Abstract: An apparatus and method for the automatic adjustment of window coverings and the like, receiving externally-broadcast time-and-date signal as a temporal reference for making scheduled adjustments to the window covering. One embodiment comprises an antenna, a conventional broadcast time signal receiver/decoder, a motorized adjustable window covering, a conventional microcontroller with non-volatile memory, and human-operated controls for on-demand adjustments and memory commands. The broadcast time signal provides high reliability, high precision timing control, which allows synchronization of multiple units in separate windows, without the need for a central control system. Some embodiments of the invention have a learning function which is operated by making an adjustment in a conventional, familiar manner, combined with a learn command.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the automatic adjustment of windows coverings and the like, receiving externally-broadcast time-and-date signal as a temporal reference for making scheduled adjustments to the window covering. One embodiment comprises an antenna, a conventional broadcast time signal receiver/decoder, a motorized adjustable window covering, a conventional microcontroller with non-volatile memory, and human-operated controls for on-demand adjustments and memory commands. The broadcast time signal provides high reliability, high precision timing control, which allows synchronization of multiple units in separate windows, without the need for a central control system. Some embodiments of the invention have a learning function which is operated by making an adjustment in a conventional, familiar manner, combined with a learn command.

Abstract: An automated shade system comprises one or more motorized window coverings, sensors, and controllers that use one or more algorithms to control operation of the automated shade control system. These algorithms may include information such as: 3-D models of a building and surrounding structures; shadow information; lighting and radiation information; ASHRAE clear sky algorithms; log information related to manual overrides; occupant preference information; motion information; real-time sky conditions; solar radiation on a building; a total foot-candle load on a structure; brightness overrides; actual and/or calculated BTU load; time-of-year information; and microclimate analysis.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to automated shade systems. An automated shade system comprises one or more motorized window coverings, sensors, and controllers that use one or more algorithms to control operation of the automated shade control system. These algorithms may include information such as: 3-D models of a building and surrounding structures; shadow information; lighting and radiation information; ASHRAE clear sky algorithms; log information related to manual overrides; occupant preference information; motion information; real-time sky conditions; solar radiation on a building; a total foot-candle load on a structure; brightness overrides; actual and/or calculated BTU load; time-of-year information; and microclimate analysis.

Abstract: A photosensitive device for warning an individual that the interior light level on one side of the window is greater than the light level on the outside of the window includes first and second photo sensors, a comparator circuit and/or a logic circuit and an alarm. The device may also include a timer, an amplifier and rheostat as well as a visual indicator that remains in a on condition after an audible sound is turned off. A reset circuit is used to turn off the visual indicator. A method for accomplishing the same is also described.

Abstract: A system for reducing sun glare through an opening into a space, the system comprising an electrically controllable window treatment operable to alter the amount of daylight entering the space through the opening; a first sensor mounted within the space and characterized by a sensor gain, the first sensor operable to sense a level of illumination in the space; and a control system operable: to compare the sensed illumination level in the space to a dead-band having upper and lower thresholds; to adjust during a time period when glare from the sun can occur through the opening at least one of: (a) the upper threshold of the dead-band, (b) the lower threshold of the dead-band, and (c) the sensor gain of the first sensor; and to adjust the window treatment in response to the sensed level of illumination to reduce the sun glare.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for a multi-sheet glazing unit including two or more sheets oriented by a spacer in a substantially parallel and spaced apart relationship. The sheets may include a peripheral edge and an air space or gap therebetween. A sensing device may be inside or in air communication with the air space. The sensing device may be used to sense an environmental condition data in the air space or gap.

Abstract: A system for reducing sun glare through an opening into a space, the system comprising an electrically controllable window treatment operable to alter the amount of daylight entering the space through the opening; a first sensor mounted within the space and characterized by a sensor gain, the first sensor operable to sense a level of illumination in the space; and a control system operable: to compare the sensed illumination level in the space to a dead-band having upper and lower thresholds; to adjust during a time period when glare from the sun can occur through the opening at least one of: (a) the upper threshold of the dead-band, (b) the lower threshold of the dead-band, and (c) the sensor gain of the first sensor; and to adjust the window treatment in response to the sensed level of illumination to reduce the sun glare.

Abstract: A powered awning assembly has an awning frame with a first side arm member having a first distal end and a first proximate end for attachment to a wall and a second side arm member having a second distal end and a second proximate end for attachment to a wall. A connecting member has a first end attached to the distal end of the first side arm and a second end attached to the distal end of the second side arm. A roll awning is attached to the awning frame. A wind sensor assembly is attached to one of the first side arm and the second side arm.

Abstract: An automated lighting and building control system that is operative to control a large number of lights and to provide control to other control systems, such as security systems, powered window coverings, and HVAC systems, within a geographic area based on a large amount of input data, including day light conditions, occupancy data, security information, HVAC data, etc. The savings generated by the control system are measurable and verifiable and enable the operator of the controlled space to analyze exactly how the controlled space is being utilized. To improve the quality of the overall control system, the present invention utilizes a universal occupancy adapter for converting any motion detector for a security system, into a component of the lighting/building controller. Further, the entire system can be controlled remotely over the Internet without the need for special software.

Abstract: A load control system provides for automatically controlling a position of a motorized window treatment to control the amount of sunlight entering a space of a building through a window located in a façade of the building in order to control a sunlight penetration distance within the space and minimize occupant distractions. The load control system automatically generates a timeclock schedule having a number of timeclock events for controlling the position of the motorized window treatment during the present day. A user is able to select a desired maximum sunlight penetration distance for the space and a minimum time period that may occur between any two consecutive timeclock events. In addition, a maximum number of movements that may occur during the timeclock schedule may also be entered. The load control system uses these inputs to determine event times and corresponding positions of the motorized window treatment for each timeclock event of the timeclock schedule.

Abstract: An electronically-controlled roll-up window shade that can easily be installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The motorized shade includes an internal power source, a motor, and a communication system to allow for remote control of the motorized shade. One or more motorized shades can be controlled singly or as a group. In one embodiment, the motorized shades are used in connection with a zoned or non-zoned HVAC system to reduce energy usage. In one embodiment, the motorized shade is configured to have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled motorized shade. In one embodiment, a group controller is configured to provide thermostat information to the motorized shade. In one embodiment, the group controller communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of one or more motorized shades. In one embodiment, the internal power source of the motorized shade is recharged by a solar cell.

Abstract: A system for reducing sun glare through an opening into a space, the system comprising an electrically controllable window treatment operable to alter the amount of daylight entering the space through the opening; a first sensor mounted within the space and characterized by a sensor gain, the first sensor operable to sense a level of illumination in the space; and a control system operable: to compare the sensed illumination level in the space to a dead-band having upper and lower thresholds; to adjust during a time period when glare from the sun can occur through the opening at least one of: (a) the upper threshold of the dead-band, (b) the lower threshold of the dead-band, and (c) the sensor gain of the first sensor; and to adjust the window treatment in response to the sensed level of illumination to reduce the sun glare.

Abstract: A system for reducing sun glare through an opening into a space, the system comprising an electrically controllable window treatment operable to alter the amount of daylight entering the space through the opening; a first sensor mounted within the space and characterized by a sensor gain, the first sensor operable to sense a level of illumination in the space; and a control system operable: to compare the sensed illumination level in the space to a dead-band having upper and lower thresholds; to adjust during a time period when glare from the sun can occur through the opening at least one of: (a) the upper threshold of the dead-band, (b) the lower threshold of the dead-band, and (c) the sensor gain of the first sensor; and to adjust the window treatment in response to the sensed level of illumination to reduce the sun glare.

Abstract: This invention generally relates to automated shade systems. An automated shade system comprises one or more motorized window coverings, sensors, and controllers that use one or more algorithms to control operation of the automated shade control system. These algorithms may include information such as: 3-D models of a building and surrounding structures; shadow information; lighting and radiation information; ASHRAE clear sky algorithms; log information related to manual overrides; occupant preference information; motion information; real-time sky conditions; solar radiation on a building; a total foot-candle load on a structure; brightness overrides; actual and/or calculated BTU load; time-of-year information; and microclimate analysis.

Abstract: An electronically-controlled roll-up window shade that can easily be installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The motorized shade includes an internal power source, a motor, and a communication system to allow for remote control of the motorized shade. One or more motorized shades can be controlled singly or as a group. In one embodiment, the motorized shades are used in connection with a zoned or non-zoned HVAC system to reduce energy usage. In one embodiment, the motorized shade is configured to have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled motorized shade. In one embodiment, a group controller is configured to provide thermostat information to the motorized shade. In one embodiment, the group controller communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of one or more motorized shades. In one embodiment, the internal power source of the motorized shade is recharged by a solar cell.

Abstract: An electronically-controlled roll-up window shade that can easily be installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The motorized shade includes an internal power source, a motor, and a communication system to allow for remote control of the motorized shade. One or more motorized shades can be controlled singly or as a group. In one embodiment, the motorized shades are used in connection with a zoned or non-zoned HVAC system to reduce energy usage. In one embodiment, the motorized shade is configured to have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled motorized shade. In one embodiment, a group controller is configured to provide thermostat information to the motorized shade. In one embodiment, the group controller communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of one or more motorized shades. In one embodiment, the internal power source of the motorized shade is recharged by a solar cell.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method which consists in detecting and discriminating at least three states, respectively blue sky, white sky and direct sunlight. The discrimination between the three states is based, for example, on an intermediate detection distinguishing between either a homogenous state or a nonhomogeneous state of the sky. White sky means a sky saturated with humidity, with strong light diffusion and producing a high level of brightness. The method can be implemented, for example by using sensors or a monochromatic or color camera.

Abstract: A load detection system for lateral and vertical arm awnings generally includes a motorized roller with a fabric wound thereabout in a retracted position and extendable therefrom. Arms are provided for supporting the fabric in an extended position and at least one sensor is utilized for sensing strain due to extended awning loading and producing a load signal corresponding thereto. A controller is incorporated and responsive to the load signal for causing the motorized roller to retract and extend the fabric.

Abstract: An illumination maintenance system for maintaining a desired illumination profile in a space throughout at least a portion of a day where the illumination sources include daylight and artificial light, the system comprising a first sensor for sensing an illumination level in at least a portion of the space, at least one window treatment for at least one opening for allowing daylight into the space, the window treatment selectively altering the amount of daylight entering the space, a plurality of electric lamps providing artificial light to supplement the daylight illumination of the space; the electric lamps being dimmable, a control system controlling the at least one window treatment and the plurality of electric lamps to maintain the desired illumination profile in the space, the control system controlling the plurality of electric lamps so that the dimming level of each lamp is adjusted to achieve the desired lighting profile and compensate for the daylight illumination in the space throughout at least t

Abstract: An automatic-shutter system functions as a counter-measure to the in-band frequency agile laser threat posed to the eyes of pilot(s)/operator(s). Ideally it is desirable to protect the operator from every laser pulse including the first. However, the lack of fast shutters or optical gates (faster than a micro-second) suitable for visible usage has prevented the protection from a first pulse threat. The automatic-shutter system detects the first pulse and provides protection against any subsequent pulses. This is achieved by a multi-directional detector system for actuating shutters on the aircraft/vehicle. The detector, after detecting a pulse of laser light, further comprises processing means in electrical communication with the multi-directional detector for processing a detected pulse of laser light and to generate a signal responsive thereto. A plurality of shutters can be individually or group dropped in response to shutter actuating means to provide protection against subsequent pulses of laser light.

Abstract: An awning, in particular an awning with a supporting arm, the cloth (1) of which can be unwound from a tube or winding shaft (2) driven by an electric motor (9) and in which are provided means for measuring the drive torque which supply a variable representing the windforce acting on the awning cloth. The measuring means are associated with a logical processing unit (15) in which are recorded three torque values, namely a danger, a safety and an all-clear value, on the basis of which values the LPU allows or activates the partial or complete unwinding or winding of the cloth.

Abstract: A system for automatic regulation of daylight admitted by a window in the presence of artificial illumination produced by a high-efficiency (e.g., fluorescent-type) electric lamp. A preferred embodiment, adaptive window covering system 10, consists of an illuminance sensor 11, a conventional control apparatus 12, and a conventional shading means 13. System 10 is used in conjunction with a conventional, high-efficiency, electric lamp 14 and a conventional window 18, in a room 19.Sensor 11 produces a signal dependent on power contained in a portion of the daylight spectrum, but substantially insensitive to power contained in the spectrum of artificial illumination produced by lamp 14. In a preferred embodiment, sensor 11 includes a silicon photodiode and optical low-pass filter to provide a spectral response which extends from approximately 800 to 1200 nanometers, which falls outside the spectrum produced by typical fluorescent lamps (e.g, 300 to 750 nanometers).

Abstract: An electrical control arrangement for a curtain assembly has a reversible electric, preferably DC, drive motor, drive devices for connecting the motor to one or more curtains for movement of the curtains in opening and closing directions in response to rotation of the motor in respective opposite directions, and a control device for the motor. The control device includes first, user-operable, preferably remotely-operable, switch device for selecting opening and closing directions of curtain movement, and second switch device positionable for operation by a curtain upon reaching a limit position of its movement in an opening and/or a closing direction.

Abstract: A system for the automatic regulation of daylight admitted into a room, specifically intended for daylighting applications. A preferred embodiment, system 10, consisting of a conventional control unit 11, a conventional exterior brightness sensor 12, and a conventional electronically controlled window covering 13, operates to block direct solar radiation while admitting substantial diffuse illumination. Control unit 11, brightness sensor 12, and window covering 13 are interconnected in a known manner to enable control unit 11 to register the brightness of the external illumination, and to actuate window covering 13. Control unit 11 consists of a conventional microcontroller 14, a conventional real-time clock/calendar 15, and a conventional Non-Volatile Memory (NVM) 16. Microcontroller 14, clock/calendar 15, and NVM 16 are interconnected in a known manner to enable microcontroller 14 to register the output of clock/calendar 15, and to exchange data with NVM 16.

Abstract: An artificial lighting system comprises a daylight sensor for sensing a level of daylight, artificial light source means for providing a level of artificial light, daylight control means for control of the level of daylight and a controller for control of the level of artificial light dependent on the sensed level of daylight. The controller decreases the level of artificial light with increasing level of daylight when the sensed daylight level is below a threshold, and reduces the amount of daylight through control of the daylight control means when the sensed daylight level is above the threshold.

Abstract: An electromotive curtain machine for drying clothes using a rain sensor, a sunshine sensor, and a wind sensor which will send existing rain, sun, or wind conditions to a central processing unit so as to control a curtain driving unit. The curtain driving unit will close curtains to protect drying clothes from undesirable weather elements. When more desirable weather elements exist, the curtain driving unit will open curtains so that the clothes drying may continue. Curtain rails are used on the electromotive curtain machine capable of withstanding strong winds. The electromotive curtain machine is suitable for a narrow apartment veranda or a house where the space is limited.

Abstract: There is disclosed a photosensitive automatic controller for use with window coverings in particular for use with venetian blinds. The controller includes a reversible motor, a drive circuit, a photosensitive sensor, a user input, a control signal processor, a command circuit and a feedback sensor. The reversible motor is operably connected to the opening and closing device and it has a predetermined range from open to closed which corresponds to the window covering being fully opened and fully closed. The drive circuit is operably connected to the motor for generating a drive signal which drives the motor in a predetermined range from opened to closed. The photosensitive sensor generates a sensor signal. The user input generates an input signal. The control signal processor is operably connected to the photosensitive sensor and the user input and the sensor signal is combined with the input signal to produce a control signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a glare shielding device which affords significantly improved efficacy in shielding a vehicular occupant'eyes against sun rays. The device includes a glare shield which is preferably pivotally mounted onto a track following guide, a track guide of an arced configuration for tracking the following guide thereupon and the adjusting of the glare shield to a glare shielding position and means for mounting the device onto the vehicular inner roof in close proximity to the occupant's eyes. If desired, the deviced may be equipped with a light sensor and responsive means thereto for automatically adjusting the glare shield to the appropriate shielding position.

Abstract: The lowering and raising of slats of a venetian blind are controlled by control signals from a photodetector circuit which is mounted adjacent to the venetian blind and which acts responsive to predetermined limit values of the background brightness being exceeded. Following lowering of the venetian blind, control of the closing or screening angle of the slats is provided by a sun-tracking photodetector affixed to a slat and operating in dependence upon the angular alignment of the slat. In order to fix the closing angle of the slats at a selected value, subsequent adjustment of the slats is controlled by the sun-tracking photodetector which can, in turn, be controlled externally by a manually operated keying mechanism. The photodetector used in measurement of background brightness comprises three aligned photodiodes which are directed skyward in three different directions and which together detect the incident light over the full range of 180.degree. in front of the venetian blind.

Abstract: A shade unit having a frame defining a skylight opening, to which is attached a motor assembly and a shade assembly. A control unit consisting of an open stop switch, a close stop switch controls the motor assembly with a relay switch charging the motors polarity. A wall switch controls the relay switch and a photoelectric switch which can also control the relay switch.

Abstract: A device for opening and closing a closure member, typically a curtain in which a cord is associated with the closure member and has a bight portion located in the first plane and a pair of substantially parallel, spaced first and second reaches located in a second plane spaced from the first plane. The device comprises a drive roller for driving engagement with the bight portion, a reversible electric motor for driving the drive roller, the diameter of the drive roller being larger than the spacing between the parallel reaches. First and second pulleys are provided between the reaches and the bight to allow a change in direction of the cord between the reaches and the bight, the first pulley being rotatable about an axis which is skewed relative to the first and second planes. Thus, the reaches pass around the respective pulleys and when the reaches leave the pulleys the spacing between the reaches is substantially similar to the diameter of the drive roller.

Abstract: A window blind control apparatus is set forth wherein the apparatus enables selective control in the opening and closing of an associated window blind arrangement utilizing selectively a photo-electric cell, a radio frequency controller, or a manually displaceable slide switch for the opening and closing of the window blind unit that comprises a series of parallel slats.

Abstract: A window blind system for a window comprising a longitudinal casing which is arranged to be transversely fixed to a window frame above a window to be shaded, a roller blind mechanism carrying an opaque blind and mounted to the casing in a position under the casing and a driving assembly and a control circuit and a control unit for operating the roller mechanism unit to roll out or rewind the blind.

Abstract: An automatic electro-mechanical device for opening and closing a curtain or drapery in response to changed light striking a photoelectric cell on the device. The device comprises a miniature high torque reversible electric motor and control packaged in a container of substantially the same size as a conventional cord tensioner of curtains or draperies. To close the drapes at sun-down and open the drapes at sun-up automatically without actuation if the lighting changes for short periods of time, the device comprises a dual timer circuit with individual ramping circuits. One timer circuit monitors the sustained presence or absence of light for a predetermined amount of time. The other timer regulates the motor drive run time. A flip flop circuit signals the current state of the curtains or drapes by providing memory of the last directional movement of the motor.

Abstract: Automatic control device for the slats of a venetian blind which responds to ambient radiation and which includes at least one reversible electric motor connected to rotate the slats between open and closed conditions, a sensing device indicating the level of ambient radiation of light and/or heat, two switches connected to the motor to determine its direction of rotation, an electrical control circuit responding to the sensing device to operate either one of the two switches, and limit switches to halt the motor in predetermined condition of the slats.

Abstract: Improved method and apparatus for automatically moving a set of venetian type window blinds or similar louvered window coverings or partitions between open or closed positions in response to sensing a predetermined level of solar energy imposed on the window or opening across which the covering is to be disposed.

Abstract: An air/smoke/fire damper including a frame and a pair of damper blades pivoted for rotation within the frame between an open and a closed position, and comprising a heat responsive latch including mounting straps associated with each of the damper blades; a fusible link engaging one of the mounting straps; and a hook pivotally associated with the other mounting strap and extending over the edges of the damper blades and into engagement with the fusible link. Also, a locking mechanism for restraining the blades in the closed position upon release of the heat responsive latch, and a retaining lug for preventing blade buckling in the closed position.

Abstract: Security proof shutter structure applicable to windows, doors, store or garage fronts, utilizing slats constructed of steel or the like. A special S-shaped spring linkage means is secured to respective ends of the slats. The lower hook of each linkage means being engaged with the upper hook of the adjacent linkage means to provide a rotatively operative linkage between adjacent slats without fixed attachment.The hooked linkage is well adapted to independently install or remove any one slat on site and to independently control by sliding the closing of the louvre spacing between adjacent slats or moving apart from each other. The louvre spacing between adjacent slats can be progressively closed or opened. The full lowering takes place with opened louvre spacing and by continued lowering the progressive closing of the louvre spacing between adjacent slats will take place. The winding around the upper roller takes place with fully opened louvre spacing.

Abstract: Window shade structure for reducing heat loss or heat gain through a window or other "thermal opening" wherein the shade body is drawable over the window and is collapsible into a reduced storage volume. The shade body comprises opposed walls of thin, sheet-like layers of flexible and resilient material joined together along spaced parallel adhesion lines to form a plurality of contiguous and parallel channels in the shade body. A strip-like sealing slat on the surfaces of the window frame which oppose the edge portions of the shade body, and a slot-like recess formed in the opposite edges of the shade body and extending the full length thereof receive the edge portions and portions of the lateral surfaces of the sealing slat, with the free edges of the sheet-like layers being flexed against the lateral surfaces of the sealing slat to insure against convective air flow and provide an effective convective seal.

Abstract: A system for the protection of a building, house, or like structure, is provided which affords protection against the forces of wind, pressure differentials, water and sound. The device features a ventilation system which allows normal ventilation of the structure, but provides an increased area through which air can travel in the event of a tornado or like storm which produces a rapid and large change in atmospheric pressure. There is additionally provided a wind deflecting side portion which remains in a normally open position, which open position absorbs and deflects the force of high velocity winds as is generated by hurricanes and the like. Water protection is provided by drains and deflecting anti-splash plates that prevent the entry of excessive amounts of water into the inner portion of the structure. Within the structure, louvers through inner walls equalize pressure between different rooms, lessening the chance for pressure differential change.

Abstract: A photosensitive surface is enclosed behind a wall formed with a vertically open slit which forms with the surface a vertical angle of 80.degree.. This slit is open about 3.degree. and is displaced horizontally past the surface through at least 150.degree. so as to let parallel rays of sunlight fall onto this surface and suppress diffuse nonparallel ground light. The wall can be carried on a support also carrying the photosensitive surface, e.g. a photoresistor, photocell, or photodiode, which is used to control an awning, roller blinds, or the like.