of the HVAC system within the zone, the register having at least one flow regulator configured to permit and restrict the flow of air through the register therein; and

at least one computer network wirelessly coupling the interface module, thermostat, repeater module, and register, the computer network configured to permit communication between at least one of the interface module, thermostat, repeater module, and register.

40. The system of claim 39 further comprising at least one processor located within the thermostat, the processor in communication with the user-interface device of the thermostat and configured to store at least one user-defined maximum and minimum set target temperature for a selected zone therein.

41. The system of claim 39 further comprising at least one processor located within the repeater module, the repeater module processor in communication with the interface module and configured to receive and store the maximum and minimum set temperature therein, the repeater module configured to initiate at least one of a heating cycle and cooling cycle of the HVAC system should at least one of the maximum and minimum set temperature be reached.

42. The system of claim 39 further comprising at least one temperature sensor positioned within the repeater module.

43. The system of claim 39 wherein the repeater module includes at least one device selected from group consisting of power interrupt sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, radon detectors, smoke detectors, emergency lighting systems, supplemental lighting devices, occupancy sensors, nightlights, motion detectors, and cameras.

44. The system of claim 39 wherein the register includes at least one actuator coupled to the flow regulator, the actuator configured to selectively move the flow regulator to permit or restrict the flow of air through the register.

45. The system of claim 42 further comprising at least one processor in communication with the actuator and computer network, the processor configured to direct the actuator to restrict or permit the flow of air through the register based at least one command from the computer network.

46. The system of claim 39 wherein the flow regulator comprises a brush body device configured to selectively engage at least a portion of the body of the register to restrict the flow of air through the register.

47. The system of claim 39 wherein the computer network includes at least one control processor.

48. The system of claim 45 wherein the network processor comprises a distributed processor formed by processors within one or more interface modules, one or more thermostats, one or more repeater modules, and one or more registers.

49. A system for controlling a forced water HVAC system, comprising:

at least one interface module in communication with at least one of a heating unit, cooling unit, and pump of the force water HVAC system;

at least one manifold coupled to the pump, the manifold having multiple valved outlets thereon;

a number of fluid circuits formed with a structure each defining a thermal zone within a structure, the fluid circuit coupled to an in fluid communication with at least one valved outlet;

at least one thermostat positioned within in each thermal zone, the thermostat having at least one temperature sensor therein and at least one user-interface device formed thereon; and

at least one computer network in communication with the interface module, the valved outlets, and the thermostats, wherein at least one thermostat with the thermal zone measures the temperature with the thermal zone and provides the temperature data to the interface module, wherein the valved outlets are in communication with the interface module and configured to selectively permit and restrict the flow of fluid there through based on direction from the interface module.