Air Temperature Responsive Patents (Class 454/258)
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Publication number: 20090215384Abstract: An inventive cooling device for the air conditioning of an examination area of a medical examination device includes a temperature detection device for detecting a temperature in the examination area, an air conditioning device for producing air-conditioned air, an air discharge device arranged within the examination area, an opening directed toward the examination area to let out air-conditioned air and an air duct to transport air-conditioned air to the opening in the air discharge device and a control unit connected to the temperature detection device and the air-conditioning device to control the air-conditioning device based on data detected by the temperature detection device. The cooling device automatically determines and regulates a temperature in the examination area with fresh, air-conditioned air which has a positive influence on the well-being of the patient in the examination area. A clean copy of the abstract that incorporates the above amendments is provided herewith on a separate page.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2009Publication date: August 27, 2009Inventor: Katrin Wohlfarth
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Publication number: 20090191808Abstract: A clothes dryer air intake system including a conduit having an outlet opening for connection to a clothes dryer and being positioned remote from the attic of a building. The conduit also has an inlet opening positioned within the attic of a building. A heater is connected to the conduit between the outlet opening and the inlet opening for warming air passing through the conduit. A thermostat detects the temperature of the air flowing through the conduit and energizes the heater in the event that the detected temperature is lower than a preset minimum.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2009Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: Timothy M. Hodges
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Publication number: 20090170419Abstract: The present invention provides an air flow control device that includes at least one inlet, and a primary flow path associated with a primary outlet, and a secondary flow path associated with a secondary outlet. The air flow device also includes at least one primary valve associated with the primary flow path, said at least one primary valve being adapted to control the flow rate of air through said primary flow path.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2009Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: Scott Noel Holyoake
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Publication number: 20090149123Abstract: An air conditioning register including a plurality of adjustable slats coupled to respective pinion gears. The pinion gears may engage with a rack gear so that a linear motion of the rack gear translates into a rotational motion of the pinion gears. A driving gear coupled to a shaft may be used to drive the rack gear. The shaft can be driven by a manual tool of suitable length, or by electrical or electronic methods. The manual tool and/or electronic methods may be so designed that a user can rotate the shaft without being in close proximity to the register.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Randy Blagg
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Publication number: 20090124189Abstract: The system embodying the invention is employed to cool the interior of a normally closed area such as a garage or storage area, and/or to remove any noxious fumes or undesirable odors from inside the garage by moving outside air into the garage and providing means for that inside air and the fumes or odors in it, if any, to be removed to the outside ambient atmosphere. The system includes one or more fans installed in the upper section of the garage door, and the garage door is opened or closed by moving it in any well-known manner either by rolling it's hinged panels upward to a horizontal position from its normally-closed vertical position, or, when it is a solid door, tilting the entire garage door so that it is substantially horizontal instead of vertical and is located above the garage floor a sufficient distance to drive vehicles that will fit into the garage though the door opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2008Publication date: May 14, 2009Inventor: David J. Barber
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Publication number: 20090088067Abstract: A trickle vent incorporates an automatically controlled movable damper or multiple movable dampers to control the volume of fresh air entering an occupied space of a building through the trickle vent. The trickle vent includes a heating element to condition the fresh air prior to entry into the occupied space. A directional grille is provided to initiate circulation within the occupied space.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2007Publication date: April 2, 2009Inventors: Julian Rimmer, Albert Bicol, Andrew McCorrister, Gerry Smith
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Patent number: 7478761Abstract: A preassembled flow control unit includes a plenum, a flow controller mounted to the plenum, and a flow control sensor mounted to the plenum. An isolation valve selectively blocks the flow of air between the plenum and the flow controller. An optional thermal coil is also mounted to the plenum to control the temperature of air flowing therethrough. In a particular embodiment, the thermal coil is mounted to an open end of the plenum opposite the flow controller, and the fluid lines serving the thermal coil are also mounted to the plenum, with an automatic valve in at least one of the fluid lines. An optional protective bracket protects the automatic valve from incidental damage during transportation an installation of the flow control unit. An electrical disconnect and a power converter are also mounted on the plenum.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2002Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Inventors: John C. Karamanos, Charles J. Viso
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Publication number: 20080242212Abstract: A register assembly for augmenting the flow of conditioned air from a central air-conditioning unit to a room includes a fan, a temperature sensor, and a processing means. The fan is operably positioned for increasing air flow through the register assembly. The temperature sensor is for measuring a temperature of air in the register assembly and for outputting a measured temperature signal. The processing means is for: receiving the measured temperature signal; using the measured temperature signal in determining whether the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room; and activating the fan to augment the conditioned air flow if the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room. The processing means also provides drift compensation to prevent unwanted operation of the fan due to temperature drifts.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 28, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Rizk El-Galley, Richard A. Campbell, Joseph R. McGinty
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Publication number: 20080220712Abstract: The invention relates generally to the field of airflow boosting devices. In particular, the invention relates to a booster fan for installation into a vent opening of a duct system in a forced air circulation and delivery system. In an embodiment, the booster fan includes a register plate for covering a vent opening An opening or openings on the register plate provide an air outlet. A housing is secured to the register plate for enclosing a crossflow fan therein. The crossflow fan is disposed adjacent and spaced from the register plate and resiliently supported at both ends. A motor is resiliently connected to the crossflow fan. The housing also has an aperture for providing an air inlet communicating with the duct system. Preferably, two arcurate air deflection panels are provided in the housing and connecting the air inlet and air outlet to form a guided air passageway.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2007Publication date: September 11, 2008Inventor: Sine Kon Hu
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Patent number: 7398821Abstract: A system and method for cooling and heating of buildings comprising an integrated assembly of devices, including a variable speed air handler, hot water heating coil, outside air damper, controller, and optional compressor-based air conditioner. During the summer the system utilizes nighttime outside air for cooling and uses air temperature predictions to provide information about optimal control settings and to maintain comfort. During the winter the system varies airflow with heating demand and ventilates with outside air to maintain indoor air quality.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Davis Energy GroupInventors: Leo I. Rainer, David A. Springer
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Patent number: 7347774Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Inventors: Peter S. Aronstam, Charles Saron Knobloch
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Publication number: 20070298707Abstract: A diffuser is provided for controlling flow of air in an air conditioning system. The diffuser has an air flow control baffle (B) that is controlled by pivoting arms (12). Two collars (62,62) actuate the arms (12) in cam fashion by acting on either of two cam surfaces (92,94) of each arm (12) to open or close the baffle (B). The collars (62,64) can move independently of each other towards and away from the respective cam surfaces (92,94), i.e. in an actuating direction. The diffuser includes a set point adjustment mechanism (132) for moving both the collars (62,64) in unison in the actuating direction, i.e. to adjust the heating and cooling set points simultaneously and includes an offset adjustment mechanism (150) for moving one of the collars (62,64) in the actuating direction relative to the other collar, i.e. to change the offset between the heating and cooling set points.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2007Publication date: December 27, 2007Inventor: Christiaan Wilhelm Bosch
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Patent number: 7191845Abstract: A self-closing vent has its frame and honeycomb screen coated with an intumescent material. When affixed to an external wall or eave of a building, the vent is normally open, allowing free flow of air into and out of the building, but when exposed to the heat of a fire, such as a wildfire, the intumescent expands to close the vent, thereby preventing an external fire from entering the building.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Inventor: Ronald J Loar
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Patent number: 7189158Abstract: A dual airflow control system for an environment having a first air zone and a second air zone. The system includes a first input device operable to generate a first input signal indicative of a desired airflow to the first zone and a second input device operable to generate a second input signal indicative of a desired airflow to the second zone. First and second flow regulators are configured to regulate airflow to the first and second zones, respectively, such that the first and second regulators selectively provide the airflow to each of the first and second zones based on the first and second input signals. A single actuator is associated with the first and second flow regulators. The actuator is operable to simultaneously actuate the first and second flow regulators based on an input from the first and second input devices to allow the desired airflows to the first and the second zones.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: Caterpillar IncInventors: Sean Ronald Motszko, Ryan Patrick McEnaney, Jeffrey Alan Brush, Daniel E. Zimmermann
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Patent number: 7189159Abstract: A diffuser cartridge (10) of restricted height is provided for controlling flow of air in an air conditioning system. The cartridge (10) has two axially aligned temperature sensitive elements (34,68) for respectively sensing room temperature and duct temperature variations. Arms (12) are provided for displacing an air flow baffle (B) and a control structure is provided for displacing the arms (12) in response to sensed room and duct temperatures. The control structure pivots the arms (12) cam-fashion as it is moved vertically by the temperature sensitive elements (34, 68). The control structure has two springs (54,56) that act in series to counter movement of the control structure by the temperature sensitive elements (34,68). The springs (54,56) are nested coaxially within each other, with an intermediate component (48) transferring compressive loads from one spring to the other.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2005Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: Rickard Air Diffusion (Proprietary) Ltd.Inventors: Robert Crichton Caldwell, Gert Willem Van Rooyen
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Patent number: 7004401Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Cerys Systems, Inc.Inventor: Daniel Kallestad
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Patent number: 6957696Abstract: A method and controller for controlling the operation of a zoned climate control system including a primary heat source, a secondary heat source, a cooling unit, and a humidifier unit. The controller is configured to receive both heating demand signals and cooling demand signals from a plurality of zone thermostats positioned throughout the residence. Upon receiving a heating demand signal, the controller operates the primary heat source to provide heat to the zone issuing the heating demand signal. The controller determines whether the primary heat source satisfies the heating demand signal within a maximum heating period. If the heating demand is not satisfied within this period, the controller activates the secondary heat source to supplement the heat being supplied by the primary heat source.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Inventor: Mark J. Krumnow
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Patent number: 6935571Abstract: A diffuser comprising a casing (10), a first temperature sensitive element (32) for sensing room temperature variations and including a body and a piston which move relatively to one another in response to temperature variations, a second temperature sensitive element (38), an airflow control structure including a damper blade (72) having a first position in which airflow is restricted and a second position in which a greater air flow is permitted, and an actuator (18) for displacing the blade (72) between said first and second positions in response to room temperature variations, the actuator (18) including a cam follower (56) which is displaced by the first element (32) as the piston and body of the first element (32) move relatively to one another with room temperature variations, and a spindle (36) connecting the cam (56) to the second element (38).Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Rickard Air Diffusion (Proprietary ) LimitedInventor: Gustav Johann Van Der Merwe
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Patent number: 6857577Abstract: A thermally powered VAV diffuser assembly (21, 221) having a housing (42, 242) formed for coupling to a supply air duct or conduit (22, 222), a damper (24, 224) mounted across a supply air opening (27, 227) for movement relative thereto to vary the volume of supply air discharge from the diffuser and a thermally powered damper position controlled device or assembly (28, 228). The control assembly (28, 228) includes not more than two sensor-actuators (31, 32, 231, 232) and a movable linkage assembly. The linkage assembly transmits movement of the sensor-actuators (31, 32, 231, 232) to the damper (24, 224) for displacement of the damper (24, 224) to vary the volume discharged and to produce change-overs between heating and cooling modes. The heating mode and cooling mode set point temperatures are each independently adjustable, and the movable linkage assembly includes a lever (33, 233) pivoted about two pivot points by axles (82, 83, 282, 283) which slide in slots (87, 88, 287, 288).Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Acutherm L.P.Inventor: Robert S. Hunka
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Patent number: 6823685Abstract: A vehicle air-conditioning device having at least one control element which supplies a prescribed value to the air-conditioning control unit, a state of flow being provided by an air speed and a degree of turbulence of the air, which can be influenced by the strength of the fan, distribution of air to the discharge nozzles, the discharge direction to the discharge nozzles and further actuators which have an effect on the state of flow, and a thermal state is provided by the temperature distribution and effect of radiation in the vehicle interior. Provision is made for the at least one control panel to be used to prescribed a state of flow desirable for the occupant and a thermal state.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Frank Frühauf, Dieter Heinle, Jürgen Maue, André Strobel
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Patent number: 6782945Abstract: A method for automatically controlling the climate in a plurality of climate control zones of a cabin of an automobile comprising at least a driver zone and a passenger zone having a temperature sensor located in a driver side zone and at least one conditioned air outlet vent in each of the zones, the method comprising, obtaining various values indicative of internal and external climate, determining outlet temperatures and mass flow rates of at least one of a driver zone outlet and at least one of a passenger zone outlet based at least on the above obtained values and on other factors relating to the design of the automobile, including a zone air crossover influence factor, providing conditioned air to the cabin from at least one of the driver zone outlets and at least one of the passenger zone outlets at the determined outlet temperatures and mass flow rates.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2003Date of Patent: August 31, 2004Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.Inventor: Ronald S. Eisenhour
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Publication number: 20040157543Abstract: An air diffuser module for use as a part of an outlet, plenum, or register for conditioned air and to support, be supported by, or connected to another part of the outlet is provided. The module comprises a module frame and at least one trajectory vane pivotally mounted horizontally within the module frame with each trajectory vane having internal stand-off walls for stabilizing each trajectory vane and causing additional trajectory travel when in contact with an arching surface of the thermostatic bimetal. A thermostatic bimetal strip is secured within each trajectory vane for adjusting the angle of each trajectory vane relative to the module frame responding to the temperature of the supply conditioned air with an arched portion formed on the thermostatic bimetal strip. The module provides an energy saving air pattern by directing conditioned supply air to the proper elevation for mixing prior to the air entering an occupied zone and thereby reducing air temperature stratification.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Ira L. Bertin
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Patent number: 6685099Abstract: A ventilation system for purging air contained with a vehicle interior is disclosed. The ventilation system includes a blower, a first vent, a second vent, at least one interior temperature sensor, at least one external temperature sensor, a motion sensor for windy days and dusty areas, a humidity sensor, a sunload sensor and a control module. The blower is a conventional vehicle air conditioning blower and is located within the vehicle interior for creating a pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the vehicle. The first vent expels air from the vehicle interior and the second vent draws external air into the vehicle interior. The at least one interior sensor is located within the vehicle interior for determining an interior condition of the vehicle. The at least one external sensor determines an external condition of environment external to the vehicle interior.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Arthur Rutyna, Cindy Marie Rutyna, Paul Raymond Murray
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Patent number: 6659359Abstract: Disclosed is a grille controlling apparatus for an indoor ventilator that senses an indoor temperature in a building such that it can control the operation of the grille mounted on the indoor ventilator.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Young-Yeal Kwak
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Publication number: 20030217841Abstract: A thermal regulator stabilizes the temperature within an internal cavity of an instrument. The thermal regulator includes a circulator that draws ambient medium surrounding the instrument and recirculated medium within the internal cavity, into a duct. The circulator forms a mixture of the drawn ambient medium and recirculated medium. An adjustable heater intercepts the mixture and controls the temperature of the mixture to be within a temperature range that is less than a temperature range of the ambient medium in which the instrument is surrounded.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Paul E. Bussard, Gabriel Todd Manville
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Patent number: 6651895Abstract: An improved motor vehicle automatic climate control methodology allows an occupant of the vehicle to select one of a number of automatic climate control settings that are calibrated to satisfy the comfort preferences of different types of occupants. In a first embodiment, the occupant selects one of a number of a pre-programmed control setting schedules that provide different HVAC power levels. In a second embodiment, the occupant first selects a desired HVAC power level, and then activates one of a number of control setting combinations that satisfy both the selected HVAC power level and his or her comfort preference.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Prasad Shripad Kadle, Mingyu Wang
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Publication number: 20030157883Abstract: Disclosed is a grille controlling apparatus for an indoor ventilator that senses an indoor temperature in a building such that it can control the operation of the grille mounted on the indoor ventilator.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2002Publication date: August 21, 2003Inventor: Young-Yeal Kwak
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Patent number: 6575233Abstract: A method utilizing a controller for controlling the operation of a zoned climate control system including a primary heat source, a secondary heat source, a cooling unit, and a humidifier unit. The controller is configured to receive both heating demand signals and cooling demand signals from a plurality of zone thermostats positioned throughout the residence. Upon receiving a heating demand signal, the controller operates the primary heat source to provide heat to the zone issuing the heating demand signal. The primary heat source is a radiant heating system. The controller determines whether the primary heat source satisfies the heating demand signal within a maximum heating period. If the heating demand is not satisfied within this period, the controller activates the secondary heat source to supplement the heat being supplied by the primary heat source. The secondary heat source is a forced air HVAC system which also includes the cooling unit.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Inventor: Mark J. Krumnow
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Publication number: 20030087599Abstract: A diffuser (10) for controlling flow of air in an air conditioning system, the diffuser comprising two temperature sensitive elements (20, 22) for respectively sensing room temperature and duct temperature variations. The elements (20, 22) are axially aligned. Links (68) are provided for displacing an air flow control baffle (78). A control structure is provided for displacing the links (68) in dependence on sensed room temperature thereby to displace the baffle (68) and vary air flow. The control structure has two components (34, 36) which act on the links (68). When the element (22) is detecting cooled air the component (34) acts on the links (68). The component (36) acts on the links (68) when the element (22) is detecting warmed air. Switch over between these conditions occurs automatically as supply of air is changed from hot to cold and visa versa.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2002Publication date: May 8, 2003Applicant: RICKARD AIR DIFFUSION (PROPRIETARY) LIMITEDInventor: Gustav Johann Van der Merwe
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Patent number: 6491094Abstract: A control system for a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning unit having a heating stage, a cooling stage, and an economizer is provided. The system includes a memory configured to store a first predetermined temperature range and a second predetermined temperature range. The system also includes a control having an input device configured to receive an indoor air temperature representative of the air in one or more zones and a supply air temperature representative of the air entering the one or more zones. The control selectively activates at least one of the heating stage, the cooling stage, and the economizer when the indoor air temperature is outside of the first predetermined temperature range. The control also selectively activates at least one of the heating stage, the cooling stage, and the economizer when the indoor air temperature is within the first predetermined temperature range and the sensed temperature of the supply air is outside of the second predetermined temperature range.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Assignee: York International CorporationInventors: Ronald R. Rayburn, Neil A. Hughes
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Patent number: 6488213Abstract: In a control system of a vehicle air conditioner, when a temperature difference between a previous target air temperature at the previous manual operation and a present target air temperature at the present manual operation is smaller than a predetermined value, that is, when it is estimated that a passenger's desired air amount is not set by the previous manual operation, a blower voltage control characteristic for controlling an air amount of a blower is corrected so that a set value at the previous manual operation is not affected to the present learning. Accordingly, it can prevent air-conditioning feeling from being deteriorated due to mis-learning.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Akira Ohga, Yuichi Kajino, Takayoshi Kawai, Toshifumi Kamiya, Yoshinori Ichishi
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Patent number: 6488081Abstract: A method for controlling a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning unit is provided. A conditioning unit having a heating stage, a cooling stage, a fan, and an economizer is operated to provide supply air to one or more zones. The temperature of air in the one or more zones and the temperature of air supplied to the one or more zones from the conditioning unit is sensed. At least one of the heating stage, the cooling stage, and the economizer is activated when the sensed temperature in at least one of the one or more zones is outside of a first predetermined temperature range. At least one of the heating stage, the cooling stage, and the economizer is activated when the sensed temperature of the air in the at least one of the one or more zones is within the first predetermined temperature range and the sensed temperature of the supply air is outside of a second predetermined temperature range.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: York International CorporationInventors: Ronald R. Rayburn, Neil A. Hughes
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Patent number: 6446876Abstract: Apparatus comprising a plurality of Venetian blind slats controlled by an actuator rod associated to one side of a frame supporting the pivoting slats. The actuator rod is controlled by a metallic alloy shape memory wire associated to said rod, which is powered by electrical current causing the wire to heat and shorten thus moving the actuator rod against the action of a return spring. The actuator system is completely integrated in the structure of the apparatus. The position of the actuator rod is signalled by a sensor, preferably a potentiometer, comprising a slider connected to the actuator rod, co-operating with an electrical track connected to the frame of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: CRF Societa Consortile per AzioniInventors: Alacqua Stefano, Butera Francesco
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Publication number: 20020058473Abstract: An air grating where the air flow is controlled by a grid movable between OPEN and CLOSED positions. Control means acts when the movable grid arrives at either a warm or a cool limiting position. The arrival at a limiting position prepares said moving means for movement to the other limiting position when a later thermostat signal is received.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2001Publication date: May 16, 2002Inventor: Chan-Woo Park
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Publication number: 20020050530Abstract: Apparatus comprising a plurality of Venetian blind slats controlled by an actuator rod associated to one side of a frame supporting the pivoting slats. The actuator rod is controlled by a metallic alloy shape memory wire associated to said rod, which is powered by electrical current causing the wire to heat and shorten thus moving the actuator rod against the action of a return spring. The actuator system is completely integrated in the structure of the apparatus. The position of the actuator rod is signalled by a sensor, preferably a potentiometer, comprising a slider connected to the actuator rod, co-operating with an electrical track connected to the frame of the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2001Publication date: May 2, 2002Inventors: Alacqua Stefano, Butera Francesco
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Patent number: 6340329Abstract: An air grating where the air flow is controlled by a grid movable between OPEN and CLOSED positions. Control means acts when the movable grid arrives at either a warm or a cool limiting position. The arrival at a limiting position prepares said moving means for movement to the other limiting position when a later thermostat signal is received.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2000Date of Patent: January 22, 2002Inventor: Chan-Woo Park
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Patent number: 6322443Abstract: A booster fan assembly includes a fan, an electric motor coupled to the fan, an electric cord coupled to the motor and adapted to be coupled to a source of electric power through a pair of thermostats and voltage reducing transformer, and a support coupled to the motor and adapted to be inserted in a heating/air conditioning duct from a distal end. The support has a flexible perimeter portion for contacting the interior surface of the duct and a central portion extending inward from the perimeter portion that is coupled to the motor. An outer surface of the support is selectively engageable with an interior surface of the duct at any selected location. The support is an incomplete ring that is collapsible from a first diameter to a second smaller diameter to permit insertion of the assembly into the duct. The support includes two inwardly directed handle portions normally spaced from each other, the handle portions being compressible toward each other to cause contraction of the perimeter portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2000Date of Patent: November 27, 2001Inventor: Ronald E. Jackson
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Patent number: 6283380Abstract: An air conditioning system and an air conditioning method are disclosed for quickly and effectively controlling the temperature in a room requiring cooling and keeping the room at a uniform temperature. The present invention estimates a temperature distribution in a room through a simulation and controls airflow rates and airflow directions of a plurality of fans on the basis of the simulation result. Temperature sensors are arranged at predetermined positions in a room such as a computer room. A simulation is performed on the basis of temperatures detected by the temperature sensor Sn and the current airflow rates and airflow directions of a plurality of fans to obtain a temperature distribution in the room. It is determined whether obtained temperatures are in a predetermined temperature range. As the result of such determination, at least one of airflow rate and airflow direction of a fan which covers a position being at a temperature out of the predetermined temperature range is controlled.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Tohru Nakanishi, Hirohito Terada, Motokazu Kawase
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Patent number: 6280319Abstract: A cooling fan (FIG. 1, 100) generates an air current, which includes a substantial swirl component, along a first direction (10). When the air current reaches the first plate (120), which is predominantly perpendicular to the direction of the airflow, a portion of the air current is routed toward a second direction (20) which is perpendicular to the first direction (10) thereby providing airflow to electronic equipment along the second direction (20). A second portion of the air current is routed towards a direction to the opposite of second direction (20) by way of a second plate (150) which lies along the second direction (20) and is tilted in an upward direction. Additionally, the second plate (150) includes narrow and wide end portions (152 and 154, respectively) which serves to direct a portion of the air current opposite that of the second direction (20).Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventors: Henry Wong, John Gatti
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Publication number: 20010010265Abstract: A method and system for controlling a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning unit is provided. The system includes a conditioning unit having a heating stage, a cooling stage, and a fan. The conditioning unit operates in an active mode where one of the heating stage and cooling stage is activate to condition air in an enclosure. The conditioning unit also operates in a ventilation mode to provide supply air to the enclosure. A supply temperature sensor is provided to sense the temperature of the supply air. A central control operates to activate one of the heating stage and cooling stage when the conditioning unit is operating in the ventilation mode and the temperature of the supply air is outside of a predetermined range.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2001Publication date: August 2, 2001Applicant: York International CorporationInventors: Ronald R. Rayburn, Neil A. Hughes
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Publication number: 20010010266Abstract: A method and system for controlling a heating, ventilating, and air conditioning unit is provided. The system includes a conditioning unit having a heating stage, a cooling stage, and a fan. The conditioning unit operates in an active mode where one of the heating stage and cooling stage is activate to condition air in an enclosure. The conditioning unit also operates in a ventilation mode to provide supply air to the enclosure. A supply temperature sensor is provided to sense the temperature of the supply air. A central control operates to activate one of the heating stage and cooling stage when the conditioning unit is operating in the ventilation mode and the temperature of the supply air is outside of a predetermined range.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2001Publication date: August 2, 2001Applicant: York International CorporationInventors: Ronald R. Rayburn, Neil A. Hughes
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Patent number: 6254010Abstract: An air conditioning diffuser is disclosed which includes two temperature sensitive elements. A first element detects room temperature and a second element ducting temperature. When room temperature increases during supply of cooled air, the first element moves a control unit upwards and this results in a first disc of the control unit moving away from a surface on a pivotally mounted link. The link pivots about its mounting so that a baffle hanger and a baffle move down allowing more cooled air to flow through the diffuser. When heated air is being supplied, the second element displaces the unit in the upward direction so that baffle control is transferred from the first disc and the first link surface to a second disc and a second link surface. The link surfaces lie one radially inwardly and one radially outwardly of the link mountings.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2000Date of Patent: July 3, 2001Assignee: Brian Rickard (PTY) Ltd.Inventor: Noel De Villiers
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Patent number: 6250560Abstract: An adaptive control device (77) and method (102-108) for control of the operation of an actuator (72), and particularly thermally-powered actuator (72) of the type used in a variable-air-volume diffuser (71). The preferred adaptive control device is an expert system circuit which controls a heater (74) provided on a thermally-powered actuator (72) to implement an adaptive process (102-108) in which a sensed variable, such as room air temperature, is driven toward a target temperature control range (±0.25° F.). Most preferably, the process steps (106) include driving the room air temperature toward a gross (broader) temperature control range (±1.0° F.) by moving a diffuser damper assembly (80) to a substantially fully open or substantially fully closed position.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 1998Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: Acutherm L.P.Inventors: James R. Kline, Robert S. Hunka, Matthew L. Costick
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Patent number: 6176435Abstract: A thermally powered variable air volume diffuser is provided, comprising a diffuser housing and a thermally powered actuator assembly mounted therein which varies the size of a supply air discharge opening. The actuator assembly comprises four thermal actuators and means operatively connecting the thermal actuators to a flow control disc defining the discharge opening. The volume of air supplied to a room is varied in response to changes in air supply temperature and room temperature. In the heating cycle, the first thermal actuator lowers the flow control disc, causing increased supply air output. Heated air from the air supply duct causes the second thermal actuator to engage the third thermal actuator. As room temperature rises, the third thermal actuator pushes the second thermal actuator, raising the flow control disc and reducing supply air output.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Inventor: Marty Nielsen
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Patent number: 6161763Abstract: There is disclosed a module control system and wet (i.e., flooded) building drying process that controls drying air circulation between inside and outside the building based upon absolute humidity and temperature sensor measurements.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Grant Reuter
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Patent number: 6129286Abstract: A ventilation system, for example in the agricultural field. The ventilation system includes a ventilator and a processor module. Connections are included for connecting sensors associated with the ventilator to the processor module and on to a central processing unit. The sensors measure process quantities, such as the rotational speed, the temperature and the displaced air volume. The processor module is arranged in such a manner that in case of failure of the central processing unit and/or of the communication link between the processor module and the central processing unit, the processor module will control the ventilator on the basis of the process quantities measured by the sensors associated with the ventilator.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: A. Vostermans B.V.Inventor: Hendrik Louis Joseph Vostermans
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Patent number: 6052999Abstract: A method for controlling opening/closing of cool air discharge ports of a refrigerator is disclosed. The refrigerator has a device for opening/closing the ports. The device has a member for opening/closing the ports, and a motor for driving the member. A microcomputer measures temperatures at positions in a cooling compartment, and calculates a difference between the measured temperatures. When the difference is more than a predetermined value, the motor is driven so that the member repeats opening and closing of the ports. Then, the circulation effect of the cool air in the cooling compartment is enhanced, and the temperature in the cooling compartment maintained uniform.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 1998Date of Patent: April 25, 2000Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hae-jin Park, Jae-in Kim, Han-joo Yoo
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Patent number: 5984196Abstract: An air vent that automatically opens and closes in response to changes in the ambient air temperature. The air vent includes a housing, a louver frame mounted to the housing and a series of vent louvers pivotally mounted to the frame. The louver frame includes a cam member for automatically pivoting the louvers between an open position and a closed position in response to ambient air temperature changes. The cam member includes a spring fixedly mounted at one end to the housing and mounted at the other end to a camming bar, which is mounted to the louvers. This spring is formed of two different types of metals which react to changes in the ambient air temperature. More specifically, the metals are chosen so that the spring expands as the temperature increases to rotate the cam bar in one direction and incrementally open the louvers, and contracts as the temperature decreases to rotate the cam bar in the reverse direction and incrementally close the louvers.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1997Date of Patent: November 16, 1999Inventors: Edward L. Godsey, James Franks
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Patent number: 5957373Abstract: A ventilator is selectively configured so that it can automatically open and close its louvers according to the temperature in its environment or have its louvers manually positioned in either the open or closed orientation. The louvers are disposed in an air passageway that is defined by a housing. A bimetallic coil acts through a drive element and a linkage element to automatically open and close the louvers of the ventilator. A pair of override members have respective handles accessible to the user. Manipulation of the override members enables the user to override the automatic drive element to manually open and close the louvers.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 1998Date of Patent: September 28, 1999Assignee: Temp-Vent CorporationInventors: Paul M. Sarazen, Jr., Dennis A. Beam, Jr.
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Patent number: RE37245Abstract: A controller for a variable air volume terminal of a variable air volume air conditioning system which comprises a temperature sensing circuitry for generating a temperature process value, a setpoint determining circuitry for establishing a temperature setpoint, an airflow signal circuitry for generating an airflow setpoint in response to the temperature process value and the temperature setpoint. A flow sensing circuitry for generating a flow process value in response to a predetermined set of flow sensing inputs and damper control circuitry for generating a damper motor operation signal to control the damper motor in response to the flow process value and the airflow setpoint. The damper control circuitry comprises a fuzzy logic control mechanism for implementing a set of fuzzy logic rule-based instructions in generating the damper motor operating signal.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1997Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Assignee: EMS Control Systems InternationalInventors: Jean Henry Albert Scholten, Anno Johannes Scholten