U.S. patent application number 14/601217 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-23 for control system with mobile sensors.
The applicant listed for this patent is InnoSys, Inc.. Invention is credited to Derrick K. Kress, Laurence P. Sadwick, Skylar Stoddard.
Application Number | 20150204561 14/601217 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53544468 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150204561 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sadwick; Laurence P. ; et
al. |
July 23, 2015 |
Control System With Mobile Sensors
Abstract
A mobile thermostat and home automation system.
Inventors: |
Sadwick; Laurence P.; (Salt
Lake City, UT) ; Stoddard; Skylar; (Salt Lake City,
UT) ; Kress; Derrick K.; (Salt Lake City,
UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
InnoSys, Inc. |
Salt Lake City |
UT |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
53544468 |
Appl. No.: |
14/601217 |
Filed: |
January 20, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61929480 |
Jan 20, 2014 |
|
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|
62017162 |
Jun 25, 2014 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
236/1C ;
236/49.3; 236/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 11/30 20180101;
G05D 23/1905 20130101; F24F 11/56 20180101; F24F 11/62 20180101;
F24F 2110/10 20180101 |
International
Class: |
F24F 11/00 20060101
F24F011/00 |
Claims
1. A control system, comprising: a mobile thermostat; and at least
one temperature controlling device, wherein the mobile thermostat
is operable to be moved about within a building in order that a
temperature at a location of the mobile thermostat is adjusted by
the at least one temperature controlling device as controlled by
the at least one mobile thermostat.
2. The control system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
temperature controlling device comprises a space heater.
3. The control system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
temperature controlling device comprises an air conditioner.
4. The control system of claim 1, wherein the mobile thermostat
comprises a cellular telephone.
5. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
master thermostat operable to control the at least one temperature
controlling device based in part on information from the mobile
thermostat.
6. The control system of claim 1, wherein a dynamic number of
sensors is used to control the at least one temperature controlling
device.
7. The control system of claim 1, further comprising a solar energy
collector operable to power at least one of the mobile thermostat
and the at least one temperature controlling device.
8. The control system of claim 7, wherein the solar energy
collector comprises a solar collector mounted in a window
covering.
9. The control system of claim 8, wherein the solar energy
collector is operable to orient the window covering.
10. The control system of claim 7, further comprising a holster
operable to temporarily house the mobile thermostat and to
electrically charge the mobile thermostat from the solar energy
collector.
11. The control system of claim 7, further comprising an inductive
coupler between the solar energy collector and a power storage
device.
12. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
ceiling fan controlled at least in part by the mobile
thermostat.
13. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
powered fan HVAC register controlled at least in part by the mobile
thermostat.
14. The control system of claim 13, wherein the at least one
powered fan HVAC register is operable to receive power from a solar
collector mounted in a window covering.
15. The control system of claim 1, wherein the mobile thermostat is
operable to receive manual commands and to control other devices in
a building in which the mobile thermostat is located based on at
least one of an input of a sensor in the mobile thermostat and a
manually input command.
16. The control system of claim 15, wherein the mobile thermostat
is operable to receiving programming commands to control other
devices in a building based in part on scheduled events.
17. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
HVAC register with motorized vent flaps.
18. The control system of claim 1, further comprising at least one
HVAC register with motorized directional control.
19. The control system of claim 1, further comprising an IR sensor
operable to receive remote control commands from at least one
remote device.
20. The control system of claim 19, wherein the IR sensor comprises
an IR transmitter to forward the remote control commands.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] A variety of coverings are used to block or control sunlight
through windows and over or around areas such as patios and
porches. For example, curtains, shutters, drapes, blinds and
shades, etc., can be used to control the amount of sunlight
entering a room or area by blocking the sunlight. While this is
effective for controlling the sunlight allowed into the area, and a
wide range of aesthetic and functional choices are available for
blocking the sunlight, the energy from the blocked sunlight is
wasted. Energy management is important for many reasons. There are
many instances of energy mismanagement including, for example, but
not limited to cooling residential and commercial areas on hot,
sunny days especially where windows allow the sunlight to penetrate
through and provide additional heating. Although shades, curtains,
shutters, drapes, blinds, etc. are available to, for example,
block, absorb, reflect, etc. the sunlight/solar energy that would
otherwise penetrate and enter these areas, these types of sunlight
heating prevention methods fail to capture and make efficient use
of the energy that is being provided by the sunlight or other
sources of electromagnetic and/or optical energy. Portable control
devices may be used for many purposes in the home or in other
locations. For example, wireless portable controls and panels may
be used to control curtains/blinds/drapes/shutters/shades/etc. and
the likes in addition to, for example, lights, ceiling fans,
televisions, stereos, etc. However, these devices are designed to
provide enough energy to, for example, manually or automatically
retract/open or activate/close the
curtains/blinds/drapes/shutters/shades/etc. and fail to take
advantage of the additional energy available when the
curtains/blinds/drapes/shutters/shades/etc. are partially or fully
deployed/closed/activated etc. and also fail to fully
network/communicate/share with other sources of energy generation
and/or consumption.
SUMMARY
[0002] Some embodiments of the present invention provide for energy
collection, storage and/or usage from solar cells or collectors
embedded in or mounted on curtains, drapes, shutters, shades,
blinds or other structures adapted to control sunlight through a
window or incident on another area such as a patio or porch.
[0003] A fixed and/or portable single or array of solar energy
conversion cells or units such a photovoltaic energy converters
that are incorporated into, for example but not limited to, shades,
curtains, drapes, shutters, blinds, etc. that are intended to
partially or completely block or screen sunlight, solar energy
and/or other sources of light/energy is disclosed herein for
wirelessly controlling one or more lights or other devices. An
embodiment of the control panel includes a solar panel, a regulator
connected to the solar panel, a power storage device connected to
the regulator, a wireless transceiver, a controller connected to
the power storage device, and a user interface connected to the
controller. The user interface is adapted to accept control input
and provide it to the controller. The controller is adapted to
transmit commands on the wireless transceiver.
[0004] In an embodiment of the control panel, the user interface
comprises a lighting control interface.
[0005] In an embodiment of the control panel, the lighting control
interface comprises a dimming interface.
[0006] In an embodiment of the control panel, the lighting control
interface comprises a multi-color lighting control interface.
[0007] An embodiment of the control panel also includes a display,
and the controller is adapted to display lighting status on the
display.
[0008] An embodiment of the control panel also includes a light
sensor, and the controller is adapted to generate lighting control
commands at least in part based on an ambient light level measured
by the light sensor.
[0009] In an embodiment of the control panel, the user interface
comprises a temperature control interface.
[0010] An embodiment of the control panel also includes a
temperature sensor, and the controller is adapted as an HVAC
controller to read an ambient temperature from the temperature
sensor and to transmit the ambient temperature.
[0011] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to transmit temperature settings commands.
[0012] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to take priority as a master HVAC controller in a group of
control panels with temperature sensors.
[0013] In an embodiment of the control panel, the user interface
includes a touch sensitive display screen and a graphical user
interface.
[0014] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to store customized settings.
[0015] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to store multiple user preferences.
[0016] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
programmable to add additional devices which can be controlled by
the control panel.
[0017] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to receive a notice of error conditions in a remote device
and to transmit a user alert of the error conditions.
[0018] In some embodiments of the control panel, the controller
contains USB, barrel plugs, and other connectors with which
consumer electronics or rechargeable batteries may be recharged or
interfaced.
[0019] An embodiment of the control panel also includes a display,
and the controller is adapted to receive and display information
from a remote device on the display such as voltage, current,
power, phase, watthours, power factor, VA, and lead-lag.
[0020] In an embodiment of the control panel, the controller is
adapted to receive electricity rates and to customize the commands
based on the electricity rates to reduce electricity costs.
[0021] In an embodiment of the control panel, the solar panel may
be angled to maximize light reception.
[0022] In an embodiment of the control panel, the user interface is
detachable.
[0023] Another embodiment of a control panel includes a solar
panel, a regulator connected to the solar panel, a power storage
device connected to the regulator, a wireless transceiver, a
controller connected to the power storage device, a temperature
sensor connected to the controller, a light sensor connected to the
controller, and a user interface connected to the controller. The
user interface is adapted to accept multi-color dimming light
control input. The controller is adapted to generate light control
commands based in part on the user interface and in part on an
ambient light level measured by the light sensor. The user
interface is also adapted to accept temperature control input. The
controller is also adapted to generate temperature control commands
based in part on the user interface and in part on an ambient
temperature measured by the temperature sensor and on a remote
ambient temperature measured by a remote control panel, and to
transmit the light control commands and the temperature control
commands on the wireless transceiver.
[0024] In another embodiment of the present invention, control and
or monitor signals are sent to an additional unit that is connected
to the power lines and the commands sent from the present solar
powered invention are transmitted via the power lines to the
intended device to be controlled. In a similar fashion, monitoring
information can be sent to and from the present solar powered
remote transceiver invention via the power lines.
[0025] The present invention can be used with a holster that
provides additional solar power to power and charge up the remote.
Such a holster can be designed to be both attractive and decorative
while providing power to the remote unit. Such a holster can also
have the appearance, fan, portable air conditioner, window air
conditioner, evaporative cooler, combinations of these and other
types heating, cooling, flow, HVAC, registers, vents, ducts, etc.
of a conventional "wall" dimmer or light control.
[0026] These devices can be controlled by the user through a smart
phone, tablet, personal device, computers, etc., running software
applications while connected to a home or business wifi network.
This network will be connected to a server or main control unit
that will communicate to the remote devices wirelessly.
[0027] It is also possible to connect the server to the remote
devices via the power lines that already exist in the home or
business.
[0028] These devices can also be controlled via Bluetooth
connection through a smart phone, tablet, personal device,
computers, etc. In some embodiments of the present invention, this
method will bypass the wifi network and the server or main
controller and connect directly to the remote devices wirelessly.
In other embodiments more than one of the methodologies discussed
herein may be used in various implementations.
[0029] This system can in all control devices such as heaters,
air-conditioners, televisions, personal fans, air purifiers, DVD
units, cable boxes, etc., using an infrared LED that can output
commands the devices recognize. The remote device unit can also
capture infrared commands from remote controls that operate their
respected devices.
[0030] Using Bluetooth to connect to the remote devices, the
devices can adjust appliances and/or devices in a room, home, or
business according to the user's desires. When the user enters a
room, home, or business the devices can recognize the Bluetooth
device of the user and adjust the lighting, heating,
air-conditioning, blinds, and other items for example.
[0031] These remote devices can relay data and information back to
the user on their smart phone, tablet, personal device, computers,
etc., such as battery charge, voltage, current usage, power, state,
etc.
[0032] The user can create scheduled remote events, tasks, etc.,
for example, for infrared controlled appliances or devices to carry
out specific functions and at specific times.
[0033] This system can also be used with sensors that sense water,
moisture, and humidity and can be used for irrigation, flood
prevention, humidity control, etc.
[0034] This system can also be used for motion sensing and
proximity sensing to aid in home or business security and for
sensing when an individual enters a room or building and
customizing the infrared controlled devices
[0035] A standard, custom or adapted remote can be used with this
system to aid individuals without access to smart phones, tablets,
computers, etc., so they can still control and interact with their
infrared devices remotely. Such a remote can also wired and
wirelessly use existing visual devices such as televisions,
computer and other monitors, etc. Embodiments of the present
invention can also use microphones to receive and execute voice
commands including using voice recognition as well as speakers to
provide information and query as well as provide alerts and
warnings. Other embodiments can use gesturing including hand
gesturing as well as combinations of other methods herein to
create, sort, sequence, schedule, organize, evaluate, make
decisions, execute commands and perform tasks, etc. In many cases,
the scheduling and sequencing as well as the organization and
sorting and even the creation can be conditional on the results and
outcomes of previous events, scheduled tasks, information, input,
both internal and external information and stimuli, etc. The
present invention allows overriding previously scheduled, sequenced
and/or sorted operations and executions to adapt to new stimuli,
input, results, information, etc. or to ignore such and continue
with the program sequencing and schedule or to allow a combination
of both or to allow weighted combinations of both or other
scenarios as well including adaptable responses and requests to
changes in scenarios, situations, results, input, unexpected
outcomes and results, etc. Some of these responses include
interacting with the user or others such as neighbors, family and
friends, guardians, surveillance personnel, etc.
[0036] These remote devices can relay data and information back to
the user on their smart phone, tablet, personal device, computers,
etc., such as battery charge, voltage, current usage, power, state,
etc.
[0037] This summary provides only a general outline of some
embodiments according to the present invention. Many other
embodiments of the present invention will become more fully
apparent from the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] A further understanding of the various exemplary embodiments
may be realized by reference to the figures which are described in
remaining portions of the specification. In the figures, like
reference numerals may be used throughout several drawings to refer
to similar components.
[0039] FIG. 1 depicts a window with closed vertical blinds with
solar collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0040] FIG. 2 depicts a window with open solar collecting blinds,
shutters, drapes, or curtains, etc. in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 3 depicts a window with open vertical blinds with solar
collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0042] FIG. 4 depicts a window with closed horizontal blinds with
solar collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0043] FIG. 5 depicts a window with open horizontal blinds with
solar collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0044] FIG. 6 depicts a window with open horizontal blinds with
solar collectors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0045] FIG. 7 depicts a window with strings of solar cells forming
a window covering in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0046] FIG. 8 depicts a window with strings of solar cells forming
a window covering with another connection mechanism in accordance
with some embodiments of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 9 depicts a block diagram of a home automation system
with mobile sensors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0048] FIG. 10 depicts a block diagram of wireless/wired
connections between components of a home automation system with
mobile sensors in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0049] FIGS. 11-13 depict perspective, top, and side views of an IR
sensor and/or transmitter suitable for use in some embodiments of a
home automation system in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0050] FIGS. 14-16 depicts side, perspective and top views of
another IR sensor and/or transmitter suitable for use in some
embodiments of a home automation system in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0051] FIG. 17 depicts example usage of a home automation system
with mobile sensors in a home floorplan in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0052] FIG. 18 depicts a diagram of WiFi connections in an example
embodiment of a home automation system in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0053] FIG. 19 depicts a diagram of Bluetooth connections in an
example embodiment of a home automation system in accordance with
some embodiments of the invention.
[0054] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a plantation shutter window
covering with solar collection louvers in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0055] FIG. 21 is a front view of a plantation shutter window
covering with solar collection louvers in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0056] FIG. 22 is a front view of a solar collection louver for a
plantation shutter window covering in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
[0057] FIG. 23 is a perspective top view of an automated register
assembly suitable for use in some embodiments of a home automation
system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
[0058] FIG. 24 is a top view of an automated register assembly
suitable for use in some embodiments of a home automation system in
accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
[0059] FIG. 25 is a perspective bottom view of an automated
register assembly suitable for use in some embodiments of a home
automation system in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0060] FIG. 26 is a bottom view of an automated register assembly
with substantially open vents in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention.
[0061] FIG. 27 is a bottom view of an automated register assembly
with substantially closed vents in accordance with some embodiments
of the invention.
[0062] FIGS. 28-29 are perspective front views of another automated
register assembly with a motorized directional control in open and
closed positions in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0063] FIGS. 30-31 are side views of the automated register
assembly of FIGS. 28-29 in open and closed positions in accordance
with some embodiments of the invention.
[0064] FIGS. 32-33 are perspective front views of another automated
register assembly with a motorized vent control in open and closed
positions in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
[0065] FIG. 34 is a side view of the register assembly of FIGS.
32-33.
[0066] FIGS. 35-36 are perspective bottom views of the register
assembly of FIGS. 32-33 with a motorized vent control in open and
closed positions in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0067] FIGS. 37-38 are bottom views of the register assembly of
FIGS. 32-33 with a motorized vent control in open and closed
positions in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
[0068] FIG. 39 is a block diagram of wireless monitoring of power
conversion and usage for collection and storage of power from solar
window coverings in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention.
[0069] FIGS. 40-42 depict an IR interpreter in side, front
perspective and rear perspective views in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention.
DESCRIPTION
[0070] Embodiments of the present invention are related to systems,
apparatuses, and methods for energy collection, storage and/or
usage from solar panels or collectors embedded in or mounted on
curtains, drapes, shutters, shades, blinds or other structures
adapted to control, for example, but not limited to sunlight, other
sources of light or other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum,
and/or artificial light/solar/electromagnetic energy through a
window or incident on another area such as a patio or porch. Solar
panels are provided on window coverings such as, but not limited
to, curtains, drapes, shutters, shades, blinds or other shade
structures such as awnings or automatic solar shades including sun
blocks used in recreational vehicles such as motor homes, camper
trailers and temporary housing structures. The solar panels can be
any device or material known or that may be developed in the future
for converting light to electricity in any manner. The solar panels
can be mounted or attached in any suitable manner, whether
permanent or removable. For example, solar panels are attached to
fabric curtains in some embodiments by an adhesive, or by sliding
them into partial pockets that hold the solar panels at the edges
and/or corners but that expose the active light collecting
surfaces. In some embodiments, attachment points are provided on
the solar panels, such as holes at the edges or corners through
which fasteners are attached between the solar panels and the
curtains or other shade material.
[0071] Various embodiments of the invention include one or more of
the following features:
[0072] The present invention can be used to harness solar
energy.
[0073] The present invention can provide protection from IR and UV
light while providing energy/power.
[0074] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be manual, motorized, automatic, etc.
[0075] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
come in numerous sizes and shapes
[0076] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be rotated to allow partial or full light through window or to
track and maximize solar energy transfer.
[0077] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
use flexible solar cells
[0078] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
provide wired and/or wireless control and monitoring including, but
not limited to, powerline control, RS232, USB, SPI, SPC, I2C, etc.,
WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, IEEE 801, ISM, etc.
[0079] The remote control can
open/close/raise/lower/rotate/tilt/etc. the respective shade,
drapes, shutters, curtains, blinds, etc.
[0080] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be connected to energy storage devices including batteries and fuel
cells including but not limited to in cosmetically attractive
ways.
[0081] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
respond to sound, motion, other light sources, etc.
[0082] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be activated by dusk and dawn scenarios and situations.
[0083] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
monitor and report energy usage.
[0084] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be used to charge and provide power to portable and other devices
including cell phones, tablets, smart phones, flash lights,
cameras, tablets, iPads, iPods, laptops, televisions, telephones,
radios, Internet, Web, DVD and other media players, desk top
computers, stereo systems, lights, lamps, etc. As an example, a
standard land line telephone or non-smart phone can also be used to
provide the same or similar control and even monitoring of the
present invention by sending digital signals such as tones
including but not limited to two tone modulation signals including,
if desired, password protected information or encrypted
information, to set, turn on, turn off, dim, increase, monitor,
control, etc. implementations of the present invention. Other
embodiments may use light sensors including color spectrum light
sensors to sense, detect, measure, etc. and control the color
and/or color temperature of the lighting including solid state
lighting (SSL) such as, but not limited to, light emitting diode
(LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), quantum dot (QD), etc.
lighting. A spectrum sensor/detector, etc. could consist of color
filtered charge coupled devices (CCDs), notch filters, QDs,
including QD single or multiple color/wavelength QDs including red
green blue wavelength (RGB) QDs, full spectrum QDs, red green blue
amber (RGBA) QDs, four color/wavelength QDs, five color/wavelength
QDs, more than 5 color/wavelength QDs, filters, etc.
[0085] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be used as an emergency source of energy.
[0086] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be set to automatically open and close as person(s) enter and
exit.
[0087] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
charge batteries for portable devices and other items needing
batteries.
[0088] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be equipped with emergency/non-emergency lighting capabilities such
as LEDs or any other light emitting devices including other types
of solid state lighting for use during power outages or normal
lighting periods.
[0089] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be activated to open at dawn and/or at a prescribed time as an
wake-up system or part of an alarm system including a protection or
alert system. The present invention can be used to schedule and
sequence turn-on, turn-off, dimming, increasing, decreasing,
channel changing, recording, monitoring, control, etc. of any
number of devices, appliances, heaters, coolers, fans, air
conditioners, furnaces, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, etc., in any
combination and combinations of sequences and scheduling including
time scheduling with set or variable or specific set or variable
timing and duration that can be, for example, user selected,
sequenced and/or scheduled or automatically selected, sequenced
and/or scheduled.
[0090] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be used to provide privacy both during the day and at night
[0091] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
also charge at night using lighting sources such as street lamps,
outdoor lighting and other sources of human-made or natural
solar/light/optical energy, etc.
[0092] Switches can be set to route and switch power from the solar
shades, panels, curtains, drapes, shutters, blinds, etc. to
batteries and other storage devices, cells, etc., to DC to DC
converters, DC to AC inverters, AC to AC inverters, etc. other
power sources, other power storage, converters, consumers, users,
including power consumers such as heaters, coolers, air
conditioners, fans, etc., and/or to the power grid, etc. Such power
switching and direction and bidirectional power transfer, movement,
distribution, redistribution, etc. can be accomplished wirelessly,
wired, by powerline, by combinations of these, etc., by manual
and/or automatic operation, including automatic decision making,
algorithms, other forms of remote control, etc.
[0093] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
include smart and intelligent power inverters and converters
including wired, wireless, powerline remote controlled and
monitored with analytics.
[0094] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be used for alert, home and/or business protection by including
motion sensors or other intrusion detection which transmits status
through the system.
[0095] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
be used for fire detection, smoke detection, carbon monoxide
detection, gas detection including but not limited to natural gas
detection by including the appropriate detectors or sensors which
transmit status through the system.
[0096] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
monitor for water, moisture leaks and optionally being able to turn
off water by including moisture sensors which transmit status
through the system and optionally including automated valves which
can be opened and closed by remote commands transmitted through the
system.
[0097] Embodiments and implementations of the present invention can
provide remote operation and monitoring for physically or mentally
impaired.
[0098] Implementation of the present invention can perform powering
on or off or optionally dimming, depending on the type of load,
including remote wired, wireless, and/or powerline, appliances,
heaters, coolers, fans, HVAC, air conditioners, furnaces, central
air, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, TVs, entertainment centers, Cable
boxes, satellite boxes, gaming boxes, DVD, Blu-Ray. DVRs, VCRs,
CDs, audio and/or video tapes, stereo players, record players,
amplifiers, radios including frequency modulated (FM) and amplitude
modulated (AM) mono and stereo radios, as well as weather,
shortwave and/or other radio frequencies, ranges, bands. etc.,
switching networks, switches including IR controlled audio visual
(AV) switches, and monitoring power usage, time usage, user usage,
efficiency, etc.
[0099] Elements of the system can be installed in place of light
switches, lamp controls, fan controls, AC line outlet boxes,
junction boxes, etc.
[0100] In some embodiments, the solar cell shades/blinds/curtains
etc. provide control functions such as those disclosed in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/795,149, filed Mar. 12, 2013 for a
"Solar Powered Portable Control Panel", which is incorporated
herein by reference for all purposes. For example, the solar cell
shades/blinds/curtains etc. can incorporate control and sensor
functions or interface with controllers and/or sensors and/or loads
such as those described in the above-referenced patent application,
including lighting applications and sensor-based control.
[0101] The solar panels can be embedded in or attached to the
curtain/blinds/shades in any manner, and can be any type of solar
energy collectors and/or converters, including high efficiency
panels as well as flexible panels or light-sensitive threads,
strings, fabrics or other materials. The solar panels can be
applied to flexible structures such as fabric curtains, shades or
blinds, or to rigid structures such as blinds, shutters and/or
shades. The solar panels can be used in window coverings or other
types of coverings for other areas such as awnings or retractable
shades to control sunlight to patios or porches. The settings,
position, power/energy generation/conversion, open or close or
degree of open or close, temperature, light level, etc. power
level, battery and other energy storage states and levels,
analytics, etc. can be remotely set, conditioned, controlled,
monitored, etc.
[0102] Turning to FIG. 1, a window 10 is depicted with closed
window coverings or vertical blinds (e.g., 12, 14) with solar
collectors embedded therein or mounted thereon in accordance with
some embodiments of the invention. In this and every embodiment,
the solar collectors can be any suitable device for collecting
solar power, including but not limited to solar panels, solar
cells, etc. Furthermore, in this and every embodiment, the window
coverings (e.g., 12, 14) can be any type of window covering in any
fabric or plastic or wood or other material, such as, but not
limited to, vertical blinds, drapes, curtains, etc.
[0103] A window 16 is depicted in FIG. 2 with open solar collecting
blinds, shutters, drapes, or curtains, etc. in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention, in which the blinds shutters, drapes,
curtains etc. 18 with solar collection devices mounted therein or
attached thereto in any manner are pulled back, exposing much or
all of the window pane 20.
[0104] Turning to FIG. 3, a window 22 is depicted showing another
example window covering system including horizontal blinds (e.g.,
24, 26) with solar collectors embedded therein or mounted thereon,
which are rotated around a vertical axis to an open position to
expose much or all of the window pane 28.
[0105] Turning to FIG. 4, a window 30 is depicted with another type
of window covering system in a closed position, including
horizontal solar shutters or blinds (e.g., 32, 34) with solar
collectors embedded therein or mounted thereon. In some
embodiments, a decorative valance 36 or a box into which the solar
shutters or blinds (e.g., 32, 34) can be pulled is provided.
[0106] Turning to FIG. 5, a window 40 is depicted with horizontal
solar shutters or blinds (e.g., 42) pulled up into an open position
behind a valance 46, exposing window pane 44.
[0107] In FIG. 6, a window 50 is depicted with horizontal solar
shutters or blinds (e.g., 52, 54) each rotated around a horizontal
axis into an open position, exposing much or all of window pane 56.
The wiring can be between each blind, shutter, etc., and can for
example, be incorporated as part of the manual or automatic
mechanical support for each blind, shutter, shade, etc.
[0108] In FIG. 7, a window 60 is depicted with example strings of
solar cells or panels (e.g., 62, 64) forming a window covering in
accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The wiring
(e.g., 66, 68) can be between each cell/panel that effectively
forms the blind, shutter, drape, etc., and can, for example, be
incorporated as part of the manual or automatic mechanical support
for each blind, shutter, shade, etc.
[0109] In FIG. 8, a window 60 is depicted with example strings of
solar cells or panels (e.g., 72, 74) forming a window covering in
accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The wiring
(e.g., 76, 78) can be between each cell/panel that effectively
forms the blind, shutter, drape, etc., and can, for example, be
incorporated as part of the manual or automatic mechanical support
for each blind. The wiring can be from the top, one or both sides,
the bottom and/or combinations of these.
[0110] Embodiments of the present invention can have/use solid
state lighting including, but not limited to LEDs, OLEDs, Quantum
Dots (QDs), etc. as well as other types of light sources/light
producing/generating lighting on the other `side` (i.e., the
interior/room facing) instead of the outside facing which has the
solar cells/panels. In other embodiments, there may be panels on
both sides. The solar cells/panels may be made up/consist of
different types of, materials, homojunction, heterojunction, single
crystal, poly-crystalline, amorphous, flexible, etc. solar and/or
photovoltaic systems, materials that collectively cover all or part
of, for example, the deep infrared through the infrared, through
the infrared, through the visible, to the ultraviolet and even the
deeper ultraviolet. In other embodiments, systems that absorb and
use other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum including but not
limited to radio frequencies (RF), microwave, millimeter-wave,
sub-millimeter wave, terahertz, etc., long wavelengths, the AM and
FM, short-wave, etc. to harvest additional power and potentially
also block wireless signals from penetrating the window covering,
shade, curtain, drape, blind, shutter, etc. In other embodiments,
the solar and/or other energy absorber may be integrated and/or
incorporated onto the same substrate either heterogeneously or
homogeneously; for example, GaN-based LEDs and solar cells,
GaAs-based LEDs and solar cells, OLED lighting and OLED solar
cells, QD lighting and QD solar cells, other solid state lighting
and solid state solar/photovoltaic cells, other types of materials
and structures for lighting and electromagnetic absorption,
transmission, generation, conversion, etc. The
solar/photovoltaic/etc. cells/panels can be wired/connected in
parallel, series, combinations of these, etc. The cells/panels can
be square, rectangular, circular, elliptical, odd shaped, irregular
shaped, essentially two dimensional, three dimensional, spherical,
hemispherical, cylindrical, parallel piped, etc.
[0111] The automation system is adapted in some embodiments with
motors or other actuators to open and close window coverings such
as, but not limited to, curtains, blinds, drapes, louvers,
shutters, etc. Such automated opening or closing can be scheduled
and/or triggered based on sensors, etc. For example, window
coverings can be programmed to automatically close at a particular
time each evening, or when a light sensor indicates low light
conditions at dusk or sundown. Window coverings can be programmed
to automatically and gradually open in the morning or at a desired
waking time in a bedroom to gradually awaken sleepers or at a
particular light level or in combination with time, light, other
stimuli and information or subsets of these or other combinations
or by individual selections, etc. Window coverings can incorporate
sound reduction, sound absorption, or other sound proofing
materials to reduce outside noise. Window coverings can be provided
with interior lighting devices or panels, for example to provide
room lighting while continuing to partially or fully cover and
block a window. Solar collectors on the outside of a window
covering can collect power from sunlight, streetlights, or other
light sources outside while powering lighting on the inside of the
window covering, allowing more preferable lighting with desired
color, wavelengths, illumination levels, etc. to be powered and
provided on the inside of the window covering, thereby providing
privacy and energy efficient lighting and dampening noise from
outside.
[0112] In some embodiments, a smart phone or other mobile control
device is used to control a space heater or other heating and/or
cooling system, referred to herein as a temperature controlling
device, or other elements of a home automation and/or home
entertainment and/or home control system. In some of these
embodiments, the smart phone, tablet, including but not limited to
iPod, iPad, iPhone, remote control or other mobile control device
includes a temperature sensor and is operable to provide
temperature measurements as part of a thermostat system. In some
cases, the temperature sensor in the smart phone or other mobile
control device controls the space heater, fan, portable air
conditioner, window air conditioner, evaporative cooler,
combinations of these and other types heating, cooling, flow, HVAC,
registers, vents and/or ducts, etc. based on the temperature at the
location of the smart phone, rather than at the location of the
space heater. In some cases, the temperature at multiple locations
is measured and used to control the space heater or other heating
and/or cooling system, for example including multiple smart phones
in the system to control the temperature at multiple locations in a
residence. The temperature at the location of the heater can also
be included in the control algorithm, for example limiting the
temperature at the location of a space heater so that it does not
exceed a maximum temperature.
[0113] Such a "mobile thermostat" can be used to control a heating
and/or cooling system in a residence to substantially heat or cool
only the locations used by occupants based on temperature
measurements by for example, remote controls, smart phones,
tablets, laptops, personal digital assistants, other portable
digital assistants, voice commands, voice recognition, motion
detection, proximity detection, pressure detection, RFID,
Bluetooth, other signal strength detection, GPS, smart phones etc.
on or near the occupants. In some embodiments, the heating and/or
cooling system can be configured to maintain a basic default level
of heating or cooling elsewhere. Such "mobile thermostat(s)" can
also be employed in any location within a dwelling, residence,
home, office, building, warehouse, etc. and be connected with the
HVAC system via wired, wireless, power line control, etc. In some
embodiments of the present invention, the mobile thermostats can be
powered wirelessly by solar, mechanical, vibration, radio frequency
(RF), infrared, other forms of energy harvesting, etc. and can also
use batteries that are charged by these various energy harvesting
including, but not limited to solar cells, and combinations, etc.
of solar cells and other energy harvesting. One or more of these
"mobile thermostats" may be employed at any given time including a
mixture of "mobile thermostats" consisting of cellular phone(s),
smart detectors, tablets, laptops, etc., portable and/or fixed
sensors, etc. and any combination of these that can be static or
dynamically changing, etc. These "mobile thermostats" can
coordinate with the master (or one or more master thermostats that
control one or more furnaces/air conditioners, air blowers, fans,
evaporation/evaporative (swamp) coolers, electrical heaters,
baseboard heaters, radiative heaters, under floor covering heaters,
ceramic heaters, quartz lamp heaters, two- and tri-fuel (including,
for example, but not limited to one or more of propane, butane,
natural gas, hydrogen, fuel cells, electricity, solar heaters,
solar coolers, boilers, portable heater of any type, air
conditioner(s) of any type including central air, window air
conditioners, roof top units, radiant heaters, radiant floor
heaters of all types and kinds, natural gas heaters, propane
heaters, other types of fuel heaters, water heaters, hot water
heaters, electrical heaters of any type, oil heaters, wood heaters,
pellet heaters, hot air heaters, ceiling fans (including the
direction of rotation and speed of rotation for ceiling and any
other type of fan) etc. which, in some embodiments, can be
coordinated with each other including coordinated in a user defined
way, approach, model, algorithm, etc. Embodiments of the present
invention can also take into account weather related and
temperature and temporal timing events and effects that affect the
heating and/or cooling and proximity including location and
attributes such as location, number of windows, multiple
sense/sensor points etc. Powered fans, HVAC registers, residential
registers, vents and ventilation in general and heater/cooler vent
shutters and ducts can be used to direct, restrict, limit, enhance,
decrease, increase, etc. the temperature of various locations
within a dwelling, either autonomously, or collectively
coordinated, manually, automatically, user command selectable, etc.
Such fans, registers and vents and in general ventilation can be
powered with solar, batteries, other energy harvesting, wireless
energy transfer, inductive coupled power transfer, inductive
coupled wireless power transfer, AC line, etc. Example embodiments
can include, but are not limited to, wireless/inductively coupled
power transfer from the solar cell shades to the distribution/power
charging of batteries, fuel cells, mechanical energy storage
systems such as momentum flywheels, and other types of energy
storage that can be used to charge cell phones, smart phones,
tablets, uninterruptable power sources/systems (UPSs), computers,
servers, routers, lights, smart phones, shavers, radios, music and
movie players including, but not limited to, MP3, Ipod, DVD, VCR,
Blu-ray, etc., flashlights, work lights, desk lamps and lights,
task lamps and lights, emergency lights, etc. and in general any
type of device that requires energy to operate including but not
limited to the controller and monitor for the embodiments of the
present invention system including, but not limited to, motors,
actuators, sensors, detectors, data logging, analytics, etc. for
the solar shades and HVAC fans, vents, registers, etc.
[0114] Solar cells of any type and/or any material and/or any
structure and/or any efficiency can be used with the present
invention. Such solar cells include, but are not limited to,
silicon (Si)-based, gallium arsenide (GaAs)-based, gallium nitride
(GaN)-based, other Group IV, Group III-V, Group II-VI, OLED cells,
quantum dot cells, etc. semiconductor and light sensitive
materials, heterojunctions, heterostructures, combinations of
these, etc. Multiple types of solar cells that include and cover
multiple bandgaps/wavelength ranges/etc. may be used to together or
separately to cover various regions of the spectrum including, but
not limited to the infrared (IR), visible, ultraviolet (UV), etc.
regions. The solar cells may be mixed and matched and may be part
of a solar tracking system that changes the position, angle, or
other attribute of the solar cells to obtain the desired (i.e.,
maximum or optimum) response and may include maximum power point
tracking (MPPT) and other such methods to maximize and optimize the
energy/power transfer, etc.
[0115] The present invention can use any type of sensors, detectors
in any number and any combinations from simple to advanced,
sophisticated and complicated including but not limited to
temperature, light, solar, position, inclination, speed, location,
acceleration, etc, again in any combination or use. Such sensors
include but are not limited to thermocouples, thermistors,
platinum-based temperature sensors, resistance temperature
detectors (RTDs), semiconductor, integrated circuits,
micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), gyroscopes, global
positioning systems (GPS), triangulation, sound, electrical
(including to measure/detect/monitor electrical parameters such as
input and output voltage, current, power, power factor, harmonics,
distortion, total harmonic distortion (THD), etc. for example both
collectively and individually) mechanical, vibrational, wind
direction, strain gauges, moisture, humidity, radio frequency (RF)
detectors and sensors including but not limited to radio frequency
identification (RFID), infrared detectors, spectrum analyzers and
detectors/sensors, time detectors including ones that can detect
and use atomic clock signals sent by radio transmitters, etc. Any,
a subset or all of these detectors and sensors may be used in any
combinations with the present invention. Uses include but are not
limited to solar/light detection and response, data logging,
analytics, predictions, simulations and modeling, movement and
actuation of any type or form including motor, piezoelectric,
air/pneumatic, tilting, angling, rotating, etc. including, but not
limited to, as part of the energy control, monitoring, management,
logging of various embodiments of the present invention.
[0116] In an embodiment of the control unit, environmental
conditions such as temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, dew
point and luminance may be recorded to be used for interpreting the
climate both inside and outside of structures, for the use of
determining if a disaster has occurred such as flooding, fire,
freezing temperatures, etc, for determining the insulating
efficiency of windows, walls and other structures designed to
insulate or otherwise block the outside climate from the inside.
The control unit may be linked to devices such as motorized
windows, automatic doors, thermostats, HVAC systems, motorized
shades and other devices to adjust the climate inside automatically
and intelligently. The sensors may also be integrated into a WIFI
or LAN network and displayed in a web terminal or other device to
show the status of a building and to identify areas of potential
problems. The information may be uploaded to remote servers and
combined with other data from other buildings/structures/elements
to build a picture of complete building/site efficiency.
[0117] The control unit may use algorithms intended to allow the
tracking and location determination of individuals inside a certain
area. Methods such as RSSI and other techniques may be used to
determine motion and occupancy. This information may be used for
remote monitoring of the physically impaired to ensure that there
is movement in the home/area/building. The system may also be used
in situation where the mentally/physically impaired need to be
located and their movements tracked in a non-contact non-observable
manner. Actions that may be monitored include
standing/sitting/dwelling in a certain location and the duration of
the action, location relative to the sensors and triangulated in 3D
space, and other actions. Movement that is sensed may also be used
to detect intruders into restricted areas and for home automation
such as turning on a home theater system when one enters a room,
etc.
[0118] Energy derived from the wind may also be used, incorporated,
integrated into the present invention including to provide
additional sources of energy and power including both during the
day and during the night. Wind energy can be used to, for example,
drive generators to produce electrical and/or mechanical energy
which can be consumed, stored, etc. as part of the present
invention.
[0119] Fast warm up heaters, heat guns, hot air guns and blowers,
personal and larger heaters (including but not limited to quartz
heaters, vortex, convection, conduction, parabolic, infrared
heaters or all types) and fans and air conditioners and other
methods of heating and cooling can be used to provide single or
multiple users personal comfort settings and levels as part of the
present invention. The present invention can also provide global,
group and/or individual humidity levels based on persons and/or
locations. Hot air dryers for hands can be adapted and used with
the present invention to provide quick and nearly instant heat
where needed and/or desired. The settings, position, temperature
profiles and/or locations, open or close or degree of open or
close, temperature, light level, etc. power level, other
temperature and/or energy states and levels, analytics, etc. can be
remotely set, conditioned, controlled, monitored, etc.
[0120] Two or more solar
shades/drapes/curtains/blinds/shutters/etc. of the same, similar or
different types can be coordinated and communicate with each other
either directly or via the control, monitor, management system of
the present invention to provide the desired/required energy
profile. This includes solar shades that may have different
light/solar exposures for whatever reason (including, but not
limited to facing different directions or angles including, as
examples, facing east and south or east, south and north, east,
southwest and northeast, for whatever reasons (i.e., method of
construction, architecture, part of a set of windows including bay
style windows that are at different angles from each other, etc.
windows in an room/area/etc. that are on/located on different walls
including, but not limited to walls that are at right angles to
each other, sunlights, roof windows, dormers, French doors and
other types of glass patio doors, etc. Embodiments of the present
invention that involve one or more solar
shades/drapes/blinds/shutters/curtains can coordinate in any
desired fashion including partially or completely opening or
closing one or more of the solar
shades/drapes/blinds/shutters/curtains while one or more other
solar shades/drapes/blinds/shutters/curtains are partially or
completely closed or opened, respectively, etc. and can be
statically or dynamically set, controlled, monitored, changed, etc,
depending on any selected conditions, scenarios, situations, etc.
including movement of the Sun, change in illumination due to, for
example, time of day, weather (including clouds, rain, fog, etc.),
change in direction, etc.
[0121] Status updates, faults, control, monitor, interrupt,
changes, system updates, etc. can all be set, monitored adapted,
modified, enhanced, controlled, etc. with the present invention
including locally and remotely. Voice, e-mail, gestures, movement,
position, web, smart phone and tablet (etc.) applications (apps),
other remote controls and monitoring etc. can be used with the
present invention to tailor, optimize, maximize, manage, modify,
share, allocate, distribute, balance, transfer (including
transferring and interacting with power grids), etc. energy/power
for the present invention. The present invention can also be used
with social media and other such internet software such as
Facebook, Google, Instagram, Twitter, etc. and in conjunction with
security and fire protection systems, etc., entertainment, cable
and satellite systems and providers and to provide assistance and
monitoring to and for elderly, senior, disabled person(s), etc.
including remote assistance that can be controlled, monitored,
managed, etc. by others remotely.
[0122] The control system can be used to control entertainment
sources including providing custom apps, web pages and/or social
media interfaces that combine various media (i.e., antenna TV,
cable satellite, stereo, DVD, VCR, Blu-ray, CD, HVAC including but
not limited to heating, cooling, humidity, temperature, air flow,
air filtration, temperature distribution and profile, etc. onto
user-adjustable and selectable apps or web pages that allow the
user to immediately set up the entertainment, comfort, work, etc.
environment or select from a suite/set of such environments which
can be different for any number of users. The present invention can
also measure, determine, calculate, expand upon, track, provide
analytics, etc. of power consumption, energy-efficiency, power
factor, energy costs, etc. by for example, using an energy/power
monitoring device or devices to measure either or both the AC
and/or DC input power, etc.
[0123] A microphone or microphones are used in some embodiments to
receive and recognize voice commands to control temperature,
entertainment, heating, cooling, lighting, including color
temperature and color, etc., opening and closing vents, setting
alarms, monitoring, etc.
[0124] Embodiments of the present invention can use RFID, other RF
signals including but not limited to cell phones, smart phones,
tablets, wireless devices in general to track, monitor, log, etc.
one or more persons, animals, or objects location, duration,
movements, etc. Such tracking, monitoring, logging information can
be used in many ways and for many purposes and applications with
the present invention including, but not limited to, deciding how
to allocate resources, how to set the solar
shades/curtains/drapes/blinds/shutters/etc. (including position,
angle, open, closed, partially closed or open, etc.), how to
distribute light/energy/power among the various components of the
present invention, to send alerts if persons, animals, objects
spend too long in certain locations or enter locations that they
should not be in, etc. One example is if a person is detected as
being in a location such as a bathroom for too long of a period, an
alert could be sent out and broadcast to select devices and persons
including a situation where an elderly person is in the bathroom
for a long period of time.
[0125] The present invention can also interact with, incorporate
and work with medical monitoring, control, sensing and detection
devices, equipment and instrumentation and take appropriate actions
and broadcast alerts (including to all or a subset of family
members, friends, co-workers, emergency services, medical
personnel, others, etc.) when a medical emergency is detected such
as the onset of a heart attack, a person suddenly falling down,
irregular and abnormal monitoring signals, etc. This can be
accomplished using either or both wearable or non-wearable devices
including wrist, head, ankle, other parts of the body, head,
appendages, watches, etc.
[0126] The present invention can also work with conventional,
non-programmable, or non-remotely programmable fixed location
thermostats. As an example such thermostats could be set to a lower
temperature in the winter time and the mobile thermostats could
enhance and increase the temperature or temperatures in desired
locations based on but not limited to, time of day or night,
location, proximity to humans and animals, plants, fish, etc.,
motion or heat detected from living creatures including but not
limited to humans and/or animals, voice commands, voice
recognition, gesturing, alarms, remotely sent commands, outside
temperature, distance and expected time of arrival, etc. In some
embodiments of the present invention, the conventional,
non-programmable, or non-remotely programmable fixed location
thermostats could be augmented by/with a wired, wired and/or
powerline controller located at and connected electrically to the
furnace(s), central air conditioner(s), humidifier, dehumidifier,
HVAC system(s), combinations of these, etc. which is able to either
work with or take control from the existing conventional,
non-programmable, or non-remotely programmable fixed location
thermostats to control, set, monitor, etc. the temperature,
humidity, air flow, etc. Embodiments of such a wired, wireless
and/or powerline controller can be in parallel with or in series
with or be implemented to take over control and block control of
the conventional, non-programmable, or non-remotely programmable
fixed location thermostats. As an example this can be accomplished
by connecting the wired, wireless and/or powerline controller to
the standard wiring for and between the conventional,
non-programmable, or non-remotely programmable fixed location
thermostats, for example, the furnace(s), air conditioners, central
air conditioners, HVAC, humidifier(s), dehumidifier(s),
combinations of these, etc. and having the wired, wireless, and/or
powerline including combinations of these controller directly wired
into the standard wiring for the furnace(s), air conditioners,
central air conditioners, HVAC, humidifier(s), dehumidifier(s),
combinations of these, etc.
[0127] The present invention can coordinate with other
storage/charging systems including wall mount, desk furniture
(which may also have, for example, solar cells attached to, for
example, but not limited to sofas, chairs, seats, tables of any
type, desks, shelves, ottomans, love seats, beds, head boards,
dressers, pianos, foot boards, end tables, bookshelves, floors,
walls, ceilings, etc. so as to be able to optimize/maximize the
energy storage and usage. For example if the storage devices/units
(e.g. batteries) that are being charged by the solar cell shades
reaches full capacity, the present invention can open or partially
open the solar cell shades and/or redirect the solar energy to
other sources of energy harvesting including solar heat or solar
cells so as to increase and distribute the energy storage and/or
usage by allowing light to power and continue to power and provide
energy and/or to use the excess energy to power heaters, fans,
coolers, air conditioners, televisions, DVD and/or Blu-ray players
and recorders, washers, dryers, stoves, furnaces, lighting
including solid state lighting, combinations of these, etc.
[0128] The one or more main thermostat(s) may be replaced with a
wireless or wired transceiver or receiver and/or transmitter that
uses very little energy and may or may not have a display and
connected and interfaced either wirelessly or wired (or both) to a
remote sensor or sensor which could, for example, be a smart phone,
tablet, computer, sensor (which may or may not have a display),
etc. to effectively relocate either temporarily or permanently the
effective location of the temperature setting element of the
thermostat(s). Any or all (or a subset) of the thermostat(s),
"mobile thermostat(s)", etc. may also receive power or be power
assisted from sources such as solar cells/photovoltaic cells and
elements, RF, vibrational, mechanical, acoustical, inductively
coupled, etc. In addition, embodiments of the present invention may
employ wireless power transfer including, but not limited to,
inductively coupled, resonant coupled, etc. energy/power transfer
including from the solar cell shades to batteries, cell phones,
tablets, smart phones, computers, lights, fans, heaters, coolers,
air conditioners, phones, stereos, televisions, DVD, Blu-ray, other
forms of media and entertainment, etc.
[0129] The present invention can be used to monitor any and all
features, parameters, conditions, mood, settings, environment,
electrical, optical, temperature, etc. information and store any
and all information including color settings, color+white settings,
combinations, color settings, color plus white settings with other
temperature, humidity, moisture, audio, visual, sensory, vibration,
mechanical, electrical, optical information, data, parameters, etc.
Such storage can be of any type including, but not limited to
local, mobile based device, cellular phone based, tablet based,
remote control based, web based, cloud based, etc. Such stored
information can be shared and transferred to others including, but
not limited to, other mobile based device, cellular phone based,
tablet based, remote control based, web based, cloud based,
etc.
[0130] The power source for the present invention can be any
suitable power source including but not limited to linear
regulators and/or switching power supplies and regulators,
transformers, including, but not limited to, forward converters,
flyback converters, buck-boost, buck, boost, boost-buck, cuk,
inverters, convertors, chargers, distribution etc. The present
invention is not limited to the choices discussed above and any
suitable circuit, topology, design, implementation, method,
approach, etc. may be used with the present invention. Other power
handling circuits can be incorporated in the home automation
system, including those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 13/674,072, filed Nov. 11, 2012 for a "Dimmable LED Driver with
Multiple Power Sources", and in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/301,457, filed Nov. 21, 2011 for a "Fluorescent Replacement",
which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
[0131] The types of choices, selections, options, etc. for the
present invention can be displayed automatically, manually, or by
any other method, way, approach, implementation, etc. For example,
these can be selected via physical commands, methods, and ways,
such as, but not limited to, touching, typing, moving, speaking,
tones, including tone of voice, using a mouse or cursor, pen, etc.,
vibration, light, etc.
[0132] The present invention can also use applications (Apps)
either specifically or generally designed for the particular mobile
device such as an iPhone, Android phone, Android tablet, iPad,
iPod, etc. The present invention can also allow manual and/or
automatic firmware and software upgrades to, for example, the
mobile device applications, if any, and the controller that
interfaces with solar shades/drapes/shutters/curtains/blinds, HVAC
and also the lighting sources, internal controllers. Embodiments of
the present invention can be also monitor, log, store, etc. the
states and conditions system including but not limited to the
dimming level including the dimming level and/or power level
reduction or increase of heaters, fans, blowers, coolers, etc., the
color combinations/selections/levels/etc., the on-off status and
state, the power level, the efficiency, the power factor, the input
and output current, voltage and power, etc.
[0133] Turning to FIG. 9, a home automation system with mobile
sensors is depicted in block diagram form in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention. A remote control 100 of any type can
transmit commands to (and, in some embodiments, receive status
information back from) an interpreter 102, which interprets
commands from the remote control 100 and which forwards the
commands to other appropriate elements of the home automation
system in whatever suitable format and transmission medium is used
by the destination, such as, but not limited to, IR or RF output
commands. In some cases, the interpreter 102 can also receive RF
input from other devices, for example to control the interpreter
102 or to provide status information to be forwarded to the remote
100. Remotes (e.g., 104) can also transmit commands to (and, in
some embodiments, receive status information back from) a super
interpreter 106, which interprets commands from the remote control
104 and which forwards the commands to other appropriate elements
of the home automation system in whatever suitable format and
transmission medium is used by the destination, such as, but not
limited to, IR or RF output commands, WiFi/Bluetooth or other
format output commands. In some cases, the super interpreter 106
can also receive RF input from other devices or information or
control signals from other sources, for example to control the
interpreter 106 or to provide status information to be forwarded to
the remote 104. In some cases, the super interpreter 106 can
interact with and control other interpreters (e.g., 102) in the
system.
[0134] A laptop or other computer 110 can interact with the home
automation system with any wired or wireless connection, including
but not limited to a WiFi or Bluetooth connection, in order to
control one or more devices in the system or to receive and display
status information. Similarly, a phone 114 and/or tablet 118 can
interact with the home automation system with any wired or wireless
connection, including but not limited to a WiFi or Bluetooth
connection, in order to control one or more devices in the system
or to receive and display status information. The home automation
system can include one or more input devices such as, but not
limited to, light sensor(s) 122, temperature sensor(s) 126, motion
sensor(s) 130, etc., each of which can be connected to other
elements of the system by RF links, IR links, WiFi or Bluetooth, or
any other wired or wireless connections. Such information of all
types including but not limited to control codes, preferred
settings, scheduling and sequencing, time of day and date, other
information discussed herein, etc. can be stored, for example in
any or all or a subset of the system, modules, supermodules,
subsystems, elements, implementation, embodiments, etc. of the
present invention.
[0135] One or more room modules (e.g., 112, 116, 120) can be
provided and placed in rooms having devices to be controlled, such
as, but not limited to, heating or cooling devices, lighting
systems, entertainment systems or audiovisual equipment such as
televisions, receivers, speakers, media players, audio players,
etc., and can be connected to other elements of the system by RF
links, IR links, WiFi or Bluetooth, or any other wired or wireless
connections. Room super modules (e.g., 124) can include all of the
functionality of room modules (e.g., 112, 116, 120) and can also
coordinate or control other modules (e.g., 112, 116, 120) to
coordinate including but not limited to scheduling and sequencing
the control of heating or cooling devices, lighting systems,
entertainment systems or audiovisual equipment such as televisions,
receivers, speakers, media players, audio players, etc. across
multiple rooms or throughout a house or other building. Power can
be provided to elements in the system from any of a number of
sources, including wall power, battery power, or solar power (e.g.,
in a room super module with solar cell 128), including solar power
from solar cells mounted directly on the elements or drawn from
solar curtains/blinds/shades etc. or from storage devices charged
by solar curtains/blinds/shades etc.
[0136] Turning now to FIG. 10, a block diagram depicts
wireless/wired connections between components of a home automation
system with mobile sensors in accordance with some embodiments of
the invention. One or more heaters (e.g., 146, 152), coolers or
HVAC equipment can be controlled by wireless controllers or
interpreters (e.g., 150). Other elements (e.g., 142) of the home
automation system such as, but not limited to, lighting systems,
entertainment systems or audiovisual equipment such as televisions,
receivers, speakers, media players, audio players, communications
systems, etc. can also be controlled by wireless controllers or
interpreters (e.g., 150). Power monitors 140, 144, 154 can monitor
and/or control the power provided to the heaters (e.g., 146, 152)
and/or other elements (e.g., 142) of the system, receiving control
commands and/or sending status or other monitoring information to
one or more central wireless transceivers 156. One or more remote
controls, smart phones, tablets, computers, laptops etc. (e.g.,
158) can also interface with the system, for example by wireless
connection to central wireless transceivers 156 and/or by optional
wireless RF or IR links to interpreters (e.g., 150).
[0137] Turning now to FIGS. 11-13, an IR sensor 170 and/or
transmitter suitable for use in some embodiments of a home
automation system is depicted in perspective, top, and side views
in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The number of
IR LEDs in the IR sensor 170 can be one or more. The IR sensor 170
can include multiple IR sensors and/or emitters 172, 174, 176, 178,
180, 182, to provide the desired direction(s) and sensitivity of
coverage. The IR sensor 170 can have any suitable shape, such as
but not limited to the box of FIGS. 11-13 or the circular shape of
the IR sensor 190 of FIGS. 14-16. In FIGS. 14-16, an IR sensor 190
and/or transmitter suitable for use in some embodiments of a home
automation system is depicted in side, perspective, and top views
in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The IR sensor
190 can include multiple IR sensors and/or emitters 192, 194, 196,
198, 200, 202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212 to provide the desired
direction(s) and sensitivity of coverage. Indicators can also be
provided on IR sensors 170, 190, such as LED lights to indicate
when commands are received and/or transmitted. The IR sensors
170,190 enable IR only heater, air conditioner, fans, etc. units to
be included in the home automation system, where such devices can
only be used with remote controls typically which are hand held and
can be made to be part of a simple to sophisticated wireless
connected system using the present invention.
[0138] Turning to FIG. 17, an example home floorplan illustrates
usage of an example embodiment of a home automation system in
accordance with some embodiments of the invention. However, it is
important to note that the floorplan and the usage of elements of
the home automation system are merely non-limiting examples. An IR
interpreter 220 is used to transmit commands to a television 222 in
a bedroom 224. Another IR interpreter 226 is placed in a multimedia
room 234 to control a receiver 230 and speakers 228, 232. An IR
interpreter 236 is placed in a living room 242 to control a remote
heater 238 and television 240. An IR interpreter 244 is placed in a
kitchen 248 to interface with/receive settings from a thermostat
246, whether fixed/hardwired in place or remote, such as a
temperature measurement device and/or temperature setting control
interface in a smart phone or other remote control device. An IR
interpreter 250 is placed in a bedroom 254 to control a television
252. Notably, other devices can be controlled in any or all rooms,
and other control devices such as, but not limited to, a central
wireless transceiver and/or super interpreter and/or main console
and/or room super module can be included to coordinate status and
control of any or all of the devices including the lighting and
temperatures in the system.
[0139] Turning to FIG. 18, a diagram depicts WiFi connections in an
example embodiment of a home automation system in accordance with
some embodiments of the invention. A server/control unit 284 can be
connected by WiFi or other connections to remote devices 288, 290,
292 such as, but not limited to, heaters, coolers or HVAC
equipment, lighting systems, entertainment systems or audiovisual
equipment such as, but not limited to, televisions, receivers,
speakers, media players, audio players, communications systems,
power supplies and/or power controls/monitors, etc. Handheld
devices, mobile thermostats, remote controls, etc. (e.g., 280) can
be connected to the server/control unit 284 by wired/wireless
connections or combinations thereof, for example through a
home/office WiFi Internet router 282.
[0140] Turning to FIG. 19, a diagram depicts Bluetooth connections
in an example embodiment of a home automation system in accordance
with some embodiments of the invention. A handheld device, mobile
thermostat, remote control, etc. (e.g., 294) can be connected by
wireless connections such as, but not limited to, Bluetooth
connections to remote devices (e.g., 296, 298, 300) such as, but
not limited to, heaters, coolers or HVAC equipment, lighting
systems, entertainment systems or audiovisual equipment such as,
but not limited to, televisions, receivers, speakers, media
players, audio players, communications systems, power supplies
and/or power controls/monitors, etc.
[0141] Turning to FIG. 20, a plantation shutter window covering 310
having solar collection louvers is depicted in perspective view in
accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Each louver
(e.g., 314, 316, 318) in the frame 312 includes a number of solar
cells/panels (e.g., 320, 322) and can be rotated to expose or hide
the window pane, as well as to orient the solar cells/panels (e.g.,
320, 322) toward sunlight, for example using a manual control arm
324 to rotate the louvers (e.g., 314, 316, 318). The plantation
shutter window covering 310 is depicted in front view in FIG. 21,
and a single solar collection louver 314 is depicted in front view
in FIG. 22. Electrical connections (e.g., 328, 330) between solar
cells/panels (e.g., 320, 322, 324, 326) can, for example, be
connected through the louver frame to connection points 332, 334,
by which the solar collection louver 314 is rotatably connected in
the plantation shutter window covering 310, allowing electrical
current to be gathered from each louver (e.g., 314) in the
plantation shutter window covering 310. A rod 336 and notch 338 can
be used to connect a manual control rod (e.g., 324) in some
embodiments.
[0142] Turning to FIGS. 23-27, an automated register assembly 350
suitable for use in some embodiments of a home automation system is
depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. The
automated register assembly 350 is shown in perspective top view in
FIG. 23, top view in FIG. 24, perspective bottom view in FIG. 25,
and bottom views in FIGS. 26 and 27 with airflow control blades
(e.g., 356) in substantially open and closed positions,
respectively. Air from, for example, HVAC ductwork is forced
through the vent openings (e.g., 352) when a blower is active. A
motor 354 such as, but not limited to, a stepper motor, DC motor,
solenoid and gear system, etc. is connected to airflow control
blades (e.g., 356) to open and close the airflow path through the
vent openings (e.g., 352) under immediate or scheduled control from
remote control devices, computers, laptops, tablets, smart phones,
etc.
[0143] Turning to FIGS. 28-31, an automated register assembly 360
with a motorized directional control in accordance with some
embodiments of the invention is depicted in perspective view in
FIGS. 28-29 and side view in FIGS. 30-31, in open position in FIGS.
28, 30 and in closed position in FIGS. 29, 31. Air from, for
example, HVAC ductwork is forced through the vent openings (e.g.,
364) when a blower is active. A motor 370 such as, but not limited
to, a stepper motor, DC motor, solenoid and gear system, etc. is
connected to an airflow direction control hood 366 to allow air to
flow substantially upward or to redirect the air in another
direction, under immediate or scheduled and/or sequenced control
from remote control devices, computers, laptops, tablets, smart
phones, etc. A manual control wheel 368 can also be provided in
some embodiments.
[0144] Turning to FIGS. 32-38, another automated register assembly
380 suitable for use in some embodiments of a home automation
system is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention. The automated register assembly 380 is shown open in top
perspective view in FIG. 32, closed in top perspective view in FIG.
33, in side view in FIG. 34, open in bottom perspective view in
FIG. 35, closed in bottom perspective view in FIG. 36, open in
bottom view in FIG. 37, and closed in bottom view in FIG. 38. Air
from, for example, HVAC ductwork is forced through the vent
openings (e.g., 384) in the register body 382 when a blower is
active. A motor 390 such as, but not limited to, a stepper motor,
DC motor, solenoid and gear system, etc. is connected to rotatable
blades (e.g., 386) to block or pass air, under immediate or
scheduled control from remote control devices, computers, laptops,
tablets, smart phones, etc. A manual control wheel 388 can also be
provided in some embodiments.
[0145] The present invention can support all standards and
conventions for 0 to 10 V dimming or other dimming techniques. In
addition the present invention can support, for example, but not
limited to, overcurrent, undervoltage, overvoltage, short circuit,
under current, and over-temperature protection.
[0146] The invention can support all types of lighting solutions
including LEDs, CFLs, incandescent, halogen, xenon, HID and other
light sources including other SSLs for the purpose of but not
limited to providing light in emergency situations such as lighting
that directs towards building exits, providing emergency light for
critical operations, or any other uses where light is required for
emergency or non-emergency needs.
[0147] Turning to FIG. 39, wireless monitoring of power conversion
and usage for collection and storage of power from solar window
coverings is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the
invention. A wireless control module 400 monitors power and state
of power usage in the system, including but not limited to
monitoring solar panel blinds with battery backup 402. Power from
the solar panel blinds with battery backup 402 can be switched
between components in a wired or wireless switch 403 and converted
to desired voltage and/or current levels in a DC/DC converter 404
and used to charge a backup battery or to power any DC device 406.
Power from the solar panel blinds with battery backup 402 can also
be converted to desired voltage and/or current levels in a DC/AC
converter 410 and used to power any AC device 412 or distributed
into the power grid 414. In some embodiments, the wireless control
module 400 can also be used to control switches throughout the
system, controlling power to DC and/or AC devices to turn devices
on and off, and where appropriate, to control power levels, for
example to control dimming levels and/or color of lighting
systems.
[0148] The energy stored from the solar panels can be stored in a
battery that can be used to charge personal devices during the
daytime and also overnight such as, cell-phones, tablets, other
batteries, or any other hand-held device or electronic device. This
will eliminate the need for power plugs that are used to charge
these devices and will reduce energy use in the household. Using a
DC/AC inverter, AC appliances can be powered from the battery to
potentially heat/cool rooms, power lights at night, televisions,
audio/visual players, etc. A battery can be charged and taken with
the individual to charge their individual hand held devices
throughout the day as a backup battery.
[0149] DC to AC inverters and DC to DC converters including both
smart converters and inverters as well as smart distributed DC to
AC inverters and DC to DC converters can be used with the present
invention. The electronics for converters, inverters (i.e., DC to
AC), chargers, distribution, etc. in general may use and be
configured in continuous conduction mode (CCM), critical conduction
mode (CRM), discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), resonant
conduction modes, etc., with any type of circuit topology including
but not limited to buck, boost, buck-boost, boost-buck, cuk, SEPIC,
flyback, forward-converters, etc. The present invention works with
both isolated and non-isolated designs including, but not limited
to, buck, boost-buck, buck-boost, boost, flyback and
forward-converters. The present invention itself may also be
non-isolated or isolated, for example using a tagalong inductor or
transformer winding or other isolating techniques, including, but
not limited to, transformers including signal, gate, isolation,
etc. transformers, optoisolators, optocouplers, etc.
[0150] The present invention may include other implementations that
contain various other control circuits including, but not limited
to, linear, square, square-root, power-law, sine, cosine, other
trigonometric functions, logarithmic, exponential, cubic, cube
root, hyperbolic, etc. in addition to error, difference, summing,
integrating, differentiators, etc. type of op amps. In addition,
logic, including digital and Boolean logic such as AND, NOT
(inverter), OR, Exclusive OR gates, etc., complex logic devices
(CLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microcontrollers,
microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application
specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. can also be used either
alone or in combinations including analog and digital combinations
for the present invention. Parts of the present invention can be
incorporated into an integrated circuit, be an integrated circuit,
etc.
[0151] The present invention may be used with a linear regulator, a
switching regulator, a linear power supply, a switching power
supply, multiple linear and switching regulator and power supplies,
hybrid linear and switching regulators, hybrids of these,
combinations of these, etc.
[0152] The present invention can also incorporate at an appropriate
location or locations one or more thermistors (i.e., either of a
negative temperature coefficient [NTC] or a positive temperature
coefficient [PTC]) to provide temperature-based load current
limiting.
[0153] The present invention can also be used for purposes and
applications other than discussed above.
[0154] In general electrical heating where a heating element or
elements are electrically controlled to, for example, maintain the
temperature at a location at a certain value can be employed with
the present invention. The present invention can also include
circuit breakers including solid state circuit breakers and other
devices, circuits, systems, etc. that limit or trip in the event of
an overload condition/situation. The present invention can also
include, for example analog or digital controls including but not
limited to wired (i.e., 0 to 10 V, RS 232, RS485, IEEE standards,
SPI, I2C, other serial and parallel standards and interfaces, UARTS
in general, etc.), wireless, powerline, powerline communications
(PLC), etc. and can be implemented in any part of the circuit for
the present invention.
[0155] Embodiments of the present invention can use comparators,
other op amp configurations and circuits, including but not limited
to error amplifiers, summing amplifiers, log amplifiers,
integrating amplifiers, averaging amplifiers, differentiators and
differentiating amplifiers, etc. and/or other digital and analog
circuits, microcontrollers, microprocessors, complex logic devices,
field programmable gate arrays, etc.
[0156] The present invention includes implementations that contain
various control circuits including, but not limited to, linear,
square, square-root, power-law, sine, cosine, other trigonometric
functions, logarithmic, exponential, cubic, cube root, hyperbolic,
etc. in addition to error, difference, summing, integrating,
differentiators, etc. type of op amps. In addition, logic,
including digital and Boolean logic such as AND, NOT (inverter),
OR, Exclusive OR gates, etc., complex logic devices (CLDs), field
programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microcontrollers,
microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs),
etc. can also be used either alone or in combinations including
analog and digital combinations for the present invention. The
present invention can be incorporated into an integrated circuit,
be an integrated circuit, etc.
[0157] The example embodiments disclosed herein illustrate certain
features of the present invention and not limiting in any way, form
or function of present invention. The present invention is,
likewise, not limited in materials choices including semiconductor
materials such as, but not limited to, silicon (Si), silicon
carbide (SiC), silicon on insulator (SOI), other silicon
combination and alloys such as silicon germanium (SiGe), etc.,
diamond, graphene, gallium nitride (GaN) and GaN-based materials,
gallium arsenide (GaAs) and GaAs-based materials, etc. The present
invention can include any type of switching elements including, but
not limited to, field effect transistors (FETs) of any type such as
metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs)
including either p-channel or n-channel MOSFETs of any type,
junction field effect transistors (JFETs) of any type, metal
emitter semiconductor field effect transistors, etc. again, either
p-channel or n-channel or both, bipolar junction transistors (BJTs)
again, either NPN or PNP or both, heterojunction bipolar
transistors (HBTs) of any type, high electron mobility transistors
(HEMTs) of any type, unijunction transistors of any type,
modulation doped field effect transistors (MODFETs) of any type,
etc., again, in general, n-channel or p-channel or both, vacuum
tubes including diodes, triodes, tetrodes, pentodes, etc. and any
other type of switch,
light/optical/temperature/humidity/pressure/force/position sensing
device, circuit, system, etc. solar cells including all types and
makes or photovoltaic, hybrid, etc. solar cells.
[0158] The present invention can use fans and simple to complex
HVAC vent shutters with solar, batteries, other energy harvesting,
wireless energy transfer, etc. to provide power to these.
[0159] The system network can be comprised of wireless signals and
command data that can be transmitted and received via a server or
main control unit which can be connected to a wireless network
where it can be utilized and controlled by smart phones, tablets,
personal device, computers, etc. These commands and communications
can be controlled and managed through software applications
designed on platforms like, but not limited to, Android, iOS, C++,
and Java using a graphical user interface (GUI). This main control
unit can be used to communicate data and commands to and from the
shades, curtains, drapes, blinds, etc. This system will also be
able to communicate commands to devices that control infrared
devices such as, heaters, air-conditioners, televisions, personal
fans, air purifiers, DVD units, cable boxes, etc. These devices can
also capture commands from remote controls that use infrared LEDs
to control their counterparts. An example IR interpreter 420 that
can capture commands from IR remote controls, interpret if needed,
and forward in any suitable format including in IR form, is
depicted in side, front perspective and rear perspective views in
FIGS. 40-42 in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.
An example IR interpreter 420 can include, for example, an infrared
LED 422, phototransistor 422, transmit (TX) indicator 424, and
power indicator 426. The information can be stored anywhere and
everywhere including but not limited to the supermodules, the
modules, smart phones, tablets, laptops, servers, cloud-based and
web-based, etc. for certain embodiments of the present
invention.
[0160] The commands for these various infrared controlled devices
can be stored on, for example but not limited to, flash
micro-chips, for example, inside the remote devices that are
wireless extensions of the main control unit or server. The main
control unit or server will have capabilities of handling Internet
Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), and User
Datagram Protocol (UDP) network information from the user's smart
phone, tablet, personal device, computer, etc. This main control
unit or server will then output commands or data through a wireless
protocol to the remote units which will then respond to the
commands sent by transmitting infrared light to the devices or
perform tasks such as switching a device on/off or other various
tasks. Another way of controlling the remote devices in a wireless
manner is using the Bluetooth protocol. This will allow the user to
connect to the remote devices directly from the smart phone,
tablet, personal device, computer, etc., without having to connect
to the main control unit or server. It is also possible to connect
the server to the remote devices via the power lines that already
exist in the home or business.
[0161] These remote devices can interact with a user without using
a main control unit or server. The remote device can sense when a
user enters a room by using Bluetooth to recognize the user by the
Bluetooth unique universal identifier (UUID) and adjust the shades,
curtains, drapes, blinds, heaters, air-conditioners, televisions,
personal fans, air purifiers, DVD units, Blue-ray, cable boxes,
etc., to the user's liking based on personal settings on their
device containing that contains a Bluetooth radio. In addition RFID
can also be used in place of or in conjunction with, coupled, etc.
with the Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.
[0162] These remote devices can transmit information back to the
user. Information such as battery voltage, current usage, power,
state, power level, efficiency, temperature, duration, humidity,
input current, input voltage, input power, output current, output
voltage, output power, etc. They have the ability to transmit and
receive data in order to carry out their programmed functions. This
data will be presented on the user's device through, for example, a
GUI and managed by the software application running on the user's
device. These remote devices allow the user to control a multitude
of devices, as mentioned previously, in their home or business. The
software applications also allow the user the ability to program
automated functions into their remote devices to, for example,
control and automate the lighting or heater/air-conditioner when
the user is away from the home or business. Having the device
connected to the Internet through an Internet router, the user can
control their remote devices on the wide area network (WAN) from
outside their home or business network when the user is away. In
embodiments of the present invention, alarms, proximity, global
positioning system (GPS) information, location, signals, etc. can
be used. The present invention can be present to turn on or off or
dim or increase lighting, heating, cooling, temperature, air flow,
other appliances, etc. home entertainment including but not limited
to satellite receivers, DVD players and/or recorders, DVR, cable
boxes, stereos, TVs, etc. In some embodiments of the present
invention light panels may be included and inserted on the interior
facing side of the drapes, curtains, shades, blinds, etc.
Customized smart phone, tablet pages that allow multiple device
settings to be grouped together for entertainment including, for
example, but not limited to entertainment and HVAC settings such as
television, DVD, cable, heaters, fans, room and other lights
including but not limited, air conditioners, etc. on the same web
page/screen, etc.
[0163] The present invention can relay information about
temperature, light intensity and quality to HVAC installations that
use, for example, heat pumps and compressor type AC units to
intelligently control the percentage use of the two or more units
working in parallel. For example, heat pumps work efficiently only
in a limited temperature range and need to be supplemented outside
this range. The present invention can control and instruct multiple
HVAC components to work independently or in synchrony to maximize
efficiency and reduce energy usage.
[0164] The present invention will be capable of interfacing to
commercial and non-commercial systems in which energy may be
produced and sold back to the electrical grid including residential
or commercial/industrial energy systems comprising of photovoltaic
solar cell installations, fuel cell energy storage, wind turbines,
and any other energy system(s), renewable or otherwise, that
require analyzing for home consumption as well as when the energy
is provided to the grid. The invention is also capable of itself
providing energy that may be sold back to the community electrical
grid.
[0165] The afore mentioned appliances and devices can also be
controlled or triggered by a motion sensor or proximity based
sensor on the remote device. For example, when an individual walks
into a room the motion sensor can turn on the heater, lights,
open/close blinds, etc. This can be done by sensing motion or
reading a RFID tag or ID that would be on the person or on their
phone or personal device. Using a RFID tag will help make the room
appliance settings personalized to the individual upon entering a
room and/or building. The remote sensing devices such as an RFID
reader can log when an individual is in a room to a computer or
record the frequency and duration the RFID tag or ID entered/exited
the room and/or building. Accelerometers can sense if the
individual or person is in a laying, sitting, or standing position.
This application can be applied in a home, business, hospital, care
taking facility, etc, for monitoring individuals. The remote device
can, for example, alert the server, main controller, or personal
devices such as phones, computers, tablets, machines, appliances,
health practitioner, etc, if an individual suddenly fell or was in
a laying or sitting position for too long of a period.
[0166] Embodiments of the remote device can detect water, moisture,
water leaks, flooding, etc., to turn on a pump or alert emergency
services, phones, tablets, computers, etc., to prevent damage to
homes, businesses, or other buildings/structures. It can be used to
detect moisture in lawns at homes, businesses, golf courses,
schools, etc, and water facilities when moisture is not detected
and to prevent watering lawns and facilities when rain is present.
These remote devices can also be used to sense humidity levels in
rooms to maintain the humidity levels and keep them constant. They
can also track data about the humidity levels and when they change.
This data can be transmitted to the server or main control unit or
to other devices such as phones, tablets, computers, appliances,
machines, etc. It can also be used in wells to monitor ground water
levels wirelessly and transmit data back to computers or to users
for monitoring. Large crop farmers can use the remote devices for
watering crops with the correct amount of water by sensing the
amount of moisture or water in the soil. It can also use this data
to automatically control the amount of water that is distributed to
the crops and soil and water parts of the crop that is more dry
than others.
[0167] The remote device can also detect temperature to prevent
fires or fire damage. They can alert emergency services,
individuals, computers, phones, tablets, machines, appliances, etc,
when there is a fire or smoke present in the building or structure.
It can trigger the sprinkler or fire suppressant system to put
fires out in a specific room or area to prevent flooding and water
damage to the rest of the building and structure. They can be used
to detect smoke, chemicals, and/or gases to alert emergency
services or open ventilation systems to clear warehouses, labs,
hospitals, homes, businesses, etc, or to trigger systems that
prevent smoke, chemicals, and/or gases from becoming too
concentrated or dangerous or to alert systems, machines, phones,
tablets, computers, etc, that smoke, chemicals, and/or gases are
present.
[0168] The remote device can be used to monitor voltage, current,
and power in batteries that store power from solar panels. They can
log this information and transmit it to devices that can display
this data on a GUI for a user to monitor the status of the battery
and solar panel or other ways to view the information including by
e-mail, text, numbers, alphanumeric characters, etc. They can also
connect to a DC/AC inverter to monitor the power output to devices
and switch them on and off according to the amount of power stored
into the battery that is being charged from the solar panels. This
remote device can control the appliances or devices that are
connected to it via AC connection. For example, a heater can be
plugged into the DC/AC inverter and the device can control the when
the user decides. This heater can be powered from the battery that
was charged from the solar panel and also from the AC power lines
which can be switch selectable including user or utility
selectable. The user can control the heater, monitor the battery or
batteries or other storage source(s) power, current, voltage
level(s) from the solar panel, and customize on and off times based
on month, day, and time data supplied by the user, utilities and/or
other sources. This control system is not limited to a heating,
cooling, flowing, etc. or other appliance(s).
[0169] The user can schedule events and/or tasks for heaters, fans,
coolers, air conditioners, central air, televisions, DVD, Blu-ray,
cable and satellite boxes and service providers, other appliances
and/or devices to turn on/off and specific times using software
applications on their phone, tablet, computer, personal device(s),
etc., by specifying the month, day, hour, and minute when a device
can turn on/off or perform any other varying task. For example, if
the user is not present in a home, residence, apartment, condo,
building or structure the lights can be scheduled to turn on to
imitate the idea that the building is occupied or to turn them off
to save the energy cost on the power bill. Scheduling and tasks can
be prioritized and sequenced. Embodiments of the present invention
also allows for priorities to be adjusted, reevaluated, be
conditional, etc. The remote device can also be controlled using a
personal electronic device for use by mentally or physically
impaired individuals. It will allow them the ability to control
devices such as, fans, heaters, air-conditioners, lights,
televisions, audio/visual players, home appliances, etc., without
having to physically turn them on or change their settings. These
devices can also be controlled when the individual is not present
in the room or building remotely or scheduled and/or sequenced
events and/or tasks can be set on the users electronic device and
other parts, components, modules, submodules, etc. which will
trigger specific events at the designated times. If the individual
is not able to program specific scheduled and/or sequenced events,
another user can specify these events for them. This way the
impaired individual will have appliances or devices and, for
example, temperature, humidity, lighting, color temperature, etc.
controlled automatically. For example, at a specific time in the
evening the blinds, drapes, shades, curtains, shutters, etc. will
close and the lights would come on for the individual who is unable
to do those things alone.
[0170] The remote device can also be used to monitor properties,
homes, businesses, etc., for security purposes. By using motion
sensors to detect motion or magnetic sensors to detect doors or
windows opening and closing. The motion and/or proximity detectors
and sensors can be used to collectively determine the path of a
person, animal, other entity including an intruder. For example,
either external (i,e., outdoors) or internal (i.e., indoors) motion
and/or proximity detectors and/or sensors may be used to
collectively determine, evaluate, decide, respond to, alarm, turn
on lights, turn on alarms, make noise, voice emulate words, provide
recorded messages, turn on/off lights, strobe lights, sequence
lights or other devices, appliances, HVAC, etc. These devices can
alert phones, tablets, computers, emergency services, etc., when
these devices sensors are triggered. They can also turn on lights
or trigger other devices in and around properties, homes,
businesses, etc., when motion is detected or doors or windows are
opened. The scheduling and sequencing can range from simple to
complex, from one command for one, for example, heater, cooler, air
conditioner, HVAC, TVs, DVDs, Blu-ray, cable and/or satellite
providers interface boxes, other devices and appliances, etc. The
sequencing and scheduling can also be dependent on existing,
future, alternative, etc. events, conditions, scenarios, etc.
[0171] Lighting may be controlled, dimmed, selected, monitored by
wireless (including but not limited to Bluetooth, WiFi, ISM, IEEE
801, 2.4 GHz, etc.) or wired (DMX, DALI, RS 232, RS 485, serial,
SPI, U2C, USB, etc.) means by the home automation system.
[0172] Smart T8, T5, T12, CFL, other fluorescent lamps types, etc.,
E26, E27, A-lamp, MR-16, GU-10, PAR 30, PAR 38, R 30, 2.times.2,
2.times.4, 2 ft..times.2 ft., 2 ft..times.4 ft., 1 ft..times.3 ft.,
3 ft..times.1 ft., 1/2 ft..times.2 ft., 1/2 ft. by 4 ft., etc.
panels, smaller, larger custom, other sizes, sizes to fit into
existing luminaires and fixtures, etc., down light, can light,
under cabinet, over cabinet, sconce, troffer, pendant fixtures,
chandelier fixtures, under cabinet, over cabinet, track lighting,
etc. Lighting panels used or powered in the invention can include
waveguided, edge emitting, edge lit, back lit, direct lit, directly
lit, surface lit, surface emitter, and edge emitter, combinations
of these, etc. LED lighting and lighting panels, etc and
combinations of these. The lighting panels can be white, RGB, RGBW,
RGBA, RGBAW, etc., combinations of these, etc.
[0173] If the power is too high for the heat sink in lighting, the
home automation system can limit then cut back the power. To
determine/set/evaluate limit, can calculate or use temperature
sensor(s), thermistors thermocouples (TCs), positive coefficient
thermistors, negative coefficient thermistors, IC temperature
measurement, semiconductor temperature measurement, etc.
[0174] The present invention works with all types of ballasts
including instant start, rapid start, programmed start, dimmable
ballasts, etc. Embodiments of the present invention can have
internal or external power supplies/drivers.
[0175] Should the ballast at some future time fail to work
properly, fail to operate, stop working, etc., the present
invention allows the ballast to be disconnected, removed, etc. and,
for example, a new ballast or a new power supply, power source, to
be used with the present invention such that the new power source
could be connected to the input of the external driver or to
directly to the LED and/or OLED lights, lamps, lighting, etc.
Embodiments and implementations of the external driver can have the
capability to run off/be powered by AC line voltage in addition to
being powered by a ballast. Embodiments and implementations of the
present invention can automatically select between ballast and AC
line voltage or manually, including a switch, or remote control to
select whether to receive power from an AC line or a ballast
(including an emergency power ballast).
[0176] In other embodiments of the present invention an input
socket can be used to power the LED and/or OLED lights, lamps,
lighting, etc. In other embodiments of the present invention an
input and output socket can be used to power the LED and/or OLED
lights, lamps, lighting, etc. such that unless power/current is
applied to the input, the LED and/or OLED lights will not turn
on.
[0177] The present invention can use a ballast as a power supply
including but not limited to fluorescent lamp ballasts, high
intensity discharge (HID) lamp ballasts, sodium lamp ballasts, etc.
in which the power from the output of the ballast(s) can be used as
a power source such as an AC or DC power source including where the
power from multiple outputs of a single ballast or plurality of
ballasts are combined. Embodiments of the present invention can use
power combining with or without isolation of any type or form
including but not limited to capacitors, transformers, inductors,
diodes, resistors, transistors including but not limited to other
components and devices and active devices including switches,
transistors, triacs, thyristors, silicon controlled rectifiers
(SCRs), synchronized transistors, integrated circuits (ICs),
application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) of any type, any
material, any material compositions including but not limited to
heterojunctions, heteromaterials, etc. to provide and perform power
combining of one or more ballast outputs. The power combined
outputs can be single stage, two stage, multiple stage, etc.
including, but not limited to, push-pull, forward converters,
flyback, buck, buck-boost, boost-buck, boost, Cuk, SEPIC,
half-bridge, full-bridge, voltage mode, current mode, current fed,
voltage fed, etc.
[0178] In some embodiments of the present invention, the
current/power of one or more lamp outputs may be combined in any
number of ways including multiple ways of providing power to
individual direct fluorescent lamp replacements including the
example embodiment of the present invention using power combiners,
power combining, etc.
[0179] Embodiments of the present invention can work with instant
start, programmed start, and/or rapid start compatible. An IC can
be or can include, contain, be part of, etc., a microcontroller, a
microprocessor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an ASIC,
multiple chips including being assembled and packaged together or
separately that perform these functions that may also include one
or more wireless and/or wired interfaces to communicate and
control, monitor, dim, etc. the present devices. In some
embodiments of the present invention, for example, the fluorescent
lamps comprise one or more panel lights that can fit into, be
interfaced with, be connected to, be retrofitted, etc. using the
existing ballast, connections, fixtures, etc.
[0180] Embodiments of the present invention can be used with
different fixtures and can allow additional features not currently
possible including having colors such as RGB, RGBA, other color
combinations, one or more colors, white plus colors, full spectrum,
form factor change other than T8, T12, other fluorescent lamp
shapes, etc. including changing to, for example but not limited to,
approximately 2 ft..times.2 ft., 3 ft..times.2 ft., 3 ft..times.3
ft., 2 ft..times.4 ft., 3 ft..times.4 ft., etc.
[0181] The present invention can also be used to provide a smart,
intelligent and interactive light source to treat seasonal
affective disorder (SAD) among other light/phototherapy
treatments/applications/needs/etc. For example, the present
invention can be used to aid in SAD treatment by turning on
appropriate brightness, color temperature, wavelength(s), intensity
lighting at one or more locations within a room, house, building,
hospital, care facility, nursing home, anti-depressant facility or
location, work environment, business, industrial setting,
locations, etc. Such SAD treatment lighting can be put on the back
(i.e., facing inside/interior) of solar curtains, solar drapes,
solar shades, solar blinds, solar panels, etc. and coordinated,
scheduled and/or sequenced with the solar energy/power uses of the
present invention including harvesting energy to be used a later
time to power the SAD treatment lighting, or to time shift the
lighting or to perform other scheduled events including being used
to simulate a sun rise wake up by gently or otherwise (e.g.,
quickly, immediately, ramped from zero (full dimming) to full
intensity/power/lumens/etc. over a prescribed amount of time that
can set or programmed by the user, automatically, by caregivers, by
family or friends, by others, by the season and time, date, etc. of
the year, remotely, locally, etc.). In a similar fashion, the
present invention can be used to simulate sunset at any time of the
day in any location in the world including locations with long
periods of sun hours or short sun hours (e.g. Alaska, Nordic
countries, parts of the world close to the North Pole, South Pole,
etc.) depending on things such as the time of the year, weather,
altitude, shadowing, obstructions, enhancement of light due to
reflections including reflections off of surfaces, etc. In
addition, circadian rhythms enhancements, alignments, resets,
adjustment, shifts, etc. may also be accomplished and embodied in
the present invention. For example, but not limited to, a person or
persons who need to work night shifts including late night shifts
may use the present invention to shift their effective and
localized sunrise and sunset by, for example, using the solar
shades, solar blinds, solar curtains, solar drapes, solar panels,
etc. to block and absorb sunlight including sunrise in the morning
and store that energy while providing, for example, a dark,
completely dark or nearly dark, etc. environment to aid and promote
healthy sleep including the production of appropriate melatonin
during the daytime while storing the Sun/solar/other light/EM
energy to be used at an appropriate wake-up time even if that wake
up time occurs at dusk or dark and then use the stored energy to
provide appropriate levels and intensity illumination including
artificial illumination from solid state lighting, fluorescent
lighting and and other sources of lighting to simulate and
stimulate, for example, but not limited to, full spectrum lighting,
partial spectrum lighting, blue wavelength/shifted lighting, red
wavelength/shifted lighting. The lighting can also be coordinated,
scheduled and/or sequenced with heating or cooling of the room,
location, environment as well as turning on (or off) radios,
televisions, cell phones, computers, tablets, personal digital
assistants (PDAs), other entertainment and/or communications
devices, systems, components, etc. Embodiments of the present
invention can accomplish this by many methods including but not
limited to receiving signals from one or more sensors and detectors
including, but not limited to wired and wireless signals, feedback,
information, etc. from one or more devices including time, day and
date information, global positioning system (GPS) information,
weather conditions, atomic clock signals and information, solar
sensors and detectors, sunlight sensors and detectors, photo
sensors and detectors, light sensors and detectors, electromagnetic
and/or optical detectors, frequency and/or wavelength detectors and
sensors, CCD imaging including visible and/or infrared imaging,
sensing and detection, infrared detection and sensing, ultraviolet
detection and sensing, spectrum analysis, detecting and sensing,
optical and electromagnetic spectrum detection and sensing,
temperature sensors and detectors, humidity sensors and detectors,
barometric sensors and detectors, rain and/or snow sensors and
detectors, moisture sensors and detectors, wind sensors and
detectors, other location and proximity sensors and detectors,
motion sensors and detectors, etc. and/or combinations of these,
etc. These and other types of information, sensors and detectors
may also be combined and/or connected with wearable devices and
other sensors that can detect, for example, but not limited to,
heart rate, blood pressure, phase of the circadian rhythm cycle,
other information about circadian rhythm, ambient light, pressure,
movement, electroencephalogram/electroencephalography (EEG),
electrocardiography/electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG), brain waves,
oxygen level, brain waves, muscle movement, body temperature, pulse
rate, actimetry, sleep actigraphs, temperature, polysomnography
(PSG), mood, emotional state, etc. Wearable devices can include,
but are not limited to, wrist devices, or watch-shaped devices worn
on the wrist of the non-dominant arm, detectors and sensors, sleep
management and monitoring sensors, systems, etc. including for
awake, REM, deep sleep, various other states of sleep and wake,
etc., delayed sleep phase disorder, perspiration, orientation,
location, vertical or horizontal sensing, etc., speech, speech
patterns, voice, weather, etc. Such signals, input, feedback,
information, etc. can be used to, for example, to set the level,
spectrum and intensity, emulated sunlight spectrum, white
temperature, color temperature, duration and intensity of
treatment, etc. In addition, sensors can include light sensors,
photosensors, spectrum analyzers including optical spectrum
analyzers, light sensors with notch filters, motion sensors,
proximity sensors, radio frequency identification (RFID), cell
phones, smart phones, tablets, etc. Smart phones, tablets, laptops,
computers, dedicated control and/or interface units, etc. may be
used to, for example, but not limited to, transmit and/or process
the information via applications or apps or can use apps to
display, store, log, analyze, etc. data, results, performance,
control, provide feedback, etc. The present invention can
incorporate and use open platforms including but not limited to
Google Fit, Apple HealthKit, FitBit, etc. The present invention
allows for scheduling/programming of events remotely including for
persons who are unable to do so themselves which can also include
remote scheduling, programming, monitoring, control, etc. The
present invention can also be used to treat and/or assist in the
treatment of dementia and related conditions. The present invention
can also provide power for other uses, functions including but not
limited to fans, motors, heaters, blowers, fan blades, security
cameras, surveillance cameras, monitors, monitoring systems,
web-based cameras, motorized cameras, etc., USB and other charging,
auxiliary power, etc., battery backup, emergency batteries,
microphones, speakers, sensors, WiFi, wireless power, combinations
of these, etc. In some embodiments of the present invention,
various wireless approaches can be used that for example, but are
not limited to, involve WiFi and Bluetooth to communicate with
devices including but not limited to smart phones, ipods, ipads,
tablets, computers, laptops, etc. along with direct communication
including, but not limited to, wireless remote controls, voice
control, voice recognition, etc. via Bluetooth, ISM, other wireless
frequencies, etc. For example, a microphone that can communicate
via Bluetooth and/or ISM or other wireless frequencies can be used
to communicate with the present invention. In some embodiments of
the present invention, a buck, buck-boost, boost-buck, and/or boost
switching topology is used to provide power for the present
invention. As an example, a buck circuit can be used to provide AC
to DC regulated power to the present invention. An example of an
efficient way of providing such power is to for example have the
buck circuit be controlled based on the lowest and strictest
required regulation voltage that typically is used for the control
circuits such as, for example, the integrated circuits which could,
for example, consist of but is not limited to a microcontroller,
microprocessor, FPGA, DSP, CLD, etc., one or more of these or each
of these, wireless or wired ICs, interfaces, devices, protocols,
etc. including but not limited to, WiFi, Bluetooth, IEEE 801, ISM
frequencies, other bands and frequencies, I2C, RS232, RS485, DMX,
DALI, SPI, USB, serial, etc., combinations of these including one
or more of the same or different ones, etc. that is used with one
or more windings (as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/674,072, filed Jun. 2, 2013 for a "Dimmable LED Driver with
Multiple Power Sources" which is incorporated herein by reference
for all purposes) on the buck inductor to provide multiple outputs
including, for example, but not limited to, typically 3 V to 5 V
for the control electronics, 5 V to 15 V to 20 V for the power
devices including the gate drive for the power transistors
including FETs and in some embodiments bipolar junction transistors
(BJTs) and Darlingtons and IGBTs. In addition to these windings, a
winding or windings for, for example, can also be used to provide
power to the LEDs and/or OLEDs as well as power for other needs and
applications including fans, motors, USB, battery chargers, etc.
Linear regulation, linear regulators, switching regulators, voltage
regulators, current regulation, current regulators, shunt,
regulation, shunt regulators, combinations of these, etc. may be
used.
[0182] In some embodiments of the present invention persons and,
for example, animals experiencing or suffering from seasonal
affective disorder and, for example, circadian rhythm and sleep
disorders, etc. can also reap additional benefits that the present
invention can have for these people and, for example animals,
birds, other living creatures including people who sleep patterns
are shifted, for example, at such as night shift workers, who often
must sleep during the day and be awake at night or people
recovering from jet lag, a change in time zones, countries,
locations, daylight shifts, etc. that need to regulate their
circadian rhythms and sleep patterns to that different from local
day and night time.
[0183] As an example, the present invention could be set/programmed
to close the solar shades, drapes, curtains, blinds, shutters,
panels, etc. at a certain time of, in this example, evening or
night, turn on certain lights of either certain wavelengths, color,
color temperature, etc. set the temperature, humidity, then later
turn off the lights either quickly or gently dim the lights down or
completely off as the individual case may be, and either
concurrently, nearly simultaneously, or sequentially including
later sequentially turn of the radio and/or television and/or other
entertainment or electronic, etc. devices, units, systems, etc. and
adjust the temperature, humidity, etc. for the remainder of the
night and, in the morning, either provide direct natural sunlight
by raising the solar shades, drapes, curtains, blinds, shutters,
panels, etc. at a certain time of the morning or turning on
artificial lighting such as solid state lighting, fluorescent
lighting, incandescent lighting, combinations of these, etc. along
with setting temperatures in the same as well as optionally other
locations which in some embodiments of the present invention are
set by motion and proximity detectors and sensors, RFID, Bluetooth
signal detection and strength, other RF, wireless, optical,
infrared detection and sensing, etc., turning on televisions to a
prescribed/set channel or AV source, turning on radios, alarms,
strobes, etc. for a more abrupt and immediate wakeup or gently and
slowly in continuous or step fashion turning on lighting of an
appropriate wavelength, range of wavelengths, color, range of
colors, color temperature, range of color temperatures, etc.
Throughout the day additional coordination, sequencing, scheduling
could take place, etc. some or all of which may be preprogrammed,
automatic, or otherwise scheduled and some or, for that matter, all
of which may be event based to trigger sequences of temperature and
environment new settings including setting temperatures in one or
more (certain) locations as well as humidity, lighting,
entertainment choices, etc. The cycle could repeat itself exactly
as the evening or night before or could be changed to be very
different, slightly different, etc. based on a number of factors
and inputs including but not limited to day of the week and/or date
of the month/year, weather conditions, external or internal
variables or parameters, work habits, conditions, requirements,
etc., change in occupancy, visitors, friends and/or family
visiting, health conditions, etc.
[0184] In another example, a person who works the late (graveyard)
night shift may need to sleep in the morning. For such an example,
the particulars may depend on the individual, however one scenario
would be for the solar curtains, solar drapes, solar panels, solar
blinds, solar shades, solar shutters, etc. to close at night and
remain closed collecting whatever nighttime ambient light can be
collected and then continue to collect solar light and day light
from the Sun in the morning and until the person awakes in the
afternoon or, for example, early evening. When the person returns
home form the late night shift, the lighting in the house can be
set to an intensity, level, color/wavelength range that is suitable
and conducive with inducing and supporting sleep. The temperature
and optionally other parameters such as humidity can be set to a
comfortable and desirable level that is tailored for one or more
personal comfort zones as well as appropriate background sounds
including radios, CD players other sources of sound, music, voice,
talk, etc. as well as, in some cases, television set to local
stations, cable or satellite networks, etc. as well as, for
example, heating up a favorite drink, snack and/or meal including
in a totally automated, sequenced and scheduled fashion or
partially or totally manually set and/or event detected and driven
including, for example the person approaching (or leaving) the
house, apartment, dwelling, location, residence, worksite, etc. All
or some of these can and are powered by the energy stored via the
solar shades, solar curtains, solar panels, solar shutters, solar
blinds, solar panels, etc. which can also power the sources of the
scheduling, detection and sensing, decision making, etc.
[0185] Using temperature sensors, this invention can relay
information about rooms or parts of buildings with temperatures too
extreme for people or animals to habitat, for example, when there
is a fire present. This invention can alert individuals, set off
alarms, alert personal devices, computers, emergency services, etc.
It can also be used to sense when there is excessive moisture or
water in a room or building to transmit alarms or alert users. For
example, when a basement pipe breaks in the winter due to freezing,
the sensor could sense changes in humidity and or sense water on
the floor and alert the home owners or initialize a pump or other
device. Another example, it can be used in large crop farming to
detect rain fall, moisture in the soil, water table levels in a
well, irrigation control and relay information about these sensors
data wirelessly to a WiFi network and then to a user's smart-phone,
tablet, computer, or other device to record data or control devices
accordingly.
[0186] This invention can be used with motion sensors to trigger
lights to illuminate rooms, buildings, the exterior of homes or
businesses for security or other purposes. Motion sensors could
trigger alarms or notifications on a user's smart-phone, tablet, or
computer when there is movement in specific areas. The motion
sensors could be used to open/close blinds or shutters when an
individual enters a room in the morning/night to let light in or
restrict light in specific rooms.
[0187] This invention can also aid in the case where individuals
with disabilities that cannot perform basic tasks such as turning
on appliances, televisions, audio and video players, opening
blinds, switching lights, or operating heating and air-conditioning
equipment, by giving them the ability to do this from touch screen
devices or computers. This will help when individuals whom are not
very mobile. With this invention it will be possible to control
many devices in the home or building with a mobile electronic
device or by setting up scheduled events within the software
application running on the personal device. For individuals that
have a difficult time operating a personal electronic device, the
scheduling will help the individual operate appliances and
electronics in the room or building without actually having to do
it themselves. In the situation where there is not a smart-phone,
tablet, computer or other personal device available, a custom
remote can be used that will interact with the entire invention
system that will allow the user to carry out the afore mentioned
tasks remotely.
[0188] The invention can eliminate the need for multiple infrared
remote controls for entertainment systems in homes and businesses
by possessing the same commands as the devices in its flash memory.
For example, the user can open up a software application on their
smart-phone or tablet and operate every device within one
application. This will eliminate the need for batteries and for the
remote controls themselves in many cases. Again, the present
invention allows for storage of commands and information in
numerous locations including in multiple smart-phones, iPods,
tablets, laptops, computers, servers, cloud and web-based storage
as well as within the controllers, modules, supermodules and other
components of the present invention.
[0189] The above examples are merely intended to provide simple
descriptions of a small subset of the present invention and are in
no way or form intended to be limiting in any manner. Any practical
number of different and diverse events to a very large number can
be evaluated, coordinated, scheduled, sequenced, executed,
re-evaluated, adjusted, monitored, controlled, feedback,
interpreted, etc. using the present invention including using the
present invention with existing, relatively `dumb` heaters,
coolers, air conditioners, central air conditioners, humidifiers,
dehumidifiers, appliances, entertainment centers including
televisions, radios, stereos, cable TV, satellite TV, DVD, VHS,
Blu-ray, other formats, CD, MP3 players, etc., appliances,
combinations of these, etc.
[0190] Ballasts can be used as power sources and supplies with
multiple uses, applications, voltages, power, current and voltage
control, etc.
[0191] The present invention can be used to provide, control,
dimming, on/off, monitoring, logging, decision making, etc. of
providing power including wall power including in a single or dual
wall plug or higher count in a single gang, two gang, multiple gang
box size or as a plug-in extender, etc. The present invention can
be wired, wireless, etc. The present invention can be
mounted/installed in, for example but not limited to, in a standard
wall outlet box, a wall dimmer, an on/off switch, a light socket,
including but not limited to an A-lamp socket, a E26 socket, etc.
The present invention can monitor, store, log, etc., electrical
parameters including, but not limited to, current, voltage, power,
power factor, apparent power, real power, AC current, DC current,
AC voltage, DC voltage, etc. The present invention can select
between dimming, dimming with on/off and on/off only by automatic,
manual including switch(es), remote control, detection and
analysis, etc. The present invention can, for example, measure the
AC input voltage and produce a scaled version of the AC input
voltage, measure the AC input current and produce a scaled version
of the AC input current, measure any DC offsets to the input
current, voltage, power, etc. measure the output current, voltage,
power, etc. One embodiment for measuring the AC input voltage
involves the use of high resistance resistors and one or more op
amps. Such embodiments can involve level shifting if needed.
Measuring either the input current or voltage or both can be
accomplished by the use of op amps; for example, the current can be
measured by measuring the voltage across a relatively low value
resistance and then applied, and voltage shifted if needed, using
an op amp or op amps. In some embodiments of the present invention,
various wireless approaches can be used that for example, but are
not limited to, involve WiFi and Bluetooth such that devices
including but not limited to smart phones, ipods, ipads, tablets,
computers, laptops, etc. along with direct communication including,
but not limited to, wireless remote controls, voice control, voice
recognition, etc. via Bluetooth, ISM, other wireless frequencies,
etc. For example, a microphone that can communicate via Bluetooth
and/or ISM or other wireless frequencies can be used to communicate
with the present invention.
[0192] The present invention can be used to provide assisted care
or monitoring in general including using voice commands, voice
recognition, image recognition, pattern recognition, wearable
device(s) information, wired and wireless panic buttons, proximity
sensors, motion sensors, sound sensors, etc. The present invention
can take, use, analyze, make decisions, etc. based on data,
signals, information, etc., from one or more sensors and detectors
including, but not limited to wired and wireless signals, feedback,
information, etc. from one or more devices including with wearable
devices and other sensors that can detect, for example, but not
limited to, heart rate, blood pressure, phase of the circadian
rhythm cycle, EEG, EKG, oxygen level, brain waves, muscle movement,
body temperature, pulse rate, mood, emotional state, location, GPS,
elevation, sound, mechanical, movement, time duration, vibration,
sound, pressure, accelerometer(s), sound spectrum, ultrasound,
sonar, etc. Such signals, input, feedback, information, etc. can be
used to, for example, to set the level, spectrum and intensity,
emulated sunlight spectrum, white temperature, lighting sensors,
duration and intensity of treatment, etc. In addition, infrared
detectors and sensors, motion sensors, proximity sensors, RFID,
cell phones, smart phones, tablets, etc. Smart phones, tablets,
laptops, computers, dedicated control and/or interface units, etc.
may be used to, for example, but not limited to, transmit and/or
process the information via APPs or can use APPs to display, store,
log, analyze, etc. data, results, performance, control, provide
feedback, etc. The present invention can incorporate and use open
platforms including but not limited to Google Fit, Apple HealthKit,
etc. Telephone-based, Web-based, Cloud-based, etc., Cell phone
based, combinations of these, etc. can be used to transmit,
receive, communicate, recognize, alert, warn, contact, control,
monitor, etc. In some embodiments of the present invention, various
wireless approaches can be used that for example, but are not
limited to, involve WiFi and Bluetooth such that devices including
but not limited to smart phones, ipods, ipads, tablets, computers,
laptops, etc. along with direct communication including, but not
limited to, wireless remote controls, voice control, voice
recognition, etc. via Bluetooth, ISM, other wireless frequencies,
etc. For example, a microphone that can communicate via Bluetooth
and/or ISM or other wireless frequencies can be used to communicate
with the present invention. The present invention can take a number
of actions including flashing lights, contacting specified people,
agencies, groups, services, departments, entities, individuals,
etc. via web, mobile, smart, etc., cellular phones, tablets, other
mobile devices, etc., land line, conventional phones, e-mails, text
messages, cellular services, etc. In embodiments of the present
invention, the absence of a signal, information, and/or response
including but not limited to physiological including but not
limited to blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels, insulin
levels, temperature, other physiological monitors, sensors, etc.,
motion, proximity, temperature, humidity, room occupancy, room
temperature, electrical power usage, lack of electrical power
usage, water flow, water usage, gas usage, carbon monoxide and
other gas sensing, lights and other appliances turned off or turned
on (state of usage, time of usage, duration of usage), voice
recognition, voice commands, sounds, movements, breakage, noise(s),
patterns, etc.
[0193] The present invention can use linear regulation, switching
regulation including but not limited to buck, buck-boost,
boost-buck, boost, etc., transformer(s) with one or more
secondaries, flyback(s) with one or more secondaries, switched
capacitors, etc. The RS interface provides an appropriate emulation
circuit or circuits for the heater/cathode connections of, for
example, rapid start ballasts.
[0194] The present invention provides a direct replacement for
fluorescent tubes used in ballasts and permits dimming
even/including if the ballast is not designed to support
dimming.
[0195] Both wireless and wired control, dimming and monitoring can
be accomplished with the present invention. For example wired
dimming using 0 to 10 V can be used or ISM, WiFi, Bluetooth,
etc.
[0196] Use 0 to 10V other analog, DMX, DALI, RS232, RS422, RS485,
USB, and other serial and/or parallel interfaces to communicate
with the present invention. Use a connector or connectors to do so.
Many embodiments will use an isolated interface.
[0197] Use, for example, but not limited to, a buck or boost or
flyback or forward converter circuit that can be powered by AC
lines (including universal voltage 80 to 305 VAC, 100 VAC, 120 VAC,
200 VAC, 220 VAC, 240 VAC, 277 VAC, 347 VAC, 480 VAC, etc. at, for
example but not limited to, nominally 50/60 Hz) via, for example,
but not limited to an EMI line filter that contains, for example,
but not limited to inductors and which also can be powered by an
electronic ballast that contains capacitors which
limit/block/attenuate/etc. the 50/60 Hz line voltage and bypass (or
put in parallel with, etc.) the EMI filter.
[0198] The present invention can be dimmable powered on the AC
lines or the ballast.
[0199] The present invention can work with dimmable ballasts of any
type including but not limited to 0 to 10 V, DALI, TRIAC, and
powerline control (PLC), etc., instant-start ballasts, rapid start
ballasts, programmed start ballasts, programmable start ballasts,
pre-start ballasts, magnetic ballasts, and essentially any type of
ballast.
[0200] The present invention can use a switch, including a
momentary switch, for shock hazard protection. For example a
momentary switch can be depressed to complete a circuit that allows
the ballast to power the present invention once the momentary
switch is released. Should a potential shock hazard exist the
circuit would not latch and until the shock hazard is eliminated,
pushing the momentary button would not latch and activate the
circuit. The present invention can also use remote enable to
provide protection including protection from shock hazard by
essentially keeping the ballast turned off and in a high impedance
state until remote commanded (i.e., by remote control, smart phone,
tablet, computer, other device, user input, controls/buttons/etc.
on the implementations, etc.) to disable the protection/shock
hazard. In some preferred embodiments, the user will need to
request to disable the protection/shock hazard and then
verify/confirm that request to actually disable.
[0201] The present invention can use wireless control to control
the dimming level of the lighting, etc.
[0202] The present invention allows for full spectrum, including
full visible spectrum lighting and control, dimming and/or
monitoring including red, green, blue (RGB); red, green, blue,
amber, (RGBA); red, green, blue, white (RGBW), red, green, blue,
amber, white (RGBAW), additional or fewer colors/wavelengths, etc.,
combinations of these, etc.
[0203] The present invention can use small cards, memories, etc.
that can consist of any type of semiconductor memory, magnetic
memory, ferromagnetic memory, optical memory, etc., including but
not limited to FLASH memory, non-volatile memory, EEPROM, EPROM,
PROM, AND memory, OR memory, etc. Such memory can be used to
provide programmable information including, for example, but not
limited to, name to be used for the present invention, address,
individual address, group address, location, properties, behavior,
pre-programmed features, data logging, storage of audio and or
video information, etc., communications, encryption, type,
security, etc.
[0204] The present invention, in addition to providing analog
and/or digital interfaces for control (including dimming and
monitoring, logging, etc.) can also provide isolated (or
non-isolated) power derived from, for example, but not limited to,
the ballast itself. An example would be to take current/power from
the ballast by rectifying the AC output from the ballast and
filtering as desired. Example embodiments which are not intended to
be limiting in any way or form include using forward converters or
flyback converters for isolated, using buck, boost, buck-boost,
boost-buck, etc., linear regulators including current regulators,
etc. In some embodiments of the present invention, a keep-alive
circuit is used when the present invention is dimmed to very low
levels or off. Non-isolated supplies can use isolated windings to
provide isolation for example with buck-boost, buck, boost-buck,
boost etc. topologies.
[0205] The present invention can work with all types of sensors and
controls including ones that sense movement, proximity, light,
solar light, solar energy, daylight, light spectrum(s),
temperature, time of day, mechanical, electronic, electrical,
sound, vibration, words, voice, voice commands, voice recognition,
cell phones, smart phones, tablets, computers, servers, WiFi,
Bluetooth, IEEE 802, ISM, USB, serial and/or parallel
communications, RFID, entry cards, access cards, signal strength,
etc. The present invention can also be used in simple and/or
autonomous control and associated modes. Some Implementations may
require no external controller or a very simple, easy to use,
intuitive one, etc. T
[0206] An example of an optical spectrum analyzer can consist of
optical sensors and detectors that are wavelength/frequency/color
specific and can be stacked either vertically (i.e.,
layered/stacked on top of each other) or horizontally (stacked side
by side, etc.). Such detectors/sensors could be measured using
current or voltage sensitive circuits that are fed or multiplexed
to one or more analog to digital converters (ADCs) that can also be
used to provide either analog or digital (or both)
feedback/control/readout/etc. to/for the present invention. Such
sensors/detectors can be arrayed or act separately/independently to
control/feedback the intensity/color/wavelength/frequency levels,
etc.
[0207] The present invention can also use wired and/or wireless
interfaces including but not limited to serial interfaces including
but not limited to those discussed herein to, for example,
program/set/assign/etc., the address, name, identification,
identifier, grouping, group, etc. Such setting/assignments/etc.,
can be also done/accomplished/performed by the user and be
user-programmed, etc. The example serial port, for example, USB
port can be used for other purposes including direct communications
with the present device, reprogramming the parts (or all) of the
firmware/software of the present invention, charging other devices
using the example USB port, etc. Such other devices could include
but are not limited to cell phones, smart phones, tablets,
computers, batteries, other energy storage devices, other personal
assistant devices, sensors and detectors, portable lighting,
etc.
[0208] The present invention can be powered by a ballast in a
number of ways including both magnetic and electronic ballasts
including electronic ballasts that are instant-start, rapid start,
programmable start, dimmable, etc. The ballast output(s) can be
combined/connected as needed to achieve the needed/desired
performance.
[0209] Some embodiments of the present invention can also be used
to detect the presence (or absence) of a persons or persons
including whether a person or persons are spending too much time or
too little time in a particular location and, in some embodiments,
automatically alert and provide alerts via, for example, but not
limited to, e-mail, phone calls, web messages, text messages,
etc.
[0210] The present invention can have current and/or voltage
control or both including with automatic switchover from voltage to
current control or current to voltage control. The setpoints,
parameters, conditional statements, etc. be manually set, factory
set, user set, remote control set using, for example, wired or
wireless control, monitoring, communications, etc. The control can
be local, fixed or remotely programmed and set. Wired control can
include but is not limited to 0 to 10V, 1 to 8 V, 0 to 5 V, 0 to
3V, 0 to 10 V, etc., SPI, USB, powerline control, I2C, serial,
SPC., etc. Wireless control can include but is not limited to
ZigBee, Bluetooth, IEEE 802, WiFi, ISM, RF, IR, infrared, IrDA,
infrared modulated control (i., 30 to 56 kHz), RFID, ZWave,
etc.
[0211] In addition to the fans discussed herein, motorized track
lighting and other lighting including but not limited to PAR, MR16,
GU10, etc. may be used such that the motor(s) can be controlled
locally and/or remotely. Such motors and related devices and
components, etc. can also be used to tilt, move, extend,
articulate, direct, swing out, etc. the lighting and, for example,
the fans and other accessories, etc. Some embodiments of the
present invention can also have DC to AC inverters that, for
example, provide 50 or 60 Hz AC voltage (e.g., 120 V AC or 220 V
AC) that can also be selected.
[0212] These examples of implementations of the present invention
in which the fluorescent lamps have been replaced by embodiments
and implementations of the present invention that, for example,
consists of power supply or supplies that are powered by the
ballast and provide conventional and new lighting designs,
capabilities, form factors, etc. which can be both retrofitted into
existing fixtures and luminaires as well, for example, into new
construction, etc. The renderings are intended to be examples and
in no way or form should be considered to be limiting of the
present invention. The present invention can be supported in a
number of ways including being supported by the electrical bi-pin
connectors of the fixture or luminaire, by inserting other supports
and structures, by using magnets, by using screws, tape, double
sided tape, etc. The structures may also be illuminated by lighting
including, but not limited to, OLEDs and/or LEDs which could be,
for example, white, RGB, RGBW, RGBAW, etc. along with and, for
example, various other types of functions and applications
including those that provide/require electrical energy, mechanical
strength, energy harvesting, solar detection, solar energy,
daylighting harvesting, motion sensing, infrared sensing, spectrum
sensing/detection, proximity detection/sensing, other sensors and
detectors, etc. Note in some embodiments of the present invention
the ballast bi-pins may be connected to the support structure so as
to provide a path including an electrically safe path that allows
electrical connection between the ballast and the power supply and
the lighting that is powered by the power supply. This permits a
number of advantageous features and functions including
replacement/interchangeability of the power supply and/or the
lighting, safe connections, shock hazard protection, etc.
[0213] As examples, a center tapped transformer, non-center tapped
transformers and, in general, any type of transformer may be used
including ones that require full bridge rectifiers, synchronous
rectifiers, silicon controlled rectifiers, etc. In other
embodiments, flyback transformer(s) may be used. Additional
primary, secondary and other windings may be
added/included/used/etc. in and with the present invention. For
example but not limited to, power is fed to the lighting or
additional circuitry, including for example, current control and/or
voltage control, etc. The present invention can have shock
protection, over current protection, over voltage protection, over
temperature protection, etc. The present invention can use/have
more than one color or more colors than just white or any color
temperature of white including but not limited to, red green blue,
red green blue amber, red green blue amber white, etc. and can
provide current control (or, in some embodiments, voltage control
or both) by shunting excess current from reaching the primary of
the transformer. In these embodiments the AC output of the ballast
provides the input for the transformer. As the electronic ballast
typically puts out high frequencies often higher than 30 kHz to 40
kHz, the transformer(s) can be compact in size, weight, form
factor, etc. The transistors, switches, etc. are configured in a
back to back configuration with common gates and sources.
[0214] Lighting which can be bars of mostly any size and shape
including but not limited to relatively long and thin ones such as
nominally 1 ft..times.4 ft. 1/2 ft. by 4 ft., 2 ft. by 4 ft., 1/2
ft..times.3 ft., 1/2 ft..times.31/2 feet, etc. which can consist of
lighting of one or more colors including virtually any color such
as but not limited to, white, red, blue, green, amber, cyan,
orange, violet, yellow, etc., other colors, combinations of these,
etc. In some embodiments of the present invention, white light can
be turned on to provide "Sun-like" illumination. In other
embodiments of the present invention, the white light can be
augmented with the color temperature set/controlled/modified by
other colors including possible feedback with optical and/or
spectral sensors/detectors/arrays/etc. In yet other embodiments of
the present invention full spectrum Sun emulation can be
accomplished by the proper selection of color light sources such as
LEDs, OLEDs, quantum dots (QDs), combinations of these, etc.
Embodiments of the present invention allow for protection against
too much power to the various light source elements and colors to
avoid, for example, degradation, damage and potential harm,
etc.
[0215] The lighting for the present invention can be affixed to,
for example, luminaires and fixtures, by a number of ways
including, for example but not limited to, using the bi-pin sockets
(or quad pin socket or other types of fluorescent lamp, energy
efficient lamp, compact fluorescent lamp, etc. sockets, adapters,
etc.) for both power and mechanical support where, for example, a
plastic, metal, glass, other materials, combinations of other
materials may be used to, for example but not limited to, have a
circular, square, rectangular, etc. shaped rod, bar, pole, etc. to
act as both a conduit of electricity from the ballast and a support
and/or enclosure for the power supply and lighting of the present
invention. Power rails for example at 180 degrees from each other
can be included in embodiments and implementations of the present
invention to provide power to the present invention in a number of
ways including clipping on light sources of bar, flat, tile, panel,
PAR, track, down light, accent, string, round, square, rectangular,
irregular shape(s), other types, including those discussed
previously, etc., combinations of these and others, etc. In
addition, the fixture/luminare can also be used for support as well
as surrounding fixtures, supports, ceiling, wall, floor, grids,
etc. The present invention allows for turnable/twistable
connections to, for example, the bi-pins of the fluorescent light
sockets/fixtures that may also contain switches for a number of
functions and purposes including but not limited to safety, shock
hazard, ballast phase, ballast polarity, power requirements, power
usage and selection, etc. In some embodiments of the present
invention these switches may be automated, remotely selected,
remotely controlled and monitored, etc.
[0216] The present invention does not only apply to fluorescent
lamps and fixtures and luminares of all types and kinds--the
present invention also applies in general to all types of high
intensity discharge (HID) lighting including but not limited to
mercury vapor lamps, metal-halide (MH) lamps, ceramic MH lamps,
sodium-vapor lamps, xenon short-arc lamps, other types of arc
lamps, sodium-based and other element-based lighting, gas
discharge, etc.
[0217] Embodiments of the present invention can also have lighting
on the outside of, for example, the light bar, panel, etc.
including direct lit, edge lit, back lit, etc. Some example
embodiments can also include one or multiple LEDs, OLEDs, QDs
including examples herein that can consist of one or more of white,
red, green, blue, amber, yellow, orange, etc. In addition, such
lighting can be used to convey information about the status of a
situation including flashing lights which may convey emergency
situations, warning, greetings, alerts, alarms, attention, etc.
[0218] In other embodiments of the present invention wind
energy/power harvesting may also be used independently or combined
with the solar shades, blinds, covers, drapes, curtains, panels,
etc. to increase, augment, offset, combine, etc. additional energy
harvesting. Embodiments of the present invention allows for sharing
of the energy storage elements, components and systems as well as
the energy consuming components, devices, systems, etc. including
but not limited to heaters, coolers, air conditioners, humidifiers,
dehumidifiers, entertainment units including but not limited to
televisions, cable, VHS, DVD and Blu-ray players and recorders, CD
players and recorders, computers and laptops, tablets, other
entertainment and audio-visual components, parts, systems, units,
etc.
[0219] An example embodiment of the present invention could contain
a light border that is lit red; white as well as other colors such
as blue, green, amber, orange, yellow, etc. can also be used and
lit either individually or as combinations of, for example,
discrete, blended or mixed, etc. colors or white color
temperatures, etc. Note that the power conversion/supply unit can
be inside the tubes/bars/etc., external to the tubes/bars/etc.,
inside the lighting, or combinations of these as well as having
some of the parts/components distributed among these, etc. The
arrangement(s) and colors discussed herein is/are merely for
example purposes and is not intended to be limiting in any way or
form.
[0220] The lighting for the present invention can be back lit, edge
lit, side lit, direct lit, etc. and can be white or any color or
combinations of colors or combinations of white and colors, etc.
including but not limited to white, red, blue, green, amber,
orange, yellow, cyan, etc. The arrangement(s) and choice of colors
is/are merely for example purposes and is not intended to be
limiting in any way or form.
[0221] In another example, the present invention may be used in a
hospital or office to minimize the energy cost of occupied and
non-occupied space. For example, many hospital rooms have the
lights on at all times, as well as climate control and even music
to ensure a room is ready for use. Using the present invention the
occupancy of the room may be automatically detected resulting in
the automatic activation of some or all lighting, climate control,
audio, and other devices that contribute to ensuring the room is
comfortable. Non-essential equipment such as tablet's for reading,
TV's, and other devices may also be charged using the renewable
energy provided by the solar shades/curtains to further curtail the
cost associated with running the room. The system may also control
lights in closets, hallways, and other areas that are generally
useful only when occupied. The system may also alter the light
quality during, for example, quiet hours, to comfortably indicate
to the building occupants the time. By using different light
colors/wavelengths and intensities many circumstances can be
indicated without the need for using an intercom system, or other
audible methods of conversation. The present invention can also be
used to indicate an emergency by flashing or otherwise displaying a
non-continuous or varied light output that is indicative of danger
such as a red or orange. The use of light for indicating time
allotments may also be used in, for example, a day-care setting in
which the time for naps is indicated by a certain light color, etc.
Not only will this simplify the use of scheduling certain events at
certain times, but it will in some instances facilitate the event
such as, for example, napping. In the same context the system can
be used in relaxing environments such as at spas, massage clinics,
psychology clinics, headache treatment centers, and many other
establishments where light-sensitive conditions can be treated with
the use of modulating light colors, intensities, and pulses. In
addition, as mentioned elsewhere herein, the color/wavelength(s)
range(s) can be used to regulate, control, sync up, reset, etc.
circadian rhythms, treat SAD, stimulate or depress melatonin
generation, etc. as the situation and circumstances arise within
the settings, and locations, and types of environments mentioned
and discussed herein including but not limited to hospitals,
including, but not limited to neonatal units, intensive care,
recovery, surgical, waiting, children, critical care, emergency,
urgent care, elderly care, hospice, rooms, etc. as well as cancer
treatment, sleep disorder treatment, dementia and Alzheimer
treatment and care, libraries, student classrooms and other places
of elementary, K12, high school, college and university educational
facilities and locations, places of worship, office and business
buildings and locations, etc. as well other locations, residences,
businesses, temporary housing and shelter, etc.
[0222] In the case that smart phones, tablets, computers, or
personal devices are not available, the user may use a remote that
is created specifically for this system. This remote will allow
them to control the system in the same way a smart phone or tablet
running a software application would. This remote control will have
the ability for the user to customize the buttons and functions of
the remote to their preference. It could, for example, have a
liquid crystal display (LCD) for readout and stats that will be
readable by the user. This LCD screen will also display
notifications or alerts for example, if there is a fire, flood, or
if motion sensors are triggered, it will notify the user on the LCD
screen. The remote could also alert the user with a vibration in
the remote control. For example, if the user has the remote in a
pocket or on a table the user can feel or hear the alerts or
notifications. The remote can also alarm with a sound so the user
knows that there is a notification or alert. This remote will
connect to the system wirelessly so that it can be used in the
building and not have to be in a line of sight to the server or
main controller. The remote could also be worn as a necklace,
bracelet, watch or on any other appropriate part of the body.
[0223] Units employing IR only communications such as space
heaters, air conditioners, fans, etc. can be used with remote
controls other than smart tablet/cell devices to ensure that the
system is usable without additional components. The remote can vary
from a simple IR transmitter to a sophisticated wireless
transceiver capable of interfacing with the present invention and
other automated devices. The remote may include microphone(s) and
speaker(s) to employ voice activation/commands in conjunction with
controlling a TV, computer monitor, lights, etc. Some embodiments
of the present invention do not require a smart-phone or tablet
approach to intelligently interface to the control system; other
embodiments can use and accept input from both smart wireless
devices such as phones, tablets, PDAs, iPod touches, computers,
laptops along with devices that are designed to interface with the
present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention can
interface to other existing wired and wireless sensors,
thermostats, heaters, fans, coolers, air conditioners, HVAC,
humidifiers, dehumidifiers, television, entertainment systems and
components, satellite receivers and remotes, cable box receivers
and remotes, smoke and fire detectors and sensors, burglar alarm
systems, garage door openers, etc., to be included in and expand
upon the present invention including coordinating, scheduling,
tasks, synchronizing, sequencing, responding, replying, etc.
[0224] The number of IR LEDs in the present invention can be more
than one, and may vary as is needed or desired. The IR units may be
used to monitor movement and light intensity throughout the system
installation and may be used to detect motion/movement for use in
triggering specific events such as movement, intrusion and
location. This motion information may be used with artificial
intelligence of various types and forms to determine what, if any,
actions should be taken due to any number of specific events or
sequence triggers such as but not limited to alerting the police or
other security authorities of an intrusion, opening or closing the
garage, turning outside/inside lights on, adjusting interior
climate controls, activating a home theater room, etc. In some
embodiments of the present invention, if motion is detected either
inside or outside or both of the house, residence, business,
apartment, condo, room, etc. and that motion is not accompanied by
a proper form of identification including, but not limited to,
electrical identification, visual identification, optical
recognition, pattern recognition, etc., an alarm, warning,
including audio warning, strobe lighting, flashing lights, color
changing lights, lights being turned off, etc. may occur or select
individuals including neighbors, family and friends and others may
be notified by e-mail, web content, web alert, phone calls, text
messages, video transmissions, etc. In some embodiments of the
present invention, if smoke or fire is detected, the lights that
are connected to the present invention may flash on and off, may
change color, may dim and then go brighter, etc. as well as
speakers issuing warnings and contacting friends and family,
neighbors and others as well as, in some cases, 911 or the fire
department, combinations of these, etc.
[0225] In some embodiments of the present invention, motion
throughout a house or other area can be predicted or otherwise
analyzed based on the input from multiple sensors such as, but not
limited to, multiple motion detectors. For example, if signals are
detected from multiple motion detectors, the sequence and timing of
the signals from the motion detectors can be analyzed to determine
not only movement but also path, speed etc. of a person, animal
etc. Such information can be used for a number of applications,
such as, but not limited to, predictive actuation of lighting or
other devices, for example to turn on lights along the predicted
path based on previously detected signals, or to distinguish false
alarms from actual detected motion. When combined with
identification devices such as RFID, mobile phone signals, or other
identifiers carried by users authorized to be in the area, such
path predictive analysis can also be used to determine unauthorized
persons moving toward restricted or private areas, possibly
triggering audible warnings against proceeding or other actions
such as locking of doors, flashing of lights, triggering of alarm
systems, etc., to prevent unwanted intrusion.
[0226] The automation system disclosed herein can be adapted to
interface and interact with other systems, such as, but not limited
to, other home automation systems, temperature control systems,
lighting control systems, communication systems, entertainment
systems, security systems, fire and protection systems, cable and
satellite systems, etc.
[0227] In conclusion, embodiments of the present invention provide
novel systems, devices, methods and arrangements for solar energy
collection. While detailed descriptions of one or more embodiments
of the invention have been given above, various alternatives,
modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in
the art without varying from the spirit of the invention.
Therefore, the above description should not be taken as limiting
the scope of embodiments of the invention which are encompassed by
the appended claims.
* * * * *