Abstract: An automatic faucet system includes a sensor and a controller. The sensor includes an emitter constructed and arranged to emit light having a first polarization toward an object. The sensor further includes a detector configured to detect light reflected from the object having a second polarization that is different from the first polarization. The controller is operatively coupled to the detector. The controller is configured to supply water to a faucet, or other water supply, upon sensing by the detector the light having the second polarization. By sensing in such a manner, the level of false positive readings in the system is reduced. The detector is further configured to determine the location of the object so that the faucet is only activated when the object is in close proximity to the faucet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment such that conditioned air supplied to unoccupied building zones is reduced to effect savings in energy. In one embodiment, additional relays are disposed between a thermostat and the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment. Upon detection of a lack of occupancy of a monitored zone, the present invention causes the added relay or relays to open, thereby interrupting the thermostat's ability to maintain a previously defined temperature. In turn, the present invention is then able to vary the temperature of the unoccupied zone to a different temperature setpoint than that of the thermostat.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting for detecting an object within a radiating beam of a radiating source. The method receives reflected and radiated radiation directly from the object to provide a radiation signal. The method then processes the radiation signal to provide a control to the radiating source. A concomitant apparatus comprising a detector and a control circuit is provided. The detector receives reflected and radiated radiation directly from the object and provides a radiation signal indicative of the reflected and radiated radiation received from the object. The control circuit, coupled to the detector, processes the provided radiation signal to provide a control signal to the radiating source.

Abstract: An apparatus and a concomitant method for promoting hygienic practices is disclosed. The apparatus is a monitoring unit for monitoring the completion of a desired action, e.g., handwashing, by a user. Upon completion of the desired action, the monitoring unit transmits a satisfactory signal to the user.