Switch for multi-function control of a thermostat
US8978994B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 5, 2014 |
| Grant date | Mar 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 5, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF24F2110/10
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides for a controller such as a thermostat for an HVAC system having a housing having a circuit board and a display screen, the display screen having at least one alpha-numeric icon and a group of touch pads having at least two displayable touch pads. A microprocessor provided for controlling the display screen. A sole mechanical button or switch is mounted in the housing and the button has a first end and second end and a touch surface extending between the first end and second end. The sole mechanical button signals the microprocessor in order to adjust the alpha-numeric icon(s), so that the combination of inputs received by the microprocessor from the group of touch pads and sole mechanical button provide for each and every adjustment required for all of the operational functions of the controller. The mechanical button may be a rocker switch. The controller may also include a navigation button.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.