Patents by Inventor Robert B. Tonner

Robert B. Tonner has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Automatic control of air delivery in forced air furnaces
    Patent number: 6000622
    Abstract: A forced air furnace circulation fan controller adjusts the speed of the circulation fan according to the incidence of air delivery restrictions. Upon detecting insufficient air delivery as a function of the temperature of the furnace heat exchanger, the control system increases the circulation fan speed to increase the air delivery within the heating system. The controller utilizes fuzzy logic techniques to determine a speed adjustment for the furnace fan motor, based on the value of the furnace heat exchanger temperature. The use of fuzzy logic control allows the circulation fan controller to provide a highly adaptive response to changes in air delivery. The resulting balanced air delivery provides for efficient furnace operation and superior occupant comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Integrated Control Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert B. Tonner, Steven G. McNutt