Strategic reduction of power usage in multi-sensing, wirelessly communicating learning thermostat
US9026254B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 6, 2011 |
| Grant date | May 5, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 10, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49826
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
In a multi-sensing, wirelessly communicating learning thermostat that uses power-harvesting to charge an internal battery, methods are disclosed for ensuring that the battery does not become depleted or damaged while at the same time ensuring selected levels of thermostat functionality. Battery charge status is monitored to determine whether the present rate of power usage needs to be stemmed. If the present rate of power usage needs to be stemmed, then a progression of performance levels and/or functionalities are scaled back according to a predetermined progressive power conservation algorithm. In a less preferred embodiment, there is a simple progressive shutdown of functionalities turned off in sequence until the desired amount of discharge stemming is reached. Battery charge preservation measures are also described for cases when an interruption of external supply power used to recharge the battery is detected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.