Abstract: There is disclosed herein a machine for performing nucleic acid amplification under computer control. The machine utilizes any one of a number of heating and cooling systems under control of a host computer which directs the heating and cooling systems to heat and cool a reaction-chamber-containing heat exchanger at appropriate times in the process. The reaction chambers are pre-loaded with the nucleic acid(s) to be amplified, a thermostable enzyme to catalyze polymerization, specific oligonucleotide primers, and four different nucleotide triphosphates. Also disclosed is the process for the amplification chain reaction implemented by the machine, which utilizes a thermostable enzyme.

Abstract: A high efficiency gas furnace utilizes a unique pre-mixed design in combination with a pressurized/high velocity combustion process. The combustion process occurs in a combustion chamber and the high temperature high velocity products of combustion follow a circuitous route from the combustion chamber through finned tubular conduits to an exhaust. Heat from the high temperature high velocity products is transferred to the finned tubular conduits. An air blower assembly forces air across the finned tubular conduits and the combustion chamber to remove the heat from the finned tubular conduits and transfers this heat to a building or an enclosed portion thereof.

Abstract: The remote control unit for an air conditioner having a controller configured to process multiple temperature inputs, to provide a cycle of operation to provide comfort during sleeping, to provide an automatic cycle of operation wherein a burst of cooling air is provided on demand and/or which is configured to receive and respond to remote signals having different protocols. The remote control unit employs a multiple-way arrow icon and redefinable arrow keys associated with the icon, to enable a user to remotely control operation of the air conditioner.

Abstract: An air-conditioning control method for a vehicle which can continue smoothly control close to ordinary automatic control before failure even when a specific detection sensor goes wrong. When one of the plurality of detection sensors malfunctions, the size of an environmental factor corresponding to the malfunctioning detection sensor is calculated from a heat balance calculation model for various environmental factors. A correction term for the processing of a low-pass filter is added to this estimated value to obtain a highly accurate estimated value. When control of the air-conditioner is continued based on this highly accurate estimated value and output values of the normal detection sensors, the same control status as that of control of the air-conditioner before malfunctioning can be obtained even during shift from the output of the detection sensor to the estimated value.

Abstract: A thermostat monitors the indoor air temperature indicated by the thermostat's indoor air temperature sensor. The monitored indoor air temperature must be within a predefined range of acceptable temperatures to be considered valid. In the event the monitored temperature is outside this predefined range, the thermostat proceeds to read the outdoor air temperature and activate a heating system if the outdoor air temperature reading is below a predefined level.

Abstract: A method for determining ambient air temperature outside of an appliance by making measurements inside the appliance. By measuring the time it takes a sensor to change inside the appliance from one temperature reading to another reading, the ambient temperature changes can be determined. Using this information, appliance performance can be optimized.

Abstract: When a user manually sets a desired (target) temperature for a refrigerator chamber, a control mechanism automatically determines a range of target temperatures having upper and lower limits. Actuation and deactuation of the refrigeration cycle is controlled in response to a comparison of the chamber temperature with the upper and lower limits, respectively. When an outside temperature surrounding the refrigerator rises above a reference temperature, those upper and lower limits are automatically lowered. Also, the control mechanism compares the manually set temperature with a range of temperatures which the refrigerator is capable of achieving and automatically selects an achievable temperature if the manually selected temperature lies outside the achievable range. Moreover, a quick-freeze operation of the control mechanism enables a freezing chamber to be brought rapidly to a cold temperature.

Abstract: An air conditioning control method of a vehicle includes the step of determining a target temperature of a passenger compartment of the vehicle, calculating a comfort index provided as a function of at least an outlet air temperature and outlet air volume flowing out of a heater-air-conditioner system in which air is treated to be introduce to a passenger compartment, setting a target comfort index, determining an optimized combination of the output air temperature and the output air volume which minimizes a deviation of the comfort index from the target comfort index, compensating the target temperature to reduce the deviation when the deviation is greater than a predetermined value. The optimized comfort level can be accomplished quickly through the control.

Abstract: A high efficiency gas furnace utilizes a unique pre-mix design in combination with a pressurized/high velocity combustion process. The combustion process occurs in a combustion chamber and the high temperature high velocity products of combustion follow a circuitous route from the combustion chamber through finned tubular conduits to an exhaust. Heat from the high temperature high velocity products is transferred to the finned tubular conduits. An air blower assembly forces air across the finned tubular conduits and the combustion chamber to remove the heat from the finned tubular conduits and transfers this heat to a building or an enclosed portion thereof.

Abstract: This invention has as its object to provide a method and apparatus for controlling a vehicle air conditioner, which can obtain a combination of an outlet air flow rate V.sub.a and an outlet air temperature T.sub.o, which is desirable for comfort of a passenger, under a condition of air-conditioning control based on a heat balance equation. In order to achieve this object, this invention provides a method of controlling a vehicle air conditioner including the first step of obtaining, from a heat balance equation, a plurality of combinations of the outlet air flow rates V.sub.a and the outlet air temperatures T.sub.o necessary for maintaining the passenger room temperature to be a predetermined target temperature, the second step of calculating comfort indices each representing the comfort level of a passenger on the basis of state amounts of factors which influence comfort felt by the passenger in the passenger room, and the plurality of combinations of the outlet air flow rates V.sub.

Abstract: A load management control system is provided for an air conditioner. The system includes an outdoor temperature sensor for sensing outdoor temperature of the outside of an enclosure to be air-conditioned and an indoor temperature sensor for sensing an indoor temperature of the enclosure. A device is provided for determining a difference in output of the indoor and outdoor temperature sensors. A device is provided for comparing the difference in output of the indoor and outdoor temperature sensors with a reference input. The system further includes a device for detecting an external controlling signal from an input device coupled to the system. A control device is provided for controlling an air conditioner control circuit based upon input from the comparing device and the detecting device. When an allowable temperature differential is exceeded, the controlling device opens at least one contact to interrupt the air conditioner control circuit so as to reduce electrical load.

Abstract: In an electronic thermostat timer having a time-keeping switch and having a thermostat, having an optoelectronic display (6) arranged at the front side of the housing for the time of day, the switching times and the switching temperatures, having a manual, key-shaped input device (7) for the time of day, the switching times and the switching temperatures in a common housing (1), the housing (1) is provided with a quadratic cross section, particularly having the edge dimensions 60.times.60 mm. A cylindrical clockface dial (3) is provided at the front side (2) of the housing (1), the outer circumference of said cylindrical clockface dial partially projecting beyond the sides (17) of the housing (1). A thermostat module (5) that is covered by a housing cover (10) is arranged at the back side (4) of the housing (1).

Abstract: A method of operating a refrigeration system having a compressor driven by an engine, with the refrigeration system being operable in a first control mode to hold the temperature of a conditioned space at a selected set point temperature, and in a second control mode to maintain the engine in a ready-to-start condition. The second control mode includes monitoring the ambient temperature, and determining a dynamic set point temperature as a function of ambient temperature. The engine is started and stopped to maintain engine startability, and also as a function of the dynamic set point temperature, to maintain the temperature of the conditioned space at the dynamic set point temperature while maintaining the engine in a ready-to-start condition. Control is changed from the second to the first control mode, when a programmed start feature is activated, with the time of such mode change being a function of the difference between the ambient temperature and the selected set point temperature.

Abstract: A control assembly in combination with a thermostatically responsive apparatus. In a preferred mode the principles of the present invention are applied to an infra-red heating system of the type including burner assemblies (12, 12') connected in series by a heating pipe (14), the assemblies being further connected by heating pipes (14) to a vacuum pump (40). The pump (40) is driven by a variable-speed electric motor (42) which is responsive to a thermostat (16) which may initiate, through control panel (15), operation of the burner assemblies. The burning rate of the burner assemblies is controlled by varying the speed of the electric motor and this is accomplished by the control assembly (44) which is responsive to indoor and outdoor temperature sensing devices (48, 50). The control assembly is initially programmed with climatic data which is correlated with operational speeds of the pump to give desired thermal operational characteristics of the burners at differing temperature ranges.

Abstract: A computer (37) or microprocessor-based thermostat system (10) for automatically determining and implementing an optimum thermostat setback schedule (80) which, while maintaining a user-specified occupancy comfort schedule (39), minimizes the energy consumption of the climate control system (18) within an enclosure (30).

Abstract: An air mixing type automotive air-conditioner is disclosed in which an air fed by a blower is heated to a hot air by a hot water type heater, and a mixture ratio between a cold air flowing through a bypass passage around the heater and the hot air is adjusted by an air mixing door used as an adjustment damper. The air-conditioner comprises an outside temperature sensor for generating a first signal, a room temperature setter for generating a second signal, a room temperature sensor for generating a third signal, a first arithmetic unit for calculating a desired blown air temperature on the basis of the first and second signals, and a second arithmetic unit for calculating and controlling a desired blown air flow on the basis of the second and third signals. The air-conditioner is so controlled as to obtain the blown air temperature most suitable for a thermal load of the air-conditioner.

Abstract: An outdoor temperature sensing assembly includes a temperature sensor such as a thermocouple having a given length mounted inside a thermal mass of low thermal conductivity. This thermal mass is mounted on a mounting plate and shielded by an upper wall, two side walls, and an end wall for free air circulation through the open bottom of the shield yet the shield protects the temperature sensor and thermal mass from sun, wind and rain.

Abstract: A device for controlling an opening angle of an air mixing damper used in an automotive air conditioning system is disclosed. The device has an actuator for operating the air mixing damper and a blower for blowing the air. The device comprises an ambient air temperature sensor which is disposed on a front grill of an automobile for detecting the ambient air temperature at the exterior of the automobile and for providing a control signal, and a measuring circuit which computes the ambient air temperature data necessary for controlling the actuator and blower based on the detected ambient air temperature. The device controls the opening angle of the air mixing damper in accordance with the measured results.

Abstract: A duct type air conditioning system with a variable capacity blower in which the maximum blower capacity is established at initialization of the system at the optimum blower capacity. The optimum capacity is established by varying the capacity of the blower and measuring the air flow volume and air flow noise. The optimum capacity is inputed into the control system through a central thermostat which has a liquid crystal display associated therewith. The system installer interfaces with the control system by a dialog which occurs through the liquid crystal display. The optimum capacity of the blower is stored in a memory device, and the control system variably controls the capacity of the blower so as not to exceed the optimum capacity.

Abstract: A system for automatically controlling heating and air conditioning equipment that make up the environmental control system in a building. The system measures heat flow into and out of the building by means of an infrared sensor mounted on an inner wall and directed toward an outer wall or window. In the winter the system logic monitors the ambient temperature and if sufficient heat flow is present to allow the incoming thermo energy to heat the internal environment to the desired set point, the system directs the shut off of the furnace. In summer the system logic decides when the heat flow has decreased to a point that the air conditioning equipment can be shut down. An adjustable time delay is response to heat flow is used to compensate for rapid changes in heat flow experienced during partially cloudy days.

Abstract: A control system for air conditioning and/or hot water supplying apparatus using a central heat source supplies cooling or heating to a plurality of dwelling units of a congregated or multi-storied house. The system calculates the optimum operating condition of the air conditioning and/or hot water supplying apparatus in each of the dwelling units using the operating state information of the central heat source, the weather information forecasted on the basis of the outdoor weather information, the indoor atmosphere information, and the operating state of the air conditioning and/or hot water supplying apparatus in the dwelling units, and the optimum condition is displayed on an output terminal device in each of the dwelling units.

Abstract: Radiator housing assembly, for a hydronic baseboard heater for heating a room or area, forming a part of an overall building or zone heating system having a master thermostat, said assembly having a damper which is positionable between open and closed positions in a controlled manner to regulate the flow of heated ambient air therethrough. The damper is adapted for automatic electrical positioning in response to a remote control device, such as an adjustable thermostat in the room or area to be heated in order to maintain the room or area at a predetermined desired temperature at or lower than the temperature setting on the master thermostat, thereby conserving energy.

Abstract: A device for changing the temperature in a room includes: a refrigerant circuit including a refrigerant compressor, a condenser and an evaporator for receiving condensed refrigerant from the condenser; a cooling circuit including a cold accumulator for containing a cooling liquid, a heat exchanger for receiving cooling liquid from the cold accumulator and a pump for circulating cooling liquid through the cooling circuit; the evaporator being received in the cold accumulator to generate and accumulate cold in the cooling liquid by absorbing heat from the cooling liquid; a fan arranged to circulate air in the room through the heat exchanger for cooling the air; a control system arranged to start operation of the fan and the cooling circuit in response to a person entering the room and to stop operation of the fan and the cooling circuit in response to a person leaving the room; and a timer arranged to stop operation of the operating refrigerating circuit when a predetermined amount of cold has been generated an

Abstract: A sanitary system for thermostatically controlled supply of hot and cold water to a number of tapping locations includes a hot water storage container, piping to the tapping locations, thermostatically controlled mixing valves and tapping faucets or valves. The thermostatically controlled mixing valves are located at the water heater or storage container, and a tapping valve for adjustment and control of the water quantity is mounted at each separate tapping location. One single pipe line extends from each mixing valve to the respective tapping location. The system includes a microprocessor control with a manual temperature control at each tapping location for selection of water temperature, and a thermostatically influenced control system for each of the mixing valves including a processor controlled mechanical drive for adjustment of each mixing valve in correspondence with the water temperature defined at the tapping location.

Abstract: An air conditioner includes a plurality of refrigerant compressors, a plurality of ventilating fans and a cooling/warming water pump which is controlled by both a memory and a contact-less control unit in accordance with an outdoor temperature and a refrigerant temperature which are sensed by associated temperature sensors. Alternatively, the control unit may be connected to both protective devices disposed on the fans, the compressors, the pump, etc. and further connected to a digital indicator which indicates the operating status of the air conditioner.

Abstract: A heating system control device is responsive to the drop in outside temperature to below a predetermined weatherhead set point for turning on a heating system to be controlled. Upon the establishment of the heat in the heating system, a defined heating cycle is carried out consisting of a heat-on portion and a heat-off portion having a duty cycle dependent on the outside temperature. The heating cycle does not start until there is an establishment of heat in the heating system. The start of consecutive heating cycles is delayed in response to a check for heat loss in the system. When heat is established and the set point has not been reached, as noted by the means for determining the establishment of heat in the heating system, the next cycle will be delayed to save energy.

Abstract: An air-conditioning method and system for an automotive vehicle according to the present invention automatically maintains the temperature of air within the passenger compartment at a value preset by a passenger compartment air temperature presetting device and adjusted to a comfortable temperature which varies according to the outside-air temperature in accordance with a predetermined relationship defined by three linear functions having two points of intersection. The method comprises the steps of calculating a basic outlet duct air temperature, calculating an outlet duct air temperature correction, adding the two calculated values, and calculating an air mix door opening percentage, in addition to calculating a comfortable passenger compartment air temperature.

Abstract: A thermostatic control for electric cables used on overhanging eaves of pitched roofs in northern climates, and in rain gutters and downspouts, comprises a high temperature-limit switch and a low temperature-limit switch connected in series circuit for controlling energization to a narrow temperature range extending from the freezing temperature of water to several degrees colder. Above-freezing temperatures will melt ice and snow without supplemental heating, and sufficiently colder temperatures will not be raised sufficiently by heat loss through a building roof to thaw ice and snow accumulation on the roof and provide run-off water to the unheated eave, rain gutter and downspout where freezing can occur and result in the formation of an ice dam which will block drainage of further run-off water and which may grow in size to cause water to back-up and seep under roofing shingles to leak through the roof.

Abstract: An arrangement for controlling room temperature in conjunction with a heating or air conditioning system which operates throughout successive and uniform periods of time, each period of time being divided into a first time interval and a second time interval and including a first computer for a rapid heating or rapid cooling curve and a second computer for computing an actual value room temperature curve in accordance with input data including outside weather conditions, building value etc., the heating or air conditioning system being switched off at the beginning of the second time interval and switched on at a predetermined instant during the second time interval thereby effecting a substantial savings in energy.

Abstract: A system for controlling the starting time of a thermal conditioning system for air in an enclosed space includes a pneumatic temperature transmitter, a pressure chamber, bleed device, and a valve for selectively providing communications either between the temperature transmitter and the pressure chamber (first position) or the pressure chamber and bleed device (second position). When a timing device is turned off at a predetermined time the valve is actuated into the first position. The pressure in the pressure chamber then rises and actuates a switch to shut off the thermal conditioning system. The pneumatic temperature transmitter then senses a temperature which is indicative of the amount of thermal conditioning necessary to bring the temperature of the air in the enclosed space to a desired level by a predetermined time and generates in response thereto an air pressure signal.

Abstract: An automatic temperature control system for a building that includes a night setback feature and a morning pickup feature that operates as a function of outside air temperature and wind velocity. A seven day time scheduler and a short cycle auxiliary timer control the system operation. System automatically resumes proper scheduled operation following power failure that does not exceed mechanical carry-over time of seven day time scheduler.

Abstract: The efficiency of an environmental control system such as a heating, ventilating and air conditioning system is enhanced and energy is conserved by starting and stopping the heating or air conditioning modes of operation at variable times at the beginning and end of an occupancy period, which times are a function of an environmental condition, such as outside temperature in the case of heating and inside temperature in the case of air conditioning. To this end a control system is provided which generates an output for initiating and terminating the operation of the conditioner. Separate intervals during which the generation of the variable output for initiating the operation of the conditioner and for terminating the operation thereof are established as by means of an arrangement of cams driven by a timer motor which runs during these intervals.

Abstract: A device for controlling the heating of a hot water boiler includes a first temperature sensor sensing the temperature of the boiler liquid and operating means adapted to switch a control switch. It also includes an outside temperature sensor to be arranged elsewhere and comprising a liquid-filled reservoir which communicates via a capillary with a tubular coil spring of the control device, which spring also actuates means which are adapted to switch the first switch. The tubular coil spring is arranged to actuate with an outer winding means adapted to change, through this actuation, the relative position of elements of the control switch and hence the temperature at which the control switch is switched under the control of the first temperature sensor.

Abstract: A programmable device for controlling the amount of heat supplied to a building by opening and closing a circuit to a heat source such as an oil or gas burner or a steam valve during predetermined times and in response to the temperature of the outside air. The predetermined times can occur during a multiday cycle, such as a week. As the outside air temperature rises and falls, the circuit will be closed later or sooner, respectively. Additionally, the device can be set so that when the outside air temperature falls below a predetermined level the circuit is closed to add heat to the building notwithstanding where in the programmed cycle the device is. Conversely, the device can be set so that when the outside air temperature reaches a predetermined maximum, the circuit is opened to halt the addition of heat to the building notwithstanding wherein the programmed cycle the device is.

Abstract: A temperature control system having heating and cooling means is provided with a means for automatically shifting the temperature control point in accordance with the outdoor ambient temperature and the K-Factor of the room in which the temperature control system is operating. Means are provided for modifying a signal corresponding to the outdoor ambient temperature in accordance with the K-Factor of the room and the modified signal is used to shift the control point so that room temperature changes caused by heat transfer through the walls are prevented by providing additional heating or cooling to compensate for such transfer without the need for adjusting the set point of the temperature control system. The K-Factor adjustment is made during installation of the temperature control system and is set in accordance with the K-Factor provided by the building architect.

Abstract: A control unit for a temperature regulating system for heating or cooling a space includes an analog network, responsive to various variable environmental factors and simulating various fixed environment or building factors, is connected to a condenser to charge it. A predetermined voltage represents the desired temperature and is measured by a voltage sensor which is connected with circuitry for calculating rapidly the time needed for the system to be "on", whereby, for example, needed heating time is determined in a fraction of the actual time.