Abstract: A solid state circuit breaker has both solid state electronics and a physical switch. The solid state circuit breaker facilitates power measuring for end loads connected to a panel board circuit, e.g. receptacles, lighting, etc., over current protection, and disconnection all within one device. The solid state circuit breaker can be used at 100% of its rated capacity as opposed to 80% code-mandated limitation for thermal magnetic circuit breakers. The solid state circuit breaker also can provide power/current data (real-time) without the need of an additional device. The solid state circuit breaker further facilitates electronic, i.e. remote, opening, closing, and current limiting for demand response or load shedding.

Abstract: A networked HVAC system is implemented as part of a multi-unit dwelling. At least one HVAC unit is installed within each unit of the multi-unit dwelling. Each individual HVAC unit includes a localized HVAC unit controller, which is connected to an external network. The HVAC unit controller also can be connected to any other controllable HVAC devices in the unit, such as an exhaust fan. The HVAC system addresses the open-loop issue by monitoring temperature, air flow, humidity, air pressure, occupancy, window open/close state, and HVAC units of all units in a multi-unit dwelling, as well as common areas, and optimizing operating parameters to minimize wide swings in operational states and managing the overall system of multiple units/common areas so that energy usage and temperature/ventilation control is optimized. The HVAC system also enables learning and predictive modeling for adapting to real-time and anticipated condition requirements within each zone.

Abstract: A digital signaling device provides visual, audible, and haptic indicators when the digital signaling device changes state. The digital signaling device has a same operational feel and response as a classic electro-mechanical decorator-style light switch, including maintaining switch paddle position, using attractive magnetic latching in combination with a spring contact. The switch paddle can be pressed into one of two positions, each position representing a different state of the digital signaling device. The switch paddle provides a visual indicator of the digital signaling device state in that the switch paddle is maintained in one of the two positions. The attractive magnetic latching provides both an audible and haptic indicator when the magnet pairs are engaged, which corresponds to a change of state of the digital signaling device. The spring contact provides a digital switching mechanism for changing the state of the digital signaling device.

Abstract: HVAC system includes a front side access panel, an HVAC unit, a mounting sleeve, and a back side grille. The mounting sleeve and the HVAC unit are configured to fit within the preexisting framing of a building, and in particular to be mounted in a wall, between pre-existing studs, of a room. The HVAC unit can be installed into the mounting sleeve via quick connect mechanisms including, but not limited to, snap in connections and/or tab and slot features. The mounting sleeve enables rapid installation and also condensate collection. The HVAC unit includes an evaporator section, a mechanical section, and a condenser section that are integrally formed as a single physical unit. The design of the HVAC system is optimized to maximize space utilization and support efficient installation and servicing while minimizing product intrusion into living space.

Abstract: A networked HVAC system is implemented as part of a multi-unit dwelling. At least one HVAC unit is installed within each unit of the multi-unit dwelling. Each individual HVAC unit includes a localized HVAC unit controller, which is connected to an external network. The HVAC unit controller also can be connected to any other controllable HVAC devices in the unit, such as an exhaust fan. The HVAC system addresses the open-loop issue by monitoring temperature, air flow, humidity, air pressure, occupancy, window open/close state, and HVAC units of all units in a multi-unit dwelling, as well as common areas, and optimizing operating parameters to minimize wide swings in operational states and managing the overall system of multiple units/common areas so that energy usage and temperature/ventilation control is optimized. The HVAC system also enables learning and predictive modeling for adapting to real-time and anticipated condition requirements within each zone.

Abstract: A modular building system allows for quickly and easily erecting prefabricated wall panels on a building foundation at a construction site. The system allows for manufacturing and installing, at a high level, complete budding components, using steps that are highly repeatable and scalable, resulting in construction that is quick and efficient, and easily performed at many types and locations of construction sites. A system in accordance with the invention comprises a wad panel, a floor panel and a roof panel. The wad panel comprises a horizontal member supported along a bottom horizontal edge, and a plurality of vertical studs integral to the horizontal member and extending vertically downward from the horizontal member. A floor panel comprises a rail disposed rigidly fixed to the foundation and defining an enclosure to receive the plurality of vertical studs of the wall panel to thereby vertically position the wall panel upon the foundation.

Abstract: A load center assembly is provided. The load center assembly comprises a frame, an electrical panel assembly, and a plurality of electrical wire harnesses. The frame includes a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side are substantially parallel and connected by a plurality of cross members. The electrical panel assembly is connected to the first side and the second side. The electrical panel assembly includes a plurality of breakers. The plurality of electrical wires harnesses is connected to the frame. Each of the plurality of electrical wire harnesses includes a plurality of wires. A first end of each wire of the plurality of wires is routed into the electrical panel assembly and is terminated in a corresponding breaker. The load center assembly is configured to be disposed in a wall frame.

Abstract: An EXV (electronic expansion valve) control system includes an EXV controller for controlling an EXV within the refrigerant loop of an HVAC system. The EXV controller implements a master control algorithm that includes a plurality of sub-control algorithms and an initial series of branching decision points to determine the current mode of operation and to execute select sub-control algorithms corresponding to the current mode of operation, while not executing the sub-control algorithms corresponding to the other modes of operation. The sub-control algorithms implement various combinations of PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control and feed-forward control, the results of which can be mapped to specific control instructions for the EXV.

Abstract: An EXV (electronic expansion valve) control system includes an EXV controller for controlling an EXV within the refrigerant loop of an HVAC system. The EXV controller implements a master control algorithm that includes a plurality of sub-control algorithms and an initial series of branching decision points to determine the current mode of operation and to execute select sub-control algorithms corresponding to the current mode of operation, while not executing the sub-control algorithms corresponding to the other modes of operation. The sub-control algorithms implement various combinations of PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control and feed-forward control, the results of which can be mapped to specific control instructions for the EXV.

Abstract: Apparatus for preparing stable humus from a batch of organic waste material. The apparatus has an elongated drum-like reactor vessel and a prime mover operatively connected thereto to rotate the reactor vessel about its axis. At least one non-rotating sensor wand within the reactor vessel for sensing temperature and collecting gas samples within and substantially across the volume of the reactor vessel and within and substantially across the volume of the waste material. The sensor wand is connected to a gas analyzer and a temperature monitor. The reactor vessel has affixed to its inside surface a longitudinal manifold, with pairs of aeration pipes extending to other side thereof and evenly spaced therealong. A variable speed blower has an outlet operatively connected to the manifold. A process control computer has inputs from the gas analyzer and the temperature monitor and outputs to control the prime mover and the variable speed blower.