Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for environmental system controls are provided. A number of human subjects present within a space is determined, which may include counting the human subjects and/or determining a thermal mass of the human subjects. An impact upon an environmental factor by the present human subjects upon the space is determined. Environmental conditioning equipment is controlled based on the determination.

Abstract: A system for reducing utility consumption of at least one subsystem of a facility is disclosed. A utility meter is coupled to the subsystem for monitoring utility consumption of the subsystem and provides data corresponding to the measured energy consumption. A controller in communication with the subsystem and the energy meter is configured to control the operation of the subsystem by employing an operating protocol with the protocol dependent on the data received from the utility meter. The system measures the reduction in utility consumption and generates a credit based on the measured reduction.

Abstract: A system for distributing electronic information signals throughout a structure, particularly a residential dwelling, is disclosed. The system adapts a plurality of electronic information signals to be received by one or more information utilizing devices which are located throughout a structure. The system provides for adapting a multi-line telephone signal distribution hub for use with a one or two telephone lines allows the wiring for an internal telephone system to be installed immediately with a single telephone line interfaced to the multi-line telephone signal distribution hub while a control box and additional telephone lines from the telephone service utility can be readily connected at a later date. Further, the system distributes electronic signals within a room equipped for audio and video presentations and having a plurality of speaker connection locations for use in home theater applications, thus allowing home theater components to be easily and properly set up or changed.

Abstract: A system and method for retrofitting appliances for use with an appliance automation system and for augmenting and expanding the function of an existing appliance automation system. A universal transmitter is provided which can receive instructions from a central audio/visual controller or from any instruction issuing appliance automation controller. The universal transmitter is configured for use with a single appliance and can be used with any appliance having an infrared receiver to which it transmits infrared signals. Control signals, issued by a hand-held infrared transmitter or any appliance automation controller which is connected to the signal-carrying bus, direct the universal transmitter to transmit infrared signals to the appliance being controlled. The present invention also senses whether the appliance is in an on or off state and operates to prevent a power on command from being issued if the appliance is already on.

Abstract: A system for distributing electronic information signals throughout a structure, particularly a residential dwelling, which adapts a plurality of electronic information signals into a signal which can be received by one or more information utilizing devices which are located throughout a structure. In accordance with particular aspects of the present invention, an improved structure and method of installing a plurality of communication cables in a wall adjacent to an existing electrical box attached to a building member is provided. An apparatus for adapting a multi-line telephone signal distribution hub for use with a single telephone line, or two telephone lines, is also included which allows the wiring for an internal KSU/PBX telephone system to be installed immediately and a single telephone line readily interfaced with a multi-line telephone signal distribution hub while a KSU/PBX control box and additional telephone lines from the telephone service utility can be readily connected at a later date.