Manual switch for altering a parameter in opposite directions based on length of time of switch actuation
US4695942A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 7, 1986 |
| Grant date | Sep 22, 1987 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 7, 2006 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/23199
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is an apparatus and method for bidirectional alteration of a multivalue parameter from an initial value using a two-state manual input. In accordance with the present invention, the multivalue parameter is altered from its initial value in a first direction if the manual input is in a preselected state for less than a predetermined period of time. If the manual input is in the preselected state for a period of time longer than this first interval of time, then the multivalue parameter is altered from its initial value in the opposite direction. Additionally, if the manual input remains in the preselected state for additional periods of time, the value of the multivalue parameter is further altered in the opposite direction for each such additional interval. This invention is taught as useful in providing programs for programmable memory devices, in particular programmable thermostats.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.