U.S. patent application number 09/755194 was filed with the patent office on 2002-01-03 for refrigeration monitor unit.
Invention is credited to Carr, D. Mitchell, Sharood, John N..
Application Number | 20020000092 09/755194 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27497108 |
Filed Date | 2002-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020000092 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sharood, John N. ; et
al. |
January 3, 2002 |
Refrigeration monitor unit
Abstract
A unit is attached to a refrigeration appliance, such as a
freezer, or refrigerator, to alert the user of a sensed condition
within the appliance that food spoilage may occur. The unit can
monitor temperature within the compartment and determine how long
until food spoilage occurs. The unit also can alert a user,
monitoring service, or call a repairperson. The unit may be
retrofit into existing appliances.
Inventors: |
Sharood, John N.; (Richmond,
VA) ; Carr, D. Mitchell; (Potomac Falls, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ANDREW F. BODENDORF
Fish & Richardson P.C.
601 Thirteenth Street, NW
Washington
DC
20005
US
|
Family ID: |
27497108 |
Appl. No.: |
09/755194 |
Filed: |
January 8, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60174829 |
Jan 7, 2000 |
|
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60176005 |
Jan 14, 2000 |
|
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|
60180281 |
Feb 4, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
62/127 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04B 2203/5454 20130101;
Y04S 40/121 20130101; Y04S 40/124 20130101; G06Q 20/105 20130101;
H02J 13/00024 20200101; Y02B 90/20 20130101; Y02B 70/30 20130101;
Y04S 40/126 20130101; H02J 13/00026 20200101; H02J 13/0075
20130101; H04B 2203/5445 20130101; Y02B 30/70 20130101; Y04S 10/40
20130101; Y04S 20/20 20130101; H02J 13/00001 20200101; H04L 12/282
20130101; Y04S 20/221 20130101; Y04S 50/12 20130101; Y04S 20/242
20130101; F25D 2400/36 20130101; Y04S 20/244 20130101; H02J
13/00007 20200101; F25D 2700/12 20130101; F25D 29/00 20130101; H02J
13/00018 20200101; H04B 2203/5495 20130101; H04L 2012/285 20130101;
G05B 19/00 20130101; H04L 12/2803 20130101; H02J 13/00016 20200101;
H02J 13/0062 20130101; Y02E 60/00 20130101; F25B 2600/07
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
62/127 |
International
Class: |
F25B 049/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A refrigeration appliance comprising: a compartment, a sensor
for sensing a condition within the compartment; a power supply; a
monitoring circuit connected with the power supply monitoring the
sensed condition; and a communications circuit, wherein the
monitoring circuit sends a signal through the communication circuit
in response to the sensed condition.
2. The appliance of claim 1 wherein the compartment is a
freezer.
3. The appliance of claim 1 wherein the sensed condition is
temperature.
4. The appliance of claim 1 wherein the monitoring circuit includes
a processor that determines when food spoilage will occur based on
the sensed condition.
5. The appliance of claim 2 wherein the monitoring circuit sends a
signal through the communications circuit indicating when food
spoilage will occur.
6. The appliance of claim 2 wherein the monitoring circuit sends a
signal through the communications circuit indicating food spoilage
has occurred.
7. The appliance of claim 1 further comprising a battery connected
to the monitoring circuit, wherein the monitoring circuit monitors
power supplied to the appliance, and if power supplied is
interrupted, sends a signal using the communications circuit.
8. The appliance of claim 7 wherein the signal indicates that no
power is being supplied.
9. The appliance of claim 7 wherein the signal indicates when food
spoilage will occur.
10. A retrofit unit for monitoring a refrigeration appliance
including a power supply, the unit comprising: a sensor for sensing
a condition within the appliance; a monitoring circuit connected
with the power supply monitoring the sensed condition; and a
communications circuit, wherein the unit is inserted in the
appliance and the monitoring circuit sends a signal through the
communication circuit in response to the sensed condition.
11. The retrofit unit of claim 10 wherein the sensed condition is
temperature.
12. The retrofit unit of claim 10 wherein the monitoring circuit
includes a processor that determines when food spoilage will occur
based on the sensed condition.
13. The retrofit unit of claim 10 wherein the monitoring circuit
sends a signal through the communications circuit indicating when
food spoilage will occurs.
14. The retrofit unit of claim 10 wherein the monitoring circuit
sends a signal through the communications circuit indicating food
spoilage has occurred.
15. The retrofit unit of claim 10 comprising a battery connected to
the monitoring circuit wherein the monitoring circuit monitors
power supplied to the appliance and if power supplied is
interrupted the monitoring circuit sends a signal using the
communications circuit.
16. The retrofit unit of claim 15 wherein the signal indicates that
no power is being supplied.
17. The retrofit unit of claim 15 wherein the signal indicates when
food spoilage will occur.
18. A retrofit system for monitoring a refrigeration appliance
including a power supply, the system comprising: a sensor for
sensing a condition within the appliance; a monitoring unit
connected to the sensor and including: a monitoring circuit
connected with to the sensor to monitor the sensed condition; and a
communications circuit, wherein the sensor is inserted in the
appliance and the monitoring circuit sends a signal through the
communication circuit in response to the sensed condition.
19. The retrofit system of claim 18 wherein the monitoring unit is
mounted on the appliance and attached to the power supply.
20. The retrofit system of claim 18 wherein the sensed condition is
temperature.
21. The retrofit system of claim 18 wherein the monitoring circuit
includes a processor that determines when food spoilage will occur
based on the sensed condition.
22. The retrofit system of claim 18 wherein the monitoring circuit
sends a signal through the communications circuit to indicate that
when food spoilage will occur.
23. The retrofit system of claim 18 wherein the monitoring circuit
sends a signal through the communications circuit to indicate that
food spoilage has occurred.
24. The retrofit system of claim 18 comprising a battery connected
to the monitoring circuit, wherein the monitoring circuit monitors
power supplied to the appliance, and if power supplied is
interrupted, sends a signal using the communications circuit.
25. The retrofit system of claim 24 wherein the signal indicates
that no power is being supplied.
26. The retrofit system of claim 24 wherein the signal indicates
when food spoilage will occur.
27. A retrofit appliance monitoring system comprising: an appliance
including a power supply; a retrofit plug attached to the power
supply; and a sensor connected to the retrofit plug for sensing an
appliance condition, wherein the retrofit plug generates a signal
based on a sensed condition.
28. The retrofit appliance monitoring system of claim 27 further
comprising: a control server; and a user interface; wherein the
control server displays a message on the interface in response to
the signal from the sensor.
29. The retrofit appliance monitoring system of claim 28 wherein
the sensed condition is temperature and the signal indicates how
long until food spoilage occurs.
30. The retrofit appliance monitoring system of claim 28 wherein
the sensed condition is temperature and the signal indicates that
power has been lost.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Application Nos. 60/174,829, filed Jan. 7, 2000; 60/176,005, filed
Jan. 14, 2000; and 60/180,281, filed Feb. 4, 2000, the entire
disclosures of which are incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates generally to building automation and
in particular to a refrigeration monitor unit.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Building automation concepts have been known for some time.
However, in general, these concepts have been limited to large
industrial settings or to custom-designed systems for luxury homes
because of the prohibitive cost associated with conventional
automation systems. In addition, automation systems generally have
been placed in new structures because of the substantial wiring
necessary to implement these systems. Retrofitting automation
systems in existing structures has been unpopular because, in
general, the procedure is invasive and may require the physical
destruction of interior surfaces, substantial rewiring, significant
expense, and inconvenience to the homeowner or tenant.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one general aspect, a complete home and commercial
automation system may accommodate existing appliances at a cost
that is affordable to the average homeowner or small business. In
addition, the automation system can be installed in a home or a
building without substantial rewiring, expense, or invasiveness.
The automation system allows control of all associated systems from
a remote location using virtual controls that resemble the actual
controls of the appliances. In addition, the virtual controls have
a consistent appearance between most interfaces. As a result, a
user can operate and monitor systems without having to be present
on site and without having to learn how to operate new controls.
The automation system also can monitor the use of all home
appliances and provide this information to a monitoring facility or
a service provider. As a result, the monitoring facility or the
service provider can provide services to the user at a time when
the service would be most beneficial to the user. In addition, by
monitoring specific use of home appliances and user activities,
companies can offer the user better service through the use of
interactive coupons, warranties, improved maintenance, repair
information, and interactive messaging.
[0005] In one general aspect, a refrigeration appliance monitoring
unit includes a sensor that senses a condition within a compartment
of the appliance. A monitoring circuit monitors the sensed
condition, and provides a communications circuit with a signal
corresponding to the sensed condition. The unit also may include a
power supply connected to power the monitoring circuit and the
communications circuit. monitoring circuit sends a signal through
the communication circuit in response to the sensed condition.
[0006] The compartment may be a freezer compartment.
[0007] The sensed condition may be temperature.
[0008] The monitoring circuit may include a processor that
determines when food spoilage will occur based on the sensed
condition. To this end monitoring circuit may send a signal through
the communications circuit to indicate when food spoilage will
occur or that food spoilage has occurred.
[0009] A battery may be connected to the monitoring circuit. The
monitoring circuit monitors power supplied to the appliance and, if
power is interrupted, may send a signal using the communications
circuit. The signal may indicate that no power is being supplied to
the appliance. The signal also may indicate when food spoilage will
occur.
[0010] In another general aspect, a retrofit unit may monitor a
refrigeration appliance that includes a power supply. The unit
includes a sensor that senses a condition within the appliance, a
monitoring circuit connected to the sensor to monitor the sensed
condition, and a communications circuit connected to the monitoring
circuit. The unit is configured to be inserted in the appliance,
and the monitoring circuit is configured to send a signal through
the communications circuit in response to the sensed condition.
[0011] In another general aspect, a retrofit system for monitoring
a refrigeration appliance including a power supply includes a
sensor for sensing a condition within the appliance and a
monitoring unit connected to the sensor. The monitoring unit
includes a monitoring circuit connected to monitoring the sensed
condition and a communications circuit. The sensor is inserted in
the appliance and the monitoring circuit sends a signal through the
communication circuit in response to the sensed condition.
[0012] The monitoring unit may be mounted on the appliance and
attached to the power supply of the appliance.
[0013] In another general aspect, a retrofit appliance monitoring
system includes an appliance having a power supply; a retrofit plug
attached to the power supply; and a sensor connected to the
retrofit plug for sensing an appliance condition. The retrofit plug
generates a signal based on a sensed condition. The appliance
monitoring also can include a control server and a user interface.
The control server displays a message on the user interface in
response to the signal from the sensed condition.
[0014] Other features and advantages will be apparent from the
description, the drawings, and the claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary automation
system.
[0016] FIGS. 2 and 3 are block diagrams of a control server of the
system of FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a universal controller of the system
of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary communications
module of the system of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary retrofit
plug.
[0020] FIGS. 6B-6D are block diagrams of a retrofit plug of the
system of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIGS. 7A-7C are exemplary screen shots of touchpad user
interfaces of the system of FIG. 1.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a distributed video
network.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a retrofit damper system.
[0024] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a retrofit damper of the
system of FIG. 9.
[0025] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a zone controller of the
system of FIG. 9.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a block diagram of function blocks for home
manager software.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a screen shot of the home manager temperature
control of the software of FIG. 12.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a screen shot of the home manager kitchen
assistant of the software of FIG. 12.
[0029] FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a metering network.
[0030] FIG. 16 is a screen shot of a remote monitoring service.
[0031] FIG. 17 is a screen shot of a temperature monitoring
interface.
[0032] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a central locking network.
[0033] FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a security network.
[0034] FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a lighting network.
[0035] FIG. 21 is a block diagram of a heating network.
[0036] FIG. 22 is a block diagram of a zone controller and a
heating network.
[0037] FIG. 23 is a screen shot of a home manager heating control
interface.
[0038] FIG. 24 is a block diagram of an appliance control
system.
[0039] FIG. 25 is a screen shot of an exemplary virtual control
panel of the system of FIG. 24.
[0040] FIGS. 26A and 26B are block diagrams of a refrigeration
monitoring unit.
[0041] FIGS. 27A and 27B are block diagrams of a refrigeration
monitoring unit.
[0042] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like
elements
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
System Overview
[0043] An automation system, which may also be referred to as a
building control (BC) system, may be used to automate a home, an
office, or another type of commercial or residential building. In
the residential context, the BC system establishes a home network
that controls, coordinates, facilitates, and monitors
user-designated activities within the home. The BC system provides
compatibility between external and internal networks, systems, and
appliances, and is modular in construction to allow easy expansion
and customization. The BC system can be retrofitted for use in
existing structures and legacy appliances without the need for
drastic remodeling, added wiring, or complicated
installation/customization, and can be installed by a homeowner
with minimal instruction. Professional installation and maintenance
also are simplified, so as to avoid the high costs typically
associated with custom home automation.
[0044] The modularity of the BC system provides for easy
customization for either commercial or residential use. For
residential applications, system elements may be sealed for easy
installation, configuration, and aesthetic appearance. Expansion
within the residential applications can be accomplished by adding
new modules to the system. On the other hand, for commercial or
advanced residential applications, the system can be custom
configured and expanded through the additional use of expansion
boards, PCMCIA cards, or plug in solutions. Although the following
examples are primarily described with reference to home
applications, the described devices and concepts also are
applicable for commercial use.
[0045] The BC System
[0046] Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary BC system is based around
a control server 100 that manages a number of primary networks
including: an internal home network 1 (e.g., a USB or Ethernet
network), a video distribution network 2 (e.g., Peracom AvCast
System), a power line carrier (PLC) network 3, a wireless radio
frequency (RF) communications network 4, and an Internet portal 5
(e.g., a DSL modem). BC system devices attach to the control server
100 through one of these networks, and each network services a
different aspect of home automation.
[0047] The home network 1 can include a residential broadband
gateway 105 for high-speed interaction with the Internet and
service providers. In addition, a number of computer systems 190
can be connected to provide access to the control server 100 and
between the computer systems 190. The home network 1 can be
implemented using any LAN system, such as, for example, an Ethernet
system. The computer system 190 can be used as an interface for
controlling home automation and running home automation
software.
[0048] The video distribution network 2 can include an AvCast
subcomponent 180 that plugs into the control server 100 to
coordinate multimedia activity between, for example, video monitors
182 and a satellite TV system 181. The video distribution system 2
also can act as an interface to the control server 100.
[0049] The PLC network 3 provides control of switches 171, power
outlets 172, and smart appliances 135. In addition, a number of
communications modules 120 can be used to communicate with legacy
devices, such as a range 130. Retrofit plugs 125 also can be used
within the PLC network to provide communication with legacy
devices. A number of different interfaces, such as, for example,
touch pads 152, 154 and portable tablet 150, can be used to provide
for user interaction with the control server.
[0050] The RF network 4 includes communications modules 120, legacy
appliances 132, and interfaces 152 and 154. In addition, a
universal controller 110 can be used to control appliances, such as
a furnace 131. The RF network 4 can be connected with sensors 141,
143, and 145 to monitor home utilities such as electricity, gas,
and water, respectively. A smart thermostat 133 and a damper system
can be used to control and optimize home heating and cooling.
[0051] The Internet portal 5 allows access and control of the BC
system from a remote location. In addition, service providers may
remotely monitor appliances, usage, and security within the home.
New applications and upgrades of existing software can be obtained
through the Internet.
[0052] BC Controller/Server
[0053] The control server 100 is the core of the BC system. The
control server 100 provides multi-protocol routing and supervisory
control for communicating appliances and general purpose device
controllers. The control server 100 is responsible for
communicating with subordinate system devices while making data
available to other supervising devices. The supervising devices
include local user interfaces or Internet-based remote
interfaces.
[0054] The control server 100 features pre-configured control
function blocks or objects, in addition to user defined control
strategies, that run on a real time control engine capable of
executing combinational and sequential logic control. The control
engine may be application specific or generic depending on the size
and the intended purpose of the BC system in which the control
engine is implemented. The control function blocks executed by the
control server 100 are designed to operate in a number of modes,
such as, for example, an away mode, a sleep mode, and a vacation
mode, among others. The control server 100 operates appliances and
subsystems based on the BC system's current operating mode. For
example, when entering the away mode, the control server 100 can
activate the security system and turn down the heat or the air
conditioning. In addition to modes that can be selected and
transitioned, "hard-wired" functions are provided to initiate
actions based on recognition of certain external conditions. One
example of such an action is the flashing of red screens on all
televisions and displays in a home when a fire alarm is
tripped.
[0055] The control server 100 also provides for protocol
conversion. For example, if an attached appliance has a
stripped-down protocol, the control server 100 adds the missing
elements to make the appliance appear to be compliant with a
desired industry standard protocol. Where the physical layer
necessary for communication with a device is not available in the
control server 100, add-on units may be used to attach the control
server to the device. The control server 100 accommodates multiple
protocols and physical layers through communications modules 120
attached between devices using foreign protocols or physical layers
and the control server 100. Similarly, smart modules, retrofit
plugs, and universal controllers may be used to provide the
function of protocol conversion. The control server 100 interfaces
with any of the system graphic user interfaces (GUIs), PC networks,
Internet, and all other portions of the BC system as described in
greater detail below.
[0056] The control server 100 is modular in design and can be
scaled with regard to size, functions, and hardware desired for a
specific implementation. One example of a control server 100 is
shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2, the control server 100
includes a processor 200. The processor 200 is connected to a board
with a communications bus 202, an I/O port 203, and interfaces
including a RF digital signal processor 207, a 10 BASE-T interface
206, a modem 205, and a serial interface 204. The interfaces
provide communication between the control server 100 and the
primary BC system networks 1-5.
[0057] The processor 200 also is connected to a flash memory 224, a
RAM 222, and an EEPROM 220. An optional power source (RTC xtal and
Battery) 230 can be used to power the control server 100 in the
event of loss of power. A number of communication ports are
connected with the various interfaces. The communication ports can
include a 10 BASE-T port 212, a TELCO DAA 214, a RS-232 port 216, a
RS-485 port 218, and a S-BUS port (or USB port) 219.
[0058] In addition, a PLC controller 280 and an EmWare Adapter 260
are connected to the communications input/output port 203. These
devices may be configured on the board or as add-on modules. The
EmWare adapter 260 can be used to communicate with and control
appliances or systems that use an EmWare communications protocol.
Other adapters for other communications protocol or systems can be
provided in an original device or as add-on, plug-in applications.
A VGA controller 240 is provided for connection with a PC caster
port 242.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 3, the control server 100 also can be
implemented as a main board 300 with optional add on boards and
PCMCIA slots. The main board 300 includes an Ethernet connection
301, a serial I/O port 315, and an optional slot for a PC card 305.
Daughter boards are connected to the main board using a system bus
connector. A daughter board typically includes an eight-way serial
interface card and a four-way Ethernet card, with an optional slot
for a PC card. The main board 300 can be implemented using a
Motorola MPC860 PowerPC core 304, a memory (including flash 306,
DRAM 308, NVRAM 307), and I/O including: Dual SCC channels with
HDLC interface, two status LEDs, two Tx/Rx pair communication
status LED indicators, a debug RS-232 serial port, a PCMCIA slot,
10/100 Base T physical interface connector, an EIA-232 serial port,
an EIA-485 serial port, and an EIA-485 serial port with 24V PSU
input.
[0060] External connections from the main board 300 include a
single RJ-45 connector 301 for an Ethernet connection and a number
of RJ-11 connectors for serial communications. The first RJ-11
connector 303 can support two connections for 24V DC serial
communication for PLC 310 and a second connector 302 for an EIA-485
serial interface. The serial interfaces on the main board 300 can
use RJ-11 connectors. PLC interfaces to the main board, as well as
other boards, are made through a serial interface to, for example,
external communications modules. The primary PLC interface 310 is
enclosed inside the external transformer housing that provides 24V
DC to the control server.
[0061] Functionally, the Ethernet interface 360 to the main board
300 is the primary WAN or broadband interface. Typically, the
interface 360 can be connected to a cable modem or a DSL modem and
can provide a firewall to secure data access. The EIA-232 interface
350 is provided for programming and debugging of the control server
100 in the field. The free EIA-485 interface allows flexible
customization of the control server 100 or connection to an
external POTS modem, a serial interface (third party device), or a
second PLC.
[0062] The control server 100 main board 300 can accommodate a
number of additional EIA-485 interfaces (e.g., eight interfaces).
The additional interfaces can provide connection to third party
devices, such as security panels, lighting control systems, HVAC
zoning systems, and others. The additional interfaces also can be
used for connection to external bridges, such as additional PLC
interfaces, RF subsystems, communications modules, and retrofit
plugs.
[0063] The Ethernet board (not shown) on the main board 300
includes four 10/100 base T Ethernet interfaces. The four
interfaces provide connections for two secure LAN connections, one
unsecure LAN connection, and one unsecure WAN connection.
[0064] The control server video board (not shown) can include the
following interfaces: video out/VGA out, video in, dual
USB-printer, keyboard/mouse interface, IR interface, and PCMCIA
slot (optional). The video board provides video I/O as well as IR
command transmission. A keyboard and mouse combination can be used
with the video board through a USB or USB-to-RF interface (in the
case of a wireless keyboard or mouse). A second USB connector can
interface with printers, digital cameras, and other peripheral
equipment. Functionally, the board accepts video input and
digitizes the video for use by the rest of the BC system using the
MPEG4 standard. The video board also provides video output as a TV
channel for broadcast on connected televisions within the home.
[0065] Universal Controller
[0066] The universal controller 110 is an optimized form of the
control server 100. The universal controller 110 performs a single
dedicated task, such as HVAC control. As a result, the universal
controller 110 includes only the input and output features that are
necessary for the dedicated task. The universal controller 110 can
be used in a stand-alone configuration with access through remote
dial-up, Internet access, and/or a touchpad interface. The
universal controller 110 also can be controlled and monitored by
the control server 100. The universal controller 110 communicates
with the control server through the RF or PLC networks or by
directly wired serial communication. The universal controller 110
can be used to handle applications that are pre-packaged for
physical distribution, that have outgrown the capability of the
control server 100, or that have special features not handled by a
standard control server 100. In addition, the universal controller
110 can be implemented as a daughter board to the control server
100.
[0067] According to the example shown in FIG. 4, the universal
controller 110 includes a processor 400 to which a memory 420 is
connected. The memory includes communications software for the
remote uploading and downloading of data and software for control
of specific attached subsystems, such as, for example, HVAC
control. The universal controller 110 also includes 16
analog/digital switches for receipt of signals from sensors. An
RS-232 communication interface 430 is provided for PC, modem, and
other communication with serial communication ports of other
devices. Twenty four relays configured in pairs of twelve are
provided as output 440. Each relay in a pair can be configured for
an individual device that is powered from a common source.
[0068] Control Modules
[0069] Referring again to FIG. 1, control modules (e.g., 120 and
125) allow legacy appliances that have already been purchased by a
homeowner or commercial operator to be integrated into a home
automation system. This is important because appliances are
expensive and have relatively long operational lives. As a result,
appliances typically are not replaced until failure. Therefore, for
existing appliances to be incorporated in a total home or
commercial automation system, an interface is needed to allow
communication with the automation system so that a user is not
forced to buy a network ready appliance. The control modules
provide such an interface in a form that can be installed easily by
the homeowner or business operator.
[0070] In addition, manufacturers may not wish to sell devices that
are network/system compliant due to the added cost associated with
outfitting the appliance with the necessary software and control
circuitry. Therefore, a control module can be inserted into an
appliance aftermarket, or by the manufacturer, to provide network
protocol compliance.
[0071] Two examples of control modules are the appliance
communications module and the retrofit plug. The appliance
communication module acts a bridge between the control server (or
remote monitoring service provider) and an appliance by providing
protocol conversion that is specific to the appliance. The
communication module also allows the control server to control the
appliance. The retrofit plug provides for remote monitoring and
diagnosis of an appliance, and is easily installed with any
appliance.
[0072] Appliance Communications Module
[0073] The appliance communications module 120 is adapted to be
received by an appliance having an appliance controller. The
communications module 120 includes a communications protocol
translator. The communications protocol translator translates
signals received from a communications media into appliance
controller signals. The translator also translates appliance
control signals received from the appliance controller into a
communications protocol to be output to an appliance communications
network. The communications module 120 also can include a power
line transceiver connected to the communications protocol
translator and a power line driver connected to the transceiver and
the connector. The communications module's connector is
electrically coupled to the appliance controller. Alternatively,
the communications module 120 can include a radio frequency (RF)
transceiver or modem for connection to an appliance network. An
example of the communications module 120 is shown in FIG. 5.
[0074] The protocol translator translates signals received from the
network into appliance controller signals. The translator also
translates received appliance control signals according to a
communications protocol to be output to the network through the
modem or transceiver.
[0075] A network ready appliance is also provided. The network
ready appliance includes an appliance controller having a
communications port. The appliance also includes a cavity, defined
by walls, that is adapted to receive the communications module 120.
An opening in a wall of the appliance allows access to the cavity.
A connector is attached to one of the cavity walls. A
communications line connecting the communications port and the
connector also is provided. The connector is electrically coupled
to the appliance controller or to the main power supply. The
network ready appliance further includes a detachable cover
provided over the opening to protect a user from electric shock.
Alternatively, the appliance connector can be recessed in a cavity
to protect the user against shock.
[0076] The communications module is described in detail in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/511,313 title "COMMUNICATION MODULE"
which was filed Feb. 23, 2000, and is incorporated by reference in
its entirety.
[0077] Retrofit Plug
[0078] The retrofit plug 125, shown in FIGS. 6A-6D, is a
plug-through device that is either attached in line with the main
appliance electrical supply or internally in line with a main
control board interface connector of an appliance 130. As shown in
FIG. 6A, the retrofit plug can be installed on legacy equipment by
simply connecting the retrofit plug 125 to the pins of the
appliance that are used to supply power to the appliance. As a
result, a legacy appliance can be easily incorporated into a
network to allow monitoring and control of the appliance by a
homeowner without the need for custom or professional
installation.
[0079] As one example of an internal connection, control signals
inside certain refrigerators pass through a marshalling connector
connected to the main control board. By connecting a retrofit plug
to this connector, all signals within the refrigerator can be
tapped for diagnostic data. The diagnostic data may be sent to the
control server 100 that monitors the appliance 130, for example,
through the PLC network 3. The data gathered from the appliance 130
can be stored by the control server 100 or downloaded to a remote
database maintained by a service provider.
[0080] In a standalone application, the control server 100 can be
replaced by a gateway connected to a PLC network. Data from the
retrofit plug can be sent through the PLC network to the gateway.
The gateway transmits the data to a service provider monitoring the
appliance 130. The plug may operate as a stand-alone unit by
equipping the plug with a modem to communicate with an external
computer (e.g., as provided by a monitoring service). The retrofit
plug 125 also can be equipped with an RF transceiver so that the
plug may be incorporated in a wireless network 4 for monitoring and
control of an associated appliance.
[0081] FIG. 6B shows an exemplary retrofit plug 125 that provides
an interface between an appliance's electronic control system and
the control server 100. The retrofit plug 125 has an outer housing
600 made of, for example, an electrically-insulative plastic (class
II) or (class I). The retrofit plug can include a number of
couplers. For example, the housing 600 includes slots 601 and 602
for connection with pins from the appliance 130, for example, on a
power cord, that are used to supply power to the appliance 130.
Pins 603 and 604 extend from the housing for connection with the
mains that supply power to the appliance 130. Although only two
pins and two slots are shown in the example of FIG. 6B-D,
additional pins and slots may be included as needed to be
compatible with any particular appliance's power supply. For
example, a retrofit plug could attach to a three pin connector by
adding an additional slot and pin for an earth connection or to a
four pin connector having two live pins, a neutral pin, and a
ground pin by adding slots and pins for the second live pin and the
earth pin.
[0082] The retrofit plug 125 includes a power supply 650 for
supplying power to a measure and transmit circuit 620, a power line
communication (PLC) transceiver 630, and a line driver 640. The
power supply 620 powers the retrofit plug's components (620, 630,
and 640) by converting the appliance AC voltage (e.g., 100V to 264V
and {fraction (50/60)} Hz) to a {fraction (5/10)} V DC voltage. The
power supply 650 receives power from pins 603 and 604 through lines
641 and 643.
[0083] The retrofit plug includes monitoring circuitry. For
example, a measure and transmit circuit 620 is connected to a
current transformer 610 to measure the current being drawn by the
appliance attached to the retrofit plug 125. Other circuitry that
could be used to monitor the current drawn by the attached
appliance includes a Rogowski coil or a shunt.
[0084] The measure and transmit circuitry 620 may include a
processor (e.g., an ASIC, a DSP, a microprocessor, or a
microcontroller) and memory (such as an integrated circuit (IC)
memory or a flash memory). The measure and transmit circuit 620 can
simply monitor and report the current drawn by the attached
appliance 130. Specifically, the measure and transmit circuit 620
may monitor current draw timing, duration, and amount. In more
sophisticated applications, the measure and transmit circuit can be
upgraded to perform bi-directional communication by translating
between a communications media protocol used by the control server
100 and the appliance's control protocol. In addition, if the
appliance's load current is measured, an indication of power can be
derived from the square of the load current. Line voltage may be
measured and multiplied by the load current to measure true power
consumption.
[0085] The current draw data or power data can be stored by the
measure and transmit circuit 620. The measure and transmit circuit
620 can be programmed to periodically send the measured data to the
control server 100 as part of a general monitoring function, such
as, for example, energy management and logging functions. In
addition, the measure and transmit circuit 620 can be programmed to
compare measurement data to specific electronic signatures stored
in a table in the memory of the retrofit plug 125. The measure and
transmit circuitry can send messages to the control server 100 in
response to events which indicate a state of the appliance 130
requiring some further action (e.g., shut off power).
[0086] The retrofit plug 125 also includes a communications
circuit. The communications circuit sends data from the measure and
transmit circuit to a remote processor, such as, for example, the
control server 100. The communications circuit may also receive
signals from a remote processor, such as, for example, the control
server 100. The communications circuit may include a transmitter
and a receiver or a transceiver, a power line communication (PLC)
transceiver 630, and a line driver 640. Measurement data is
supplied to the PLC transceiver 630 and are coded for PLC
transmission on the PLC network 3. The PLC transceiver 630 operates
a line driver 640. The line driver 640 places the measurement data
as PLC coded signals on lines 641 and 643 according to a network
protocol.
[0087] The PLC coded signals are supplied by the retrofit plug to
the external power circuit that supplies power to the appliance.
The control server 100 monitors the external power circuit to
receive the PLC coded signals. In this way, the control server 100
can monitor appliances connected to the external power circuit and
the appliances can exchange data with the control server 100 or
other appliances connected to the network.
[0088] The control server 100 or a remote monitoring service is
able to perform diagnostic interpretation about the appliance 130.
In this manner, the BC system can determine the health of the
appliance, the appliance's current function (e.g., how many burners
are on, oven capacity, temperature monitoring in a refrigerator,
and washer and drier cycles including length), and device failure
(including cause). For example, if a current signature or power
usage for the light bulb in a refrigerator is detected as being
active over an extended period of time, the control server 100 can
determine that an open door condition exists and can generate a
message for display on an interface 150 to alert the user to shut
the door.
[0089] The retrofit plug 125 also can include a power-switching
device under control of the measure and transmit circuit 620. The
power-switching device enables remote shutdown of the attached
appliance, for example, through the retrofit plug 125, if a
situation occurs that may damage the appliance if operation is
continued or if a hazardous condition may result from continued
operation. The power-switching device also can permit dimming and
variable current flow regulation for remote control of the
appliance.
[0090] The retrofit plug 125 can be designed specifically for a
particular appliance. As a result, the retrofit plug 125 can
perform sophisticated diagnosis, monitoring, and control specific
to the appliance. Alternatively, the retrofit plug 125 can contain
sufficient memory that control data or programs can be downloaded
to the plug from the control server 100 through the PLC network.
The software and data may be provided directly by the service
provider. Software also may be installed in the field using a flash
memory chip that is inserted into the retrofit plug 125.
[0091] As shown in FIG. 6C, an optional battery 655 can be
connected with the power supply 650 to provide power to components
of the retrofit plug in the event that power is lost. The battery
may be a rechargeable battery that charge while the retrofit plug
is supplied with power, if the battery is not in a fully charged
state.
[0092] A serial port or other communications interface also can be
provided in the retrofit plug to provide additional communication
capabilities. The serial interface may be used for connection with
another sensor to provide additional data about the device
connected to the retrofit plug 125. The additional data can be
transmitted to a remote monitoring device using the PLC
network.
[0093] Other types of communications media also can be supported by
the retrofit plug. As shown in FIG. 6C a modem 670 is provided
within the retrofit plug 125 to provide communication to a network
through a phone line. Alternatively, a wireless modem could be used
for remotely located appliances where a phone line may not be
available. The processor in the measure and transmit circuit 620
handles modem dial-up to an external network and provides buffering
for the two-way data transfer on line 671. A phone line can be
attached to the data transfer line 671 by adding a RJ connector in
the housing of the retrofit plug 125. The modem 670 does not have
to be included within the retrofit plug 125, instead, the modem can
be a snap-on attachment to the retrofit plug 125.
[0094] As an example, the modified retrofit plug with serial port
and modem can be used to monitor a commercial freezer. A retrofit
plug 125 is installed on the main power supply to the freezer. In
addition, a temperature sensor is fitted inside the freezer
compartment to measure the freezer's interior temperature. The
temperature sensor is attached to the retrofit plug 125 using the
serial port. The battery provides power capability to the retrofit
plug 125 and its components. In addition, the retrofit plug 125 has
a telephone modem. In this case, if the main power supplied to the
freezer fails and the freezer temperature approaches 32 degrees,
the retrofit plug 125 can sense the rise in temperature using the
remote temperature sensor and dial the operator or monitoring
service to alert that food spoilage is possible.
[0095] Operator Interfaces
[0096] Operator interfaces that can be used with the BC system
include, for example, single room touch pad, small touchpad,
standard touchpad, portable tablet, PC, and web enabled phones. In
general, the look and feel of the operator interfaces is consistent
between each interface where possible, and may look as is shown in
FIGS. 7A-7C.
[0097] Single Room Touchpad
[0098] The single room touchpad is basic in design and is intended
for installation into a standard light switch box. The touch pad is
capable of controlling at least two functions such as temperature
and lighting. The single room touchpad also can accommodate an
intercom for communication between rooms in the home. Through use
of RF or PLC communications, the touchpad may be sized to fit in a
standard switch box for ease of installation and integration.
[0099] Small Touchpad
[0100] The basic functionality of the small touchpad is that of a
home automation system controller or room controller. Where
appropriate, colors and sounds can be used to catch a person's
attention or to signal an alarm. An exemplary small touchpad 154 is
shown in FIG. 7A.
[0101] The small touchpad 154 includes a display, such as, for
example, a 2.6" color TFT display. The display 701 shows the
controls for lighting in a room. A room selection bar 702 displays
the area that the small touchpad is being used to control. An arrow
button 703 allows the user to switch between multiple areas.
Control bars are used to control appliances within the area, such
as, for example, a control bar 705 for overhead lighting and a
control bar 708 for a table light. The amount of overhead lighting
can be adjusted by selecting the + or - buttons 706 and 707 on the
display. The side table light 1 can be turned on or off using the
buttons 709 and 710 on control bar 708. Additional control bars, if
any, can be accessed by using the down arrow 711. A back button 712
navigates the user to the previous display. Selections can be made
by touching the screen using a stylus, a finger, or the like. Three
buttons are provided for controlling the display of the small
touchpad 154.
[0102] Standard Touchpad
[0103] The standard touchpad 152 is a sophisticated operator
interface designed for more enhanced presentation of information.
The standard touchpad includes a 4 inch, 320.times.240 pixel
personal data assistant (PDA)-style display and is capable of
displaying video images as well as textual or icon based images. It
is also capable of presenting web content in the manner of alerts
or breaking news items. The standard touchpad 152 provides alarm
and alert notification by means of color and sound, examples of
which are:
[0104] Red-Flashing with buzzer--extreme alarm such as fire or
intrusion detection;
[0105] Red with beeper--alarm such as system fault or pre-defined
alarm condition (the two year old has entered the pool area);
[0106] Yellow with beeper--general alert such as hurricane warning
or other weather or news advisory; and
[0107] Green with low level beeper--general information, such as
clothes are ready from the dryer.
[0108] Being more sophisticated, the standard touchpad 152, which
may be the only operator interface available, is not bound to
controlling a single portion or subset of the BC system, and,
instead, is capable of looking at the whole environment controlled
by the BC system. It also is capable of configuring the system. An
option for video display allows the standard touchpad 152 to
present low-grade camera images such as, for example, from a camera
positioned at the front door. A speaker and microphone can be
included to provide an intercom with the video feature.
[0109] The standard touchpad 152 builds on the display of the small
touchpad 154. The standard touchpad includes a display 731. A room
selection bar 732 appears at the top of the display. The user may
switch between rooms using the arrow button 733. Multiple control
bars 735-738 also are displayed. Additional control bars can be
accessed by using the down arrow 741. A back button 742 is provided
for navigating back to the previous display window. Four keypad
input buttons 744 are provided for immediate navigation to preset
display windows and to manipulate the display window 731.
[0110] The standard touchpad 752 can be mounted onto a wall and
hard wired. The standard touchpad 752 also can be used as a
portable unit having a cradle for storing and re-charging the unit
when not in use.
[0111] Portable tablet
[0112] A portable tablet 150 can be used to communicate with the BC
system provided that required connectivity options are available.
The portable tablet 150 is used to present all aspects of the
standard touchpad devices as well as more detailed configuration
options. In addition, the portable tablet provides video and web
browsing capabilities. The portable table may have a 12" display
and may be used in the distributed video network to control all
televisions and video devices. As a result, a parent could use the
portable tablet to flash a message on the children's TV--"its time
for dinner." The portable tablet may be implemented using a web
pad.
[0113] The web pad interface includes an applications bar 756 that
allows the user to switch between the various applications
supported by the BC system. A tool bar 75 for selecting specific
features, such as, for example, a particular appliance to control,
is provided on the top of the display. A room selector arrow 753
also is provided. The portable table 150 is able to display a
number of control bars (754, 755). A down arrow 758 provides
selection of additional control bars associated with the appliance,
if necessary. A back button 757 is also provided to move to the
previous display screen.
[0114] Video Distribution Network
[0115] As shown in FIG. 8, a BC system includes a control server
100 connected to a number of primary networks including: an
Ethernet LAN 1, a PLC LAN 3, an RF LAN 4, an RS485 LAN, a WAN
(connected by a POTS or ISDN line), and a video distribution
network 2. The video distribution network 2 includes a AvCast
daughter board 180, a media caster module 810, a cable caster
module 820, and a web caster module 830. The AvCast daughter board
180 plugs into a slot on the control server 100. The AvCast
daughter board 180 can include the following interfaces: video
out/VGA out, video in, dual USB--printer, keyboard/mouse interface,
IR interface, and PCMCIA slot (optional). The video board provides
video I/O as well as IR command transmission. A keyboard and mouse
combination can be used with the video board through a USB or
USB-to-RF interface (in the case of a wireless keyboard or mouse).
A second USB connector can interface with printers, digital
cameras, and other peripheral equipment. Functionally, the board
accepts video input and digitizes the video for use by the rest of
the BC system using the MPEG4 standard. The video board also
provides video output as a TV channel for broadcast on connected
televisions within the home.
[0116] The media caster module 810 is a digitally-tuned audio-video
modulator with user-selectable UHF or CATV channels. The media
caster module 810 is individually addressable. The media caster
module 810 allows signals from the control server 100 to be
displayed on TVs 182 by converting the video output from the
control server 100 to a TV channel. The resulting converted signal
can be distributed to a number of TVs 182 using the cable caster
module 820. Using the output TV channel, the control server 100 can
broadcast video data, virtual control panels, security camera video
output, messages, alarms, and control interfaces to any connected
BC system interface.
[0117] The cable caster module 820 provides bi-directional
signal-splitting with 6 dB of amplification to compensate for cable
loss. The cable caster module 820 distributes a video signal feed
to any connected TV 182 while providing enough amplification to
ensure crisp TV pictures despite long cable runs and
signal-splitting.
[0118] The web caster module 830 converts SVGA and audio inputs to
a TV signal. The converted signal can be distributed to multiple
TVs 182 and interfaces (e.g., 190 or 150) using the cable caster
module 820. The web caster module 830 allows the data displayed on
a PC screen 190 to be viewed on a TV 182. As a result, the TV 182
can be used as a second monitor for viewing, for example, web
pages.
[0119] A gateway 105 offers broadband connection to a CATV system.
The gateway 105 connects with the control server 100 through the
high-speed Ethernet link 1 using, for example, a Cat5 cable. When
used with the video distribution network 2, video signals can be
routed through the media caster module 810 and cable caster module
820 to other TVs 182 using standard co-axial cable. In addition,
the video signal from the gateway 105 can be fed directly into the
cable caster module 820 for distribution by co-axial cable
throughout a building.
[0120] The gateway 105 provides a high-speed link enabling services
such as, for example, video on demand, from the CATV connection.
The high-speed link also provides a fast Internet connection for
browser software running on the portable tablet 150 or the 90.
Services, such as teleshopping, can be provided through the video
distribution network 2, if supported by the cable service provider.
The gateway 105 also provides a high-speed data link to the rest of
the home network 1 supporting real-time video capability. The
gateway 105 can be implemented as a standalone unit or as a plug-in
module in the control server.
[0121] Smart Appliances
[0122] Smart appliances (e.g., 135) are network ready appliances
that can be connected to the BC system without additional
modification or interfaces. Once connected to the BC system, a
smart appliance can be controlled by the control server 100. In
addition, the smart appliance can be remotely controlled through
use of a virtual control panel displayed on a BC system interface,
such as a portable tablet 150. A smart appliance has either a
communications module or a smart module that connects to the
internal appliance controller to provide compatibility with the
control server 100. The smart module and virtual control panel are
described in detail in copending U.S. Application Ser. No.
09/378,509, titled "DISTRIBUTED LIFE CYCLE DEVELOPMENT TOOL FOR
CONTROLS" which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0123] Retrofit Damper
[0124] A wireless forced air damper for zoned HVAC control is shown
in FIG. 9. The damper 900 is available in industry standard sizes
to replace floor, wall, or ceiling registers. The damper 900
communicates with a smart HVAC zone controller 133 using wireless
RF communications signals 901. A sensor 910 can be placed in the
area serviced by the damper 900 to report local conditions to the
zone controller 133. The sensor 910 communicates through the RF
network 3, the PLC network 4, or through direct wiring to
controller 133. Alternatively, the sensor 910 can be included in
the damper 900 as described below. Additionally the sensor can be a
wireless sensor 915. The zone controller 133 can be implemented as
a stand-alone unit. Alternatively, the zone controller 133 can be
supervised by the control server 100. If incorporated in the BC
system, the zone controller 133 can be controlled by any of the BC
system interfaces, such as the portable tablet 150. In addition,
home manager software can be used to control zone controller 133
according to a number of predetermined modes of operation.
Thermostats can be provided to provide user control of individual
zones within a building. Existing wired thermostats 155 can be
coupled to the zone controller to allow user control of the HVAC
system. Additionally, wireless thermostats 157 can also be used.
The wireless sensor 915 and thermostat 157 can be incorporated into
a single unit.
[0125] A block diagram of a damper 900 is shown in FIG. 10. The
damper 900 includes a register 1010 for controlling air flow
through the damper 900. An RF transceiver 1050 receives control
signals 901 from the zone controller 133 and transmits
status/sensed data to the zone controller 133. A power supply 1030,
such as, for example, a battery or other self-contained power
source, powers the damper's electrical components so that the
damper is self-contained and does not require any additional wiring
for power. A mechanism 1020, such as, for example, a solenoid, a
spring, a shape memory wire, or a magnetic latching mechanism, is
coupled to the register 1010. The mechanism 1020 actuates the
register to allow air flow in response to a signal received from
the controller 1040. A magnetic switch or latching mechanism having
thousands of latching cycles may be used as the mechanism 1020 to
reduce power consumption and to extend the operational life of the
damper between replacing/recharging of the power supply 1030. For
example, the latching system can have one or two magnets. A
capacitor can be charged from the battery using a trickle charge.
In response to a control signal the capacitor can cause an
induction, which actuates the magnet that holds register in one
operation state. A second magnet or gravity may be used to return
the register to its other operational state. A variable mechanism
also may be used to control the register such that the register can
be partially opened to regulate air flow (e.g., 100% open, 80%
open, 50% open, and closed).
[0126] The controller 1040 can monitor the power supply 1030. When
the power supply 1030 reaches a minimum charge threshold, the
register 1010 is placed in an open state so that the register 1010
is left in the open position if power fails. In addition, the
controller 1040 may notify the zone controller 133 that the power
supply has reached a minimum threshold. Once notified, the zone
controller 133 alerts the user that the power supply 1030 needs to
be replaced/recharged. Alternatively, the zone controller 133 may
poll the damper 900 to send a measurement of the power supply's
remaining charge to the zone controller 133. Upon receipt of the
measurement, the zone controller 133 performs the threshold
analysis and alerts the user if necessary. A cover or door that is
accessible from the room is provided to ease access to the power
supply 1030.
[0127] When the fan unit on the air conditioner or the furnace is
on, or when a preset condition occurs, the zone controller
broadcasts a control signal to the controller 1040 to cause the
mechanism to activate the register 1010. In addition, the zone
controller 133 may selectively open or close dampers 900 based on a
control program, a mode of operation, or upon a request from a user
interface. Drain on the charge of the damper's power supply 1030
may be reduced by waiting until air flow has stopped before closing
the register 1010 to limit the force needed to close the register
1010. A sensor 1060 may be connected to the controller 1040 to
measure temperature at the damper 900. The measurement is supplied
to the zone controller 133 as input to zone and comfort control
software operating in the zone controller 133 or the control server
100.
[0128] The zone controller 133 is shown in FIG. 11. The zone
controller 133 can be implemented using a universal controller 110.
The zone controller 133 includes a processor 1110 for controlling
and monitoring the dampers 900. A memory 1120 is provided to store
climate control software and for operation and identification of
the dampers 900 . An RF transceiver 1130 transmits control commands
to and receives responses from the dampers in response to the
commands. The dampers 900 are periodically polled by the zone
controller 133 for status and sensor data. The data can be stored
in the memory 1120 for analysis by the processor 1110 or the data
may be transmitted to the control server 100 for storage and
analysis. If no response is received from a damper 900 after being
polled a number of times, the zone controller 133 notifies the user
or control server 100 that the damper 900 is not responding and may
need servicing. An optional I/O interface 1140 is provided for
connection with external sensors 910. An RS-232 interface 1150
allows peripheral equipment, such as a handheld unit or a modem, to
be connected to the zone controller 133. An RS-485 interface 1160
is provided to connect the zone controller 133 with the control
server 100.
[0129] Each damper 900 is assigned a unique HVAC control ID number.
The zone controller 133 uses the control ID number to identify a
damper. Each installed damper 900 is dedicated to a single zone
controller 133 and rejects interference from any other controllers,
unless released by an authorized security code stored in the damper
900. Initial configuration of the dampers 900 can be accomplished
according to one of the following methods.
[0130] According to a first method, zone controller 133 is placed
in an initialization mode. Once the zone controller 133 has been
placed in the initialization mode, the dampers 900 can be powered
up one at a time. Upon powering up, a damper 900 broadcasts a
message with the control ID to the zone controller 133.
Configuration software in the zone controller 133 acknowledges the
received broadcast message, stores the control ID, and prompts the
user to identify the location of the damper. After the user enters
the location, the zone controller 133 awaits receipt of the next
initialization message and repeats the process until the locations
of all dampers 900 are identified.
[0131] According to another method, barcodes can be used to
configure the dampers 900 upon installation. When the damper is
installed, a barcode on the damper 900 is scanned using a handheld
device with a barcode reader. The barcode encodes the control ID
for the damper 900. After reading the barcode, the handheld device
prompts the installer to enter the location of the damper 900. The
handheld device then associates the control ID with the entered
location and stores this information in a table. Alternatively,
barcodes identifying predetermined locations are placed in
corresponding slots that accommodate the dampers 900. The installer
scans the barcode in a slot using the handheld device. The
installer then scans a barcode on the damper to read the damper's
control ID and associates the damper with the location. After
installation of the dampers, the damper control ID and the location
data are downloaded to the zone controller 133 by connecting the
handheld device to a port on the zone control 133.
[0132] According to another method, a barcode identifying the
damper's control ID number can be peeled off the damper and placed
on a location sheet. The sheet is scanned to determine a damper's
control ID number and location. Once scanned, the data is
downloaded to the zone controller 133.
[0133] After configuration of the dampers, according to any of the
methods described above, the zone controller 133 controls the
damper units 900 through RF control signals according to the
instructions of the zone controller's operational programming. The
zone controller 133 can broadcast control messages that are
addressed to all dampers, to a set of dampers, or to a specific
damper using the control ID numbers.
[0134] The above-described system is not limited to dampers. The
control system could be applied to other flow control devices, such
as hydronic systems using, for example, a valve instead of a
register. Although the actuation devices and flow control
mechanisms would be specific to the environment, the control
circuitry and operation would be substantially the same.
Home Manager Software
[0135] The home manager software incorporates a number of
fundamental modes of operation. Six exemplary modes are: a stay
mode, an away mode, a bedtime mode, a sleep mode, a vacation mode,
a wake-up mode, and a custom mode. The stay mode is configured to
operate when the home is occupied. In this mode, certain aspects of
the home, such as comfort control, are set automatically by the
home manager. Other aspects, such as lighting scenes, are
independent of the mode and are set either by the occupant or based
on time of day occurrences.
[0136] The away mode implies that the home is occupied but no one
currently is at home. When operating in the away mode, the BC
system can override other programming, such as, for example,
lighting control, to simulate occupancy and to arm the security
system. During operation in the away mode, other system operations,
such as energy saving control, can conserve energy by cutting back
on hot water or comfort settings.
[0137] A bedtime mode (not to be confused with a sleep mode
described below) can be incorporated in homes that have children.
The bedtime mode is used when the children have gone to bed but
there are still one or more adults awake in the home. Bedtime mode
activates certain monitoring systems, such as, for example, child
monitoring, checking to make sure certain televisions and other
entertainment devices are off, and alerting the adults if certain
lights come on (e.g., the children's rooms or bathrooms). Using
this mode, parents can monitor sleeping children or be alerted when
children wake up.
[0138] Sleep mode is used to put the house to sleep. While in sleep
mode, the BC system arms the security system, and ensures that all
doors are closed and locked, all lights and appliances are off, and
that comfort settings are altered appropriately.
[0139] Vacation mode provides an enhanced state of security when a
family is away from the home for an extended period of time. In
this mode, lighting and entertainment systems may be used to
simulate occupancy. Energy hungry systems, such as, for example,
comfort control and hot water, may be reduced to minimum settings.
Appliances may be monitored for unnatural activity, such as, for
example, activation of the coffee pot (which normally would not
switch on in the morning if the family were on vacation). However,
the vacation mode can make allowances for house sitters who
periodically bring in the mail or check on the house.
[0140] Wake-up mode is a choreographed schedule of events that
happens as the house leaves sleep mode and enters stay mode. A
number of timed events take place in the wake-up mode that can be
customized for any particular residence. For example, prior to the
alarm clock going off, comfort settings can be altered. If an HVAC
zoning system is in place, the comfort settings can be adjusted in
bedrooms and bathrooms first. Wake-up mode then increases the
setting for the hot water heater, turns on the coffee pot, and
adjusts other home systems in preparation for a family getting out
of bed. A typical wake-up schedule would include: determine wake-up
time based on day and weather, increase hot water temperature,
increase temperature in bathrooms, shut off electric blankets, turn
on the coffee pot, ramp up lights to simulate sunrise, activate
wake-up alarm, turn on televisions for news, adjust comfort control
for whole house. This list is exemplary and not comprehensive as
any particular residence has a unique sequence of events. Other
features can be programmed into the mode as desired by either the
user or the service provider.
[0141] Custom modes also may be provided these modes may be
programmed by the user, downloaded from a service provider over the
Internet, or field programmed by a service provider technician on
site.
[0142] There are a number of hidden modes that are invoked by
features within the home manager. An example of a hidden mode is
the fire mode. If a fire is detected by the security system, lights
are adjusted to aid exit, doors are unlocked, gas to the house is
shut off, the HVAC systems are shut down, and emergency numbers are
called. Other hidden modes include: distress (robbery), medical
emergency, and appliance failure
[0143] Architecturally, each device connected to the BC system
subscribes to the various features offered in the house manager
modes through priority blocks. Each feature responding to a mode
has an associated priority setting, for example, a security feature
responding to a fire mode has a higher priority level than a
bedtime mode setting. FIG. 12 shows the relative positioning of the
modes, the various features running on the system, the
prioritization of each feature, and control of the field device.
Features shown as custom may require additional programming to
interface to the home management software.
[0144] Each feature also has an associated set of software
functionality based on the hardware components available. The BC
system automatically functions as described once the hardware is
recognized by the BC system.
[0145] Enhanced security beyond that provided by a conventional
security system is provided by the home manager. The enhanced
security feature may supplement a conventional security system
present in the home that is connected to the control server 100.
Settings available in the enhanced security system include:
armed/away mode, armed/stay mode, un-armed, system fault, medical
emergency, police emergency, and fire emergency.
[0146] The settings for the security system relate to home manager
modes in the following way. Both vacation mode and away mode invoke
the away setting in the security panel. Both the armed/home and
un-armed settings relate to the stay mode for the home manager.
Although the armed/home setting does not relate directly to a
specific mode, it can be set either by the existing security system
or by the home manager on an individual basis.
[0147] The home manager can set or receive any of the
armed/un-armed modes either locally or from a remote location
(e.g., through a remote user or security service provider).
Behavior of each of these sub-systems is described below.
[0148] Gas Shut-off Valve
[0149] In the fire emergency mode, the gas shut-off valve shuts-off
the main gas supply to the house. This feature can be applied to
any form of flammable fuel, such as natural gas, heating oil, or
propane. In all other modes, the shut-off valve is in the normal
state.
[0150] Water Shut-off Valve
[0151] In all modes, the shut-off valve is in the normal state.
[0152] Lighting Interface
[0153] In the armed/away setting, the lighting interface can be set
to a pre-defined state. The predefined state can include setting
individual lights on and off at prescribed times to simulated
occupancy. To configure simulated occupancy, the lights are
monitored for a period of one week, or as desired by the user. The
light activity during this time is recorded by the control server
100 and captured according to a homeowner prompt to copy the
activity. After the activity has been stored in the control server
database, mode the lights behave as they did during the recorded
period whenever the security feature is placed in the away
armed.
[0154] In the fire emergency mode, perimeter (outside) lights are
set to flash at a 50% duty cycle with a 1 second cycle time to
attract attention to the home. In addition, lights designated as
exit lights are set to a level prescribed by the homeowner. During
system configuration, lights are defined as exit lights, perimeter
lights, or normal lights. In this way, the homeowner can establish
an escape route using the lighting. All other lights are shut
off.
[0155] In all other modes the lights are set in their normal
state.
[0156] Door Locks
[0157] Doors are locked in the armed/away mode, and are unlocked in
the medical emergency mode and the fire emergency mode. In all
other modes, the door locks are in the normal state.
[0158] HVAC Interface
[0159] The HVAC interface can include communications to a
sophisticated whole house HVAC zoning system or simply a connection
to a programmable communicating thermostat. In the fire emergency
mode, the HVAC system is shut down to prevent smoke from being
distributed throughout the house. In all other modes, the HVAC
system is in the normal state.
[0160] Health Monitoring
[0161] In the medical emergency mode, any health monitoring
equipment that is connected to a person on a routine basis can be
activated (if it isn't already). In all other modes, the monitoring
equipment is in the normal state.
[0162] Child Detection
[0163] In the armed/stay mode, if a child is alone in the house,
all cook tops are disabled from use without a password to unlock
them. In the fire emergency mode, a security company is notified
that a child is in the house. In all other modes, the child
detection is in the normal state.
[0164] Elder Tracking
[0165] In the medical emergency mode, the security company will be
notified that a elderly or disabled person is in the house. In the
fire emergency mode a security company is notified that an elderly
or disabled person is in the house. In all other modes, the elder
tracking is in the normal state.
[0166] Security Cameras
[0167] Security cameras are accessible remotely by the BC system.
The control server 100 captures a camera image and digitizes it for
local display or for access from a remote browser. Data compression
can be used to save memory space. In the police emergency mode, the
security cameras are automatically set to record on a suitable
recording device, such as a VCR, if available. In all other modes,
the security cameras are in the normal state.
[0168] AVCast
[0169] In the fire emergency mode, all television sets in the house
are set to the control server TV channel. The control server
displays the message "FIRE" on the television screens. If a
location of the fire is known, that location is also placed on the
screen, for example, "FIRE--basement". In all other modes, the
AVCast system is in the normal state.
[0170] Away Mode Monitoring
[0171] Away mode monitoring is not to be confused with the
Armed/Away mode described in the enhanced security section. Away
mode monitoring relates to the ability to monitor or control the
home while away. The home manager supports a number of different
hardware methods for this task including a high-speed broadband
connection as well as telephone dial-up. In either case, the
control server 100 provides firewall protection against
unauthorized access. Away mode monitoring is also supported by web
enabled phones or phones with a mini-browser capability. Any device
with a browser can be used to access the home manager to control or
monitor any aspect in the home.
[0172] Appliance Maintenance
[0173] Appliance maintenance allows for remote access of appliances
within the home. Appliances can include, for example, any kitchen
or laundry appliance, water heater, HVAC system, lighting,
audio/visual, sprinkler, or comfort control. Connectivity to each
appliance is provided by a telephone modem or a broadband
connection to the control server, or the like. The control server
100 acts as the interface to the appliances and serves as a
firewall to prevent unwanted tampering. All appliance control
functions available within the home are allowed from outside of the
home provided that the user is authorized to do so. In the event
that a catastrophic failure is detected, a service provider can
shut-off gas or water to the house to prevent an explosion or water
damage.
[0174] Some appliances are capable of a certain amount of
self-diagnosis, such as detecting a clogged filter. Under these
conditions, the appliances can prompt the user to initiate repairs
by displaying a message on a local user interface. In other
instances, the appliance must be diagnosed either remotely or by a
service provider on site. The control server's role in appliance
diagnosis is to provide access to data by a remote site and to
provide any necessary service prompts locally. The service provider
may shut off the appliance if continued operation would damage the
appliance.
[0175] Enhanced Comfort
[0176] Enhanced comfort control involves any aspect of home
automation that automatically improves personal comfort. A number
of devices, when connected to the control server 100, can be
incorporated into the enhanced comfort feature. Examples of such
devices include HVAC control, programmable thermostats, a zone
control system, ceiling fans, air filtering, humidity control, and
automatic blinds.
[0177] HVAC control encompasses the broadest aspect of comfort
control. HVAC control also can be impacted by an energy management
or an enhanced security feature, if available. Programmable
communicating thermostats provide the greatest impact on the
ability to manage comfort in the home. Fundamentally, the home
manager communicates with the thermostat and allows the homeowner
to program and configure the thermostat. In addition, other
features within the home manager are able to override or alter the
actions of the thermostat if needed, for example, when the enhanced
security system shuts down the air-blower in case of a fire. Under
the energy management feature, the thermostat setting can be
adjusted to shed load during high tariff conditions or when the
home is unoccupied.
[0178] Zoning control is a feature that can provide benefit to
virtually every home. There are always instances where one area of
the home is hotter or colder than another area. A zoning system
uses temperature sensors and variable dampers to adjust the
temperature of each zone independently. The home manager supports
two forms of zoning: hardwired and wireless.
[0179] A hardwired zoning system involves dampers installed inside
ductwork communicating to the control server through a central HVAC
zoning package, or directly through PLC communications. Similarly,
the temperature sensors are connected to the control server 100
either through PLC or through the zoning package.
[0180] In the case of a wireless zoning system, RF communications
are used to communicate to all temperature sensors and dampers. In
this instance, the retrofit damper described above can be
incorporated.
[0181] Main HVAC control can be provided through direct connection
from the control server 100 to the HVAC zone controller unit 133 or
to a communicating thermostat, which in turn controls the packaged
unit. If the control server 100 is taken off-line for some reason,
the HVAC zone controller 133 or communicating thermostat can revert
to a conventional operation mode.
[0182] Other devices, such as, for example, ceiling fans,
humidifier/de-humidifiers, air filters, adjustable skylights, and
automatic blinds can respond to an algorithm for comfort control
implemented in the HVAC controller 110 or the control server
100.
[0183] Energy Savings
[0184] The primary method for achieving energy savings is to reduce
settings or turn off large energy consuming appliances during
non-critical times or peak tariff times. The away mode controlled
by the home manager system can lower thermostats, reduce
temperature of the hot water heater, coordinate HVAC and appliances
based on peak tariff conditions by adjusting thermostats to
appropriate extremes of the comfort zone, restricting use of
appliances to off-peak times, using automatic blinds and skylights
to reduce HVAC demand, and synchronizing HVAC and hot water heater
control with the sleep mode by cutting back temperatures during
sleep time and bringing them back up as part of the wake-up
cycle.
[0185] Family Manager
[0186] The family manager can be used in conjunction with the away
mode monitoring to allow family members to connect to the system
remotely. The family manager manages family data and automates
certain tasks, such as, for example, maintaining the family
calendar, maintaining a family address book, maintaining a family
task list with alarms and reminders, and providing a
kitchen/laundry assistant. The family manager is capable of being
sorted and searched in a variety of different ways. A family member
can access the entire family task list or just the member's
personal tasks.
[0187] The family calendar contains events of the following
profiles: single time events, periodic events (weekly, monthly,
yearly), and alarmed events. Events can be assigned to one or more
family members and carry details such as start time, end time, and
priority. The family address book is segmented by family member and
has annotations for entries related to, for example, family,
business associates, service providers, theaters, and shops.
Closely associated with the calendar is the task list. Tasks are
assigned a degree of importance, time needed for completion, and
family member assigned to the task.
[0188] The kitchen and laundry assistant centers around maintaining
an inventory of products in the home such as food and laundry
supplies. The assistant maintains shopping lists and supports
e-grocery and e-commerce. A method for scanning products, such as
barcode or RF ID, is supported to introduce new products into
inventory and remove them when discarded. Discarding or use of an
item can automatically prompt e-commerce services for re-stocking.
The kitchen assistant focuses on meal preparation by recommending
recipes or compliments based on products in inventory. The kitchen
assistant also supports recipe instructions accessed from Internet
sites. A screen shot of the cooking assistant is shown in FIG.
14.
[0189] Home Automation
[0190] The home automation feature consists of a variety of modes
that can be invoked from the stay mode, the bedtime mode, or the
sleep mode. This feature consists of settings for groups of devices
associated with certain activities. There are a number of default
modes plus a set of user defined modes provided by this feature
referred to as activity modes. Default activity modes include:
television, reading, dinner, formal dinner, and party. The
homeowner can add activity modes, such as, for example, gaming, for
playing cards, or night swim, to turn on back yard lights.
BC Systems
[0191] Meter Network
[0192] The meter network and its link to the control server is
explained with reference to FIG. 15. Water meter 1510 and heat
meters (1520,1530) are connected with a bus 1501 output that allows
the meters to be networked via Cat5 cable to a bus master unit
1500. The bus master unit 1500 converts the bus signals to a format
readable by the control server 100. The electricity meter 1540 has
a pulse output that requires an additional bus coupler 1510. The
bus coupler 1510 accumulates the pulses and allows connection to
the bus 1501. Each coupler has pulse inputs for up to 4 meters. The
bus 1501 has an open protocol such that any product that conforms
to bus standards can be connected to the network.
[0193] Ideally the bus master unit 1500 is located in the same
position within the house as the control server 100 and connects to
the control server 100 through one of the control server's RS-232
ports.
[0194] The control server 100 allows each meter to be read by an
authorised external data collection service. As a result, a wide
variety of monitoring services can be offered, such as, for
example, data collection, data analysis, and payment. Such services
benefit the end-user through improved visibility of energy usage
leading to better energy management. The home manager software can
display energy consumption data and trends and to give tips for
reducing consumption.
[0195] Energy DataVision (EDV) is an online data display package
that enables energy users to monitor energy usage patterns via the
web. IMServ's data collection service arm remotely interrogates
metes to access meter reads. Each meter has an identification
number assigned to it. The monitoring services is given an access
code to log into the control server 100 and use the EDV system to
create a variety of reports regarding energy usage for the
building. EDV can graph usage trends from month-to-month,
day-to-day, date-to-date, hour-to-hour. An example of an EDV screen
shot is shown in FIG. 16.
[0196] Commercial diagnosis analysis is shown in FIG. 17.
[0197] Central Locking and Door Access System
[0198] The central locking system, shown in FIG. 18, includes an RF
key fob 1040, a receiver 1810, a motorized door bolt, and sensors
to detect an open/closed door, door bolt position, and open/closed
windows. A bus coupler 1830 is provided for connection to the
motorized door bolt. The motorized door bolt is activated and
deactivated using the key fob 1840. The key fob 1840 transmits a
lock signal and an unlock signal to the RF receiver 1810. The RF
receiver relays the signals to the control server 100 to control
one or more motorized door bolts. The motorized door bolts also can
be controlled using other BC system interfaces, such as, for
example, a portable tablet 150 (through control module 120), a PC
interface 190, or through the Internet portal 5. A second bus
coupler 1820 provides inputs from the widow and door sensors to the
control server 100 indicating an open/closed state of the doors and
windows.
[0199] The control server 100 can interface with an existing door
access system by using one of the bus coupler outputs to trigger
the door controller (i.e., the opening/closing mechanism). The
central locking system allows the user to check that all windows
and doors are in the correct position before automatically locking
them. The same key fob 1840 can be used with the door access system
to open the common access door either from inside or outside the
building. This reduces the number of keys that need to be used in
any one location.
[0200] The key fob technology ensures security by appropriate
coding. More than one key fob can be accommodated to allow each
family member to have his or her own key. On activating the close
function from the key fob, the control server 100 checks that all
doors and windows connected to the system are closed. A warning is
given (e.g., by continually flashing the door/hall lights) if the
all sensors do not detect a closed position. If all doors and
windows are closed, the system activates the locks. After the locks
have been activated another check is performed and if all doors
have successfully locked and indication is given (e.g., flashing
the door/hall light once).
[0201] In the event of a power failure, the doors remain secure but
in the event of a fire or other emergency they are easily opened
from the inside and do not impede an escape route.
[0202] The home manager software for the control server 100 can
include the central locking features.
[0203] House Security System
[0204] A home security network is shown in FIG. 19. The required
sensors can be hardwired to an existing electronic security system
1900. The exisiting security system 1900 is linked into the control
server 100 through a serial link 1901. Alternatively, RF controlled
motion detectors 1900 and smoke detectors 1920 can send signals to
the control server 100 for analysis. The control server 100
provides telephone connection and web services that are need for
the security system. The status of the security system can be
monitored by a remote server using the Internet portal 5, dedicated
ISDN, DSL, or POTS service, or any of the home interfaces, such as
portable tablet 150 or PC interface 190.
[0205] The existing network can be extended by adding the sensors
to the appropriate LAN. In this case, the home manager software can
be customized to provide specific system features tailored to the
location. The security system using the control server 100 can
perform all standard functions such as intruder alarm (through door
and window switches or motion detectors) and alarm generation
(either locally or remotely).
[0206] Lighting System
[0207] A lighting network for use with the BC system is shown in
FIG. 20. The lighting network comprises a lighting system LAN 2000.
A number of bus couplers are connected to the lighting system LAN
2000. Each bus coupler is directly wired to a number of lamps,
switches, or sensors. For example, bus couplers 2030 and 2040 are
each dedicated to a lamp group, bus coupler 2020 receives signals
from a number of switches, and bus couple 2010 receives inputs from
sensors (e.g., motion and sun detectors). The bus couplers can be
mounted in an electrical distribution box with the loads and inputs
connected through a conventional mains cable.
[0208] The lighting system LAN 2000 can be implemented using an EIB
or other LAN. The EIB LAN uses a bus converter to connect the LAN
to the control server 100 using an available RS-232 port of the
control server 100. The lighting network can operate even if the
control server 100 has a failure. However, interaction with other
systems, such as central locking or security, would not be
available. A networked lighting system offers flexibility that
allows the relationship between switch and lamp be changed simply
by re-configuring the system. In addition, lamps, switches, and
sensors attached to the lighting LAN 2000 can be shared and
controlled by other systems connected to the control server 100.
For example, the central locking system can put the house into
standby mode when closed ensuring that no lights are left on when
the house is empty. A light sensor can be used to detect sun rise
and sun set so that the control server 100 can control the lights
in a way to simulate occupation. Optionally, motion sensors can be
used to switch lights off when a room is unoccupied or to switch
them on when someone enters.
[0209] The lights also can be controlled using any of the BC system
interfaces, such as, for example, PC 190, portable tablet 150 or
through a remote interface connected through Internet portal 5.
[0210] Temperature Control System
[0211] A temperature control system is shown in FIG. 21. A heating
LAN (e.g., an EIB LAN) can be used to control the temperature of
rooms and provide zone control. The heating LAN connects the
control server 100 to control valves, to room thermostats, and to
room displays through a number of bus connectors. Alternatively,
the heating LAN can be controlled by a universal controller 110 or
a zone control 133 under supervision of the control server 100 (as
described in the next section). As shown in FIG. 21, the control
server 10 communicates with room thermostats through the heating
LAN while bus couplers drive on/off valves, proportional valves,
and dampers. Alternatively, RF controlled dampers and thermostats
can be used as described above with regard to FIGS. 9-11.
[0212] Linking the heating LAN to the control server 100 gives
access to the other systems so that, for example, the central
locking system could put the heating system into standby mode when
the house is locked. The window sensors used either by a central
locking system or a security system can be used by the heating
system to turn off room radiators when a window in the
corresponding room is open for longer than a certain period of
time.
[0213] A network of thermostats and valves allows a comprehensive
software user interface offered by the home manager to effectuate
zone and profile control.
[0214] Zone and Profile Temperature Control System
[0215] The universal controller 110 offers a very flexible
temperature control system that can be linked to the control server
100. An LCD touch-pad 112 gives the user access to the system for
changing temperatures, times, and other system management
functions. The universal controller 110 is designed for mounting in
an electrical distribution box. The box can be placed adjacent to
the control server 100 or close to the valve/damper array for the
heating system. The universal controller 110 links to the control
server 100 using an RS-485 network interface.
[0216] The control panel 112 is wall mounted and connects to the
universal controller through three sets of twisted-pair wires. Each
universal controller 110 has up to 16 configurable analogue/digital
inputs and twelve configurable relays output pairs. To add
additional inputs and outputs a second universal controller 110 can
be networked into the system. Up to three control panels can be
placed at different positions around the home. An additional power
supply allows two more control panels to be added if desired.
[0217] Once installed, the universal controller 110 needs to be
configured. Configuration should be carried out by trained
personnel using a PC running configuration software. The
temperature control system allows up to 16 zones for either heating
or cooling systems or 10 zones for combined heating and cooling.
For example, each room in the house could be configured as a single
zone. A temperature sensor in each room allows the user to set the
required temperature and control the temperature controlling a
valve/register to the room radiator feed or air damper. For
combined heating and cooling systems, a valve is added to control
the fan coil feed.
[0218] Each zone is programmed with a profile of temperatures by
day of the week and time of day. As a result, only those rooms,
which are normally occupied at particular times or days need be
heated or cooled. The control panel 112 allows the user to
over-ride these profiles at a given time. The profiles can also be
over-ridden by the control server 100 so that, for example, the
heating system can be turned down if the central locking system
reports that the house is locked and unoccupied. An outside air
temperature sensor can be added to allow improved temperature
control algorithms that account for ambient weather and temperature
conditions.
[0219] The universal controller 110 can interface directly with a
fire alarm system or individual smoke detectors allowing the
universal controller to close all dampers and turn of the boiler
and air circulating fan upon detection of a fire.
[0220] A wide variety of other sensors can be added to complement
the functions offered by the system. For example, CO, CO2,
flammable gas sensors could also be incorporated for home
safety.
[0221] The universal controller 110 has a monitor function that
allows current status of all connected devices to be viewed. The
monitor function can be made available to the control server 100
and to any user interface (e.g., 150 or 190) connected to the
control server 100, including a telephone connection. The home
manager software can deliver a java file that is displayed using
browser software on a local PC 190, or over a remote connection
using Internet portal 5. An example of a screen shot for control of
the HVAC is shown in FIG. 23.
[0222] Networked Appliances
[0223] An appliance network is shown in FIG. 24. The networked
appliances can communicate with the control server 100 using PLC
LAN 3. An appliance is networked simply by plugging the appliance
into the wall outlet connecting the appliance to the control server
100 through the PLC network. As a result, no additional wiring or
re-configuring is necessary each time an appliance is installed or
reconfigured.
[0224] Connecting appliances to the control server 100 provides a
number of benefits due to the sharing of data with other networked
devices and the connection to external service monitoring companies
through a phone line or Internet connection.
[0225] The home manager software is able to display virtual control
panels for each appliance as shown in FIG. 25. As a result, the
appliance can be controlled remotely under the supervision and
monitoring of a portable web pad 150 within the home, or from a
remote location using the Internet portal 5. When combined with the
AvCast option, the home manager pages can be displayed on the TV
screens in the home. As a result, during advertisements, for
example the user can switch to the oven channel to see how the
roast is doing. The appliance's virtual control panel has the same
appearance as the physical controls panel on the appliance.
[0226] Service companies can offer remote monitoring facilities to
reduce the cost of repairs enabling them to offer extended warranty
coverage for all such connected appliances.
Interactive Marketing
[0227] According to another aspect of the BC system, users' actions
may be monitored in order to provide better service to the users of
the BC system. The BC system allows consumer and commercial
marketing companies, for example, to understand what the users are
doing in their homes at all times. An advantage of using the BC
system to monitor consumer activity, is that the user is not
required to fill out surveys, report data manually, or otherwise
change patterns of daily behavior in order to permit the collection
of data. In addition, the BC system allows diagnostic information
to be gathered to improve operation of system components and build
infrastructure systems within the premises.
[0228] Through use of the control server, communication modules,
and monitoring components, such as a smart module or retrofit plug,
data can be sent using the Internet portal, to service provider for
monitoring and analysis. Using the diagnostic components of the
system, the monitoring company can monitor use of appliances,
systems, and components within the home to determine exactly what
activities are being performed by each appliance, including the
exact time the appliances were used and the duration of the use.
For example, a networked washer and dryer can be monitored by a
service provider to determine what cycle the washer is in. When the
cycle is finished the washer display or user interface, for example
portable tablet can display a coupon for detergent, fabric
softener, or anti-static dryer towels. If the appliance
malfunctions, the control server can turn off the appliance before
permanent harm is done and send a message to the user service
provider that repair is required. In response, the service provider
can supply instruction to the user for simple repairs that do not
require a technician's assistance. In addition, merchants can
monitor the appliance's usage in order to provide better warrantees
that are based on the specific customer's actual usage.
[0229] RF tags can be used to improve appliance performance. For
example, RF tags can be included in clothing so that the appliance
informs the user when clothes do not match the selected cycle.
Coupons or and advertisement can be displayed for the type of
clothes washed. For example, if delicates are being washed, a
coupon for Woolite can be displayed. The advantage of the BC system
over prior couponing systems is that the coupons can be displayed
to the user when the user can take advantage of the coupon.
Additionally, food RF tags can be monitored by control server to
remind the user that certain food items are running low or are soon
to expire or should be disposed of. At the same time, coupons can
be sent and displayed to user of those items. Alternatively, a
shopping list can be automatically generated and sent to a shopping
delivery service so that the user does not even have to order or
shop for designated items.
TV Channel Recorder
[0230] Techniques may be used to map the time of programming
watched to identify exactly what the television was tuned to at any
particular time. Because of the ability to catalog time and tuning
the data logged by the control server 100, market researchers can
determine what was being display based on the channel, location,
and time. With this information, market researchers can precisely
determined what information was displayed on the TV and determine
specific viewing habits of a household. If personal RF tags, key
fobs, or remote controls are also used then the control server 100
also can identify who was in the room when the TV was tuned to the
channel and determine who was viewing a program or commercial.
[0231] Furthermore, the action of the TV channel recorder can be
combined with an Internet activity recorder designed to monitor web
surfing habits and PC usage habits. These features allow
performance of web usage monitors of a nature substantially the
same as the well known TV usage monitoring services, such as, for
example, ACNeilsen performs, but without intrusive use of logs or
manual methods. It is even possible to link radio monitoring
through a suitably adapted radio. The combination of TV monitoring,
radio and/or PC usage monitoring, and in-home activity monitoring
permits unsurpassed analysis of a household's economic activities.
Prior to this, TV, PC, and home activity monitors were applied
independently to various homes and statistical methods were used in
an attempt to extrapolate the observed results to all homes of
particular econometric groups.
[0232] No holistic, whole household view was possible because of
the intense intrusion that the manual log methods imposed on a
given household. A complete 360.degree. view of household activity
is possible (with permission from the household) with the BC
system. The integrated data from the BC system capture all of the
media influences being presented in electronic form. As a result,
more sophisticated statistical analysis of household response to
the media influences presented is permitted. True cause and effect
analysis of advertising effectiveness can be performed, which are
far superior to current methods.
[0233] In the final case, store point of sale data from
participating local stores or RF tag data from tags attached to
purchased goods or bar codes scanned from purchased goods can be
used to close the loop on media influence measurement. Goods can be
test marketed using various forms of promotion, including
electronic and print media known to have been sent to a household,
known to have been viewed, surfed or listened by particular
household members engaged in known activities at known times and
the resulting effectiveness measured with unparalleled accuracy
without the distorted effect of requiring manual logs of activities
to be kept by the household participants.
Retrofit Refrigeration Monitoring Unit
[0234] FIGS. 26A and 26B show a refrigeration monitoring system. As
shown in FIG. 26A, a refrigeration appliance 2600, such as, for
example, a refrigerator or freezer, can be retrofit to monitor for
food properties, such as, for example, spoilage, and to alert the
operator of the refrigeration appliance so that appropriate action
can be taken, if necessary.
[0235] A refrigeration appliance 2600 can be retrofitted for
monitoring by adding a retrofit plug 2650 (described above) to
allow the appliance to communicate with a remotely located
computer, such as, for example, a control server 100, a gateway, or
a building monitoring service. The retrofit plug 2650 includes an
alternative power source, such as a battery, that allows the plug
to operate in the event of a power failure or outage at the
location of the refrigeration appliance 2600. An LED indicator can
be included on the outside of the retrofit plug 2650 to indicate a
battery low condition. The retrofit plug 2650 also can monitor the
power level of the battery and signal a monitoring service or user
when the battery should be changed.
[0236] The refrigeration appliance 2600 includes a compartment
2610, such as, for example, a freezer or a refrigeration
compartment. A sensor 2620 can be included or retrofitted to the
refrigeration appliance 2600. The sensor 2620 can be retrofitted by
drilling a hole in the appliance 2600 to allow placement of the
sensor 2620, such as a thermistor or another temperature-sensing
device, inside the compartment 2610. A special seal or ring (sized
to the hole and including insulation characteristics) can be
inserted in the hole to act as an anchor for the sensor 2620. A
cable or interface connection 2621 couples the sensor 2620 to the
retrofit plug 2650. The retrofit plug 2650 includes a serial or
other port to accept the interface connection 2621. The sensor 2620
provides data on the sensed condition within the compartment 2610,
for example, temperature, to allow the retrofit plug 2650 to
monitor conditions within the refrigeration appliance 2600.
[0237] The retrofit plug 2650 can process the sensed condition and
perform analysis of the data. In one example, the plug can be
programmed to calculate the speed at which temperature is rising in
the appliance to determine how long it will be until food spoilage
occurs. This information can then be provided to a user or
monitoring service so that appropriate action can be taken.
Alternatively, the sensed data can be sent to a control server 100,
a gateway, or a monitoring service to perform the analysis
function. Temperature measurements can be taken in real time or at
intervals designated by the user.
[0238] The retrofit plug 2650 can be installed by connecting the
retrofit plug 2650 to the main power supply 2640 of the appliance
controller 2630. During normal operation, the retrofit plug 2650
can use PLC communication to provide data about the refrigeration
appliance. Alternatively, other communications interfaces can be
used. The retrofit plug 2650 also may include a communications
circuit implemented by a modem or a RF communication device. In the
case of a modem, a phone jack and a communications port 2655 are
provided as shown in FIG. 26B. In the event of a power failure, the
retrofit plug 2650 can alert a user or monitoring service that
power is out. The retrofit plug 2650 also may dial a repair service
if it is determined that there is a malfunction within the
refrigeration appliance 2600. The retrofit plug also monitors the
temperature within compartment 2610 and can provide an estimation
of how long until food spoilage occurs. The estimate can be updated
if sensed conditions within the compartment 2610 change. The
retrofit plug 2650 also can perform other analyses. For example, if
it is determined that the compressor is on longer than expected,
combined with a rising temperature in the compartment, the retrofit
plug may determine that a door open condition has occurred and may
provide a message to the user or monitoring service of the open
door condition.
[0239] Even if power is not lost, if the compartment 2610 reaches a
predetermined temperature, the retrofit plug 2650 may perform
certain actions. For example, the retrofit plug 2650 may call using
the modem, or transmit using the RF device, a monitoring service,
the operator of the device, or a controller, such as a control
server, to indicate that food spoilage is immanent or how long
until spoilage will occur. Alternatively, a repair service can be
contacted to fix the problem associated with the refrigeration
appliance. The retrofit plug itself, as described above, can supply
diagnostic data to aid in repair of the appliance, if necessary. In
this way, food can be monitored and spoilage prevented to save an
operator the cost of replacing the food. In addition, liability
issues can be reduced by keeping records that although power was
lost, or the refrigeration appliance malfunctioned, food
temperature was maintained at an adequate level such that spoilage
did not occur. The retrofit plug 2650 may simply provide the
temperature or other power monitoring data to a control server,
gateway, or monitoring service, which can perform analysis of the
data and determine if any action is necessary. For example, if used
in conjunction with the control server 100, a message can be
displayed on a user interface that the freezer is not working, the
door has been left open, or that a repair service should be
called.
[0240] As shown in FIG. 27A, in place of a retrofit a plug, a box
2700 can attach to the outside of refrigeration appliance 2600 (or
the compartment 2610). According to one implementation, the unit
2700 can be implemented using a communications module (described
above). In the implementation shown in FIG. 27A, a hole is cut and
the unit with sensor 2705 is inserted into the hole. A suitable
seal is provided to ensure adequate refrigeration is maintained.
The unit 2700 can use the seal to seat itself on the refrigeration
appliance 2600. Other means of fastening, such as, for example,
adhesive, bolts, or screws also can be used. The seal may be
inserted in the hole or be provided as part of the unit 2700 and
sensor 2705.
[0241] The unit 2700 attaches to a power line 2601 to provide power
to all components of the unit 2700. In addition, a back-up power
source 2710, such as, for example, a battery is included to provide
power in case of main power loss or outage. An external LED or some
other indicator may be provided on the unit 2700 to alert the
operator of a low battery condition.
[0242] A small processor or monitoring circuit 2720 monitors
temperature inside the refrigeration appliance 2600. The monitor
circuit 2720 is connected with a communications circuit 2730. The
communications circuit 2730 can be implemented using, for example,
a wireless transceiver, a wireless transmitter, or a modem. The
communications circuit 2730 can include a phone jack for connection
to a phone line 2735, if a modem is used. In the case of a
temperature event, the unit 2700 is programmed (by external device
such as a key pad with an interface, through the modem, or by
insertion of a memory chip, such as a flash memory) with a number
to call to alert an operator or monitoring company of the
temperature or condition within the appliance, indicating that food
spoilage will occur without intervention. Alternatively, if a
wireless communication device is used, a message could be sent to a
gateway, a control server, or a communication link to alert a user
or monitoring service of the temperature event. The monitoring
circuit 2730 also can be programmed to perform all of the
monitoring function and analysis that is provided by the retrofit
plug or communications module.
[0243] The sensor 2705 and unit 2700 also can be implemented as
separate units connected by a cord or other interface 2704 as shown
in FIG. 27B. The unit 2700 can be mounted on the refrigeration
appliance 2600 using an adhesive or using a form of attachment,
such as, for example, screws, bolts, or other means of
fastening.
[0244] A number of implementations have been described.
Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may
be made. For example, advantageous results still could be achieved
if steps of the disclosed techniques were performed in a different
order and/or if components in the disclosed systems were combined
in a different manner and/or replaced or supplemented by other
components. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope
of the following claims.
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