Self-programmable thermostat
US7784704B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 9, 2007 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 29, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF24F2110/10
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hybrid manual/programmable thermostat for a furnace or air conditioner offers the simplicity of a manual thermostat while providing the convenience and versatility of a programmable one. Initially, the hybrid thermostat appears to function as an ordinary manual thermostat; however, it privately observes and learns a user's manual temperature setting habits and eventually programs itself accordingly. If users begin changing their preferred temperature settings due to seasonal changes or other reasons, the thermostat continues learning and will adapt to those changes as well. For ease of use, the thermostat does not require an onscreen menu as a user interface. In some embodiments, the thermostat can effectively program itself for temperature settings that are set to occur at particular times daily or just on weekends, yet the user is not required to enter the time of day or the day of the week.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.