Abstract: A controller equipped with a controller interface configured to accept one or more input parameters is disclosed, including methods for programming such devices. An illustrative controller interface may include a number of knobs, slides, buttons, or other input means for setting various set-points within the controller that can be used to control one or more HVAC system components of a building or structure. The input parameters may correspond directly to physical parameters of the building or structure being regulated, allowing the user to program the controller without having an extensive knowledge of HVAC systems or their operation.

Abstract: A humidifier for direct low pressure injection of steam into a duct. A source of steam is provided, and a steam tube is in fluid communication with the source of steam. A distal end segment of the steam tube is inclined with respect to the horizontal when the system is mounted to a duct to cause condensation within the steam tube to drain back to the source of steam under the force of gravity. The distal end of the steam tube includes an opening having a lip on an inside surface of the opening, where the lip directs condensation formed at the opening to flow back into the steam tube and back to the source of steam.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for meeting a fresh air ventilation threshold in a controlled space. In particular, and in some embodiments, a minimum ventilation threshold is met by using normal air handler fan cycles to minimize the energy cost of supplying the ventilation. Prediction methods may be employed to determine whether the air handler and damper need to be activated to meet a minimum ventilation threshold, even when the HVAC system is not currently calling for normal air handler fan cycles. In some cases, the past history of air handler fan run cycles is used to determine whether a fan should be operated now to provide additional fresh air ventilation. Alternatively, or in addition, predictions of future air handler cycles are used to determine whether a fan should be operated now to provide additional fresh air ventilation.

Abstract: Collapsible filter assemblies for use with pleated or other filter media are disclosed. A collapsible filter assembly can include at least one filter element including a filter media supported within a collapsible filter frame. The filter frame can include a number of frame members each including a number of frame panel sections hingedly connected to each other. Each frame member can be configured to bend or fold outwardly away from the sides of the filter media to permit the filter frame to be actuated between a collapsed position and an expanded position. A number of elastic members can be coupled to opposing sets of frame members in order to bias the filter frame in the expanded position, causing the filter assembly to self-expand when removed from its packaging. During installation, such auto-expanding feature reduces the amount of time required for the installer to place the filter assembly into service.

Abstract: A humidifier for direct low pressure injection of steam into a duct. A source of steam is provided, and a steam tube is in fluid communication with the source of steam. A distal end segment of the steam tube is inclined with respect to the horizontal when the system is mounted to a duct to cause condensation within the steam tube to drain back to the source of steam under the force of gravity. The distal end of the steam tube includes an opening having a lip on an inside surface of the opening, where the lip directs condensation formed at the opening to flow back into the steam tube and back to the source of steam.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for meeting a fresh air ventilation threshold in a controlled space. In particular, and in some embodiments, a minimum ventilation threshold is met by using normal air handler fan cycles to minimize the energy cost of supplying the ventilation. Prediction methods may be employed to determine whether the air handler and damper need to be activated to meet a minimum ventilation threshold, even when the HVAC system is not currently calling for normal air handler fan cycles. In some cases, the past history of air handler fan run cycles is used to determine whether a fan should be operated now to provide additional fresh air ventilation. Alternatively, or in addition, predictions of future air handler cycles are used to determine whether a fan should be operated now to provide additional fresh air ventilation.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing respective electrical components in situ within a circuit having a plurality of the electrical components. A power bus is connected between a power source and switching devices operable for conducting test current to respective ones of the electrical components. A comparator circuit includes inputs connected to the power bus and to a reference potential. A processor is programmed to actuate respective switching devices for causing a test current to be conducted from the power bus through a respective component, while sensing any output signal from the comparator circuit corresponding to an increased potential on the power bus indicative of a reduced current flow caused by an open or failed component.