Thermostat control apparatus
US4549159A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 7, 1984 |
| Grant date | Oct 22, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 7, 2004 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05D23/275
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for controlling a water heater thermostat for increased efficiency in fuel usage. A mounting bracket is adapted to fit on several different common types of thermostat control boxes. In one embodiment the bracket removably receives a controller housing. In another embodiment the mounting bracket and the controller housing are a unitary structure. A motor in the housing is coupled to a slip ring engaging the thermostat knob to raise and lower the thermostat temperature setting in accordance with sensor actuated circuitry responsive to incoming and outgoing water temperature. The coupling enables the apparatus to accommodate thermostats with different size knobs and rotatable in opposite directions, in addition to coupling to various size thermostat housings.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.