Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for auto-regulating the fan speed. The method includes detecting the temperature of a thermal source. When the temperature of the thermal source exceeds a target value, the fan speed of the fan is regulated according to a relation between the temperature of the thermal source and the fan speed of the fan. Thereafter, the voltage applied to the fan is micro-adjusted through a feedback control mechanism so that the fan speed of the fan reaches a specified speed in steps.

Abstract: Automated methods, apparatuses and computer program products for controlling environmental parameters in a defined environment are disclosed herein. One method disclosed comprises the steps of: measuring values of temperature, relative humidity, and wind velocity in the environment, calculating a value of perceived temperature as a function of the measured values, and controlling the environmental parameters based on the calculated value. In certain embodiments, the defined environment comprises a chicken house and the temperature perceived by the chickens in the chicken house is calculated as a function of a characteristic of the chickens such as age or weight.

Abstract: Systems and methods to regulate the amount of outdoor air that is introduced into a building. These systems and methods use the cooling coil control signal which is a function of the load on the cooling coil. These systems and methods utilize extremum seeking control logic to vary the flow of outdoor air into the building in response to these load determinations.

Abstract: Systems and methods to regulate the amount of outdoor air that is introduced into a building. These systems and methods determine the mechanical load requirements based on adaptive control functionality. These systems and methods utilize extremum seeking control logic to vary the flow of outdoor air into the building in response to these load determinations.

Abstract: Methods and systems for cooling computer systems, in which the computer system has a processor and a fan. An exemplary method includes: determining a temperature threshold for operating the fan at greater than low speed; determining a temperature of the computer system; and throttling the processor if the determined temperature corresponds to the temperature threshold for operating the fan at greater than low speed.

Abstract: The described method and apparatus pertains namely to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) industry, though its many functions extend into any and all forms of air-fluid movement, metering, distribution, and containment. Essentially, the scope of operation of the method and apparatus encompasses all forms of scientific and engineering measurement dealing with fluid dynamics, fluid statics, fluid mechanics, thermal dynamics, and mechanical engineering as they pertain to precise, articulated control of air-fluid distribution and delivery. The described method and apparatus offers complete, comprehensive, and correct utilization of air-fluid movers and terminal devices under unique sensor logic control, from initial lab testing stages through to equipment cataloguing, selection, design and construction of any and all air-fluid distribution systems in entirety, whereas previously there was no such cohesive, total and terminal method of control for these systems or their components.

Abstract: An air conditioner for a vehicle is provided with an air conditioning unit for blowing conditioned air to a passenger compartment of the vehicle, multiple seat air conditioning units for respectively controlling temperatures of seats of the vehicle, and a control unit for controlling the air conditioning unit and the seat air conditioning units. The larger the difference between a target blowing-out temperature of the air conditioning unit and a compartment setting temperature of the passenger compartment, the larger the degree of influence of the target blowing-out temperature on a seat target blowing-out temperature in the calculation of the seat target blowing-out temperature, based on which the seat air conditioning unit is controlled.

Abstract: An environmental apparatus control system for a comfortable residential environment based upon demands from the residents. The system includes a project composer which relies upon a first reference (R1) and a second reference (R2) to determine a control project based upon the demands. The references are each determined by a first proportion of the count of the temperature lowering demands in the total number of the residents, and a second proportion of the count of the temperature raising demands in the total number of the resident. A first proportion of the count of the first demands in the number of the residents, and a second proportion of the count of the second demands in the number of the residents are obtained to give a current demand ratio which is compared with first and second references for determination of the control project. The first and second references and are defined respectively as different ratios of the first proportion to the second proportion.

Abstract: The present invention applies a slope predictive control method to a Variable Temperature Control (VTC) system, measuring the slope of the discharge temperature as a function of flow regulation device position, and using this slope to predict the position of the flow regulation device needed to achieve the desired discharge temperature. The present invention also monitors the response of the VTC over time and utilizes a self-learning algorithm to predict the response time of the system in order to determine when further control adjustments need to be taken.

Abstract: Techniques for controlling air conditioning and transfer air in an occupied space are described. The example of a commercial restaurant is provided. Features of model based control and integration of load predictors is also described.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a method of forming a ventilated seat. More specifically, in one aspect, the present invention is directed towards providing an insert in fluid communications with an air mover and a seating surface, wherein the system optionally includes a thermoelectric device for providing heating or cooling of air flowing through the insert.

Abstract: A fire stop apparatus for a small duct, high velocity air distribution system is assembled to a duct opening and includes a cylindrical support wall that supports a cylindrical band of intumescent material that expands and closes the duct opening when subjected to the heat of a fire.

Abstract: The present invention provides one or more autonomous in-duct or register grill mounted flow control devices, each of which has the capability to restrict or boost air flow through the duct or vent to which it is attached. The individual flow control devices may be in communication with other flow control devices in the duct works, having an ability to adapt in a cooperative fashion to optimize the environment served by the ductwork. In a preferred embodiment, each of the flow control devices provides its own power and does not require changing the existing ductwork or register boxes for installation.

Abstract: In an embodiment of a vent for a data center cooling system the vent has a body that has a fluid outlet. The body of the vent also has a member that can be adjusted to obstruct the fluid outlet. Mounted to the body of the vent is an electromechanical assembly for effecting an adjustment of the member. The body also has a battery for powering the electromechanical assembly.

Abstract: An ambiance lighting system for a vehicular passenger compartment has a variable color light output which is automatically responsive to temperature changes. First and second light sources of different colors (e.g., blue and red) are positioned immediately behind the air discharge vents and are selectively energized by a control circuit so that the first light source radiates light through the vent when the temperature falls below a predetermined value and the second light sources energizes the second color of light when the air temperature rises above a predetermined value. Sensors are used to detect the temperature of air, preferably in the ducting plenum. Various control strategies can be deployed to achieve aesthetically interesting light presentations which enhance ambiance within the passenger compartment.

Abstract: A wireless air-volume damper control system for regulating air balance in a ducted network, the damper control system having one damper or more damper units installable in the ducted network at locations where air flow in the terminal can be adjusted, the damper units each having a damper blade with a motor to pivot the blade, a power source for powering the motor and pivoting the blade, a receiver and electronic circuitry that operates the motor in response to signals received by the receiver with a portable remote controller having inputs controls and a transmitter that transmits signals to the receiver for operation of the damper unit and a flow volume measuring device for measuring the volume of air flowing in the terminal, the airflow being adjusted by signals from the transmitter of the remote controller in response to measurements from the flow volume measuring device.

Abstract: The described method and apparatus pertains namely to the HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning) industry, though its many functions extend into any and all forms of air-fluid movement, metering, distribution, and containment. Essentially, the scope of operation of the method and apparatus encompasses all forms of scientific and engineering measurement dealing with fluid dynamics, fluid statics, fluid mechanics, thermal dynamics, and mechanical engineering as they pertain to precise, articulated control of air-fluid distribution and delivery. The described method and apparatus offers complete, comprehensive, and correct utilization of air-fluid movers and terminal devices under unique sensor logic control, from initial lab testing stages through to equipment cataloguing, selection, design and construction of any and all air-fluid distribution systems in entirety, whereas previously there was no such cohesive, total and terminal method of control for these systems or their components.

Abstract: A self-contained, fully-integrated, energy efficient heating and cooling system or apparatus for conditioning the air on the interior of a building which includes a means for creating airflow through the apparatus, a section for cooling the airflow, a section for heating the airflow, a means for directing the airflow into the cooling section or into the heating section, a reheat device for tempering (i.e., reheating) the airflow exiting the cooling section, a return air section for receiving air returned to the apparatus from the building interior, and a means for pulling the returned air out of the return air section and venting the returned air to the environment outside of the building. The heating section of the present invention also provides a “four-pass” heat exchanger which may be assembled from sections of cast iron or other suitable materials, and a high efficiency combustion burner which may be integrated into the four-pass heat exchanger.

Abstract: A remote control vent system having a vent unit and a remote control unit is disclosed. In one embodiment the vent unit has a frame having an opening, a plurality of louvers pivotally connected to the frame, a drive unit engaging the louvers and a remote control sensor in communication with the drive unit. The remote control unit communicates with the remote control sensor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for acoustic noise reduction using fan speed control. The acoustic noise reduction using fan speed control includes a plurality of temperature detectors disposed at a plurality of locations within an electronics equipment enclosure, each detector having an associated setpoint temperature. An error value is determined for each temperature detector, the error consisting of the difference between the detected temperature and the associated setpoint temperature. The maximum error among all error values is then identified and the operating speed of a cooling fan in is set in response to this maximum error. Advantages include providing a fan speed directly related to electronics temperature which inherently accounts for higher ambient temperatures, enclosure altitude, electronics power consumption, and air filter clogging.

Abstract: A self-contained power controller having a power driver switch, programmable controller, communication port, and environmental parameter measuring device coupled to a controllable device. The self-contained power controller needs only a single voltage source to power discrete devices, analog devices, and the controlled device. The programmable controller has a run mode which, when selected, upon the occurrence of a trigger event changes the state of a power driver switch and wherein the power driver switch is maintained by the programmable controller at the same state until the occurrence of a second event.

Abstract: A refrigerant PTAC system, such as those commonly found in hotel rooms, can be selectively configured in a hardwire or wireless configuration with respect to its thermostat. The system is controlled in response to the better of two temperature sensors, which is determined based on the PTAC's configuration and the validity of the readings provided by the sensors. While the PTAC is controlled in response to a preferred temperature sensor, the alternate sensor may be monitored for diagnostics or other reasons. In the event that the preferred sensor fails to provide valid readings, the controller automatically switches to controlling the system in response to the alternate sensor. To minimize manufacturing costs and the variety of stocked parts, the PTAC's controller preferably includes two substantially identical transceivers.

Abstract: A method and system for easily relocating a thermostat for a heating and/or cooling system is used to enable a more suitable location for the efficient control of heating or cooling. The thermostat system utilizes a selectively placable transmitting thermostat that communicates with a receiver that is installed in place of the original, removed thermostat and connects by the existing original thermostat wiring to the HVAC units. In another aspect, multiple transmitting thermostats communicate with a single receiver which accepts thermostatic and other data. The receiver is configured to allow the user to select which one or more of the thermostats are made active. If multiple thermostats are activated, the user can select the priority assigned to each.

Abstract: A control system for a heating, ventilating and air conditioning system is provided. The control system regulates a temperature of a multi-zone building using only a single thermostat or set point, and a temperature element in each of the zones. The control system receives inputs from the temperature elements and uses the inputs and a control algorithm to control temperature according to the set point and to minimize the differences between the temperature elements in the different zones. In a two-zone building, a single damper is used. In a building with a larger number of zones, the number of dampers required is the same as the number of zones, less one damper.

Abstract: A platform for electronic components has a temperature sensing array, a vibration sensing array, a programmable logic device, and one or more cooling fans. The programmable logic device receives temperature data from the temperature sensing array and structure-borne noise data from the vibration sensing array. The programmable logic device analyzes the data, and based on this analysis, maintains the temperature and low level noise requirements of the system by activating, deactivating, speeding up, or slowing down one or more cooling fans.

Abstract: Systems and methods of operating a cooling system provide for determining one or more cooling requirements of a computing system and controlling one or more vent valves of the cooling system based on the cooling requirements. In one approach, the cooling requirements are determined based on operating system state data and/or power management data.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the temperature of a computer system provides a first temperature sensor, positioned around or on a CPU, for sensing the temperature of the CPU or around the CPU. A first A/D converter is used to convert the temperature sensed by the first temperature sensor into a first temperature value. At least one second temperature sensor, positioned inside the housing, senses the temperature around the housing. At least one second A/D converter converts the temperature sensed by die second temperature sensor into a second temperature value. The first temperature value and second temperature value are input to a control circuit, and a suitable value to output a control signal for controlling the speed of the fan is chosen so as to precede the heat dissipating of the computer system.

Abstract: A data processing unit including a first active cooling device configured to respond to a first control signal and a second active cooling device configured to respond to a second control signal. The control signals may be any type of control signal suitable to control the operation of the first and second active cooling devices. The data processing unit also includes a first control function selectively capable of providing the first control signal and/or the second control signal, and a second control function selectively capable of providing the first control signal and/or the second control signal. Logic associated with the first and second control functions is included to determine which of the control functions will provide which control signal at a specific time. Logic and/or switching or isolation apparatus is also included to prevent both the first and second control functions from attempting to provide one of the control signals simultaneously.

Abstract: A system for regulating the temperature of multiple areas within a facility using multiple energy savings devices (ESD) that each regulate the temperature of individual rooms or areas within a facility having a central heating and cooling plant. The device includes a fan and thermostats to control the temperature in each room. A first thermostat is located within the energy savings device to activate a fan only when a baseboard-heating element, cooling element or conduit provides a pre-selected sufficient temperature level range to activate a fan. Another thermostat is located remotely in each room and communicates to each ESD to deactivate the fan when the temperature in any room exceeds or is less than the desired temperature level. The desired temperature level may be higher or lower than a main thermostat setting that controls the central heating and cooling plant, in accordance with a heating or cooling mode, respectively.

Abstract: An amount of time that air has been delivered from an air handler to a space is tracked, and based on the tracked amount of time, at least one turn-on time or one turn-off time of the delivery of air from the air handler to the space is controlled. Other features relate, among other things, to controlling a replacement air vent, and to user interfaces.

Abstract: A cooling system for an electronic system having at least one heat-generating component includes at least one fan and an operation level setting mechanism. The at least one fan is configured to blow air through the electronic system to thereby dissipate heat generated by the heat-generating component. The operation level setting mechanism is configured to set maximum operation level of the at least one fan, wherein the maximum operation level is based on one or more characteristics of the at least one heat-generating component.

Abstract: A vehicle air conditioner has an IR sensor that detects a temperature of air inside a vehicle compartment. The IR sensor is disposed on an instrument panel so that the sensor is disposed above switches and a face blowout port on the instrument panel. Accordingly, a detecting range of the IR sensor is prevented from interfering by hands of a driver or an occupant even when the switches are operated by the driver. Thus, the air conditioner is capable of stable air conditioning.

Abstract: The present invention applies a slope predictive control method to a Variable Temperature Control (VTC) system, measuring the slope of the discharge temperature as a function of flow regulation device position, and using this slope to predict the position of the flow regulation device needed to achieve the desired discharge temperature. The present invention also monitors the response of the VTC over time and utilizes a self-learning algorithm to predict the response time of the system in order to determine when further control adjustments need to be taken.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention is directed toward a networked grain aeration control system. For example, the system can provide centralized monitoring of the aeration of a number of grain storage facilities, thereby improving the management of stored grain. The networked grain aeration control system can allow the custodian of the system to offer an aeration service. Farmers, or other individuals, cooperatives, or companies can purchase the aeration service at a cost proportionate to the amount of stored grain to be aerated and the duration of storage. In this manner, the purchaser of the aeration service can avoid relatively high fixed costs that can be associated with various aeration hardware.

Abstract: A vehicle air conditioning system uses a non-contact temperature sensor for feedback control of the temperature of the air blown out from a blowing opening. The degrees of opening of an air mix damper and a bypass open/close damper are controlled by actuators that respond in accordance with a temperature detected by the non-contact sensor so the blowing temperature will ultimately approach a target value. Air conditioning control is achieved as desired by this feedback control of the blowing temperature without providing wiring for a temperature sensor near the blowing opening.

Abstract: A vehicle air conditioner has an air conditioning unit and an air conditioning control unit. The air conditioning unit has a FACE blowout port, a DEF blowout port, an upper blowout port. The air conditioning control unit estimates an outside windshield temperature and determines an outside dew point temperature. The control unit also controls the upper blowout port to stop blowing or not based on the estimated outside windshield temperature and the outside dew point temperature in a face mode to prevent the windshield from fogging.

Abstract: A forced-air HVAC system has an induction motor that drives its fan or blower. The motor is controlled by a circuit that causes the speed of the fan or blower to vary continuously whenever the HVAC system operates. The controller circuit includes temperature sensors that continuously monitor the temperature of the air the system is delivering. These sensors signal the controller circuit to vary the speed of the fan or blower motor in order to maintain at an optimal level the air temperature in the spaces heated or cooled by the system.

Abstract: A fan motor speed control system for controlling the fan motor speed of an air conditioning system includes a power output circuit including a power triac which is turned on and off by an opto-isolator connected to a pulse generator circuit for varying an AC voltage waveform imposed on the fan motor. The pulse generator circuit is connected to heating and cooling ramp circuits and a minimum speed circuit to provide a variable voltage signal imposed on the pulse generator circuit corresponding to the temperature difference sensed by a return air sensor and a heating or cooling sensor or by separate heating and cooling sensors disposed adjacent respective heating and cooling heat exchangers of the air conditioning system. An adjustable minimum speed circuit and a cutoff circuit are provided to control motor minimum speed or motor shutoff when a predetermined minimum speed is reached to prevent motor bearing failure or overheating.

Abstract: Embodiments of an apparatus and method can control a fan drive in a computer system. Such embodiments of apparatus and methods can alternately output a plurality of pulse width modulation (PWM) control signals at a predetermined time ratio and variably control a rotation speed of a cooling fan. The embodiments can use simple hardware based upon N-bit resolution in a PWM control signal generator included in the computer system for controlling the rotation speed of the cooling fan decreasing an internal temperature, such that the rotation speed of the cooling fan can be precisely and variably controlled, equally with the effect of an operation for controlling the fan drive using hardware based upon resolution of more than the N bits. Further, a physical configuration can be effectively simplified, and unnecessary power consumption can be reduced or prevented.

Abstract: An actuator for controlling the position of a damper. It is an adjustable damper actuator that can actuate a damper to have positions that are other than fully open and fully closed. The actuator has adjustable stops for attaining a partially closed or partially open damper as the operator wants. This actuator is useful for zone heating and air-conditioning as well as for providing a continuous supply of make-up air at low flow rates.

Abstract: A zone climate control system and method of its operation. A zone can be a single room. A method for determining which zones' vents are to be closed, and which are to be opened, in performing heating or cooling, circulation to heat or cool a zone by mixing its air with air from another zone, circulation to reduce excessive conditioning of a zone by mixing its air with air from another zone, or circulation to maintain air quality. Airflow, thermal capacity, heating or cooling requirements, and other parameters are developed for each zone by measurement and/or derivation. Plenum pressure is predicted and managed.

Abstract: A control system for an air conditioner is configured that can wirelessly transmit control signals, and allow the output power settings of transceiver units arranged in the outdoor unit and indoor units to be reduced. The air conditioner control system includes an outdoor unit transceiver unit, indoor unit transceiver units, and a center. The outdoor unit transceiver unit is arranged in an outdoor unit, and transmits and receives control signals. The indoor unit transceiver units are respectively arranged in the indoor units, and transmit and receive control signals. The center wirelessly relays control signals between the outdoor unit transceiver unit and the indoor unit transceiver units.

Abstract: A control is provided for controlling the operation of a climate control system, which includes a processor that is capable of receiving power from a low voltage power supply adapted to be connected to an external alternating current power source, or a second external low voltage power supply. The processor is capable of storing diagnostic information pertaining to the operating status of at least one component of the climate control system. The processor is configured to retrieve stored diagnostic information from memory pertaining to the climate control system and send the diagnostic information to the display means when the processor receives power from the external low voltage power supply and detects the absence of a connection to an external alternating current power source.

Abstract: Some constructions of the present invention provide a vent arrangement for a transport temperature control unit including a refrigeration circuit and being mountable on a transport container having a load space. The vent arrangement can include a duct communicating between the load space and atmosphere and extending across at least a portion of the refrigeration circuit, a shutter located along the duct and movable with respect to the duct between a closed position, in which the shutter prevents air flow through the duct, and a plurality of opened positions, and a sensor positioned adjacent to the shutter and operable to record shutter position data.

Abstract: An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones.

Abstract: An Electronically-Controlled Register vent (ECRV) that can be easily installed by a homeowner or general handyman is disclosed. The ECRV can be used to convert a non-zoned HVAC system into a zoned system. The ECRV can also be used in connection with a conventional zoned HVAC system to provide additional control and additional zones not provided by the conventional zoned HVAC system. In one embodiment, the ECRV is configured have a size and form-factor that conforms to a standard manually-controlled register vent. In one embodiment, a zone thermostat is configured to provide thermostat information to the ECRV. In one embodiment, the zone thermostat communicates with a central monitoring system that coordinates operation of the heating and cooling zones.

Abstract: A vehicle HVAC control system including front and rear HVAC control systems for controlling a front HVAC system and a rear HVAC system, and a method for controlling the front and rear HVAC systems. A front set point temperature is used by the front HVAC control system to control operation of the front HVAC system. The front set point temperature is communicated to the rear HVAC control system. The rear HVAC control system derives a rear set point temperature, which is based upon the front set point temperature and a temperature adjustment value, to control operation of the rear HVAC system. The temperature adjustment value is one of a plurality of predetermined temperature adjustment values that may be selected by a rear seat passenger to adjust the rear set point temperature relative to the front set point temperature and thereby permit the rear set passengers to control the temperature of air delivered to the rear seat.

Abstract: A programmable thermostat with a heat-cool switch, a temperature value input, and a fan switch with on, auto, and recirculating positions, and a microprocessor that superimposes a fan recirculating mode or cycle on the heat-cool or off modes or cycles by determining when the heat-cool or off cycles have been off for a user selectable time period; 2 hours, for example, and if so initiating a fan cycle for a predetermined time; 12 minutes for example, to provide a more uniform room temperature by mixing hotter and cooler air and cleaner air by running more space air through the heating and cooling system filter assembly.

Abstract: A baffle assembly for an air control device that reduces the noise associated with operation of solenoid coils. The invention employs one or two solenoid coils mounted in a frame and attached to a fixed plate. An armature, located inside the solenoid coils, is connected on opposite ends to two movable plates which rest on top of the fixed plate. Energizing a solenoid coil moves the armature, which moves the movable plates relative to the fixed plate. Apertures in the plates are provided to control air flow through the plates. The assembly includes sound dampeners to impede the movable plates from making contact with the frame, thereby reducing the amount of noise associated with operation of the solenoid coils.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to manage airflow in a chassis includes one or more airflow restrictor assemblies disposed adjacent a slot within the chassis. The airflow restrictor assemblies can be set in a plurality of positions between a minimum airflow position and a maximum airflow position. The position of the airflow restrictor assembly can be set in accordance with characteristics of the module inserted in the slot. The module characteristics may include power dissipation and airflow resistance.