Control unit with automatic setback capability
US8950686B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 2011 |
| Grant date | Feb 10, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 21, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/2614
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Methods for controlling temperature in a conditioned enclosure such as a dwelling are described that include an “auto-away” and/or “auto-arrival” feature for detecting unexpected absences which provide opportunities for significant energy savings through automatic adjustment of the setpoint temperature. According to some preferred embodiments, when no occupancy has been detected for a minimum time interval, an “auto-away” feature triggers a changes of the state of the enclosure, and the actual operating setpoint temperature is changed to a predetermined energy-saving away-state temperature, regardless of the setpoint temperature indicated by the normal thermostat schedule. The purpose of the “auto away” feature is to avoid unnecessary heating or cooling when there are no occupants present to actually experience or enjoy the comfort settings of the schedule, thereby saving energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.