U.S. patent application number 17/719616 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-11 for systems, methods and articles for enhancing wellness associated with habitable environments.
The applicant listed for this patent is Delos Living LLC. Invention is credited to Samantha Kinko Allen, Trevor Starin Granger, Max Andrew Pollinger, Regina Vaicekonyte-Peters, Jie Zhao.
Application Number | 20220249802 17/719616 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006288677 |
Filed Date | 2022-08-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220249802 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Allen; Samantha Kinko ; et
al. |
August 11, 2022 |
Systems, Methods And Articles For Enhancing Wellness Associated
With Habitable Environments
Abstract
Environmental characteristics or scenes of habitable
environments (e.g., hotel or motel rooms, spas, resorts, cruise
boat cabins, offices, hospitals and/or homes, apartments or
residences, or other spaces or sub-spaces) are controlled to
facilitate certain activities of a user in the environment by
increasing focus, preparing for sleep, directing movement, masking
ambient noise, and improving air quality, among others.
Controllable characteristics include, for example, lighting,
CO.sub.2/O.sub.2 levels, humidity levels, sound, aroma, and air
temperature. Controls are provided for the occupant and/or facility
personnel to select activities or scenes, or sensors detect the
activity and implement an appropriate scene.
Inventors: |
Allen; Samantha Kinko;
(Wanchai, CN) ; Granger; Trevor Starin; (New York,
NY) ; Pollinger; Max Andrew; (New York, NY) ;
Vaicekonyte-Peters; Regina; (Seattle, WA) ; Zhao;
Jie; (Hoboken, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Delos Living LLC |
New York |
NY |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006288677 |
Appl. No.: |
17/719616 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16327650 |
Feb 22, 2019 |
11338107 |
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PCT/US2017/048382 |
Aug 24, 2017 |
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17719616 |
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62379086 |
Aug 24, 2016 |
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62379079 |
Aug 24, 2016 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 21/02 20130101;
A61M 2205/0205 20130101; A61M 2230/63 20130101; A61M 2205/7545
20130101; H05B 47/10 20200101; G16H 20/70 20180101; A61M 16/161
20140204; A61M 2021/0044 20130101; F24F 3/12 20130101; A61M 2230/50
20130101; A61M 2205/3592 20130101; G08C 23/04 20130101; A61M
2205/3584 20130101; H05B 47/11 20200101; A61M 2205/6018 20130101;
A61N 5/0618 20130101; H04L 12/282 20130101; G05B 2219/2642
20130101; A61M 2205/3368 20130101; A61M 21/0094 20130101; A61M
2230/04 20130101; A61M 2205/50 20130101; A61N 2005/0626 20130101;
A61M 2205/7518 20130101; A61M 2205/0238 20130101; A61M 2021/0022
20130101; A61M 2205/3303 20130101; F24F 11/0008 20130101; A61M
2205/6054 20130101; A61M 2021/0027 20130101; G05B 15/02 20130101;
A61M 2205/42 20130101; F24F 8/50 20210101; A61M 2205/505 20130101;
F24F 2120/10 20180101; A61M 2205/3561 20130101; A61M 2205/7509
20130101; A61M 2021/0016 20130101; H04L 12/2829 20130101; A61M
2021/0011 20130101; A61M 2021/0066 20130101; A61M 2205/3553
20130101; G16H 20/30 20180101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 21/02 20060101
A61M021/02; A61M 21/00 20060101 A61M021/00; G05B 15/02 20060101
G05B015/02; H04L 12/28 20060101 H04L012/28; G16H 20/70 20060101
G16H020/70; G16H 20/30 20060101 G16H020/30; H05B 47/11 20060101
H05B047/11; H05B 47/10 20060101 H05B047/10 |
Claims
1-39. (canceled)
40. A method comprising: determining a first scene to be
implemented in a first sub-space; determining a first user
associated with the first sub-space; determining a first usage
occasion associated with the first user; determining a second scene
for the first sub-space based, at least in part, on the first user
and the first usage occasion; and sending a first signal to at
least one controllable device associated with the first sub-space,
wherein the first signal is indicative of the second scene.
41. The method of claim 40, further comprising: establishing, via
the at least one controllable device, the second scene in the first
sub-space in response to the first signal.
42. The method of claim 40, further comprising: determining scene
transition data for transitioning one or more controllable devices
associated with the first sub-space from the first scene to the
second scene, wherein the scene transition data is based, at least
in part, on the first scene and the second scene.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the scene transition data
transitions the one or more controllable devices associated with
the first sub-space sequentially.
44. The method of claim 42, wherein the scene transition data
transitions the one or more controllable devices associated with
the first sub-space in an over-lapping manner.
45. The method of claim 42, wherein the scene transition data
changes one or more environmental conditions within the sub-space
at a predefined transition rate.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein the transition rate is based on
capabilities of the one or more controllable devices.
47. The method of claim 40, further comprising: determining scene
transition data, wherein the scene transition data is indicative of
a number of parameters that change from the first scene to each of
a plurality of scenes, and wherein the second scene is determined
from the plurality of scenes, based at least in part, on the scene
transition data.
48. The method of claim 40, further comprising: sending a second
signal to at least one controllable device associated with the
first sub-space, wherein the second signal is indicative of the
scene transition data.
49. The method of claim 40, wherein the first scene and the second
scene provide a coordinated transition of at least one parameter in
the sub-space over a period of time.
50. The method of claim 40, further comprising: determining
schedule information associated with the first user, wherein the
first usage occasion is determined at least in part based on the
schedule information.
51. The method of claim 50, wherein the schedule information is
indicative of at least one scheduled event associated with the
first sub-space.
52. The method of claim 50, wherein the schedule information is
indicative of a time during which the user will occupy the first
sub-space and at least one scheduled event associated with the
user.
53. A method comprising: determining a first usage occasion
associated with a first sub-space; determining a first scene for
the first sub-space based, at least in part, on the first usage
occasion; sending a first signal to at least one controllable
device associated with the first sub-space, wherein the first
signal is indicative of the first scene; determining a second usage
occasion associated with a second sub-space; determining a second
scene for a second sub-space based, at least in part, on the second
usage occasion; and sending a second signal to at least one
controllable device associated with the second sub-space, wherein
the second signal is indicative of the second scene.
54. The method of claim 53, further comprising: determining a first
user associated with the first sub-space, wherein the first usage
occasion is determined based, at least in part, on the first user;
and determining a second user associated with the second sub-space,
wherein the second usage occasion is determined based, at least in
part, on the second user.
55. The method of claim 53, further comprising: determining
schedule information associated with the first sub-space, wherein
the first usage occasion is determined based, at least in part, on
the schedule information.
56. The method of claim 55, wherein the schedule information is
indicative of at least one of availability of the first sub-space
or a scheduled event associated with the first sub-space for a
period of time.
57. The method of claim 53, further comprising: wherein the first
usage occasion is indicative of an intended use of the first
sub-space for a period of time.
58. The method of claim 57, further comprising: determining at
least one of a launch time or a duration time associated with the
first scene for the first sub-space, wherein the launch time or the
duration time is determined based, at least in part, on the first
usage occasion.
59. A method comprising: determining at least one of a user
preference associated with a first user or a scene use history
associated with the first user; determining at least one parameter
of at least one scene, the at least one parameter associated with
the first user based, at least in part, on the at least one of the
user preference associated with the first user or the scene use
history associated with the first user; determining a first scene
for a first sub-space based, at least in part, on the at least one
parameter; and sending a first signal to at least one controllable
device associated with the first sub-space, wherein the first
signal is indicative of the first scene.
60. The method of claim 58, further comprising: determining at
least one change to at least one parameter of at least one scene,
the at least one change associated with the first user, wherein
first scene is determined based, at least in part, on the at least
one change.
61. The method of claim 59, further comprising: updating a second
scene based on the at least one change; and sending a second signal
to at least one controllable device associated with the
first-subspace, wherein the second signal is indicative of the
second scene.
62. The method of claim 59, further comprising: updating a default
scene associated with a second space based on the at least one
change.
63. The method of claim 58, further comprising: determining a first
usage occasion associated with the first user, wherein determining
the at least one parameter of the at least one scene is based, at
least in part, on the first usage occasion.
64. A method comprising: determining at least one technical
capability of at least one controllable device associated with a
first sub-space; determining a first usage occasion associated with
the first sub-space; determining a first scene for the first
sub-space based, at least in part, on the at least one technical
capability of the at least one controllable device and the first
usage occasion; and sending a first signal to at least one
controllable device associated with the first sub-space, wherein
the first signal is indicative of the first scene.
65. The method of claim 63, further comprising: determining a first
user associated with the first sub-space, wherein the first scene
is determined based, at least in part, on the first user.
66. The method of claim 63, further comprising: determining at
least one technical capability of a second controllable device
associated with the first sub-space.
67. The method of claim 63, further comprising: determining the
availability of at least one controllable device associated with
the first-subspace, wherein the first scene is determined based, at
least in part, on the availability of the at least one controllable
device.
68. The method of claim 63, further comprising: determining a
second usage occasion associated with the first sub-space;
determining a second scene for the first sub-space based, at least
in part, on the at least one technical capability of the at least
one controllable device associated with the first sub-space and the
second usage occasion; and determining scene transition data to
transition from the first scene to the second scene, wherein the
scene transition data is based, at least in part, on the at least
one technical capability of the at least one controllable
device.
69. The method of claim 63, further comprising: activating an
additional controllable device associated with the first sub-space
based on the at least one technical capability of the at least one
controllable device
70. The method of claim 63, further comprising: determining a
parameter of the first scene based, at least in part, on the at
least one technical capability of the at least one controllable
device and the usage occasion.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/379,079, filed Aug. 24, 2016, and claims the
benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/379,086, filed Aug.
24, 2016, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in
their entirety.
FIELD
[0002] This disclosure generally relates to habitable environments,
for instance homes, hotel or motels, offices and hospitals, and
particularly to techniques for enhancing human habitation in such
environments.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Most people spend significant amounts of time in habitable
environments such as enclosed spaces associated with homes,
apartments, condominium units, hotel suites or rooms, motel suites
or rooms, spas, hospital, and other public and private facilities.
Sometimes these enclosed spaces are controlled, or even owned by,
the principal occupants, such as homes, apartments or condominium
units. Other times these enclosed spaces are controlled by others,
for example a facility owner or operator who may own and/or operate
a hotel, motel, spa, hospital.
[0004] Significant time in these spaces exposes the occupant to a
wide range of environmental factors, any of which may have either
adverse or beneficial effects on the occupant's health, well-being
or sense of well-being. Minimizing exposure to environmental
factors that tend to have an adverse effect is desirable, as is
increasing exposure to environmental factors that tend to have a
beneficial effect.
[0005] New approaches that enhance habitable environments are
desirable.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0006] Products, methods and systems may be usable for controlling
lighting color temperature, lighting intensity, illuminance, light
source direction, humidity, air temperature, air temperature
distribution, air pressure, air flow, air quality, aroma, air
particle count, sound level, water quality, scent or aroma, and
other environment conditions or other parameters within a
particular space or other habitable environment. Such spaces may
include, for example, an office building, school, apartment
building, dormitory, single family home, multi-family dwelling or
building, townhouse, theatre, train or bus station, library, public
lounge, store or market, bakery, restaurant, tavern, pub, resort,
bar, hostel, lodge, hotel, motel, inn, guest house, mall, art
gallery, art studio, craft studio, ship, boat, gym, spa, fitness
center, sports facility, gas station, airplane, airport,
automobile, train, bus, kiosk, hospital, doctor's office, dentist's
office, police station, fire station, light house, bank, coffee
shop, dry cleaner, department store, pharmacy, hardware store, drug
store, grocery store, institution, music studio, recording studio,
concert hall, radio station or studio, television station or
studio, post office, church, mosque, synagogue, chapel, mobile
home, barn, farm house, silo, residence, assisted living center,
hospice, dwelling, laundromat, museum, hair salon, parking
structure or facility, green house, nursery, nail salon,
barbershop, trailer, warehouse, storage facility, rest home, day
care facility, laboratory, military facility, and any other place
or facility where one or more people may congregate, live, work,
spend time, etc. Within such spaces, there may be one or more
sub-spaces or habitable environments that may be used for single or
multiple purposes, such as home or other offices, kitchens,
galleys, pantries, cooking areas, eating areas, home or office
libraries or studies, conference rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms,
toilets, powder rooms, play rooms, bedrooms, foyers, reception
areas, file rooms, pods, pet rooms, storage rooms, junk rooms,
carports, dens, basements, attics, garages, closets, classrooms,
cabins, cabooses, train cars, bunk rooms, media rooms, baths,
auditoriums, locker rooms, changing rooms, engine rooms, cockpits,
work rooms, stairwells, exhibition rooms, platforms, elevators,
walk ways, hallways, pools, stock rooms, exercise rooms, break
rooms, snack rooms, living or family rooms, dressing rooms, lumber
rooms, meeting rooms, conference rooms, game rooms, porches,
patios, seating areas, clean rooms, common rooms, lunch rooms, sky
boxes, stages, prop rooms, make up rooms, safes, vaults, reception
areas, check-in areas, compartments, drafting rooms, drawing rooms,
computer or information technology rooms, waiting rooms, operating
rooms, examination rooms, therapy rooms, emergency rooms, recovery
rooms, machine rooms, equipment rooms, control rooms, laboratory
rooms, monitoring rooms, and enclosed or partially enclosed areas,
among others.
[0007] Various approaches described herein employ combinations of
passive and active techniques for enhancing environmental
characteristics of inhabitable environments, to reduce or
ameliorate adverse effects and to increase beneficial effects.
These approaches may have application in occupational environments,
for instance offices, retail locations, factories or warehouses.
These approaches may have application in residential settings, for
instance homes, apartments, porches, condominiums or other
residences. These approaches may have application in other
settings, for instance hospitals or clinics, waiting areas
associated with transportation such as airports and train stations,
and/or public areas such as theaters, arenas, stadiums, museums and
other venues. The various combinations may advantageously produce
synergistic results, which may not be otherwise achievable on an
individual basis.
[0008] Occupants or other users of such spaces or sub-spaces may
want to control or influence the environmental conditions or other
parameters within a given space or sub-space, which may be or be
part of a habitable environment or other habitable, usable or
occupiable area. This may include establishing, transitioning to,
changing, starting or ending a scene for the space or sub-space.
For example, a user may want to enhance, facilitate or improve the
user's and/or one or more other person's ability or likelihood to
relax, get energized, fall asleep, improve sleep, overcome jet lag,
focus, play, exercise, wake up, reduce stress, reduce fatigue,
change current habit or pattern, build or create a healthy habit,
change current routine or mood, improve health or wellness, etc.
within a space or sub-space.
[0009] For example, a user in a home may want environmental
parameters or a scene to be set or adjusted within the user's
bedroom so that the user falls asleep faster or wakes up faster,
within the user's home or work office so that the user can focus on
work tasks, within the user's classroom to encourage focus by
students therein, within the user's gym so that the user is more
energized.
[0010] In one illustrative approach, a system to control
environmental characteristics in an enclosed space may be
summarized as including a control subsystem that includes at least
one processor and at least one nontransitory processor-readable
medium that stores at least one of processor-executable
instructions or data; an illumination subsystem operable to control
illumination characteristics of illumination provided in at least a
portion of the enclosed spaced, the illumination subsystem
including: a plurality of illumination sources selectively operable
to emit illumination at a number of levels and a number of
wavelengths; at least one actuator operable to control an amount of
illumination received into the enclosed space via one or more
windows from an external source of illumination; and at least one
user actuatable input device located in the enclosed space and
communicatively coupled to the control subsystem and selectively
actuatable by a user to switch between a circadian setting and at
least one override setting, wherein: the control subsystem is
communicatively coupled to control the plurality of illumination
sources and the at least one actuator, and when in the circadian
setting the control subsystem provides signals to the illumination
sources and the at least one actuator to cause the illumination
sources and the at least one actuator to provide illumination
according to a defined circadian pattern over a period of time, the
circadian pattern at least approximately matching changes in
illumination level and color temperature of naturally occurring
illumination of at least one defined latitude over the period of
time.
[0011] In some embodiments, the control subsystem includes sensors
to measure lux levels and color temperature at different areas of
the home to understand what effect outdoor light has on the desired
outcome for the indoor space. Based on data from the artificial
light setting and the sensor data from the indoor conditions, the
artificial light changes to match the desired lux levels and color
temperature. If there is significant natural light during the day
near the window, the lights in that area may turn off since the
desired setting is achieved fully through natural light.
[0012] Exposure to light at night during sleep time--even in minute
quantities--can have dramatic impacts on the circadian rhythm.
Especially in urban settings, light pollution at night has become a
major concern for human health. While indoor lighting can be easily
controlled by occupants, it is also important to provide means for
occupants to minimize light from outdoors through
fenestrations.
[0013] Blackout shades are typically used to help minimize outdoor
light intrusions during night time, including but not limited to
roller shades, cellular shades and drapery shades. At least one
actuator may include electrochromatic glass in the at least one
window. At least one actuator may include an electric motor
physically coupled to a transmission that selectively positions at
least one blackout shade across the at least one window. In a night
portion of the circadian pattern, the control subsystem may provide
signals to at least a subset of the illumination sources which are,
for example solid-state illumination sources or small incandescent
lights to produce a low level of illumination proximate at least
one path to a door of the enclosed space. When in a first override
setting of the at least one override setting the control subsystem
may provide signals to the illumination sources and the at least
one actuator to cause the illumination sources and the at least one
actuator to provide illumination that does not follow the defined
circadian pattern. When in a second override setting of the at
least one override setting the control subsystem may provide
signals to the illumination sources and the at least one actuator
to cause the illumination sources and the at least one actuator to
provide illumination to the enclosed space based at least in part
on a geographic location from where an occupant of the enclosed
spaced originated to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due
to travel by the occupant. When in a third override setting of the
at least one override setting the control subsystem may provide
signals to the illumination sources and the at least one actuator
to cause the illumination sources and the at least one actuator to
provide illumination to the enclosed space based at least in part
on a time of year to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due
to seasonal variation at a geographic location of the enclosed
space. When in yet another override setting of the at least one
override setting the control subsystem may provide signals to the
illumination sources and the at least one actuator to cause the
illumination sources and the at least one actuator to provide
illumination to the enclosed space to produce a therapeutic effect
in an occupant of the enclosed space. The system may further
include at least one sensor positioned to detect presence of an
occupant in the enclosed spaced and communicatively coupled to the
control subsystem to provide signals indicative of a current
occupancy condition of the enclosed space. The system may further
include at least one user actuatable input device located remotely
from the enclosed space and communicatively coupled to the control
subsystem and selectively actuatable to switch between a plurality
of settings for the system. The system may further include an air
handling subsystem to control air characteristics of air in the
enclosed space, the air handling system including at least one of:
an air filter, a heater, an air conditioner, a humidifier, a
dehumidifier, a vent, a fan, or a compressor, and the air handling
system including at least one of: a temperature sensor or a
humidity sensor positioned to detect a temperature or a humidity
proximate at least one portion of the enclosed space. The control
subsystem may provide signals to at least one portion of the air
handling subsystem to control at least one of the temperature or
the humidity of air in the enclosed space. The control subsystem
may provide signals to adjust at least the temperature of the air
in the enclosed space based at least in part on the circadian
pattern over the period of time. The at least one air filter may
include at least one of: a HEPA mechanical air filter, an
electrostatic particle air filter, or an ultraviolet air filter.
The air handling subsystem may further include a number of inlets
for selectively introducing scents into the air in the enclosed
space from a number of reservoirs and the control subsystem may
provide signals to at least one portion of the air handling
subsystem to control the introduction of the scents into the air in
the enclosed space. The control subsystem may provide signals to at
least one portion of the air handling subsystem to control the
introduction of the scents into the air in the enclosed space based
on a defined schedule. The control subsystem may provide signals to
at least one portion of the air handling subsystem to control the
introduction of the scents into the air in the enclosed space on
demand in response to a user input. The system may further include
a water supply subsystem including a sediment filter and an
activated charcoal filter that filters water that is to be supplied
to the enclosed space via a faucet or a showerhead. The water
supply subsystem may further include an ultraviolet water sanitizer
that illuminates water that is to be supplied to the enclosed space
via a faucet or a showerhead with ultraviolet illumination. The
water supply subsystem may further include an inlet to supply
vitamin C to water that is to be supplied to the enclosed space via
a showerhead. The system may further include an ambient sound
subsystem, that may include at least one piece of acoustic
insulation positioned to acoustically insulate at least some of a
number of plumbing components; at least one acoustic damping door
that acoustically insulates the enclosed space from an exterior
thereof when the at least one acoustic damping door is in a closed
position; at least one acoustic damping window that acoustically
insulates the enclosed space from the exterior thereof when the at
least one acoustic damping window is in a closed position; at least
one acoustic damping walling component that acoustically insulates
the enclosed space from the exterior thereof; and at least one
acoustic damping flooring component that acoustically insulates the
enclosed space from the exterior thereof. An ambient sound level in
the enclosed space may be less than 45 dB when active source of
sound is operating in the enclosed space. The system may further
include at least one speaker communicatively coupled to be
controlled by the control subsystem to play sound in the enclosed
space at a sound level that changes in synchronization with a
change in a level of illumination emitted by the illumination
sources. The control subsystem may provide signals to gradually
increase both the sound and illumination levels in response to an
occurrence of a pre-set time. The system may further include a
cushioned low volatile organic compound emitting flooring in the
enclosed space. The system may further include a textured
reflexology flooring path in the enclosed space. The system may
further include at least one electromagnetic field shield
positioned relative to wiring to reduce a level of electromagnetic
field introduced into the enclosed space by the wiring.
[0014] In addition to vision, light may influence the human body in
a number of ways to which people respond subconsciously, including
mood, alertness, and cognitive ability. Humans and animals have an
internal clock that keeps the body on a roughly 24-hour cycle, in
what is called the circadian rhythm. Multiple bodily processes,
including sleep and digestion are regulated in part by the daily
hormonal fluctuations of the circadian rhythm. These hormones are
released by an area in the brain called the hypothalamus. The
hypothalamus times its hormonal outputs based on the timing of
light exposure, which it receives via specialized cells in the eye,
called ipRGCs. Daily, regularly-timed light exposure is required to
maintain a healthy and robust circadian rhythm, called
"entrainment".
[0015] A method of controlling environmental characteristics in an
enclosed space may be summarized as including receiving at a first
time a first input indicative of a selection of a circadian
setting; in response to the first input indicative of the selection
of the circadian setting, providing signals by a control subsystem
to cause a plurality of illumination sources to emit artificial
illumination at a number of levels and a number of wavelengths and
to cause at least one actuator to control at least a level of
natural illumination received into the enclosed space via one or
more windows from an external source of illumination such that a
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination varies
over a first period of time according to a circadian pattern;
receiving at a second time a second input indicative of a selection
of a first non-circadian setting; and in response to the second
input indicative of the selection of the first non-circadian
setting, providing signals by the control subsystem to cause a
plurality of illumination sources to emit artificial illumination
at a number of levels and a number of wavelengths and to cause at
least one actuator to control at least a level of natural
illumination received into the enclosed space via one or more
windows from an external source of illumination such that a
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination does not
vary over a second period of time according to the circadian
pattern.
[0016] In response to the second input indicative of the selection
of the first non-circadian setting, the control subsystem may
provide signals to the plurality of illumination sources and the at
least one actuator such that the combination of the artificial and
the natural illumination remains constant over the second period of
time. The method may further include receiving at a third time a
third input indicative of a selection of a second non-circadian
setting that is a sleep time setting; and in response to the third
input indicative of the second non-circadian setting that is the
sleep time setting, providing signals by the control subsystem to
cause a subset of the illumination sources proximate to a floor in
the enclosed space to emit artificial illumination at a low
illumination level along at least one path and to cause the at
least one actuator to prevent natural illumination from being
received into the enclosed space via the one or more windows. The
method may further include receiving at a fourth time a fourth
input indicative of a selection of a travel adjustment setting; in
response to the fourth input indicative of the travel adjustment
setting: determining a travel adjustment illumination pattern (also
referred to as a scene) based at least in part on a geographic
location from where an occupant of the enclosed spaced originated
to accommodate a change in circadian rhythm due to travel by the
occupant; and providing signals by the control subsystem to cause
the illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at the
levels and the wavelengths and to cause the at least one actuator
to control at least the level of natural illumination received into
the enclosed space via the one or more windows such that the
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination achieves
the determined travel adjustment illumination pattern or scene in
the enclosed space. The method may further include receiving at a
fourth time a fourth input indicative of a selection of a light
therapy setting; and in response to the fourth input indicative of
the light setting, providing signals by the control subsystem to
cause the illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at
the levels and the wavelengths and to cause the at least one
actuator to control at least the level of natural illumination
received into the enclosed space via the one or more windows such
that the combination of the artificial and the natural illumination
achieves the defined light therapy illumination pattern or scene in
the enclosed space over a therapeutic period of time. Providing
signals by the control subsystem to cause the at least one actuator
to control at least the level of natural illumination received into
the enclosed space via the one or more windows may include
providing signals to vary an amount of illumination passed by at
least one pane of electrochromatic material. Providing signals by
the control subsystem to cause the at least one actuator to control
at least the level of natural illumination received into the
enclosed space via the one or more windows may include providing
signals to control an electrical motor drivingly coupled to move at
least one of a shade or a curtain relative to the at least one
window. The method may further include detecting by at least one
sensor whether the enclosed spaced is occupied; and providing
signals to the control subsystem indicative of whether the enclosed
space is occupied. The method may further include receiving input
by at least one user actuatable input device located remotely from
the enclosed space; and providing signals to the control subsystem
indicative of the received input. The method may further include
providing signals by the control subsystem to at least one
component of an air handling subsystem to control air
characteristics of air in the enclosed space. Providing signals to
at least one component of the air handling subsystem may include
providing signals to at least one of an air filter, a heater, an
air conditioner, a humidifier, a dehumidifier, a vent, a fan, or a
compressor to control at least one of the temperature or the
humidity of air in the enclosed space. The method may further
include receiving signals by the control subsystem from at least
one of: a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor positioned to
detect a temperature or a humidity proximate at least one portion
of the enclosed space. Providing signals to at least one component
of the air handling subsystem may include providing signals to
adjust at least a temperature of the air in the enclosed space
based at least in part on the circadian pattern or scene over the
period of time. The method may further include filtering air for
the enclosed space with at least one of: a HEPA mechanical air
filter, an electrostatic particle air filter, or an ultraviolet air
filter. The method may further include providing signals by the
control subsystem to selectively introduce scents into the air in
the enclosed space from a number of reservoirs. Providing signals
by the control subsystem to selectively introduce scents into the
air in the enclosed space may include providing signals based on a
defined schedule. Providing signals by the control subsystem to
selectively introduce scents into the air in the enclosed space may
include providing signals based on demand in response to a user
input. The method may further include filtering a supply of water
to a faucet or a showerhead of the enclosed space via a water
supply subsystem including at least one of a sediment filter or an
activated charcoal filter, and exposing the water to ultraviolet
illumination to sanitize the water. The method may further include
introducing vitamin C into water that is to be supplied to the
showerhead of the enclosed space. The method may further include
supplying signals by the controller subsystem to at least one
speaker to play sound in the enclosed space at a sound level that
changes in synchronization with a change in a level of illumination
emitted by the illumination sources.
[0017] In another illustrative approach, a system to enhance
environmental characteristics in a habitable environment may be
summarized as including at least one acoustic damping window that
acoustically insulates the habitable environment from the exterior
thereof when the at least one acoustic damping window is in a
closed position; at least one acoustic damping walling component
that acoustically insulates the habitable environment from the
exterior thereof; at least one acoustic damping flooring component
that acoustically insulates the habitable environment from the
exterior thereof; and at least one speaker selectively operable to
play sound in the habitable environment. The American Academy of
Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society recommend at least
seven hours of sleep per night for adults aged 18-60 years old to
promote optimal health and well-being. Sleep is one of the body's
most critical activities and there are wide ranges of environmental
factors that can impact it. For example, noise at night can make it
difficult to fall asleep and can create short disturbances of
natural sleep patterns by causing shifts from deep to lighter
stages. Since most people get the majority of their sleep in their
home, a bedroom conducive to healthy and restorative rest requires
the creation of a quiet environment. In the bedroom, utilizing
materials with a high sound transmission class and high sound
reduction index can minimize noise intrusion from outside the
bedroom and outside the home.
[0018] The system may further include a plurality of illumination
sources selectively operable to emit artificial illumination at a
number of levels and a number of wavelengths in the habitable
environment; at least one actuator operable to control an amount of
illumination received into the habitable environment via one or
more windows from an external source of natural illumination. The
system may further include a control subsystem communicatively
coupled to control the plurality of illumination sources, the at
least one actuator, and the at least one speaker. The system may
further include at least one acoustic damping door that
acoustically insulates the habitable environment from an exterior
thereof when the at least one acoustic damping door is in a closed
position. The system may further include a photocatalyst
antimicrobial agent on at least one surface in the habitable
environment.
[0019] By one approach, a method of controlling environmental
characteristics in a habitable environment may be summarized as
including distributing an antimicrobial agent in the habitable
environment prior to occupancy of the habitable environment by a
first occupant; subjecting surfaces in the habitable environment to
ultraviolet illumination prior to occupancy of the habitable
environment by the first occupant; applying antimicrobial bedding
to a bed in the habitable environment prior to occupancy of the
habitable environment by the first occupant; and setting an
illumination pattern (also referred to as a scene) that controls
both artificial and natural illumination provided in the habitable
environment based on at least one characteristic of the first
occupant.
[0020] The method may further include setting a sound pattern or
scene that controls artificial sound provided in the habitable
environment based on at least one characteristic of the first
occupant. Setting a sound pattern or scene may include setting a
sound pattern that is synchronized at least in part to the
illumination pattern or scene that controls both artificial and
natural illumination provided in the habitable environment based on
at least one characteristic of the first occupant. The method may
further include removing the antimicrobial agent from the habitable
environment prior to occupancy of the habitable environment by the
first occupant. Distributing an antimicrobial agent in the
habitable environment may include distributing a photocatalytic
antimicrobial agent; and may further include exposing the
antimicrobial agent to a defined wavelength of illumination for a
defined time prior to occupancy of the habitable environment by the
first occupant. The method may further include providing treated
water to the habitable environment.
[0021] By one approach, an environment control system may include
sensor(s) or other transducer devices configured to monitor
environmental condition(s) of a space (or portion thereof),
controllable device(s) configured to adjust the environmental
condition(s) of the space, a scene database with a plurality of
scenes therein, each of the scenes having environmental parameter
settings associated therewith, the environmental parameter settings
being adjusted via the one or more controllable devices, and a
control circuit in communication with the one or more sensors, the
one or more controllable devices, and the scene database. In one
illustrative approach, the control circuit is configured to receive
measurement(s) of the environmental condition(s) from the sensor(s)
or other transducer devices, receive notice of or detect a
particular condition prompting adjustment of the monitored
environmental condition(s) or a request to transition to a
particular scene, and instruct the controllable device(s) to adjust
the environmental condition(s) of the space (or portion thereof) to
render the environmental condition(s) within the environmental
parameter settings associated with the particular scene. As used
herein, the environmental conditions may include at least one of:
air conditions, temperature conditions, water conditions, lighting
conditions, aroma conditions, and sound conditions. In one
exemplary approach, the scene database further includes scene
transition data for transitioning the controllable device(s) and
the environmental condition(s) of the space (or portion or
sub-space thereof) from a first active scene to a second scene. In
one form, the controllable device controls two of the environmental
conditions listed above, or two parameters related to the same
condition, such as two parameters both related to lighting
conditions, water conditions, aroma conditions, or noise
conditions. Alternatively, the controllable device controls two
parameters related to different conditions, such as one parameter
relating to lighting condition and a second parameter related to
air condition, water condition, aroma condition, or noise
condition. Or another combination of the two conditions listed
above.
[0022] By another approach, the environment control system may
further include an electronic user device configured to receive
inputs from a user regarding a particular one of the scenes. In
this manner, the control circuit may receive a scene request form
the electronic user device and instruct the controllable device(s)
to adjust the environmental condition(s) of the space (or portion
thereof) to render the environmental condition(s) within the
environmental parameter settings associated with the particular
requested scene.
[0023] In yet another approach, the adjustment of the scenes may
occur in response to detection of a particular condition such as,
for example, a time of day, a change of a number of occupants,
space configuration, device setting, a user input, external
environment factors, specific internal condition, and automatic or
other input received from a wearable sensor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] In the drawings, identical reference numbers identify
similar elements or acts. The sizes and relative positions of
elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For
example, the shapes of various elements and angles are not drawn to
scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and
positioned to improve drawing legibility. Further, the particular
shapes of the elements as drawn, are not intended to convey any
information regarding the actual shape of the particular elements,
and have been solely selected for ease of recognition in the
drawings.
[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a habitable environment
according to one illustrated embodiment, including enlarged views
of various elements or components of the habitable environment.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a block diagram that shows a portion of a
habitable environment enhancement system to enhance a habitable
environment, according to one illustrated embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram that shows a high level method of
providing an enhanced environment in a habitable environment,
according to one illustrated embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system for providing illumination, according to one
illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least
a portion of the method illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system to adjust an amount of natural light received in
the habitable environment using electrochromatic panes, according
to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at
least a portion of the method illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0030] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system to adjust an amount of natural light received in
the habitable environment using drapes, shades or curtains,
according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in
performing at least a portion of the method illustrated in FIG.
4.
[0031] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system for providing heating, ventilation and cooling
of a habitable environment, according to one illustrated
embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least a portion of
the method illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0032] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system for introducing scents or aromas into a
habitable environment, according to one illustrated embodiment,
which may be useful in performing at least a portion of the method
illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0033] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system for treating water for use in a habitable
environment, according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be
useful in performing at least a portion of the method illustrated
in FIG. 3.
[0034] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram that shows a low level method of
operating one or more components of a habitable environment
enhancement system for adjusting an acoustical aspect of a
habitable environment, according to one illustrated embodiment,
which may be useful in performing at least a portion of the method
illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0035] FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic drawing of a habitable
environment enhancement system having a plurality of sub-spaces
according to one illustrated embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 12 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a circadian scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 13 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of an energizing scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 14 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a relaxation scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 15 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a play scene according to an illustrated embodiment
of the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 16 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a dawn simulation scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 17 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a ready for sleep scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 18 illustrates a flow diagram showing a sequence of
operations of a night light scene according to an illustrated
embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 19 illustrates the location of a nightlight relative to
flooring and moulding.
[0044] FIG. 20 illustrates the properties of different temperature
or CCT of light.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0045] In the following description, certain specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various
disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art
will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or
more of these specific details, or with other methods, components,
materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures
associated with environmental control such as fans, blowers,
heaters, coolers such as air conditioners or swamp coolers,
compressors, and control systems such as computing systems, as well
as networks and other communications channels have not been shown
or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring
descriptions of the embodiments.
[0046] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the
specification and claims which follow, the word "comprise" and
variations thereof, such as, "comprises" and "comprising" are to be
construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as "including, but
not limited to."
[0047] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment"
or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the
phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places
throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to
the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features,
structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable
manner in one or more embodiments.
[0048] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless
the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted
that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including
"and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
[0049] The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein
are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning
of the embodiments.
Environment Overview
[0050] FIG. 1 shows a habitable environment 100, according to one
illustrated embodiment in which various apparatus, methods and
articles described herein may operate.
[0051] The habitable environment 100 may take the form of one or
more enclosed spaces, such as one or more rooms, for instance in a
house, hotel, spa, condominium unit, apartment, office, hospital,
or other accommodation which people typically inhabit, and other
areas such as those described below in regards to spaces and
sub-spaces. As used herein, the terms "spaces" and "sub-spaces" may
be the habitable space 100, may include some or all of the
habitable environment 100, or may be other areas where one or more
people or living things may congregate, live, work, play, eat,
exercise, occupy, etc.
[0052] The habitable environment 100 includes a floor system 102,
wall system 104, and ceiling system 106, and may include one or
more doors 108a, 108b (collectively 108) and/or windows 110a, 110b
(collectively 110). The doors 108 may provide ingress and egress to
an exterior environment, or may provide ingress and egress to other
enclosed spaces within the habitable environment 100. For instance,
one door 108a may provide passage between the habitable environment
100 and a hallway (not called out) outside of the habitable
environment 100. Another door 108b may provide passage between one
portion and another portion of the habitable environment 100, such
as between a bedroom or living area 100a and a bathroom 100b.
[0053] The door 108a to the exterior may have a handle 112a with
associated lock, for instance a cardkey entry lock 112b. Card key
entry lock 112b reads an identifier either encoded in a magnetic
stripe or in a wireless transponder (e.g., radio frequency
identification or RFID transponder or smartcard) of a cardkey 114.
The identifier may be logically associated with an inhabitant or
occupant of the habitable environment 100. For example, a hotel
guest may be assigned to a given suite, and issued a cardkey 114
that provides access to the suite. The identity of the guest may be
stored in a database or other data structure with a logical
relationship (e.g., key, pointer) to the suite. Likewise, various
attributes of the guest may be stored in the database or other data
structure, logically associated with the identity of the guest. As
explained below, this may allow various aspects of the environment
of the habitable environment 100 to be customized for the
particular occupant.
[0054] As illustrated, the habitable environment 100 may be a
suite, with a combined sleeping and living area 100a, and a
separate bathroom 100b. The habitable environment 100 may include
various pieces of furniture or fixtures. For example, the habitable
environment 100 may include a bed 116, dresser 118, end tables
120a, 120b (collectively 120). Also for example, the habitable
environment 100 include a bathtub or shower 122, sinks 124a, 124b
(collectively 124), commode 126 and optionally towel racks 128 in
the bathroom portion 100b. The bath or shower 122 may have a faucet
130, showerhead 132 and control handle 134. The control handle 134
is operable to control a flow of water via the faucet 130 and/or
showerhead 132, from a supply of water (not shown in FIG. 1). The
sink(s) may have a faucet 136 and control handle(s) 138. The
control handle(s) 138 is operable to control a flow of water via
the faucet 136 from a supply of water (not shown in FIG. 1). The
habitable environment 100 may additionally include one or more
closets 140.
[0055] The habitable environment 100 may include a number of
components (e.g., devices, articles, structures) which contribute
to a wellness or sense of wellness of the occupant of the habitable
environment 100. Some of these components are active components,
driven in response to commands or signals, while other components
are passive components. These components are brought together as a
system, in order to provide synergistic results, thereby enhancing
a health, wellness or sense of wellbeing of an inhabitant or
occupant of a habitable environment or enclosed space. The various
components are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, and
exemplary operation of such are discussed below with reference to
FIGS. 3-10.
[0056] The habitable environment 100 may include a number of active
components operable to achieve desired environmental
characteristics or scenes, for example related to illumination,
heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), water treatment,
and acoustics.
[0057] Controlled lighting or illumination is one aspect of
achieving the desired environmental characteristics or scenes in or
of the habitable environment 100. Thus, the habitable environment
100 may include a number of artificial luminaires 142a-142e
(collectively 142), which are controlled to produce desired output,
for example by varying intensity and/or composition of wavelengths
or color. Luminaires 142 may take a variety of forms, for example
lamps (e.g., tabletop, floor standing) 142a, 142b, sconces 142c,
142d, and/or overhead lighting 142e. The luminaires 142 may employ
a variety of illumination sources 144, for example incandescent
lights, florescent lights, compact florescent lights, and light
emitting diode (LED) lighting. The luminaires 142 may optionally
include ballasts (e.g., electronic ballasts) and/or other
electrical or electronic components required for operation. The
luminaires 142 may also include various passive and/or active
thermal management components to remove heat, thereby prolonging
the operational life of the luminaires 142. Each luminaire 142 may
include a plurality of individual illumination or light sources
144, respective ones or sets of the illumination sources 144
operable to emit light in a respective range of wavelengths. Some
of the ranges may overlap, while other ranges may or may not
overlap. The ones or sets of the illumination sources 144 may be
individually operable to achieve any desired distribution of
wavelengths at any given time. Each luminaire 142 may include one
or more intensity adjustment circuits (e.g., dimmer circuits),
which may take a large variety of forms depending on the type of
illumination sources 144 employed. For example, an adjustable
resistance type dimmer switch may be employed with incandescent
sources, while a more sophisticated pulse width modulation
technique may be used to control intensity of LED sources.
[0058] The habitable environment 100 may additionally or
alternatively include a number of components which are controlled
to adjust natural light being received in the habitable environment
100 via one or more windows 110 from an exterior thereof for
example from a natural source of light (e.g., the Sun). These may
include electrochromatic panes 146 in the window 110a and
associated actuator, for instance a voltage source 148 coupled to
control a transmissivity of the electrochromatic panes 146.
Electrochromatic panes 146 may commonly be referred to as
electrochromatic glass, but the embodiments herein are not intended
to be limited to glass. These may include one or more drapes,
shades or curtains or other window coverings (collectively window
covering 150) and an actuator such as an electric motor 152 coupled
by a transmission 154 to drive the window covering along a track
156 relative to the window(s) 110b.
[0059] Various approaches to illumination and components to provide
illumination are discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 2 and
4-6.
[0060] HVAC is another aspect by which the desired environmental
characteristics or scenes of the habitable environment 100 may be
achieved. Thus, the habitable environment 100 may include a number
of vents 158a-158b (only three shown, collectively 158) that
provide air to the habitable environment 100 or portions thereof
having desired air temperature, humidity, and/or air quality. At
least one of the vents 158 may selectively supply scent(s) to the
habitable environment 100 or portion thereof. Various air
treatments and components for treating air are discussed below,
with reference to FIGS. 2 and 7. In some embodiments the HVAC
system includes regional controls such that the air temperature,
humidity, and/or air quality may vary in different rooms or regions
of the house. In this embodiment, each user in the home inputs
their preferences generally and for their specific bedrooms. Based
on the individual preferences, their bedroom 24-hour schedule is
set and an average calculation is completed to determine how
temperature should change
[0061] Likewise, water is yet another aspect by which the desired
environmental characteristics or scenes of the habitable
environment 100 may be achieved. Thus, the habitable environment
100 may include a number of faucets 130, 136 and/or showerheads 132
which supply water which has been treated in a variety of ways to
enhance wellness. Various water treatments and components for
treating water are discussed below, with reference to FIGS. 2 and
9.
[0062] The habitable environment 100 may include a number of
passive components to achieve desired environmental characteristics
or scenes, for example related to flooring system 102, wall system
104, ceiling system 106, acoustics, air quality (e.g., zero or low
VOC emitting), and hygiene or sanitation (e.g., anti-pathogen).
Many of these are discussed below.
[0063] The habitable environment 100 may include flooring system
102, wall system 104 and/or ceiling system 106 designed to achieve
a variety of benefits. For example, the flooring system 102, wall
system 104 and/or ceiling system 106 designed to reduce exposure to
noise.
[0064] Loud environments have become a part of modern life. Fans,
overhead planes, passing traffic, and loud neighbors all contribute
to ambient noise conditions in the home. About half of Americans
live in areas where background noise is above 55 decibels (dB)--a
level that most consider bothersome. On the logarithmic decibel
scale, 0 dB is the point where sounds become discernible to the
human ear, and every increase of 10 dB increases the sound pressure
level by a factor of 10. Regular exposure to 85 dB for over eight
hours at a time can lead to permanent hearing loss. In outdoor
urban spaces not immediately adjacent to any sound generators the
background noise is often close to 40 db. The World Health
Organization recommends an ambient sound level of under 45 dB
inside homes and 30 dB for bedrooms.
[0065] Thus, the habitable environment 100 may include various
passive approaches to achieve the benefit of reduced noise.
[0066] Much of the bothersome noise in homes originates from the
outside, so acoustic barriers are an important part of overall
sound balance. Many of the same technologies that provide effective
thermal insulation in walls and windows concurrently block noise.
This allows for acoustic protection solutions, while incurring
little additional cost. In addition, floor lining reduces sound
transmission between apartments and improves perceptions of
privacy.
[0067] For example, the habitable environment 100 may include a
flooring system 102 designed to achieve a variety of benefits. The
flooring system 102 may include floor covering 160, subflooring
162, and optionally acoustically damping floor mounts 164 coupling
the flooring 160 to the subflooring 162. The flooring system 102
may include one or more additional layers of flooring 166, which
provides a resilient member or layer(s) (e.g., cork), as discussed
below. The flooring system 102 may include baffle material or
insulation (not illustrated), for instance between the additional
layer of flooring 166 and the subflooring 162. The flooring system
102 may additionally or alternatively include pads or sheets of
material (not shown) that acoustically isolate sources of vibration
(e.g., vibrating appliances such as washing machines).
[0068] The flooring system 102 uses non-toxic, natural materials
that are intended to absorb the sound of footfalls and other
vibrations, and provide isolation from exterior or interior
sound.
[0069] In addition to dampening sound, the flooring can also dampen
impact on a user's joints. Whether standing all day or working in
the kitchen, the air contained between the millions of cork cells
provides a supported feel underfoot. It does not feel spongy since
it layers under the floor tiles, but it does act as a shock
absorber and provides sufficient comfort to people standing on
their feet for long periods of time.
[0070] Also for example, the habitable environment 100 may include
a wall system 104 designed to achieve acoustic damping. The wall
system 104 may include specially constructed walls which
incorporate resilient channels 168, double-wallboard or sheetrock
170, double-studs 172, and acoustic insulation designed to decrease
sound transmission. The resilient channels 168 resilient couple the
double-wallboard or sheetrock 170 to the double-studs 172 to reduce
transmission of vibration.
[0071] As another example, the habitable environment 100 may employ
acoustically damping doors 108. For instance, solid oak doors that
tightly seal to a door frame, may achieve sound reduction on par
with well-constructed walls.
[0072] As a further example, the habitable environment 100 may
employ acoustic damping windows 110. For instance, triple glazed
windows 110 with vacuum or rare earth gases trapped therebetween
may minimize sound transmission from the exterior.
[0073] As yet a further example, the habitable environment 100 may
employ acoustically damping plumbing insulation 174. For instance,
non-toxic blankets of acoustically damping material 174 may be
wrapped around water pipes (not shown) and air ducts 176 to reduce
the sound transmitted by metal conduits.
[0074] The health effects of flooring have become the focus of a
growing number of studies. Research shows that standing on surfaces
without any give or cushioning for extended periods of time forces
muscles into a constant state of flexion. This decreases
circulation, promotes bad posture, causes lower back pain and can
lead to orthopedic ailments. Cushioned mats decrease the impact on
joints and promote muscle relaxation.
[0075] The habitable environment 100 may employ a cushion-lined
flooring system 102 in order to realize a number of benefits,
including increased circulation and promotion of healthy posture.
The result may be fewer reports of joint pain, discomfort, and low
energy. In addition, standing on softer surfaces decreases the risk
of developing plantar fasciitis, and can alleviate symptoms for
those already suffering from the condition. The flooring system 102
should be soft or resilient enough to allow for underfoot comfort,
yet strong enough to improve lumbar support. The flooring system
102 consists of floating construction, for example with cork under
layer(s) 166 to reduce forces generated from impacts by increased
deflection.
[0076] Reflexology is a traditional practice of massage, which aims
to reduce the symptoms of various ailments. Practitioners use
stimulation of specific areas of the hands and feet to reduce
tension and stress. Evidence has shown that the practice of
reflexology has powerful anxiety reduction with reduced blood
pressure and pulse rates. The habitable environment 100 may employ
a custom-designed pathway (e.g., bathroom pathway), with textured
floor covering 178, designed to improve blood circulation and
general wellbeing by encouraging reflexology therapy.
[0077] Due to large surface area, floor finishing can often be a
major source of VOCs. The habitable environment 100 uses natural
flooring materials chosen to reduce the emissions of harmful indoor
air pollutants and volatile organic compounds.
[0078] Electromagnetic fields (EMF) are created when charged
particles are in motion. The movement of electrical charge through
wires and appliances creates electromagnetic fields. The strength
of the electric field depends on the voltage (e.g. typically 120 V
for households) and is present near live wires, whether or not an
electrical appliance is in use. Research suggests that long-term
and significant occupational exposure to EMF may increase the risk
of both Alzheimer's disease and breast cancer.
[0079] Thus, EMF shielding is incorporated into the habitable
environment 100. The EMF shields are designed to block the spread
of the field by creating a barrier composed of conductive or
magnetic materials. EMF shields have traditionally been made out of
solid metal, though this poses challenges regarding weight,
corrosion, and malleability. Treated metal mesh or screens with
openings smaller than the electromagnetic wavelength may provide a
more practical solution.
[0080] Thus, for example the habitable environment 100 may include
EMF shielding for wiring. In particular, wiring may be insulated
with foil wraps designed to shield EMF from occupied parts of the
habitable environment 100. Also for example, low EMF electrical
wiring may be employed.
[0081] Another passive approach takes advantage of anti-bacterial
or anti-pathogen (i.e., "treated") materials to reduce or eliminate
the presence of bacteria or pathogens. The anti-bacterial or
anti-pathogen materials may be incorporated into or deposited on
bedding (e.g., sheets, bedspreads, throws, pillows, pillow covers)
180, window coverings (e.g., drapes, shades, curtains) 150 and/or
surfaces (e.g., counters 181, tubs or shower stalls 122, table tops
120, walls 104). For example, various materials may be impregnated
or coated with anti-bacterial or anti-pathogen materials. These
materials may have opening or pore sizes on the order of 1 micron,
providing an effective barrier against penetration by various
undesirable particles. Any seams in the bedding should be sealed.
At least in the case of bedding, these materials preferably
completely encase or envelope mattress, box springs, pillows,
and/or comforters. Such may provide protection against bedbugs,
allergens, and/or dust mites.
[0082] Examples of suitable materials may contain or include,
silver (Ag) in ionic form, which has proven effective against a
variety of pathogens.
[0083] In order to reduce exposure to pathogens and toxins without
excessive use of chemicals or cleaning, the amenities below lower
the effort required in maintaining a healthy environment.
[0084] As a further example, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have
emerged as an effective means of reducing air pollutants through
photocatalyst which creates a self-cleaning surface powered by
ambient light exposure. For example, the nanoparticles may catalyze
a reaction converting VOCs to harmless carbon dioxide. Such may be
incorporated into a photo-catalytic coating which may be used on
walls to break down bacteria, virus, and VOCs when exposed to
light.
[0085] The habitable environment 100 may include anti-bacterial or
anti-pathogen materials as structural materials. For example, cedar
may be employed in closets and/or used as baseboards. Certain
species of cedar act as a natural pest control, repelling many
insects. Oils present in cedar wood have been shown to repel fungi
(such as mold), bacteria, insects, termites, and ticks.
[0086] An ability to control a function or operation of at least
the active components may be useful in realizing the amenities and
benefits offered in the habitable environment 100. Thus, a number
of user operable input/output (I/O) devices, controls, panels or
kiosks 182 may be supplied.
[0087] For example, an in-room user operable I/O panel 182a may
include a display (e.g., LCD) to display information. The in-room
user operable I/O panel 182a may include user actuatable controls
(e.g., user selectable icons displayed on touch screen, keys,
buttons) manipulation of which allows a user, for instance an
occupant of the habitable environment 100, to select parameters or
programs (also referred to as scenes) to execute to control one or
more of the environmental characteristics or scenes in or of the
habitable environment 100.
[0088] Also for example, a mobile or handheld device 182b may serve
as an I/O device. The mobile or handheld device 182b may include a
display (e.g., LCD) to display information and user actuatable
controls (e.g., user selectable icons, keys, buttons) manipulation
of which allows a user, for instance an occupant of the habitable
environment 100 or facility personnel, to select parameters or
programs or scenes to execute to control one or more of the
environmental characteristics or scenes in or of the habitable
environment 100. The mobile or handheld device 182b may be owned by
the end user, for example the occupant. The mobile or handheld
device 182b may execute a downloaded customized application or
"APP" that communicatively interfaces via a wireless protocol
(e.g., IEEE 802.11, BLUETOOTH.RTM., WI-FI.RTM.).
[0089] Alternatively or additionally, a remote user operable I/O
controls, panel or kiosk 182c (FIG. 2) may include a display (e.g.,
LCD) to display information. The remote user operable I/O controls,
panel or kiosk 182c may include user actuatable controls (e.g.,
user selectable icons displayed on touch screen, keys, buttons)
manipulation of which allows a user, for instance personnel of the
facility in which the habitable environment 100 is located, to
select parameters, scenes or programs to execute to control one or
more of the environmental characteristics or scenes in or of the
habitable environment 100.
[0090] Information about the amenities and benefits afforded by the
wellness system in the habitable environment 100 may be useful in
realizing the benefits of such. Information may be provided via a
server and presented via a variety of devices. For instance,
information may be presented via a television 184 for instance on a
dedicated channel, via in-room or other display, panel or kiosk
182a, via handheld device 182b, etc.
System and Subsystems
[0091] FIG. 2 shows an active portion of an environmental control
system 200 for controlling environmental characteristics scenes in
or of a habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), according to one
illustrated embodiment. FIG. 2 provides a more detailed
representation of some of the components of FIG. 1.
[0092] The active portion of an environmental control system 200
includes a number of subsystems. For example, the active portion
may include a control subsystem 202, illumination subsystem 204,
water treatment subsystem 206, air treatment subsystem 208, scent
subsystem 210, sound subsystem 212 input/output (I/O) subsystem
214. The active portion may optionally include a sanitizing
subsystem 216, which as described below may be either build in or a
fixture of the habitable environment 100, or may be portable, being
located in the habitable environment 100 only during use. Each of
the subsystem 202-216 and/or components are discussed in turn below
with reference to FIG. 2. Operation of many of these subsystems
202-216 and/or components are discussed with reference to FIGS.
3-10 below.
[0093] The control subsystem 202 may take the form of a programmed
computer or other processor-based system or device. For example,
the control subsystem 202 may take the form of a conventional
mainframe computer, mini-computer, workstation computer, personal
computer (desktop or laptop), or handheld computer.
[0094] The control subsystem 202 may include one or more processing
units 220 (one illustrated), nontransitory system memories 22a-222b
(collectively 222) and a system bus 224 that couples various system
components including the system memory 222 to the processing
unit(s) 220. The processing unit(s) 220 may be any logic processing
unit, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs), digital
signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits
(ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic
controllers (PLCs), etc. Non-limiting examples of commercially
available computer systems include, but are not limited to, an
80.times.86, Pentium, or i7 series microprocessor from Intel
Corporation, U.S.A., a PowerPC microprocessor from IBM, a Sparc
microprocessor from Sun Microsystems, Inc., a PA-RISC series
microprocessor from Hewlett-Packard Company, or a 68xxx series
microprocessor from Motorola Corporation. The system bus 224 can
employ any known bus structures or architectures, including a
memory bus with memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local
bus. The system memory 222 includes nontransitory Flash or
read-only memory ("ROM") 222a and nontransitory random access
memory ("RAM") 222b. A basic input/output system ("BIOS") 226a,
which can form part of the ROM 222a or RAM 222b, contains basic
routines that help transfer information between elements within the
control subsystem 202, such as during start-up.
[0095] The control subsystem 202 may include a hard disk drive 228a
for reading from and writing to a hard disk 228b, an optical disk
drive 230a for reading from and writing to removable optical disks
230b, and/or a magnetic disk drive 232a for reading from and
writing to magnetic disks 232b. The optical disk 230b can be a
CD/DVD-ROM, while the magnetic disk 232b can be a magnetic floppy
disk or diskette. The hard disk drive 228a, optical disk drive 230a
and magnetic disk drive 232a may communicate with the processing
unit 220 via the system bus 224. The hard disk drive 230a, optical
disk drive 230a and magnetic disk drive 232 a may include
interfaces or controllers (not shown) coupled between such drives
and the system bus 224, as is known by those skilled in the
relevant art. The drives 228a, 230a and 232a, and their associated
computer-readable storage media 228b, 230b, 232b, may provide
nonvolatile and non-transitory storage of computer readable
instructions, data structures, program engines and other data for
the environmental control system 200. Although control subsystem
202 is illustrated employing a hard disk 228a, optical disk 230a
and magnetic disk 232a, those skilled in the relevant art will
appreciate that other types of computer- or processor-readable
storage media that can store data accessible by a computer may be
employed, such as magnetic cassettes, flash memory, digital video
disks ("DVD"), Bernoulli cartridges, RAMs, ROMs, smart cards, etc.
The hard disk 228a may, for example, store instructions and data
for controlling the other subsystems, for example based on specific
aspects or characteristics of an occupant of the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1), to provide environmental characteristics
or scenes that promote the wellness or wellbeing of the
occupant(s). The hard disk 228a may, for example, store
instructions and data for presenting information about the various
attributes and benefits provided by the active and passive
components or measures, and instructions on how to use the
environmental control system 200 and the passive components to
maximize enjoyment, comfort, and well-being.
[0096] Program engines can be stored in the system memory 222b,
such as an operating system 236, one or more application programs
238, other programs or engines and program data. Application
programs 238 may include instructions that cause the processor(s)
220 to automatically generate signals to control various of the
other subsystems to achieve various environmental characteristics
or scenes in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), for example
based on one or more aspects, characteristics or attributes of an
occupant thereof. Application programs 238 may include instructions
that cause the processor(s) 220 to automatically receive input
and/or display output via various user operable input/output (I/O)
devices, controls, panels or kiosks 182 or television 184.
[0097] Other program engines (not specifically shown) may include
instructions for handling security such as password or other access
protection and communications encryption. The system memory 220 may
also include communications programs 240, for example, a server for
permitting the control subsystem 202 to provide services and
exchange data with other subsystems or computer systems or devices
via the Internet, corporate intranets, extranets, or other networks
(e.g., LANs, WANs), as well as other server applications on server
computing systems such as those discussed further herein. The
server in the depicted embodiment may be markup language based,
such as Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Extensible Markup
Language (XML) or Wireless Markup Language (WML), and operates with
markup languages that use syntactically delimited characters added
to the data of a document to represent the structure of the
document. A number of servers are commercially available such as
those from Microsoft, Oracle, IBM and Apple.
[0098] While shown in FIG. 2 as being stored in the system memory
222b, the operating system 236, application programs 238, other
programs/engines, program data and communications applications
(e.g., server, browser) 240 can be stored on the hard disk 228b of
the hard disk drive 228a, the optical disk 230b of the optical disk
drive 230a and/or the magnetic disk 232b of the magnetic disk drive
232a.
[0099] An operator can enter commands and information (e.g.,
configuration information, data or specifications) into the control
subsystem 202 via various user operable input/output (I/O) devices,
controls, panels or kiosks 182 or television 184, or through other
input devices such as a dedicated touch screen or keyboard (not
shown) and/or a pointing device such as a mouse (not shown), and/or
via a graphical user interface. Other input devices can include a
microphone, joystick, game pad, tablet, scanner, etc. These and
other input devices are connected to one or more of the processing
units 220 through an interface such as a serial port interface 242
that couples to the system bus 224, although other interfaces such
as a parallel port, a game port or a wireless interface or a
universal serial bus ("USB") can be used. A monitor or other
display device is coupled to the system bus 224 via a video
interface, such as a video adapter (not shown). The control
subsystem 202 can include other output devices, such as speakers,
printers, etc.
[0100] The control subsystem 202 can operate in a networked
environment using logical connections to one or more remote
computers and/or devices as described above with reference to FIG.
1. For example, the control subsystem 202 can operate in a
networked environment using logical connections to one or more
other subsystems 204-214, one or more server computer systems 244
and associated nontransitory data storage device 246. The server
computer systems 244 and associated nontransitory data storage
device 246 may, for example, be controlled and operated by a
facility (e.g., hotel, spa, apartment building, condominium
building, hospital) in which the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1)
is located. Communications may be via wired and/or wireless network
architectures, for instance, wired and wireless enterprise-wide
computer networks, intranets, extranets, and the Internet. Thus,
the control subsystem 202 may include wireless communications
components, for example one or more transceivers or radios 248 and
associated antenna(s) 250 for wireless (e.g., radio or microwave
frequency communications, collected referred to herein as RF
communications). Other embodiments may include other types of
communication networks including telecommunications networks,
cellular networks, paging networks, and other mobile networks.
[0101] Illumination (e.g., electromagnetic radiation or energy with
wavelengths in the visible, near infrared (NIR) and/or near
ultraviolet (NUV or UVA) portions of the electromagnetic spectrum)
can have a significant effect on human health. As used herein and
in the claims, the terms illumination or light include energy in
the portions of the electromagnetic spectrum which are visible to
humans (e.g., approximately 400 nm-approximately 700 nm) and not
visible to humans (e.g., NIR or UVA). Light influences the human
body in a number of unconscious ways. Metabolism has been deeply
linked to the daily solar cycle through melatonin and the endocrine
system. This cycle in the human body is called the circadian
rhythm. Humans and animals have an internal clock that keeps the
body on an approximately 24-hour cycle which matches the Earth's
daily solar cycle, even in continuous darkness. Multiple bodily
processes, from periods of alertness and sleep to digestion
efficiency, are partially regulated by the intensity and color of
light received by the eyes. However, light adjusts this internal
timing to align the person to the Earth's daily solar cycle.
Exposure to light comparable to the intensity of direct sunlight
light will aid in resetting the circadian rhythm if it has been
upset by shift work or long distance travel.
[0102] The intensity and color of light impacts different systems
of the body. For example, blue light impedes the body's production
of melatonin, a chemical messenger used to induce sleep. High
intensities in the evening delay sleep, while light in the morning
aids in waking. The appropriate brightness and color also
contribute to alertness and concentration throughout the day.
Melatonin is a natural anti-oxidant and counteracts the
cancer-causing tendencies of free radicals. As a result, melatonin
depletion from inappropriate exposure to bright lights leads to an
increased risk of cancer. Bright light during midday and dimmer
light at dinnertime aid in the digestion of carbohydrates.
[0103] Additionally, many individuals suffer from light-related
mood irregularities, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Proper exposure to specific types of light at specific times
addresses these irregularities. Exposure in the morning to gradual
light brightening through dawn simulation has been shown to reduce
depression. Daylight aids in the healthy development of eyesight.
Myopia in children has been linked with low exposure to daylight
and conversely, high reliance on dim artificial light. Age related
macular degeneration, or the deterioration of eyesight with age,
particularly in seniors with blue eyes can be minimized by reducing
the exposure to high color temperature.
[0104] The illumination subsystem 204 may also be controlled to
deliver light therapy, with or without topical photoactive
substances. Such may, for example be used to treat a variety of
conditions, for instance Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). People
who live in high latitudes often experience depression during the
winter as a result of long periods of reduced sunlight, a condition
identified as SAD. For those affected by SAD, measures of sleep
efficiency in the winter are noticeably different than those in the
summer. Light therapy may be especially effective at treating SAD,
producing results comparable to treatment with medication.
[0105] Another condition or syndrome commonly referred to as "jet
lag" results from the relative shift between the circadian rhythm
and the daily solar cycle. The effects are a disruption of sleep
and a significant deterioration in mood, concentration, and
cognitive performance. Controlled light exposure to help match the
solar and circadian light cycles can help alleviate these
symptoms.
[0106] In some individuals, the body's production or interpretation
of melatonin slightly varies relative to the solar cycle, resulting
in a set of symptoms identified as Delayed Sleep-Phase Syndrome
(DSPS). Approximately one tenth of all adolescents and some adults
find themselves falling asleep two to six hours after conventional
bedtime. If left undisturbed, these individuals will often sleep
soundly for approximately eight hours before waking in the middle
of the day. Controlled lighting may help treat DSPS.
[0107] Emerging research indicates that different brain activity
occurs when the human body is exposed to different parts of the
light spectrum. Color can subconsciously affect people's abilities
to do different types of tasks. For example, in one study,
participants performed analytical tasks better in red light, and
were more creative in blue-colored environments.
[0108] Research into workplace environments has found that people
in brightly colored offices had higher measured emotional status
than those in subdued or neutral surroundings. On the other hand,
studies have shown that intense colors may be irritating to certain
individuals. Chromotherapy employs illumination of certain
wavelengths or combinations of wavelengths as an effective
manipulator of mood given individual preferences. Practitioners use
this therapy to address issues such as meditation, intuition,
speech, nervousness and anxiety.
[0109] The illumination subsystem 204 may be operated to provide
dynamic custom coloring throughout the habitable environment 100
(FIG. 1) or portion thereof in order to provide chromotherapy.
Additionally, the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) may optionally
employ a chromotherapy wall wash in the form of a wall colored by
light (e.g., via cover lights or sconces) that dynamically changes
color to create a desired light spectrum for different settings and
times of day. Additionally or alternatively, chromotherapy lighting
can be added to specific areas where colored lights may be more
desirable, such as meditation spaces and steam showers.
[0110] The illumination subsystem 204 discussed below is used to
preserve and remediate the disruption of circadian rhythm,
enhancing health, including the natural sleep cycle, the healthy
development of the eyes among some attributes, and treating or
alleviating the symptoms of various disorders, syndromes and/or
afflictions. The illumination subsystem 204 may, for example,
expose occupants or residents of a habitable environment 100 (FIG.
1) or portion thereof to short periods of intense artificial light
for therapeutic effects while subjects are awake as part of
delivering light therapy.
[0111] The illumination subsystem 204 includes an artificial
illumination subsystem 204a and a natural illumination subsystem
204b, which are operated in tandem to provide desired illumination
in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). In particular, the
illumination subsystem 204 provides lighting in the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1) with gradually adjusted color temperature
and intensity to, for example improve circadian rhythm. As
discussed below, the illumination subsystem 204 may implement a
dawn simulator to gradually increase light and sound levels, which
are designed to awaken the body when it enters a light stage of
sleep. Such may replace standard alarm clocks producing a more
natural environment to slowly wake from. Such may be realized by
slow opening blackout shades or slowly allowing more light to pass
through an electrochromatic pane over a wakeup period. Active sound
may also be slowly increased in volume. Sounds may be those found
in the natural environment or may be other sounds, such as music.
Such may be realized in an integral unit, or via a dedicated
bedside unit, which may provide for sounds as well as artificial
lighting.
[0112] Also as discussed below, the illumination subsystem 204 may
implement nightlights, employing dim (e.g., low-wattage) long
wavelength LED or incandescent luminaires that engage in response
to motion or ambient light levels, and are designed to sufficiently
illuminate rooms for safe navigation without disturbing melatonin
levels.
[0113] The artificial illumination subsystem 204a includes a
plurality of illumination sources 252, and optionally one or more
power supplies 254. As previously noted, the illumination sources
252 may take a wide variety of forms, for instance incandescent,
florescent, compact florescent, or LED lights. LED lighting may be
preferable since such is extremely energy efficient and may have a
long operating life. The illumination sources 252, either alone or
in combination, should be capable of selectively providing a broad
range of intensities and a broad range of wavelengths. Such allows
the illumination sources 252 to be selectively controlled to
produce a wide variety of artificial illumination conditions, for
instance conditions or scenes that mimic natural light, diurnal
light patterns, circadian light patterns, light therapy patterns,
and/or light patterns to accommodate for changes in location (e.g.,
latitude and/or longitude) or changes in season (e.g., spring,
summer, autumn, winter). A circadian light pattern may be a pattern
of light during a defined period of time (e.g., solar day,
approximately 24 hours) which mimics the intensity and/or color of
naturally occurring light (e.g., sunlight and darkness) for a given
location (e.g., latitude and/or longitude) and/or at a given time
of year (e.g., season, month). A produced or generated or provided
circadian light pattern may be produced by a combination of
artificial and naturally occurring light, which may be controlled
to produce a defined or desired circadian light pattern. The
defined or desired circadian light pattern may itself be different
from a naturally occurring circadian light pattern at a particular
location and/or time of year, or may simply be shifted relative to
the naturally occurring circadian light pattern at a particular
location and/or time of year. The illumination sources 252 may take
the form of arrays of LEDs, each LED capable of producing one or
more ranges of wavelengths. Wavelength of emitted light may be
adjusted by varying a drive current supplied to LEDs. Thus, desired
wavelengths may be achieved by selectively operating certain sets
of LEDs (e.g., LEDS that emit in a given range of wavelengths),
and/or by varying a current level supplied to any given LEDs.
Intensity may be adjusted by selectively operating more or less
LEDS, or by controlling power supplied to one or more LEDs via the
power supply or supplies 254. For example, a duty cycle of a pulse
width modulated (PWM) drive signal may be varied to adjust
intensity out the output.
[0114] The power supply or supplies 254 may take a wide variety of
forms, mostly dependent on the source of power (e.g., AC line
current, DC), and the illumination sources (e.g., LEDs). The power
supply or supplies 254 may include a transformer to electrically
isolate the rest of the circuit from the source of power, and/or
step down or step up a voltage. The power supply or supplies 254
may include a switch mode converter, operable to step down and/or
step up a voltage. The power supply or supplies 254 may include one
or more rectifiers (e.g., passive diode bridge, active transistor
bridge of MOSFETs or IGBTs) to rectify AC power to DC power. Less
likely, the power supply or supplies 254 may include one or more
inverters, to invert DC power to AC power. The power supply or
supplies 254 may include one or more dedicated power supply
controllers, for instance a microcontroller such as a
microprocessor, DSP, ASIC, PGA, or PLC and/or associated
nontransitory computer- or processor-readable media. The power
supply or supplies 254 is or are communicatively coupled to control
a supply of electrical power to the illumination sources.
[0115] The natural light subsystem 204b may include one or more
actuators, which a drivingly coupled to control an amount of
natural light received in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1)
via one or more windows 110. As previously discussed, the actuators
may, for example take the form of an electrical power source 256
coupled to control a transmissivity of one or more electrochromatic
panes or panels 146 (FIG. 1). As also previously discussed, the
actuators may, for example take the form of an electric motor 258,
solenoid or other element drivingly coupled that control a position
of one or more window coverings 150 (FIG. 1) relative to the
window, and thereby adjusting an amount of illumination that
passes. The window coverings 150 may take the form of "blackout
shades", that are automatically operated to shield an occupant or
resident of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) from outdoor
light. The actuator 256, 258 may receive electrical power from a
voltage source, or may receive control signals form a
microcontroller. Electrochromatic panes or panels 146 (FIG. 1) may
be capable of adjust (i.e., selectively substantially passing,
selectively substantially blocking) ranges of wavelengths passed or
block, as well as intensity of natural illumination passed or
blocked. Thus, electrochromatic panes or panels 146 (FIG. 1) may be
preferred over the window covering approach.
[0116] Controlling ingress of ambient light (e.g., sunlight, light
from street lamps, buildings or signage, security lighting) from an
exterior environment aids in management of exposure to levels of
light in order to help maintain healthy circadian rhythms. This is
particularly important during early summer mornings and long summer
evenings, particular at high latitudes (e.g., above or greater than
approximately 40 degrees North or South) and/or urban
environments.
[0117] Municipal water systems use many methods to control the
purity of water. Although these methods generally succeed in
bringing contaminant levels within national and state limits, water
quality occasionally becomes an issue. For example, the Las Vegas
sodium and sulfate levels in water would fail NYC city standards.
In New York, byproducts formed by chlorination are near the federal
limit. In response to these concerns, habitable environments 100
may use supplemental treatment technologies to bring contaminant
concentrations well within the safety limits set by American
regulatory agencies, as well as international safety standards.
[0118] New York City water is currently unfiltered, but a
filtration plant is under construction for water drawn from the
Croton Reservoir. Additionally, a UV sanitization facility is under
construction for germicidal irradiation for the remaining water
sources (Catskill/Delaware system).
[0119] Sediments-Solids of sulfates and chlorides can be suspended
in water and produce a cloudy opacity, or turbidity. Water with
high turbidity is not inherently unhealthy but elevated levels may
be indicative of problems in the filtration process, which may
imply that other contaminants have not been adequately removed. The
coarse filters 259 reduce suspended solids in water. This is often
the first stage of treatment, which optimizes performance of
subsequent filters in the system.
[0120] Municipal water systems often add chlorine-based
disinfectants are added to the water supply to remove bacteria.
This affects water odor and taste, and causes potential irritation
of the eyes. The human body contains beneficial symbiotic bacteria,
which are necessary for the proper function of the skin and
digestive tract. These microbes on the skin are harmed by chlorine.
When chlorinated water comes into extended contact with organic
matter, byproducts such as tri-halomethanes and halo-acetic acids
can form, which are carcinogenic.
[0121] Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCP) comprise a
myriad of different chemicals used as active ingredients in
medications, cleaning products, and health supplies. PPCP enter the
water system through multiple pathways, such as incomplete
metabolism of drugs in the body, improper disposal of pills or
personal care and cleaning products. Potentially unsafe levels of
PPCP have accumulated in lakes and rivers, where they can enter
municipal water systems. PPCPs are the likely cause of
hermaphroditism in fish and lake amphibians, as well as other
reproductive harm. Further contamination of water supplies is
expected and increases in the quantity of PPCPs in the water are
the subject of numerous research programs. The activated carbon
water filters 260 that reduce disinfectant byproducts, pesticides,
dissolved gases, chlorine, chloramine, and some pharmaceutical and
personal care products, resulting in cleaner and better-tasting
water. "Activated" charcoal filters contain a maze of passageways
and openings, giving activated carbon some 1000 square meters of
surface per gram.
[0122] Numerous forms of micro-organisms may be damaging to health
or an indicator of poor water quality.
[0123] For example, coliforms are common, rod-shaped bacteria that
are harmless in and of themselves. Like turbidity and suspended
solids, coliforms act as indicators: their presence suggests that
other, more dangerous microorganisms could survive water treatment
and may be present in the supply. The EPA goal for coliforms is
zero trace, but the enforceable limit allows 5% of all samples
within a single month to test positive. New York City tested
positive for 46 of 9958 samples taken in 2010 (or 1.3% of samples
in the highest month).
[0124] Also for example, Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria are
also rod-shaped bacteria, and the majority of strains are harmless.
Some strains, such as O157:H7, cause food poisoning by excreting
toxic chemicals that can be life threatening for vulnerable
individuals. E. coli is transmitted as a result of eating unwashed
or undercooked food. Infectious E. coli can also be found in water
contaminated with fecal matter, such as agricultural runoff.
[0125] As further examples, Cryptosporidium and Giardia are
single-celled microbes often found in water systems contaminated by
sewage. Much larger than bacteria, these protozoa cause digestive
problems, especially in vulnerable populations.
[0126] The water treatment subsystem 206 ensures that a supply of
clean, healthy water is supplied to the habitable environment 100
(Figure) for example via taps such as the faucets 130, 136 (FIG. 1)
or showerhead 132 (FIG. 1). The water treatment subsystem 206 may
use a multi-step approach.
[0127] The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more
mechanical filters 259. The mechanical filters 259 may include one
or more sediment or coarse filters to filter sediment or larger
particulate matter from the water. The mechanical filters 259 may
include one or more fine filters to filter fine particulate from
the water. Various types of coarse filter and/or fine filter media
may be employed, including wire mesh screens, diatomaceous earth,
and/or ceramic water filter elements. Access to water that is
without inorganic, organic and biological contaminants is essential
for maintaining optimal human health. These contaminants,
especially in high doses, can be toxic and impair health and
overall quality of life. Removal of contaminants can be achieved by
installing filters at the point-of-use (assuming the water is
mostly potable), most commonly at sink and shower faucets. When
selecting a water filter, strict performance criteria must be met
to minimize the risks posed by contaminants.
[0128] The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more
activated charcoal filters 260. The activated charcoal filters may
remove particulate in the size range of approximately 0.5
micrometers to 50.0 micrometers.
[0129] As an alternative to adding chemical disinfectants, water
can be disinfected by irradiation with UV light. The high-energy
light damages the DNA of microorganisms, making it less possible
for them to reproduce. UV treatment is highly effective in clear,
sediment-free water. Thus, the water treatment subsystem 206 may
employ Ultra-Violet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI), in an attempt to
eliminate microorganisms without using chemical-based filtering. In
particular, the water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or
more ultraviolet (UV) illumination sources 261 operable to expose
the water to UV illumination of sufficient intensity and for
sufficient time as to render pathogens in the water non-harmful.
The UV illumination sources 261 may be supplied electrical power
from one or more dedicated electrical power supplies 262.
[0130] As an alternative, a reverse osmosis system (not shown)
preceded by a carbon filter may replace the sediment filter and
ultraviolet irradiation for the removal of chlorine, PPCPS,
disinfectant byproducts, heavy metals, microbes, and water
hardeners.
[0131] The water treatment subsystem 206 may include one or more
reservoirs of vitamin C 263 and one or more ports, valves, or
manifolds 264 operable to release vitamin C into the water. The
ports, valves, or manifolds 264 may be fluidly coupled to release
vitamin C only in certain plumbing runs, for example supplying
vitamin C only to water going to the showerhead 132 (FIG. 1) or
optionally the faucet 130 associated with the tub or shower stall
122 (FIG. 1). An infusion of vitamin C into shower water may remove
residual chlorine. In high concentrations, the skin can absorb
vitamin C for example when applied as a topical cream. While these
levels are significantly higher than those present in the showers,
the shower water still provides the skin with small amounts of
nutrients.
[0132] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include a variety of
components to ensure that air supplied to the habitable environment
100 (FIG. 1) is healthy and comfortable for the occupant(s).
[0133] Good air quality is one of the most important features of a
healthy environment. Stationary adults typically inhale 6 to 10
liters of air each minute. This amount doubles with moderate
activity and doubles again with rigorous exercise. Approximately 15
cubic meters of air pass through the lungs of a moderately active
adult each day.
[0134] Minute quantities of gaseous pollutants and particulates are
present in the air from both natural and anthropogenic sources,
which can cause serious health problems. Reducing the sources of
gases and particulates in the home will decrease their negative
effects. Airborne contaminants generated by materials, and the
presence of individuals in the home, require expulsion through
ventilation to the outdoors, and filtration to ensure that they do
not return to the indoor air supply.
[0135] The major health effects of poor air quality are lung cancer
and cardio-pulmonary disease. A significantly greater number of
deaths from these ailments are attributable to periods of higher
levels of particulate matter. Other effects of air quality are
asthma attacks, emphysema, and interference with the immune
system.
[0136] At the microscopic scale, natural laws concerning fluid
dynamics and gravity work differently, allowing solids and liquids
to float in the air almost indefinitely. Put broadly, this
microscopic particulate matter is divided into two categories: fine
particles, smaller than 2.5 .mu.m (PM2.5); and coarse particles
larger than 2.5 .mu.m and smaller than 10 .mu.m (PM10-2.5). Fine
particles are inhalable particles that can lead to a number of
health issues. Due to physical processes that govern their
formation, fine particles are inherently more acidic and mutagenic
than their larger counterparts. Fine particles are drawn deep into
the lungs, maximizing damage. Most cases of mortality from
inhalation of coarse particulate matter and larger contaminants
arise from toxic chemicals they contain rather than the particles
themselves.
[0137] Coarse particles do not penetrate as deeply into the lungs
as fine particles, and therefore are the less dangerous of the two.
However, many coarse particles are allergens. For example, dust
mites are microscopic arachnids that feed on pet dander, dead human
skin cells, and other biological matter. They thrive in carpets,
mattresses, and curtains, and tend to dwell in synthetic fibers
rather than natural materials. Mites are not inherently dangerous,
but their droppings contain chemicals that trigger an immune
response in some individuals. The resulting symptoms often include
itchy eyes, runny nose, and wheezing, a reaction that can be
particularly debilitating for asthmatics. Nearly one quarter of
American homes have dust mite levels associated with symptomatic
asthma, and almost half contain enough dust mites to cause allergic
reactions in susceptible individuals.
[0138] Air constantly flows into homes and is subject to a wide
range of pollutants both from outdoor air pollution and source
contaminants within the home. Indoor air pollution is among the top
five environmental health risks and has been shown to be 2-5 times
higher than the pollution of outdoor spaces--up to 100 times higher
in extreme cases. Therefore, effectively managing indoor air
quality through the filtration of air drawn from outdoors and the
circulation of indoor air can help reduce the concentration of
contaminants in the home. The air treatment subsystem 208 may
include one or more mechanical air filters (e.g., mesh, screen,
woven, or piled material) 265, through which air passes to remove
larger particulate. Suitable mechanical air filters may include an
activated carbon air filter, high efficiency particulate (HEPA) air
filter (i.e., MERV equivalent 17+), MERV 13-16 air filter, a
quantity of Zeolite, or a porous material.
[0139] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more
electrostatic filters or precipitators 266 to remove fine
particulate. In particular, electrostatic filter(s) 266 trap
particles that could contain allergens, toxins, and pathogens. In
addition, the electrostatic filter(s) 266 are installed to reduce
dust mites, pollen, carpet fibers, mold spores, bacteria, smoke,
and diesel particulate matter from the air. The electrostatic
filter(s) 266 attracts particles using an electrostatic charge and
extracts them from the air into a wire mesh.
[0140] The electrostatic filters 266 may take a variety of forms,
for instance ones which place a charge on particles and an opposite
charge on a screen or other electrode element to attract the
charged particles. An example of such is a corona discharge type of
electrostatic filter. The electrostatic filter 266 may be supplied
charge via an electrical power supply 267.
[0141] Various airborne pathogens may present problems, particular
in enclosed spaces or habitable environments. This may be of
particular concern with newer construction techniques which are
employed to reduce the exchange of air with the exterior
environment, for instance to reduce heat loss and thereby increase
thermal efficiency. Although most airborne microbes are pervasive
and generally harmless, some can be dangerous pathogens easily
spread throughout a home's ventilation system.
[0142] Mold spores can induce skin, nose, throat, and eye
irritation, and trigger asthma attacks. These fungi release
volatile organic compounds that produce the characteristic "moldy"
odor and have been linked to dizziness and nausea. Humidity control
has been proven effective in reducing mold, and insulated windows
reduce condensation so as to prevent mold from growing in nearby
joints.
[0143] Individual microbes are very small and can evade some
filters if not attached to other particles. In order to reduce the
probability of airborne pathogens from traveling through the
enclosed space or habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), UVGI can be
used to provide additional protection. UVGI is based on a specific
frequency of UV light that specifically targets the DNA of microbes
and viruses passing through the ventilation system. The growth and
spread of health-threatening biotic agents is a primary concern for
moisture buildup in HVAC systems. The use of ultraviolet germicidal
irradiation (UVGI) lights installed on the upstream side of the
coil in HVAC systems has been associated with a significant
reduction in microorganism concentrations on irradiated cooling
coils and drip pans. According to a study conducted on office
workers, significantly fewer work-related respiratory, mucosal, and
overall health symptoms were reported when a UVGI system was used;
the use of UVGI also resulted in a 99% reduction in the
concentrations of bacteria, fungi, and endotoxins on irradiated
surfaces in the HVAC system.
[0144] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include a UV air
sanitizer designed to disinfect air via UV light within one or more
components (e.g., ducts) of a ventilation system. The aim is to
sterilize airborne bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and mold spores
that may have escaped filtration.
[0145] Thus, the air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or
more UV illumination sources 268. The UV illumination source(s) 268
is positioned to illuminate air with UV illumination of a
sufficient intensity for a sufficient time as to render pathogens
non-harmful.
[0146] Various gaseous pollutants may produce harmful effects in
humans, particularly where allowed to accumulate in habitable
enclosed spaces. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based
chemicals that evaporate into gases at room temperature. Many
paints, cleaning products, and pest control chemicals emit VOCs,
whose presence in buildings is 2 to 5 times as high as outside
levels. Some furniture and building materials also slowly release
some kinds of VOC, such as formaldehyde. In the short term,
exposure can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, throat irritation,
and fatigue, while chronic effects include damage to the liver,
kidneys, and central nervous system.
[0147] Nitrogen dioxide is a product of combustion and mainly found
near burning sources. Indoor areas that contain gas stoves,
fireplaces, and cigarette smoke often have a much higher
concentration of nitrogen dioxide. Epidemiological studies suggest
that excessive nitrogen dioxide inhalation may decrease lung
function, particularly in children. In the short term, it can also
trigger allergic responses from the immune system, resulting in
irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat.
[0148] Ozone is created by reactions between molecular oxygen,
nitrogen oxides, and sunlight. It is the major catalyst in the
formation of smog. Ozone impedes cellular respiration, resulting in
reduced cell activity. High concentrations of inhaled ozone can
result in an itchy throat and chest tightness; chronic exposure
scars the lung tissue, which can lead to emphysema. In addition,
ozone interferes with the body's immune system, which compounds the
danger from air or water-borne pathogens. Under current standards,
the E.P.A. expects ozone to cause more than 110,000 lost work days
and 1,100,000 lost school days between 2008 and 2020.
[0149] The design of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) avoids
or at least reduces the use of materials which emit VOCs, for
example omitting or avoiding products or materials containing
certain glues or resins (e.g., particle board). In day-to-day use,
materials which emit VOCs are also avoided. For instance, the care
or maintenance of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), avoids
the use of cleaning compounds which are known to result in VOC
emission.
[0150] Nevertheless, some VOCs and other gaseous pollutants may
appear in the habitable environment. Thus, the air treatment
subsystem 208 may include one or more activated carbon air filters
249 in the flow path to reduce VOC, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone
that pass through activated carbon media filters designed to
intercept gas molecules. Activated carbon air filters 249 are most
useful in areas with sources of fumes or odors.
[0151] Additionally or alternatively, the electrostatic filter 266
or some other element may optionally include one or more catalysts
selected to catalyze certain impurities in the air. For instance,
the electrostatic filter 266 may include one or more catalysts
(e.g., non-metal catalysts for instance: titanium dioxide, chromium
oxide or aluminum oxide, or metal catalysts for instance: Fe, Co,
Ni, Cu, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Ir, Pt and Au, as well as combinations or
alloys thereof, such as an alloy of Pt and Rh) to catalyze species
of VOCs into more acceptable or less harmful forms.
[0152] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more
heaters 269 to heat air. The heaters 269 may take any of a large
variety of forms. Heaters 269 may take the form of various electric
heaters, which employ a resistive radiant element to heat air.
Heaters 269 may take the form of forced air heaters which typically
include burners that burn a fuel such as natural gas or propane.
Heaters 269 may alternatively take the form of oil furnaces, or the
like.
[0153] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more
compressors 270 which may form part of an air conditioner cooling
unit. The compressors 270 may be fluidly coupled to control
pressure of a fluid, coupled with one or more coils or other heat
exchangers, and may operate in a similar fashion to standard air
conditioner units to remove heat from the air.
[0154] Relative humidity is the measure of water vapor in the air
compared to the total amount that can be held at a given
temperature. In the spring and summer months, humidity levels can
be high enough to cause discomfort. When cool air flows through
central air systems, humidity in the air is reduced, since cooler
air holds less water vapor. However, as dry air is drawn in and
heated within a building in the winter, relative humidity falls, so
the air feels dry.
[0155] To maintain comfort, and prevent the establishment and
growth of mold, dust mites, and bacteria, relative humidity in the
habitable environment 100 should be kept between 30% and 50%. Using
high-temperature water within the ventilation system of the home
suppresses bacteria growth. Humidity towards the bottom of this
range is better in terms of air quality, but extremely low moisture
levels may lead to dry skin and respiratory irritation.
[0156] Thus, the air treatment subsystem 208 may include a
humidifier and/or dehumidifier 271 which controls humidity
throughout the enclosed habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). This is
particularly important when moisture levels in the air fall in
winter, thus the air treatment subsystem 208 must increase the
moisture (i.e., humidify) during dry periods. Conversely, the air
treatment subsystem 208 lowers moisture (i.e., dehumidifies) during
humid periods. The humidifier and/or dehumidifier 271 may include a
reservoir (not shown) that retains water to either be added to the
air in a humidification mode or removed from the air in a
dehumidification mode. The humidifier and/or dehumidifier 271 may
include a compressor (not shown) used to, for example cool air as
part of removing moisture. The humidifier and/or dehumidifier 271
may optionally include a heating element to heat air as part of
adding moisture.
[0157] To control relative humidity, the air treatment subsystem
208 may additionally employ exhaust vents 158a (FIG. 1),
particularly in the bathroom 100b (FIG. 1), to increase the
ventilation rate in that portion of the habitable environment in
order to rapidly lower humidity generated therein, for example from
showers 122, 132 (FIG. 1).
[0158] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include one or more fans
and/or blowers 272 coupled to one or more ducts (FIG. 1) and/or
vents (FIG. 1). The fans and/or blowers 272 may circulate air
within the air treatment subsystem 208 and/or within the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1). The fans and/or blowers 272 may expel air
to an exterior environment and/or draw fresh air from the exterior
environment, prior to treating the fresh air. In particular, a high
flow ventilation system expels indoor air to reduce the buildup of
internally generated air impurities such as volatile organic
compounds, dust mites, and pet dander. A heat exchanger may
advantageously be employed to recover energy from the outgoing
air.
[0159] As an alternative for humidity control, a waterfall (not
shown) in the enclosed space can both increase and decrease the
relative humidity. When chilled water is circulated in the
waterfall, the system absorbs water vapor from the air. When room
temperature or warm water is circulated in the waterfall, the
system releases water vapor into the air. The waterfall may also
provide a soothing background sound in the habitable environment
100.
[0160] The air treatment subsystem 208 may include indoor air
quality sensors that are connected to the HVAC system. Further,
ventilation rates may increase if indoor air quality hits a
particular threshold that would result in poor air quality. The
indoor air quality sensors can detect the pollutants discussed
above, such as mold, dust mites, bacteria, or VOCs. When certain
thresholds of these pollutants are detected an alert can be
transmitted to the user notifying that the filters in the system
need to be changed or that some other action needs to be taken.
Indoor relative humidity sensors are also connected to the HVAC
system and air is humidified or dehumidified to stay within 30-50%
relative humidity at all times.
[0161] Derived from traditional remedies, aromatherapy is the use
of essential oils from herbs, flowers and trees to support
emotional and spiritual well-being. Aromatherapy must be delivered
through cool diffusion to avoid changing the natural properties of
the essential oils. Some benefits of aromatherapy include
alleviating anxious behaviors and aiding in relaxation. The
practice of aromatherapy employs a wide variety of oils and
extracts, with differing effects on mood and emotion. Supporters of
contemporary aromatherapy practices suggest that various fruit and
plant-based aromas have the ability to positively affect mood,
behavior, and perceptions of wellness. Examples of plant-based
scents and their corresponding benefits include:
[0162] Lavender effects include restful sleep during exposure at
night increased vigor the morning after night time exposure
enhanced mood, decreased heart rate and increased positive mood.
Jasmine effects include relaxation, decreased heart rate and
increased positive mood. Orange scent has been used to reduce
anxiety and help maintain better mood in stressful circumstances.
Rosemary has been shown to enhance memory and increases reaction
times.
[0163] The scent subsystem 210 is operable to selectively dispense
or disperse one or more scents into the air in the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1) or portion thereof. The scent subsystem
210 may include a number of reservoirs 273 which hold various
scents (e.g., lavender, rosemary), typically in a liquid form. One
or more vents, valves or manifolds 274 are selectively operable to
fluidly communicably couple selected ones of the reservoirs to emit
or disperse scent into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or
portion thereof, for example via ducts or vents of the air
treatment subsystem 208. The scent subsystem 210 may optionally
include one or more fans and/or blowers 275 to assist in dispersing
the scent(s) into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or portion
thereof. The scent subsystem 210 may optionally include one or more
heaters 276, thermally (e.g., conductively, radiantly,
convectively) coupled to the reservoirs 273 or an output of the
reservoirs 273 to heat and thereby vaporize liquid forms of the
scent(s) into a gaseous form more easily dispersible into the
habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or portion thereof.
[0164] Additionally, or alternatively, one or more passive
components may be employed to diffuse scents into the habitable
environment 100. For example, various items or objects may be
impregnated with specific scents. Such items or objects may include
various fabrics, such as curtains, linens or bedding (e.g., pillow
cases, pillows, sheets, blankets, comforters, duvets), carpets,
towels, etc. Such items may include a pouch, sack or other
breathable encasement or enclosure, which may be positioned at
various locations about the habitable environment 100, for instance
in a flow path of a vent or within a pillow case. The pouch or sack
may be distributed in an air-tight packet, container or envelope
which is opened immediately prior to use. Such may advantageously
maintain the scent emitting materials fresh between manufacture and
use, and may prevent undesired scents from being emitted into the
habitable environment. Thus, certain packets may be opened to
customize the scent to a specific occupant or occupants of the
habitable environment 100, and the scent(s) allowed to disburse or
disperse through the habitable environment 100.
[0165] Thus, active or passive components of a scent subsystem 210
deliver room-specific aromatherapy based on the room's function and
aroma benefit. A wide variety of essential oils and crafted aromas
are available for use in the dispenser with the option to tailor to
individual specifications.
[0166] The sound subsystem 212 provides sound into the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1) or portion thereof. In particular, the
sound system may, for example, provide soothing sounds (e.g.,
running water, forest sounds, waves, "white" noise, "pink" noise,
music). The sound subsystem 212 may include one or more speakers
277, which may be positioned throughout the habitable environment
100 (FIG. 1) or portion thereof. Sounds may be selected to produce
relaxation or to allow an occupant to focus more intently then the
occupant would focus without the sounds, for example while reading
or working. The sound subsystem 212 may include one or more
amplifiers 278 electrically, optically or wirelessly coupled to
provide signals to the speakers 277 (e.g., typically analog or
digital electrical signals) that cause the speakers 277 to
reproduce the sounds represented by the signals. The sound
subsystem 212 may optionally include a nontransitory computer- or
processor-readable storage media 279 that stores digital versions
of the sounds, for example in a library. The amplifier 278 may
include one or more CODECs and/or microcontrollers to convert the
digital versions of the sounds into signals for controlling the
speakers 277. The sound subsystem 212 may include one or more
microphones (not shown) to detect noise in the habitable space. The
sound subsystem 212 may provide masking sound to offset or cancel
the noise.
[0167] The input/output (I/O) subsystem 214 is communicatively
coupled to the control subsystem 202 to supply input thereto and/or
to provide output therefrom. The input/output (I/O) subsystem 214
may include various sensors 280-282, user operable input/output
(I/O) devices, controls, panels or kiosks 283, 284, and other
devices or components such as televisions 285.
[0168] For example, one or more occupant sensors or detectors 280
may be positioned in, or proximate the habitable environment 100
(FIG. 1) or portions thereof. The occupant sensor(s) or detector(s)
280 sense or detect a presence, or conversely an absence, of an
occupant in the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). The occupant
sensors or detectors 280 may take any of a large variety of forms.
For example, the occupant sensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may take the
form of various motion detectors, for instance passive infrared
based motion detectors, proximity (RF) based motion detectors,
microwave or radar based motion detectors, ultrasonic based motion
detectors, vibration based motion detectors, and/or video based
motion detectors. The occupant sensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may
include simple contact switches which detect movement or operation
of a fixture or some other element (e.g., turning on a radio,
television, stereo, appliance) by an occupant. The occupant
sensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may take the form of simple cameras
(e.g., digital camera) which may capture images, from which changes
from frame to frame may indicate a presence or absence of an
occupant. The occupant sensor(s) or detector(s) 280 may detect a
presence or absence of an object associated with the occupant, for
instance a smartcard or keycard, or a handheld or mobile
device.
[0169] Also for example, one or more temperature sensors or
detectors 281 may be positioned in, or proximate the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1) or portions thereof. The temperature
sensor(s) or detector(s) 281 sense or detect a temperature
proximate the temperature sensor or detector and provides signals
to the control subsystem 202 and/or air treatment subsystem 208
indicative of the sensed or detected temperature. The temperature
sensor(s) or detector(s) 281 may employ various components, for
example thermocouples or thermally responsive resistors.
[0170] Also for example, one or more humidity sensors or detectors
282 may be positioned in, or proximate the habitable environment
100 (FIG. 1) or portions thereof. The humidity sensor(s) or
detector(s) 282 sense or detect humidity or relative humidity
proximate the humidity sensor or detector 282 and provides signals
to the control subsystem 202 and/or air treatment subsystem 208
indicative of the sensed or detected humidity. The humidity
sensor(s) or detector(s) 282 may employ various components.
[0171] One or more in-room user operable input/output (I/O)
controls, panels or kiosks 283 may allow an occupant or facility
personnel (e.g., cleaner, maintenance) to interact with the
environmental control system 200. The in-room I/O control(s),
panel(s) or kiosk(s) 283 may include a touch-sensitive or
touch-responsive display, which allows presentation of information
and a graphical user interface (GUI). The information may include
information about the current settings of the environmental control
system 200 and different settings which may be selected by the
user. The GUI will include one or more user selectable icons (e.g.,
scroll bars, tool bars, pull down menus, dialog boxes, keys, text)
displayed for selection by the user. Selection may allow the user
to adjust illumination, temperature, humidity, sound, or other
aspects of the environment. The GUI may present the user with a set
of defined programs or scenes to select from The programs or scenes
may be presented in a simple fashion with simple labels or names,
yet may have fairly complicated sets of settings for various
combinations of the subsystems 202-214.
[0172] The in-room user operable I/O control(s), panel(s) or
kiosk(s) 283 may also allow collection of information from an
occupant which is indicative of the occupant's impressions and
overall satisfaction with the habitable environment 100, and
particularly the health and wellness amenities, available scenes,
scene adjustment capabilities, etc. Such may be captured with an
automated survey, which includes various questions and possible
ratings, presented for instance via a graphical user interface
(GUI).
[0173] One or more facility user operable I/O controls, panels or
kiosks 284 may allow facility personnel (e.g., clerk, concierge,
cleaner, maintenance personnel) to interact with the environmental
control system 200. The facility I/O control(s), panel(s) or
kiosk(s) 284 may include a touch-sensitive or touch-responsive
display, which allows presentation of information and a GUI. The
information may include information about the current settings of
the environmental control system 200 and different settings which
may be selected by the user. The GUI will include one or more user
selectable icons (e.g., scroll bars, tool bars, pull down menus,
dialog boxes, keys, text) displayed for selection by the user.
Selection may allow the user to adjust illumination, temperature,
humidity, sound, or other aspects of the environment or otherwise
control or set a scene in the environment. The GUI may present the
user with a set of defined programs or scenes to select from. The
programs or scenes may be presented in a simple fashion with simple
labels or names, yet may have fairly complicated sets of settings
for various combinations of the subsystems 202-214. The GUI may
optionally allow facility personnel to define new programs or
scenes, delete old programs or scenes, and/or modify existing
programs or scenes.
[0174] The GUI may, for example, allow facility personnel to enter
information about a specific guest or other occupant that will
occupy a respective habitable environment. Information may, for
example, include a location from which the occupant originated. The
location may be specified in a variety of forms including name
(e.g., city, state, country), geographic coordinates (e.g.,
latitude and/or longitude). Such may allow the environmental
control system 200 to determine a control program or scene that
accommodates for changes experienced by the occupant due to travel
to a new location. Thus, the environmental control system 200 may
adjust for changes in the diurnal cycle and/or circadian cycle.
Information may include an age or approximate age of the occupant,
which may affect or be related to circadian cycle and the ability
to adjust for travel (e.g., "jet lag"). Such may allow
accommodation or treatment for other issues, for instance seasonal
effect disorder, or providing light therapy to treat certain
aliments or symptoms.
[0175] As noted previously, one or more televisions 285 may be used
to at least present information to an occupant. In some
implementations, a control such as a remote control, maybe used by
the occupant to interact with the television 285 to make selection
of various user selectable options for controlling one or more
components of the environmental control system 200. As also
previously noted, an occupant may use a handheld or mobile device
182c (FIG. 1), such as a smart phone, tablet computer, etc. to
interact with environmental control system 200.
[0176] The server 244 and nontransitory computer- or
processor-readable medium 246 may store and provide information to
other components of the environmental control system 200. Such may,
for instance, include a schedule that specifies which occupants
will occupy which habitable environments 100 (FIG. 1) of the
facility, and at what times. This information may also specify, or
be mapped to, information which specifies desired environmental
characteristics or scenes for the respective occupants. Thus, the
environmental control system 200 may automatically adjust
environmental characteristics or scenes in a variety of habitable
environments 100, customized for the particular occupant.
[0177] A sanitizing subsystem 216 may be an integral part of the
habitable environment 100, or may be selectively provided thereto
or therein, for example when preparing for another occupant or
guest. For instance, the sanitizing subsystem 216 may be provided
as a cart 293 with wheels 294, as illustrated in FIG. 2, for
selectively being wheeled into the habitable environment 100. While
illustrated as a cart, the sanitizing subsystem 216 may be provided
as a portable unit which may be hung from a pole mounted
approximately centrally in the habitable environment, or wall or
less preferably hung from a wall or other structure in the
habitable environment 100. Such may advantageously allow the
sanitizing subsystem 216 or portion thereof to be positioned at a
higher point than might otherwise be achieved via a cart 293.
[0178] The sanitizing subsystem 216 may provide a sanitizing agent
into the habitable environment 100 to destroy or render non-harmful
various pests or pathogens. The sanitizing subsystem 216 may
optionally evacuate the sanitizing agent from the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1), after a sufficient time has passed for
the sanitizing agent to destroy or render non-harmful the pests or
pathogens.
[0179] The sanitizing agent may take a variety of forms. The
sanitizing agent may be in a gaseous form, or may be a vapor or
"dry vapor" (i.e., non-wetting) form. Suitable sanitizing agents
may, for example, include forms chlorine dioxide, peracetic acid,
hydrogen peroxide and electrochemically activated solutions (e.g.,
electrolyzed water). Suitable sanitizing agents may, for example,
include photocatalytic antimicrobial materials (e.g., composite
photocatalyst, nanoparticle sized zinc metal in a matrix of
nano-crystalline titanium dioxide available under the trademark
OXITITAN.TM. from EcoActive Surfaces, Inc. of Pompano Beach, Fla.).
Such may provide an antimicrobial surface, reduce odor and VOCs,
provide for hydrophilic or hydrophobic self-cleaning, and/or UV or
corrosion protection. The UV protection may be particularly
advantageous where UV illumination is also utilized in sanitizing
the habitable environment 100.
[0180] Alternatively, or additionally, the sanitizing agent may be
in the form of electromagnetic energy or radiation, for example
specific ranges of wavelengths such as UV of electromagnetic
energy.
[0181] A sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more
reservoirs of sanitizing agent(s) or materials 286 which when
combined produce a sanitizing agent. The sanitizing subsystem 216
may include one or more fans or blowers 287 to assist in dispersing
the sanitizing agent into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1).
In some implementations, the fan(s) or blower(s) 287 also assist in
removing or evacuating the sanitizing agent into the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1). The sanitizing subsystem 216 may
optionally include one or more transducers 288 operable to place
the sanitizing agent in a form more amenable to dispersion. The
transducer(s) 288 may take the form of a heater, for example to
vaporize sanitizing agent. Additionally, or alternatively, the
transducer(s) 288 may take the form of one or more a high frequency
vibration elements (e.g., piezoelectric element) to pulverize or
otherwise particalize either dry sanitizing agent into a very fine
particulate form or to break up droplets of liquid sanitizing agent
into a very fine form, for instance that does not wet surfaces.
Other types of transducers 288 may be employed.
[0182] The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more ports
or vents 289 for dispersing the sanitizing agent. Ports or vents
289 may be built into a housing 290 of the sanitizing subsystem
216. Additionally, or alternatively, the sanitizing subsystem 216
may include one or more hoses 291 with nozzles 292 or other
openings for dispersing the sanitizing agent.
[0183] The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more wands
295 selectively operable to emit electromagnetic energy or
radiation, for example specific ranges of wavelengths such as UV of
electromagnetic energy. The wand(s) 295 may include one or more
illumination sources, for instance UV illumination sources 296 and
may be electrically coupled to a power source 297 carried by the
cart 293 via one or more cables 298. Alternatively, illumination
sources 296 may be located in the cart 293, and the wand(s) 295
optically coupled thereto via one or more cables 298.
[0184] The sanitizing subsystem 216 may include one or more
illumination sources 299 positioned so as to be exposed to the
ambient environment in order to provide illumination into the
habitable environment 100 directly from a housing of the sanitizing
subsystem 216. The illumination sources 299 positioned on an
exterior of the cart 293 or within the exterior of the cart 293 and
optically communicatively coupled to the exterior via one or more
optical ports (not shown). This may allow the general habitable
environment 100 to be optically treated, for instance with UV
illumination. The wand(s) 295 may, for instance, be used to treat
areas or spaces that would not otherwise be treated via direct
illumination from the illumination sources 299, for instance areas
or spaces that are not in a direct line of sight of the
illumination sources 299. In some implementations, the illumination
sources 299 may provide the illumination which is optically coupled
to the wand(s) 295 via the cable 298.
[0185] Sanitizing may require as little as three hours of exposure
to UV illumination, dependent of a variety of factors such as type
of pathogens, distance, and intensity (e.g., incident energies).
Targeted pathogens may take a variety of forms, for example mold
spores, and organisms such as various bacillus, protozoa, virus,
yeast. Mold spores may include, for instance: Aspergillus flavis,
Aspergillus glaucus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor racemosus A, Mucor
racemosus B, Oospora lactis, Penicillium expansum, Penicillium
roqueforti, Penicillium digitatum, Rhisopus nigricans. Illumination
may occur before, after, during, or before and after application of
a photocatalytic antimicrobial agent or coating. Operation may
require that the habitable space by vacant during the entire period
of treatment. Thus a remote control (e.g., wireless handheld
transmitter and wireless receiver in the cart 203) or a delay start
timer may be advantageously employed.
Data, Data Structures, and Nontransitory Storage Media
[0186] Various nontransitory media discussed above may store
information such as data including configuration information in one
or more data structures. Data structures may take a variety of
forms, for example records associated with relational databases, a
database itself, lookup tables, etc. The data structures may store
a variety of different information or data.
Operation
[0187] FIG. 3 shows a high level method 300 of providing an
enhanced environment in a habitable environment 100, according to
one illustrated embodiment. While often discussed in terms of a
hotel, motel, spa or other hospitality environment, the habitable
environment 100 may take the form of a home, office, hospital or
any other inhabitable environment.
[0188] The method 300 starts at 302. The method 300 may, for
example start on a periodic basis, for instance a daily, weekly,
monthly. Alternatively, or additionally, the method 300 may start
on demand, for instance in response to a checking in of a guest, or
expected check in of a guest, or an entry of a guest or occupant
into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1), for instance in
response to reading an identifier from a smartcard or cardkey
114.
[0189] At 304, cleaning personnel clean the habitable environment
100. Such may include emptying waste receptacles, dusting, washing,
vacuuming, cleaning and/or treating surfaces with disinfectants,
and/or collecting soiled or used laundry (e.g., towels).
[0190] At 306, cleaning personnel use or install anti-bacterial
bedding, towels, other coverings (e.g., drapes) in the habitable
environment 100. The anti-bacterial bedding, towels, other
coverings may for example be impregnated or coated with one or more
an anti-bacterial or anti-pathogen agents.
[0191] At 308, cleaning personnel optionally sanitize the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof, for instance with a sanitizing
subsystem 216. As previously explained, the sanitizing subsystem
216 may take a variety of forms, at least one of which is a fogger
or "dry fogger" which disperses a fog or "dry fog" of a sanitizing
agent into the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). The sanitizing
agent may deposit on various surfaces, and may be left in place
sufficiently long to neutralize or render pathogens or other
undesirable substance harmless. As previously noted, the sanitizing
agent may not "wet" the surfaces, thereby protecting the surfaces
from damage. The sanitizing system 216 may then, optionally
evacuate or otherwise remove the sanitizing agent from the
habitable environment 100, for instance collecting such in a
reservoir for disposal or recycling.
[0192] Optionally at 310, the environmental control system 200 or
portion thereof identifies one or more occupants or guests that
will inhabit the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) and/or specific
attributes, traits or characteristics of the occupant(s). For
example, facility personnel may enter an occupant identifier via an
input device, panel or kiosk 284. Also for example, the occupant(s)
or guest(s) may enter an occupant identifier via an input device,
panel or kiosk 283. As a further example, an occupant identifier
may be automatically read from some piece of media, for instance a
smartcard or keycard. The occupant identifier may, for example, be
encoded in a magnetic stripe, machine-readable symbol, or wireless
transponder (e.g., RFID transponder) of the smartcard or keycard.
The occupant identifier may consist of or include the occupant's
name, however preferable is an alphanumeric string which does not
include the occupant's actual name. The alphanumeric string may be
logically associated with the occupant's name, for example in a
secure database or other secure data structure. Such an approach
may enhance security.
[0193] The specific attributes, traits or characteristics of the
occupant(s) may likewise be stored in a secured database or other
secure data structure, or less preferably could be stored in the
smartcard or card key. The specific attributes, traits or
characteristics of the occupant(s) may specify information that
allows customization of the habitable environment to the needs or
desires of the occupant. For example, the specific attributes,
traits or characteristics of the occupant(s) may identify one or
more air temperatures, for example air or room temperatures for
different times throughout a daily cycle. Also for example, the
specific attributes, traits or characteristics of the occupant(s)
may identify one or more air relative humidities, for example
relative humidity for different times throughout a daily cycle. As
another example, the specific attributes, traits or characteristics
of the occupant(s) may identify one or more locations from which
the occupant has traveled from. Such may permit adjustment of, for
example lighting, to accommodate for jet lag, SAD, etc. As a
further example, the specific attributes, traits or characteristics
of the occupant(s) may identify one or more syndromes, aliments or
conditions for which environmental characteristics or scenes may be
adjusted to alleviate or treat. These may include syndromes,
aliments or conditions which may be addressed by delivery of
illumination (e.g., timed delivery of different intensities and/or
wavelengths). This may also include syndromes, aliments or
conditions which may be addressed by delivery of humidity, for
instance various skin disorders or problems. These syndromes,
aliments or conditions may be specified by name or an assigned
identifier. Alternatively, or additionally, specific instructions
or patterns may be stored for providing the desired environmental
characteristics or scenes. Such may help maintain privacy for
individuals, and may address regulatory issues (e.g., HIPAA)
related to the care, handling and management of health related
information such as electronic medical records. Thus, for example,
a pattern of illumination which specifies wavelengths and
intensities at various times throughout the solar day may be
stored. Patterns specifying air temperature, relative humidity,
sound, scents, and other ambient environmental characteristics or
scenes may likewise be stored for various times throughout the
solar day. These patterns may be synchronized with one another.
Thus, for example, illumination and sound may be synchronized to
produce a gradual wakeup period in which light gradually increases
in intensity as does soothing sounds. The wavelengths of light may
likewise gradually change during this wake up period. Also for
example, illumination and sound may be synchronized to produce a
gradual relaxation period prior to a sleep time in which light
gradually decreases in intensity as does soothing sounds. The
wavelengths of light may likewise gradually change during this
relaxation up period.
[0194] Optionally at 312, facility personnel, the occupant, or the
environmental control system 200 or portion thereof selects a
program to execute to provide the environmental characteristics,
attributes or amenities, which may include or comprise a scene in a
space or sub-space. Such may be done, for example, where no program
has previously been specified or identified. Alternatively, such
may be done where multiple programs are specified for a given
occupant. As previously noted, the one or more programs may be
stored for each perspective occupant, for example stored in a
smartcard or keycard 114 or stored in a database in a nontransitory
computer- or processor-readable media 246. These programs or
identifiers representing these programs may be presented to the
facility personal or occupant to select from, for instance via one
or more an input device, panel or kiosk 283, 284. Alternatively, or
additionally, the control subsystem 202 (FIG. 2) may select a
program or scene, for example based on certain criteria about the
occupant. For instance, the control subsystem 202 (FIG. 2) may
determine that the occupant has recently traveled from a location
with a significantly different natural light cycle from that of the
location of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Thus, the
control subsystem 202 (FIG. 1) may select a program or scene which
provides specific illumination or other characteristics that
alleviates or otherwise addresses symptoms or aliments associated
with such changes in natural illumination due to the travel, such
as jet lag or SAD.
[0195] A set of patterns or scenes may be defined which accommodate
changes in total amount of natural light and/or the spectral
components (e.g., wavelengths) of the natural light for a large
numbers of pairs of origination and arrival locations, where the
origination location is a location from which the occupant departs
from (e.g., typically the occupant's home) and the arrival location
is a location to which the occupant has traveled (e.g., a hotel,
motel, spa). These patterns may, for example, relate each of 24
time zones (e.g., zones of longitudes) to the other 23 time zones
throughout the World. These patterns may relate to various
latitudes or zones of latitudes throughout the World. For instance,
patterns or scenes may be established for each pair of latitude
zones (e.g., 5 degree increments of latitude) north and south of
the equator. Thus, each latitude zone may be related to each other
latitude zone by a respective pattern. Patterns may likewise be
defined for various pair of geographical locations (e.g., longitude
or time zone, and latitude) to simultaneously accommodate for both
time zone changes and changes in length of solar day. Patterns do
not have be established for all possible pairs of geographic
locations since most occupants will arrive from a relatively small
number of geographic locations, and since the geographic location
of the arrival location is presumably known for any given
inhabitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). Likewise, grouping longitudes
by, for instance time zone, and/or latitudes into bands (e.g., 5
degrees) will also limit the total number of stored patterns. While
described as being stored, in some implementations, patterns or
other scenes may be generated dynamically or "on the fly" via one
or more algorithms or equations using geographic locations as
input.
[0196] Optionally at 314, facility personnel may check in or
register one or more occupants, for use of the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1), in a similar or identical manner as that
performed at most hotels, motels, spas or hospitals. The
identification of the occupant or guest at 310 and/or the selection
of the program at 312 may be performed as part of this check or
registration. Alternatively, identification of the occupant or
guest at 310 and/or the selection of the program at 312 may be
performed prior to this check in or registration 314, for example
as part of booking or reserving the habitable environment 100 (FIG.
1) as an accommodation.
[0197] At 316, the control subsystem 202 (FIG. 2) runs the selected
program to cause the various subsystems 202-214 to provide the
environmental characteristics, scenes or amenities in the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1).
[0198] Optionally at 318, the control subsystem 202 or a portion of
the environmental control system 200 present explanatory materials
which explanation the operation and benefits of the habitable space
including the various active and passive components. Such may
include presentation of a tutorial, for instance in a video form,
explaining how a user may operate or otherwise interact with the
environmental control system 200.
[0199] At 320, from time-to-time the control subsystem 202 or a
portion of the environmental control system 200 determines whether
a change has been made to any of the operational parameters for a
scene. Changes may, for example, be made by occupant(s) and/or
facility personnel, or via sensed or detected conditions in the
habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). For example, the occupant(s) or
facility personnel may change a setting for air temperature,
relative humidity, illumination, scent dispersal, or other
parameter. The change(s) may be temporary or one time changes, or
may be more permanent changes that will be stored for use on
another occasion or for use with another habitable environment 100
(FIG. 1). Thus, the control subsystem 202 or a portion of the
environmental control system 200 may generate a new program or
scene, or execute an existing program or scene with new or modified
parameters, hence in effect constituting a new program or
scene.
[0200] If a change has been made, at 322 the control subsystem 202
or a portion of the environmental control system 200 runs the new
program, scene or program with new parameters to provide
environmental characteristics or scenes. Execution of the new
program causes the various subsystems 202-214 to provide the
environmental characteristics, scenes or amenities in the habitable
environment 100 (FIG. 1) in accordance with the new parameters.
[0201] Optionally at 324, optionally the control subsystem 202 or a
portion of the environmental control system 200 collects responses
from the occupant(s) with respect to the habitable environment 100
(FIG. 1). In particular, the control subsystem 202 or a portion of
the environmental control system 200 may provide an opinion survey
and/or questions regarding the occupant(s) objective and/or
subjective impressions of the effect of the accommodations on their
overall health and/or wellness or sense of wellness. Such may also
inquire regarding actual operation of the environmental control
system 200, as well as the ease of use or interaction with the
same. The survey or questions may provide a scale for rating the
occupant's experience, and in particularly sense of wellbeing.
[0202] Optionally at 326, facility personnel check out the occupant
or guest. The facility personnel preferably actively inquire about
the occupant's or guest's sense of wellbeing and experience with
the amenities of the habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1). At this
time, the facility personnel may update patterns or scenes, store
new patterns or scenes, and/or delete old patterns or scenes
associated with the particular occupant or guest, providing a
refined experience on the occupant's next visit or use of the
habitable environment 100 (FIG. 1) or other inhabitable environment
100 (FIG. 1) for instance at another location.
[0203] The high level method 300 may terminate at 328 until started
again, or may continually repeat. Alternatively, the high level
method 300 may run concurrently with other methods or
processes.
[0204] FIG. 4 shows a low level method 400 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system for
providing illumination, according to one illustrated embodiment,
which may be useful in performing at least a portion of the method
300 illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0205] The low level method 400 starts at 402. The method 400 may,
for example run continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for
instance a every few minutes, hourly, daily, weekly, monthly.
Alternatively, or additionally, the method 400, or portions
thereof, may start on demand, for instance in response to detection
of an occupant of the habitable environment 100, or in response to
a request by a guest or operator of a facility (e.g., hotel, spa,
resort, hospital).
[0206] Optionally at 404, a sensor or detector senses or detects
whether the enclosed spaced is occupied. The sensor(s) may, for
example, provide signals to the control subsystem indicative of
whether the enclosed space is occupied. One or more of the
following acts may be selectively performed based in the signals.
For example, it may be more energy efficient to avoid providing
active illumination when the habitable environment is not
occupied.
[0207] At 406, a control subsystem receives an input, for example
at a first time. The input may be indicative of any of a number of
settings, for instance settings related to illumination to be
provided in an enclosed space. The input may be received via at
least one user actuatable input device located within the enclosed
space or at an entrance to the enclosed space. Additionally, or
alternatively, input may be received via at least one user
actuatable input device located remotely from the enclosed space.
For example, located at a reception, concierge, building
maintenance or other centralized location associated with the
building.
[0208] At 408, the control subsystem determines whether the
received input is indicative of a selection of a first setting. The
first setting may, for example, be a circadian setting, that is a
setting or pattern of illumination that is consistent with and
establishes a natural circadian rhythm or cycle in a human. Such
may, for example, mimic the intensity and chromatic makeup of
natural sunlight and darkness over a solar day at some given
location on the Earth.
[0209] At 410, in response determining the first input indicates a
first setting, the control subsystem provide signals to cause at
least some of the illumination sources to emit artificial
illumination at a number of levels and a number of wavelengths and
to cause at least one actuator to control at least a level of
natural illumination received into the enclosed space via one or
more windows from an external source of illumination such that a
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination varies
over a first period of time according to a first pattern. The first
pattern may, for example be a circadian pattern (e.g., pattern
consistent with and which establishes a natural circadian rhythm or
cycle in a human).
[0210] At 412, the control subsystem determines whether the
received input is indicative of a selection of a second setting.
The second setting may be a first non-circadian setting, that is
any setting or pattern of illumination other than a setting or
pattern of illumination that is consistent with and establishes a
natural circadian rhythm or cycle in a human.
[0211] At 414, in response to the second input the control
subsystem provides signals to cause the illumination sources to
emit artificial illumination at a number of levels and a number of
wavelengths and to cause at least one actuator to control at least
a level of natural illumination received into the enclosed space
via one or more windows from an external source of illumination
such that a combination of the artificial and the natural
illumination does not vary over a second period of time according
to a non-circadian pattern (e.g., any pattern other than a pattern
consistent with and which establishes a natural circadian rhythm or
cycle in a human). For example, in response to the second input,
the control subsystem may provide signals to the illumination
sources and the actuator(s) such that the combination of the
artificial and the natural illumination remains constant over the
second period of time.
[0212] At 416, the control subsystem determines whether the
received input is indicative of a selection of a second
non-circadian setting that is a sleep time setting at a third
time.
[0213] At 418, in response to the third input the control subsystem
provides signals to cause a subset of the illumination sources
proximate to a floor in the enclosed space to emit artificial
illumination at a low illumination level along at least one path.
The signals may further cause the at least one actuator to prevent
natural illumination from being received into the enclosed space
via the one or more windows.
[0214] At 420, the control subsystem determines whether the
received input is indicative of a selection of a travel adjustment
setting.
[0215] At 422, in response to the fourth input the control
subsystem determines a travel adjustment illumination pattern based
at least in part on a geographic location from where an occupant of
the enclosed spaced originated to accommodate a change in circadian
rhythm due to travel by the occupant. At 424, also in response to
the fourth input, the control subsystem provides signals to cause
the illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at the
levels and the wavelengths and to cause the at least one actuator
to control at least the level of natural illumination received into
the enclosed space via the one or more windows such that the
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination achieves
the determined travel adjustment illumination pattern in the
enclosed space.
[0216] At 426, the control subsystem determines whether the
received input is indicative of a selection of a light therapy
setting at a fourth time.
[0217] At 428, in response to the fourth input indicative of the
light setting, providing signals by the control subsystem to cause
the illumination sources to emit artificial illumination at the
levels and the wavelengths and to cause the at least one actuator
to control at least the level of natural illumination received into
the enclosed space via the one or more windows such that the
combination of the artificial and the natural illumination achieves
the defined light therapy illumination pattern in the enclosed
space over a therapeutic period of time.
[0218] The method 400 may repeat as indicated by arrow 430.
Alternatively, the method 400 may terminate until called again or
otherwise restarted.
[0219] FIG. 5 shows a low level method 500 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system to adjust
an amount of natural light received in the habitable environment
using electrochromatic panes, according to one illustrated
embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least a portion of
the method 400 illustrated in FIG. 4.
[0220] At 502, control subsystem provides signals to control an
actuator (e.g., voltage or current supply) drivingly coupled to
electrochromatic pane to adjust illumination passed thereby. For
example, the signals may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s)
(collectively window coverings) to move to a fully closed position
which completely or substantially blocks natural light from
entering the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof via the
window(s). Alternatively, the signals may cause the
drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a fully open position which
allows a maximum amount of natural light to enter the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof via the window(s). The signals
may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a variety of
intermediate positions between the fully closed and fully open
positions, which intermediate positions allow respective amounts of
natural light to enter the habitable environment 100 or portion
thereof via the window(s).
[0221] Since the intensity of natural light in the ambient
environment varies throughout the day, and from day to day, control
may be based at least in part to one information from one or more
light sensors or detectors. The light sensors or detectors may
sensor or detect natural light in the exterior ambient environment
and provide the control subsystem with signals indicative of an
intensity or spectral power distribution thereof. Additionally or
alternatively, the light sensors or detectors may sensor or detect
light in the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof and
provide the control subsystem with signals indicative of an
intensity thereof.
[0222] FIG. 6 shows a low level method 600 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system to adjust
an amount of natural light received in the habitable environment
using drapes or shades or curtains or other window coverings,
according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in
performing at least a portion of the method 400 illustrated in FIG.
4.
[0223] At 602, control subsystem provides signals to control an
actuator (e.g., electrical motor, solenoid) drivingly coupled via a
transmission to move drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) relative to a
window. For example, the signals may cause the
drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a fully closed position
which completely or substantially blocks natural light from
entering the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof via the
window(s). Alternatively, the signals may cause the
drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a fully open position which
allows a maximum amount of natural light to enter the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof via the window(s). The signals
may cause the drape(s)/shade(s)/curtain(s) to move to a variety of
intermediate positions between the fully closed and fully open
positions, which intermediate positions allow respective amounts of
natural light to enter the habitable environment 100 or portion
thereof via the window(s).
[0224] Since the intensity of natural light in the ambient
environment varies throughout the day, and from day to day, control
may be based at least in part to one information from one or more
light sensors or detectors. The light sensors or detectors may
sensor or detect natural light in the exterior ambient environment
and provide the control subsystem with signals indicative of an
intensity thereof. Additionally, or alternatively, the light
sensors or detectors may sensor or detect light in the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof and provide the control
subsystem with signals indicative of an intensity thereof.
[0225] FIG. 7 shows a low level method 700 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system for
providing heating, ventilation and cooling of a habitable
environment 100, according to one illustrated embodiment, which may
be useful in performing at least a portion of the method 300
illustrated in FIG. 3. Typically, only a few of the acts identified
in method 700 will be performed in any single pass. For example,
cooling of air is unlikely to be performed if the air has just been
heated, or dehumidifying is unlikely to be performed in
humidification was just performed. Thus, method 700 provides more
of a comprehensive illustration of the acts that may be
performed.
[0226] The low level method 700 starts at 702. The method 700 may,
for example run continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for
instance every few minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or
additionally, the method 700 may start on demand, for instance in
response to an adjustment of a thermostat, entry into a user input
device, or sensed or detected presence of an occupant in the
habitable environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0227] At 704, the control subsystem receives signals from at least
one of a temperature or humidity sensor or detector which signals
are indicative of a sensed or detected temperature and/or humidity
in habitable environment 100 or portion thereof. The signals may be
used in order to adjust at least one or a temperature and/or
humidity of the air in the habitable environment 100, for example
based at least in part on a circadian pattern over a period of
time.
[0228] At 706, the control subsystem provides signals that cause
air to be treated. The signals may, for example, turn ON, turn OFF,
and/or adjust a speed of one or more fans or blowers. The signals
may additionally or alternatively, adjust a position of a vent,
damper, valve or manifold. Such may circulate or otherwise cause
air to be treated by filtering via one or more mechanical (NEPA)
air filters. Such may circulate or otherwise cause air to be
treated by filtering via one or more electrostatic particle air
filters, a voltage being supplied according the signals. Such may
circulate or otherwise cause air to be treated by exposure to
ultraviolet illumination via an air ultraviolet sanitizer.
[0229] At 708, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be heated. For example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to a heater (e.g., forced air furnace, steam
radiator) to heat air. Also for example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to open, close or adjust an opening of a vent,
damper, valve or manifold which routes warm air to the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0230] At 710, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be cooled. For example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to a cooler (e.g., air condition, swamp cooler) to
cool (i.e., remove heat from) the air. Also for example, the
control subsystem may provide signals to open, close or adjust an
opening of a vent, damper, valve or manifold which routes cool air
to the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0231] At 712, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be humidified. For example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to a humidifier to humidify (i.e., add moisture) to
the air. Also for example, the control subsystem may provide
signals to open, close or adjust an opening of a vent, damper,
valve or manifold which routes humidified air to the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0232] At 714, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be dehumidified. For example, the control subsystem
may provide signals to a dehumidifier to dehumidify (i.e., remove
moisture) from the air. Also for example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to open, close or adjust an opening of a vent,
damper, valve or manifold which routes dehumidified air to the
habitable environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0233] At 716, the control subsystem opens, closes, or otherwise
adjusts one or more vents or dampers or valves or manifolds.
Operation of various vents, dampers, valves or manifolds may
provide fresh air, conditioned air, and/or scents or aromas to the
habitable environment 100 or a portion thereof. The vents or
dampers or valves or manifolds may be operated via one or more
actuators, for example electric motors or solenoids, or shape
memory alloy actuators, spring loaded actuators and/or magnetic
actuators.
[0234] At 718, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be moved or circulated. For example, the control
subsystem may provide signals to one or more fans or blowers to
move or circulate the air. The signals may turn ON, turn OFF and/or
adjust a speed of a fan or blower.
[0235] At 720, the control subsystem provides control signals which
cause air to be compressed. For example, the control subsystem may
provide signals to one or more compressors to compress air, for
instance to remove moisture or as part of removing heat. The
signals may turn ON, turn OFF, or otherwise adjusts a speed of a
compressor.
[0236] The low level method 700 may terminate at 722 until called
again, or may continually repeat. Alternatively, the low level
method 700 may run concurrently with other methods or processes,
for example, as one of multiple threads on a multi-threaded
processor system.
[0237] FIG. 8 shows a low level method 800 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system for
introducing scents or aromas into a habitable environment,
according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in
performing at least a portion of the method 300 illustrated in FIG.
3.
[0238] The low level method 800 starts at 802. The method 800 may,
for example start on a periodic basis, for instance every few
minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or additionally, the
method 800 may start on demand, for instance in response to a
request by a guest or operator of a facility (e.g., hotel,
spa).
[0239] At 804, the control subsystem receives input indicative of a
scent to be dispersed the habitable environment 100 or portion
thereof. The input may come from an in room control panel, a remote
control panel, a handheld device (e.g., smart phone, tablet
computer, or personal digital assistant), or may be generated as
part of execution of a program (also referred to as a scene) by a
control subsystem.
[0240] At 806, the control subsystem provides signals which cause
one or more scents to be introduce into air in the habitable
environment 100 or portion thereof. The scent(s) may be delivered
from one or more reservoirs. The signals may cause a vent, damper,
valve, or manifold to open, or alternatively close, allow scent to
enter the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof. The signals
may additionally or alternatively cause one or more fans or blowers
to cause the scent(s) to be delivered the habitable environment 100
or portion thereof or dispersed or circulated therein.
Additionally, or alternatively, the signals may cause a heater to
heat scented material, for instance to vaporize the material to
cause the scent to be dispersed into air which is circulated into
the habitable environment 100 or portion thereof.
[0241] The control subsystem may provide the signals to cause the
scent(s) to be introduced according to or based on a defined
schedule. Alternatively, or additionally, the control subsystem may
provide the signals to cause the scent(s) to be introduced on
demand, for example in response to a user input.
[0242] The low level method 800 may terminate at 808 until called
again, or may continually repeat. Alternatively, the low level
method 800 may run concurrently with other methods or processes,
for example, as one of multiple threads on a multi-threaded
processor system.
[0243] FIG. 9 shows a low level method 900 of operating one or more
components of a habitable environment enhancement system for
treating water for use in a habitable environment, according to one
illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in performing at least
a portion of the method 300 illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0244] The low level method 900 starts at 902. The method 900 may,
for example run continuously, or may start on a periodic basis, for
instance every few minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or
additionally, the method 900 may start on demand, for instance in
response to use of water by an occupant of the habitable
environment 100.
[0245] At 904, one or more water treatment components of a water
supply subsystem treat a supply of water to a faucet or a
showerhead of the habitable environment 100. Treating water may,
for example include filtering water using one or more sediment or
coarse particle filters. Treating water may additionally or
alternatively include fine filtering of water, for example, using
one or more activated charcoal filters. Treating water may
additionally or alternatively include exposing the water to
ultraviolet illumination of sufficient intensity and duration as to
sanitize the water.
[0246] At 906, one or more water treatment components of the water
supply subsystem introduce vitamin C into at least some of the
water. For example, one or more valves or manifold may release
vitamin C from a reservoir of vitamin C into water that is to be
supplied the showerhead of the habitable environment 100.
[0247] The low level method 900 may terminate at 908 until called
again, or may continually repeat. Alternatively, the low level
method 900 may run concurrently with other methods or processes,
for example, as one of multiple threads on a multi-threaded
processor system.
[0248] FIG. 10 shows a low level method 1000 of operating one or
more components of a habitable environment enhancement system for
adjusting an acoustical aspect of a habitable environment,
according to one illustrated embodiment, which may be useful in
performing at least a portion of the method 300 illustrated in FIG.
3.
[0249] The method 1000 may, for example start on a periodic basis,
for instance every few minutes, hourly, or daily. Alternatively, or
additionally, the method 1000 may start on demand, for instance in
response to a request by a guest or operator of a facility (e.g.,
hotel, spa). Alternatively, or additionally, the method 1000 may
start in response to a call or signal from a program executed by
the control subsystem, for instance in synchronization with some
other aspect of the environment. For instance, sound may be
triggered by an alarm clock setting, which is synchronized with
light levels and/or spectrum.
[0250] In particular, the control subsystem provides signals which
cause at least one speaker to play sound in the enclosed space at a
sound level that changes in synchronization with a change in a
level of illumination emitted by the illumination sources at
1004.
[0251] The low level method 1000 may terminate at until called
again, or may continually repeat. Alternatively, the method 1000
may run concurrently with other methods or processes, for example,
as one of multiple threads on a multi-threaded processor
system.
Modifications
[0252] The above description of illustrated embodiments, including
what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed.
Although specific embodiments of and examples are described herein
for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications can be
made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure,
as will be recognized by those skilled in the relevant art. The
teachings provided herein of the various embodiments can be applied
to other systems, not necessarily the exemplary system generally
described above.
[0253] The control subsystem or some other processor-based system
such as a personal computer, may be programmed to evaluate a
"wellness" of a given space. The system may assess various
amenities provided in the environmental space, including type and
effectiveness of the amenities. For instance, the system may assign
points for particular types of amenities and/or effectiveness. For
example, points may be assigned for having active lighting
subsystem, which additional points for active lighting which can
positively influence circadian patterns. Also for example, points
may be assigned for air treatment, with a total number of points
based on effectiveness of the air treatment. Also for example,
points may be assigned for water treatment, with a total number of
points based on effectiveness of the water treatment. Points may be
required in each possible category (e.g., lighting, air, water,
sound, reduced use of VOC leaching materials, use of sound
absorbent or damping materials, use of materials that cushion or
absorb shocks to protect the occupant). Alternatively, points may
be required for a subset of categories. Additionally, or
alternatively, a minimum number of points may be required in each
of a number of categories, or a minimum cumulative score required
to obtain a given rank or wellness rating. Ranks or wellness
ratings may be certified and used in advertising. Wellness may be
reassessed from time to time.
[0254] Wellness may be assessed based on self-reported scores or
scores assigned by a reviewer or examiner. The scores may be
reported via various user input devices, for instance a keyboard,
keypad, or touch panel associated with a GUI. The scores may, for
instance, be entered via a Webpage user interface, and communicated
to the system for evaluation. The system may perform comparisons of
a given facility from year to year, or between different
facilities. The evaluation may be compared or scored against a
defined set of wellness standards in each of a number of categories
or pathways.
[0255] Wellness scores need not be dependent on self-reports, but
may be inferred from environmental sensors and occupant-based
biometrics. For example, data gathered passively or actively from
devices in the built environment, furniture or other
biometric-reading devices, can contribute to a personal wellness
score that can be used to directly or indirectly control elements
in the built environment including lighting, sound, HVAC or other
categories previously discussed. Relevant biometrics may include
any health or wellness-related measurements, including but not
limited to heart rate, heart-rate variability, sleep phase, sleep
length, or respiration rate, walking steps per day, body weight, or
BMI.
[0256] The control system may cause a display of a dashboard which
provides a concise representation of environmental information to
occupants of the habitable environment 100 and/or to personnel of
the facility (e.g., hotel) which houses the habitable environment
100 (e.g., room or suite). The dashboard may additionally present
tips, suggestions, questionnaires, suggested settings,
interventions, activities, health/wellness educational information,
etc. The dashboard may be presented via a Website or Webpage and/or
may be stored "in the cloud". The dashboard may be accessible via
any type of processor-based device including mobile devices (e.g.,
smart phones, tablet computers) as a Webpage or a dedicated
application. Such devices may include transducers that act based on
the information and/or to control various environmental aspects of
or scenes in the habitable environment via the control subsystem.
For example, the Webpage or application may communicatively
integrated the mobile device with the lighting subsystem and/or
other environmental systems and controls.
[0257] For instance, a habitable environment may include any
combination of one or more of the passive or active components.
Some components may reside in, or be controlled as part of a
different subsystems than illustrated.
[0258] Also for instance, while various methods and/or algorithms
have been described, some or all of those methods and/or algorithms
may omit some of the described acts or steps, include additional
acts or steps, combine acts or steps, and/or may perform some acts
or steps in a different order than described. Some of the method or
algorithms may be implemented in software routines. Some of the
software routines may be called from other software routines.
Software routines may execute sequentially or concurrently, and may
employ a multi-threaded approach.
[0259] Now referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, a space or
sub-space (referred to as a remote location in FIG. 11) may include
or have access to a system or one or more analysis or other devices
(e.g., computers) for determining, assessing and setting
environmental characteristics or scene of a space or sub-space
and/or for determining, assessing and setting a path to change a
current environmental state or scene within the space or sub-space
to a desired environmental state or scene within the space or
sub-space. A space or sub-space may be or be part of a habitable
environment 100 or other habitable, usable or occupiable area, or
include one or more devices, features, apparatus and articles
described above regarding the habitable environment 100. For
example, a space or sub-space may have a computer and/or other
device for analyzing the current environmental conditions of a
space or sub-space, and for controlling the environmental
conditions or scenes. In some embodiments, some or all of the
control system 200 may be used. By one approach, the system
includes controllable devices or other devices in the space or
sub-space that are configured to change the environmental
conditions within the space or sub-space and devices that may
receive inputs from one or more transducer devices internal or
external to the space or sub-space and inputs from one or more
users, among others. As another example, such a space or sub-space
may include one or more controllable devices such as systems or
devices to turn on, turn off, reposition, reprogram, reset,
actuate, recalibrate, or otherwise change the one or more settings
for lights, lighting systems, light sources, light suppressors,
light generators, window blind position controllers, scent emitters
or aroma dispensers, noise generators or suppressors, sound
sources, water handling systems, air handling or control systems,
air purifiers or filters, air flow control systems, flooring
feature controllers, door position controllers, window position
controllers, air conditioning systems, heating systems, transducer
devices, input devices, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, vent
controllers, dynamic custom coloring system, vents, dampeners,
valves, etc. for controlling, transitioning, changing, or at least
impacting or influencing how a user interacts with a scene, space
or sub-space, or the environmental conditions or a scene within the
space or sub-space and/or transitioning the environmental
conditions within the space or sub-space to a desired state or
scene and/or away from a current state or scene. Such controllable
devices may include one or more of the artificial luminaires 142,
illumination subsystem 204, electrochromatic panes 146, electric
motors 152, vents 158, water treatment system 206, UV illumination
source 260, humidifier/dehumidifier 271, sanitizing system 216,
scent subsystem 210, blowers 275 or 287, heaters 269 or 276, sound
subsystem 212, electrocstatic filters 266, carbon air filter 249,
fans or blowers 272, air treatment system 208, etc.
[0260] In some embodiments, an analysis device may be part of a
controllable device, controlling device, information storage device
(e.g., storage device 246), transducer device, and/or other device
integrated along with a controllable device, controlling device,
information storage device, and/or transducer device into a single
or other device.
[0261] In some embodiments, the space or sub-space also may include
one or more internal or external controlling devices (e.g.,
computer) that may connect to or be in communication with one or
more controllable devices. Different spaces or sub-spaces may have
different systems, environmental control or setting capabilities,
different configuration or reconfiguration capabilities, power
needs, features, etc. A space or sub-space may or may not be
connected to, connectable to, or in communication with a central
system, central location, controlling device, controllable device,
input device, and/or any location, system or device. In some
embodiments, a controlling device and a controllable device may be
part of the same device, may be the same device, may be separate
devices, may be located in the same space or sub-space, or may be
located in different spaces or sub-spaces.
[0262] In some embodiments, a space, sub-space or system may
include one or more input devices, such as, for example, a keypad,
touch screen, smart phone, tablet, display device, computer,
terminal, motion sensor, client side device, personal electronic
device, microphone, mobile device, wearable device, watch,
clickable device or other device. An input device may or may not be
wearable, moveable, moving, stationary, part of another device,
fixed in position, shared, sharable, interior to a space or
sub-space, external to a space or sub-space, etc. Furthermore, an
input device may or may not always be turned on, usable, in
communication or communicable with other devices, accessible by
user, other device or system, available in space or sub-space,
associated or usable with a specific scene, shared or sharable,
associated with one or more users, spaces, sub-spaces or systems,
wearable, locatable, etc. In some embodiments, one or more input
devices may be associated with or available in or to a specific
user, scene, space or sub-space or collection or grouping of them.
In some embodiments, the same or different input devices, alerting
devices, storage devices, controlled devices, controlling devices,
transducers, etc. may be associated with, used by, or used with two
or more users, scenes, spaces or sub-spaces. Input devices may
include or be part of devices, controls, panels, mobile or handheld
devices, or kiosks 182 or television 184, input/output system 214,
etc.
[0263] Scenes may be implemented in a space or sub-space based on
user data from the input devices and/or environmental readings from
sensors or other transducer devices in the space or sub-space. A
scene is a combination of parameters implemented by the various
systems and subsystems described above. For example, a scene could
be a certain combination of air temperature, lighting effects, and
ambient noise. By one approach, a scene may include programmed
environment parameter settings governing a space or sub-space in a
structure that may be used at particular times of day or for
particular activities. Illustrative examples of scenes are
described in greater detail below.
[0264] In some embodiments, a scene is implemented based on the
wellness needs or wellness assessments of the user as described
above. For example, if the user indicates through an input device
that they are drowsy, the space or subspace can implement an
energizing scene by decreasing the temperature, brightening the
lights, and/or increasing oxygen levels. Energizing scenes are
described in greater detail below. In an alternative example, when
wearable sensors detect readings suggesting the user is stressed
(e.g., elevated heartrate, increased blood pressure, increased
temperature), the space or subspace implements a relaxation scene
by dimming the lights or changing the lights to a soothing color
and/or playing soothing sounds.
[0265] In some embodiments, a scene is implemented based on
preprogrammed user preferences or needs. For example, a user can
program a custom relaxation scene to play every day at the time
they finish work. In another example, a user can customize some of
the standard scenes described below (e.g., energize, ready for
sleep, etc.) to better fit their personal preferences or needs.
[0266] In some embodiments, a scene is implemented based on usage
occasions or other external factors. For example, if a usage
occasion arises in which a large number of people are detected
entering a space or subspace, a scene can be implemented in which
the temperature and humidity are decreased and sound masking is
increased to compensate for the crowd. If certain external factors,
such as rapidly increasing external temperature and humidity, are
detected a scene can be implemented to decrease the internal
temperature, close blinds, reduce or change window transparency,
decrease internal humidity, etc. in order to preemptively adapt the
environment.
[0267] Spaces or subspaces can also have background scenes that
promote health or wellness that run as a default when an overriding
theme is not triggered by a user input, environmental changes,
usage occasions, or external factors. One illustrative example is
the dynamic scene described below, in which ambient lighting,
temperature, and sound vary slightly over time to simulate a more
natural, outdoor environment. This dynamic scene could be a
background scene for an office space or sub-space that is
overridden by a focus scene or energize scene triggered by a user
input, or a crowd compensating scene triggered by a usage occasion
as described above.
[0268] In some embodiments, a system, controlling device, other
device, or user may determine, implement, and/or set a transition
plan in a space or sub-space from one scene to another. A
transition plan may include changing one or more controllable
devices simultaneously, sequentially, in an over-lapping manner,
etc. Similar a transition plan may change different environmental
conditions within a space or sub-space an identical, similar or
different transition rates based on need, user preferences, user
history, scene use history, controllable device capabilities,
configurations or locations, overall power needs or power
availability for the space or sub-space, over power needs or power
availability for one or more controlled devices that might
implement the scenes or be involved in the transition from one
scene to another scene, configuration, condition or design of a
space or sub-space, needs or goals of a user, usage occasion, etc.
For example, if a user has a limited period of time, if there are
influencing external factors (e.g., excessive or unusual heat,
humidity, sunlight, or air pollution), etc., the system may shorten
or change the transition time or plan from one scene to another
scene for one or more controlled devices for a space or sub-space.
In some embodiments, a user may select, influence or indicate a
desired transition time or plan from one scene to another scene for
a space or sub-space.
[0269] In some embodiments, configuration or design of a space may
contribute to how a scene is designed, implemented, changed, and
set, among other factors. For example, a space's or sub-space's
lighting design (e.g., number, installation, location, of
photometrics of light bulbs and fixtures), fenestration design
(e.g., number, size, location and layout of windows), interior
design (e.g., interior wall color, ceiling color, floor color,
furniture color, furniture layout, building materials), floor
design, layout, and quality, the orientation of the space or
sub-space, shade or blind design (e.g., optional positions,
thickness, sound and temperature insulation, and transparency),
door design (positions, thickness, sound and temperature
insulation, and transparency), among other elements, may impact how
a scene is established in a space or sub-space. These factors also
may impact the effectiveness of the scene, how a transition to the
scene or away from the scene in the space or sub-space is planned
or conducted, how a user may react or benefit from a scene
implemented in the space or sub-space, and how a default setting
for the scene may be set or implemented for the space or sub-space,
among others.
[0270] In some embodiments a system, controlling device, space or
sub-space may include or have access to one or more internal or
external transducer devices to determine the conditions or features
within the space or sub-space, the availability, operating state
and functionality of any controllable device or controlling device,
the current state of multiple spaces or sub-spaces, the current
scene operating within a space or sub-space, the number of users in
a space or sub-space, the current state or desire of a user, the
location of a user, etc. In some embodiments, transducer devices
may include one or more sensors for measuring light intensity,
light color temperature, light distribution, light source location
or direction, illuminance, air temperature, air temperature
distribution, air pressure, air quality, air movement, air flow
source location or direction, air purity, water quality, humidity,
sound level, sound distribution, sound source, sound quality, smell
or aroma, aroma distribution, occupant number, occupant presence,
occupant movement, occupant physical state, occupant clothing
color, occupant position within space or sub-space, occupant
attribute, orientation, design, shape, presence, color or position
of furniture, decorations, ceilings, walls, floors and other
features, equipment or materials in a space or sub-space, one or
more specific environmental conditions or attributes, amount,
presence or absence of one or more chemicals, gases (e.g., carbon
monoxide, carbon dioxide), pollutants, pathogens, smoke,
micro-organisms, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other
specific or non-expected materials, operation and location of one
or more controllable devices, power use of one or more controllable
devices, current scene operating or established in space or
sub-space, transition progress from one scene to another scene in a
space or sub-space, variation from an scene operating in a space or
sub-space, etc. In some embodiments, transducer devices may be or
include occupant sensors or detectors 280, temperature sensors or
detectors 281, humidity sensors or detectors 282, etc.
[0271] In some embodiments, one or more of transducer devices may
be wearable by one or more users, immobile or in a fixed position
within the space or sub-space, moveable or moving within the space
or sub-space, etc. Different transducer devices may be used or
available in different spaces or sub-spaces, with different scenes
or users, with different controllable devices or other devices,
etc.
[0272] In some embodiments, the transducer devices may provide or
help provide one or more inputs to a system or one or more devices
in the system, to a space or sub-space, etc. For example, such
inputs may include one or more of the inputs described in the table
below or one or more other inputs.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 INPUTS User State Actual, expected,
perceived or believed mental condition Actual, expected, perceived
or believed physical condition (e.g., age, health, gender, weight,
body mass index, height) Actual, expected, perceived or believed
state of wellness or well-being User Goal Pre-event preparation
(e.g., upcoming travel, new work schedule, stress event upcoming,
change of schedule or routine, change of daily habit) Post event
recovery (e.g., jet lag, sleep deprivation, stressful work, climate
change, need to relax, need to energize) Acclimation to new space
or sub-space or other habitable environment Acclimate to change in
current space or sub-space or other habitable environment Acclimate
to external environmental condition Acclimate to new daily routine
or schedule Desired scene or scene change Transition from one scene
to another Usage Occasion User in ship, train, bus, apartment,
camper, plane, hotel, home, trailer, office, school, restaurant, or
other space or sub-space User in familiar space or sub-space or
other habitable environment User in unfamiliar space or sub-space
or other habitable environment User as part of group User alone
User going to a specific space or sub-space or other habitable
environment User allotted or available time for a scene or scene
change User allotted or available time in a space or sub-space or
other habitable environment User in situation requiring some sort
of alert User in non-optimal or desired physical state User in
non-optimal or desired mental state User suffers an injury, fall or
medical condition User desiring a specific scene or environmental
conditions in a space or sub- space or other habitable environment
that the user is in User desiring a specific scene or environmental
conditions in a space or sub- space or other habitable environment
that the user is not in User needing a specific scene or
environment conditions in a space or sub- space or other habitable
environment that the user is in User needing a specific scene or
environment conditions in a space or sub- space or other habitable
environment that the user is not in User desires a specific scene,
a change to a scene, a scene to start or end, a transition from one
scene to another User wants to continue or enhance a scene
Technical Of sensor or other transducer device Capabilities and Of
controlled device Availability Of controlling device Of network Of
analysis tools/device Of alerting device Of system Of space or
sub-space or other habitable environment Of space or sub-space
feature or component Of information storage device Of input device
Of output device Of device associated with a user, space,
sub-space, other habitable environment or system Of system
Potential Climate uncontrollable Time factors Available time Season
Date Day of week Month of year Configuration Location of sensor or
other transducer device, controlled device, controlling device,
space or space feature, sub-space or sub-space feature, analysis
device, system, etc. Design, capability or configuration of
controlled device, controlling device, transducer device, space
feature, sub-space feature, alerting device, analysis device,
system, etc. Of space, sub-space, other habitable environment,
input device, controlled device, transducer device, controlling
device, analysis device, system, information storage device, etc.
Signals, information From analysis device, sensor or other
transducer device, data storage device, or data information source,
controlled device, controlling device, storage device, etc.
[0273] In some embodiments, the space or sub-space may include one
or more alerting devices to indicate that an environmental
condition within the space or sub-space does not meet required or
desired limits. For example, a visual or audible alarm may be
triggered if the humidity, air quality, temperature, etc. within a
space or sub-space exceeds or is out of range of requirements or
desired limits.
[0274] In some embodiments, the system has a baseline or a
background scene that is configured to optimize a baseline
condition for health and wellness in a space that may be used
throughout the day or during one or more different periods of time
during the day, unless the user prompts the system for a particular
scene or a "user goal" that is specific, such as, for example,
energize, focus, or relax, among others, or another input, analysis
result, usage occasion, default setting, etc. requires or
establishes a different scene.
[0275] In some embodiments, a system also may include or have
access to one or more private network based, public network based,
cloud based, local area network based, World Wide Web-based,
Internet-based or other data/information storage or information
source devices for storing, collecting, providing and/or analyzing:
(1) information related to one or more former, current or expected
occupants or other users of the space or sub-space (e.g., age,
weight, height, body mass index, allergies, biometrics, biomarkers,
environmental condition or setting preferences, prior or current
health or medical condition, recent exercise or other physical
activity, exercise schedule, recent food intake, current or prior
diet, medical history, current or previous prescriptions,
occupation, occupational history, hobbies, education, area of
residence, current or prior location, family medical history,
recent sleep schedule, gender, scene default preferences or
changes, recent travel schedule, goals, usage occasions, scene
preferences, scene changes, location, recent or current activity,
nationality, race, ethnicity, blood cholesterol level, social
status, marital status, relationship status, family members); (2)
information regarding one or more input, controllable or
controlling devices in the space or sub-space or external to the
space or sub-space such as the capability, performance range,
transition capabilities, current or potential operational state,
location, features, design, power use, power needs, reliability,
durability, etc. of a controlling or controllable device; (3)
information regarding one or more transducer devices in the space
or sub-space or external to the space or sub-space (e.g., setting,
capability, operation state, sensor type, sensitivity,
configuration, configuration options, features, operating limits,
reliability, durability, power use, power needs, condition,
location, etc.); (4) algorithms or other information for setting,
determining or analyzing environmental or other conditions within
the space or sub-space; (5) information related to conditions or
environmental parameters (e.g., temperature, air pressure,
humidity, lighting, sunshine, radiation levels, oxygen, wind,
altitude, location, air quality, radon exposure or levels, pollen
count, smell, smell distribution, noise level, source, distribution
or content, presence of pollutants or pollution level, crowd
density, traffic density, arsenic levels, ozone level, presence of
volatile organic compounds (VOCs), presence of other gases,
particulates or materials) external to the space or sub-space, (6)
information related to the use, configuration, operation, design,
occupancy, environmental conditions, adjustable features,
capabilities, location, intended use, current use, potential use,
condition, wellness score, wellness assessment, available devices
or equipment, color, furniture design and location, etc., of or in
a space or sub-space; (7) information regarding one or more
information sources within a space or sub-space or external to the
space or sub-space; (8) information regarding one or more alerting
devices within a space or sub-space or external to the space or
sub-space (e.g., setting, capability, operation state,
configuration, age, features, operating limits, reliability,
durability, power use, power needs, condition, location, etc.);
and/or (9) information regarding one or more pre-set or default
scenes which may be settable, resettable, changeable or
configurable within the space or sub-space using one or more of the
controlling and/or controllable devices. The system, space or
sub-space also may include or have access to one or more analysis
devices to process, evaluate, collect, make decisions based on,
share or provide, etc. this or other information.
[0276] In some embodiments, a scene may be adjustable
automatically, by request or on an ad-hoc basis by a user, a system
or device within the space or sub-space, one or more users, a
system or device external to or remote from the space or sub-space,
etc.
[0277] In some embodiments, a scene may be triggered or set for
only one sub-space within a bigger space such as a bedroom, home
office or kitchen within a home, a single apartment within an
apartment complex, a single classroom within a school, a single
meeting room within an office, a single patient room at a hospital,
a single dining room within a home, a single room at a hotel, a
single cabin on a cruise ship, etc. Alternatively, a scene may be
triggered across multiple sub-spaces within a space, such as a home
office and a dining room within an apartment, a bedroom and a
living room within a single family home, a bathroom and a bedroom
within a hotel suite, multiple apartments within an apartment
complex, multiple classrooms within a school, multiple offices
within a broader work location, multiple cabins on a ship, multiple
meeting or conference rooms within a work environment, multiple
recovery rooms within a hospital, multiple reception areas within a
hospital, etc.
[0278] In some embodiments, a system or one or more devices within
a space or sub-space may be connected or in communication
physically or wirelessly via a private network, public network, the
Internet or World Wide Web, a wireless network, secured or
unsecured network, hard-wired network, Bluetooth communication,
cellular communication, radio communication, line-of-sight
communication, etc. Different devices, systems, locations, spaces
or sub-spaces also may be in communication with each other in
multiple or different ways.
[0279] In some embodiments, a user or system may desire to create
environmental conditions or scenes within a space or sub-space that
promotes or encourages healthy behavior, aligns with a usage
occasion or goal of the user, builds healthy habits and/or provides
feedback to one or more users to change behavior or alter
environmental conditions with a space or sub-space to improve user
health. In some embodiments, a scene may be operating constantly,
during a majority of time, at designated times or intervals, for a
specific length of time, upon selection by a user or system, etc.
For example, a scene may establish environmental conditions within
a space or sub-space to help a user regulate the user's circadian
rhythm and to improve thermal comfort and air quality within the
space or sub-space. Such a scene may be operating continuously or
at regular intervals unless altered by the system or user,
interrupted by another scene set by the system or selected by a
user, etc. In some embodiments, scene settings, launch time and/or
duration time may vary by date, day of week, month of year, time of
day, season, external weather conditions, user preferences, user
needs, user goals, usage occasion, type of space or sub-space,
configuration or features of a space or sub-space, intended use of
a space or sub-space, number of occupants in a space or sub-space,
controllable devices available for a space or sub-space, or other
factor.
[0280] In some embodiments, a scene may be operating constantly,
during a majority of time, at designated times or intervals, for a
specific length of time, upon selection by a user or system, etc.
For example, a scene may establish environmental conditions within
a space or sub-space to help a user regulate the user's circadian
rhythm and to improve thermal comfort and air quality within the
space or sub-space. Such scene may be operating continuously or at
regular intervals unless altered by the system or user, interrupted
by another scene set by the system or selected by a user, etc.
[0281] In some embodiments, scenes operate in response to measuring
some prerequisite event or events. For example, if the wearable
device detects that the user has just exercised by measuring an
increased heart rate, and tracking a change in location indicating
a run a post workout scene is triggered. The scene turns on the
television to a fitness channel demonstrating stretches, a screen
in the kitchen displays instructions on how to prepare an
appropriate post workout meal, and a prompt is sent to the user
instructing them to rehydrate and indicating an appropriate amount
of water. The system can also estimate the amount of calories
burned and the expected results based on stored weight and BMI
measurements.
[0282] In some embodiments, one or more scenes may be operating
simultaneously within a space or sub-space. For example, a
relaxation directed scene may be operating in a bedroom within a
house or apartment while a focus directed scene may be operating in
an office within the house and a circadian rhythm setting scene is
operating in one or more other sub-spaces within the house.
[0283] Every individual is different and different groups of users,
or groups of users occupying a space or sub-space also is unique.
As a result, the specific scenes for a specific user state can
differ from one user to another user. Similarly, specific scenes
for specific groups of users may vary from one group to another
group. Therefore, in some embodiments, a system, analysis device,
controlling device, and/or one or more controllable devices may
constantly or at regular intervals (e.g., every half second,
second, five seconds, thirty seconds, minute, five minutes, ten
minutes, thirty minutes, hour, two hours, five hours, day, or other
time intervals) takes, receives or otherwise obtains information
regarding the environment for a space or sub-space and biometric or
other information for a specific user (e.g., age, health condition,
travel history, location, sleep history, current physical state) to
recommend, change or set one or more scenes in one or more spaces
or sub-spaces to promote frequently occurring user states or goals,
to meet user needs, to help address or satisfy relevant user
occasions, help the user overcome a bad habit or establish a good
habit, etc. For example, a system, controllable device, controlling
device or analysis device may recognize or otherwise determine by
itself or based on information received from a user, transducer
device, analysis device, input device, or other device or system
that the specific user travels a lot by taking in or otherwise
accessing or obtaining the user's digital calendar data or other
schedule information and that the user is not sleeping well. As a
result, dynamically the system may recommend or establish a jet lag
scene specifically tailored to the user and/or for the space or
sub-space that the user is in or will be in. The dynamically
created scene also may have one or more settings that vary
depending on the type, number, location, etc. of one or more
controllable devices or transducer devices in the space or
sub-space. In another example, the system may recognize or
otherwise determine that the user always drinks coffee at 3:00 PM.
Therefore, the user is prompted to have the energize scene always
turn on at 3:00 PM for a defined amount of time to help wake the
user up or stay alert. The amount of time may be determined by or
based on the user, the system, the type of space or sub-space,
features in the space or subs-space, other internal or external
environmental factors, etc. which may hinder or aid the user in
waking up or staying alert. If the user is in a larger group
setting, the scene may be set or established or directed locally to
the user (e.g., at the user's desk) as opposed to an entire space
or sub-space so as to reduce impact of the energize scene on other
users in the space or sub-space, impact on another scene that may
be established in the space or sub-space, etc. As another example,
a system may establish a specific default or other scene in a space
or sub-space based on a specific user's regular occupation of such
space or sub-space at a specific time each day (e.g., a user
returning home at 5:30 PM each day). Based on information received
from or about a user or other information regarding the current
environmental conditions within the space or sub-space (e.g., a
specific light fixture is broken, a specific odor is present, other
occupants are present, temperature is cooler than normal) or
external to the space or sub-space (e.g., outside air temperature
is hotter than normal, humidity level is higher than normal, rain
is present, change in sunset time, cloudy conditions), the system
or device may change the default or other scene implemented within
the space or sub-space at the specific time to better accommodate
the user, to facilitate the completion of the rationale or
reasoning behind the original scene, to establish the end
environmental conditions desired in the space or sub-space more
quickly given the other factors, to overcome conditions that may
inhibit performance or implementation of the original scene,
etc.
[0284] A dynamically established or implemented scene may vary in
one or more environmental parameters from a default scene for the
same user, for another user, for a group of users, etc., even if
the dynamically established or implemented scene is being used or
implemented for same general purpose of the default scene or is
otherwise similar to the default scene. For example, transitions
within or for a dynamically created scene for one or more
environmental parameters (e.g., lighting, air temperature,
background noise or aroma) may occur at different rates than in the
default scene. As another example, light color temperature or light
intensity within a dynamically controlled scene may be set or
transitioned to or away from differently within the dynamically
created scene than other similar scenes.
[0285] A breakdown of several illustrative scenes are provided in
table 2 below.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 User Initiated Scenes Relevant Scene Room
Parameters and Definition Rationale Circadian ALL Lighting The
purpose ROOMS: CCT: CCT will be set to 2300- of the Bedroom 2500 K
during the evening since Circadian Bathroom studies using lights
with a CCT of Setting for the Living 2300-2500 K have demonstrated
to bedroom is to Room have minimal effects on sleep, act as a
Kitchen alertness, and glare. The CCT will default scene Office
increase gradually through in order to astronomical, nautical and
civil create twilights, reaching a peak of ambiance that 6500 K
where it will remain until may help the onset of sunset (entering
civil residents twilight again), when it will maintain a reverse
the process, reducing to healthy and 2300-2500 K by nightfall. A
table robust of local sunset times will be circadian included in
the programming. rhythm Intensity: Lighting intensity will through
be 100% during the day and specific maintained at about 5% at night
in settings of order to achieve these illuminance lighting and
levels at eye-height (as indicated blackout before, the actual
illuminance shades levels depend on a number of systems factors of
lighting design, interior throughout design, etc.). A table of
local the entire day. sunset times will be included in the
programming. EML: For proper alignment of the circadian system to
the normal day, it is essential that there is a contrast between
the EML during the day and during the night, with a greater EML
throughout the day and lower at night. Blackout Shades The blackout
shades will open 1.5 hour before sunrise and close 1.5 hours after
sunset. Shades can be automatically opened if the dawn simulation
scene is active, closed during the ready for sleep scene, or can be
opened/closed by residents manually. If shades are open, they will
automatically close 1.5 hours after sunset. A table of
sunrise/sunset times specific to location can be included in the
programming. Energize Bedroom Lighting The purpose Bathroom CCT:
6500 K of the Office Intensity: 100% intensity Energizing Blackout
Out Shades Scene in the The blackout shade position is bedroom is
to controlled by the local sunset time. create During daytime
before sunset, to ambiance that maximize the daylight in the may
help bedroom for the energizing scene, the residents the shade is
recommended to be feel more set at fully open. At 1.5 hours after
energized sunset, in order to protect the through residents'
privacy, the blackout lighting, shades are recommended to be set
shades, and at fully closed. HVAC Temperature system Indoor
temperature between 20.degree. settings at C. and 22.degree. C. is
found to have daytime or positive impact on occupant nighttime.
alertness and performance. Given that the temperature set-point
throughout the day and night depends on individual thermal comfort
preference, cultural differences, energy considerations,
activities, clothing insulation, and many other factors, the
temperature value for the Energizing Scene is set to be 2.degree.
C. lower than the temperature setting prior to switching on the
Energizing Scene Relax ALL Lighting The purpose ROOMS: CCT: 2700 K
of the relax Bedroom Intensity: 50% intensity scene in the Bathroom
Blackout Out Shades bedroom is Living The blackout shade position
is to create Room recommended to be fully closed to ambiance that
Kitchen protect the residents' privacy. may help the Office
Temperature residents Given that the temperature set- feel more
point throughout the day and night relaxed depends on individual
thermal through comfort preference, cultural lighting, differences,
energy shades, considerations, activities, clothing and HVAC
insulation, and many other factors, system the temperature
set-point is set to settings at be 2.degree. C. warmer of its
current daytime or setting. nighttime. Play Bedroom Lighting The
purpose Living Intensity: 100%, with the ability to of the play
Room adjust via smartphone app. scene in the Dynamic colors can be
used for bedroom is the play scene. Time intervals for to create
transitioning can be adjusted exciting and (from 1 second to 60
seconds) colorful through a smartphone app. The ambiance. default
transition time is 3 seconds. The residents also may be able to
pick a specific color for the entire time through their smartphone
app. Rainbow mode: full color light cycles through red colors at
the beginning to pink/purple colors at the end; Random mode: use a
random algorithm (e.g., Monte Carlo) to select a color from the
entire table and cycle through different random colors; Manual
mode: the color space is shown on the smartphone app, and the
occupant can pick any color manually through the app. Blackout
Shades The blackout shade position will be fully closed to protect
residents' privacy. The residents will have the ability to raise
the shades if they want to. Temperature The play scene is designed
for entertainment-related physical activities, which may increase
occupants' metabolic rate. Given that the temperature setpoint
throughout the day and night depends on individual thermal comfort
preference, culture difference, energy considerations, activities,
clothing insulation, and many other factors, the air temperature
setpoint is set to be 2.degree. C. lower compared to its current
setting. Dawn Bedroom Lighting The Dawn Simulation ** Could EML,
CCT, Intensity Simulation be other Gradually increasing light Scene
rooms if intensity and color temperature provides a wanted during
sunrise is the sun's natural carefully pattern seen in nature.
Illuminance coordinated levels increasing from 0 to 250- schedule
of 300 lux have been found to have six an effect on improving
cognitive parameters - performance; earlier awakening, melanopic
feeling more alert at awakening, lux (m-lux), getting up easier and
having illuminance higher alertness at 2.sup.nd lesson at (lux),
school in children and adolescents; correlated improved alerting
effect in color adolescents; significantly gradient temperature
reduction in heart rate during the (CCT), transition from sleep to
environmental wakefulness; improved perceived temperature sleep
quality, greater alertness, (.degree. C.), sound improved cognitive
and physical intensity performance after waking; (dBA), and
improved subjective well-being, blackout tension and mood, and
improved shade cognitive performance; significant movement -
reduction in sleep inertia severity to ensure an complaints and
improved improved subjective well-being; waking up significantly
lower levels of experience sleepiness and greater levels of and
circadian subjective activity; greater arousal entrainment
(reporting being more alert and over time. less tired); improved
subjective sleep quality; and improved quality of awakening.
Blackout Out Shades The blinds preferably do not go up earlier than
at the end of the 30- minute dawn simulation period because if the
light levels outside are greater than those provided by the dawn
simulator at that time, then the lighting schedule would get thrown
off track. In some embodiments there may be two or more layers of
shades so that when a blackout shade rises, there is still a shade
in front of the window that lets some light in but provides privacy
for the user or in the space or sub-space. Electrochromatic glass
also may be used to provide the benefits or impacts of shades or
blinds and visible light transmittance (VLT) value may of such
glass may increase over time during dawn simulation scene.
Temperature The specific temperature values, or the starting value
selected in the evening from which the temperature will start to
drop until sunrise and then increase after sunrise may be chosen by
the resident. However, the falling/increasing range will be
defined, e.g., a drop in 3.degree. C. then an increase in 3.degree.
C. The ranges may be informed by/consider the average drop in
nighttime temperature and increase after sunrise at a given time of
year, in the geographical area where the residents live; however,
the temperature ranges in the home do not need to be as
extreme/uncomfortable as they are in nature. Sound The dawn
simulator sound could vary between 20 and around 50-55 dBA, with
the highest levels occurring during the time after the highest
lighting intensity has been reached. The goal is to awaken with
increasing light levels, and ultimately circadian entrainment, not
to be awoken by greater sound levels; sound is a component of the
experience, but is not intended to act as an alarm to ensure
awakening. The sound is increased over the final few minutes (e.g.,
4 minutes) of the dawn simulation, and the sound continues to play
at the loudest level (50-55 dBA) until disabled by the user. Ready
for Bedroom Lighting The purpose
Sleep After the scene is activated, the of the Ready fully
color-tunable LED for Sleep downlights are programmed to scene in
the provide a CCT and light intensity bedroom is to that gradually
transitions from the create a current setting to 2500 K and 10%,
transitional respectively, over 15-60 minutes, ambiance to
depending on the user's choice prepare the (15, 30, 45, 60
minutes), then residents for reducing the intensity to 0% 5 sleep
through seconds after the set time has lighting, elapsed. shades,
and Blackout Out Shades HVAC The blackout shades are system
programmed to stay fully closed. settings at Temperature nighttime.
Since thermal comfort is highly individual, depending on insulation
layers, and individual and cultural differences, we are
recommending relative changes in temperature, dependent upon what
the occupants set as their optimal temperature on the in-built
thermostat. A 2.degree. C.-3.degree. C. change in temperature over
a 30 minute- 3-hour period starting at sunset time has been shown
to have significant effects on sleep onset and waking. Night
Bedroom Illuminance The purpose Light Illuminance below 15 lux (at
of the Night corneal level in the horizontal Light scene in angle
of gaze) has been found to the bedroom evoke minimal melatonin
phase is to provide shift. However, given the dark minimum adapted
state of the retina, the lighting for intention to not wake up a
partner residents to who may also be sleeping in the safely get up
bedroom, and to minimize and navigate melatonin suppression and the
room at circadian disruption, the night with illuminance of night
lights may be reduced even lower - at or below 5 lux, as disruption
to measured at corneal level in the their horizontal angle of gaze.
circadian CCT rhythm. The recommended CCT is 2300 K or lower, based
on a study that found no effect of melatonin secretion with
exposure to light of 2300 K, 200 lux (at eye level) for 1.5 hours
at midnight, whereas melatonin secretion was measurably suppressed
at 3000 K and acutely suppressed at 5000 K. Light Wavelength The
various types of light that make up the electromagnetic spectrum
differ in wavelength. The human circadian system is particularly
sensitive to short wavelength light in the blue spectrum, with peak
circadian sensitivity at 470-490 nm. At the wavelength of 555 nm
and greater, the relative sensitivity to melatonin suppression
drops significantly. Therefore, the majority of the spectral power
of the night lights may be greater than 555 nm, which still
significantly stimulates the image formation necessary to safely
navigate to the bathroom, while minimizing the proportion of 480 nm
band of the spectrum.
EXAMPLES
[0286] A number of scenes are described in detail below. These are
only intended as illustrative examples. Many scenes not described
below can be implemented based on the teachings of the present
disclosure. Similarly, the scenes below can be altered and still
achieve the desired effect.
Example 1: Circadian Scene
[0287] Everyone experiences natural fluctuations in alertness and
fatigue or sleepiness on a daily basis. Alertness tends to be
lowest in the early morning and in the evening before sleep, also
slumping in the mid- to late-afternoon. These patterns are highly
associated with the periodicity of the circadian rhythm. Multiple
bodily processes, including sleep and digestion are regulated in
part by a central circadian clock that is located in an area of the
brain called the hypothalamus. The time of the circadian clock is
set by the timing of light exposure, which it receives via
specialized cells in the eye, called intrinsically photosensitive
retinal ganglion cells or ipRGCs. Daily, regularly-timed light
exposure is required to maintain a healthy and robust circadian
rhythm; this process is called "entrainment". Many aspects of light
exposure determine the effectiveness of the exposure, including its
timing, intensity, wavelength composition (color), and duration. In
general, light in the evening and early night will delay (i.e.,
events will be timed to occur later the next day) the circadian
rhythm, while light in the morning advances it earlier in the day
(i.e., events will be timed to occur earlier the next day).
Standard electric sources of "white light" can vary significantly
in terms of the circadian impact due to different spectral power
distributions.
[0288] Besides its role in aligning our internal biological clock,
light can also evoke an acute and immediate change on subjective
and objective measures of alertness, including psychomotor
vigilance tests (PVT, a simple sustained attention task) and
electroencephalography (EEG). The purpose of the Circadian Setting
for the bedroom is to act as a default scene in order to create
ambiance that may help residents maintain a healthy and robust
circadian rhythm through specific settings of lighting and blackout
shades systems throughout the entire day.
[0289] The energizing scene is the first and default control scene
in the bedroom that can be activated by both the keypad and the
smart phone app. After the scene is activated, the fully
color-tunable LED downlights are programmed to provide certain
intensity and correlated color temperature (CCT) based on local
sunrise and sunset times, which vary based on longitude and
latitude as well as time of the year. The blackout shades
automatically close 1.5 hours after sunset time and open 1.5 hour
after sunrise. They can also be automatically opened using the dawn
simulation scene or manually by the residents. Sigmoid functions
are implemented in the transition periods to minimize the
noticeable change among different parameters.
[0290] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), sunrise and sunset times, intensity, CCT,
blackout shades, and temperature, used for a circadian scene.
Illuminance is the amount of light reaching a surface area from a
light source and is commonly measured in either lux or foot candles
(unit: lux or foot candle; 1 lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2). The
lux unit, furthermore, is normalized to the color sensitivity of a
standard observer at 1 m, with a peak sensitivity at .about.550 nm
(green), representing the accumulated activity of the three cone
system in the foveal region of the eye (short-, middle-, and
long-wavelength sensitive, or the blue, green, and red cones).
Thus, the lux unit is useful in describing the amount of light that
will be perceived by conscious high acuity, image-forming vision.
The circadian system, however, relies on a combination of the three
cone system and a system that is intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the
melanopsin system. Unlike the three cone system used for
image-formation, melanopsin is mostly sensitive to short (blue,
.about.490 nm) wavelengths of light. A new unit, the melanopic lux
(also referred to as melanopic illuminance) has been proposed as
the amount of light that enters our eye affecting the melanopsin
pigment in ipRGCs, taken as a multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a
given melanopic ratio. For proper alignment of the circadian system
to the normal day, it is essential that there is a contrast between
the EML during the day and during the night, with a greater EML
throughout the day and lower at night. The greater the daytime
light exposure, the higher the night time light exposure can be
without deleterious effects on the circadian system.
[0291] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may also be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0292] The US Naval Observatory (USNO) uses the definition of
sunrise and sunset as the point at which the upper edge of the
sun's disc is on the horizon. Civil twilight is a period of time
immediately before sunrise and after sunset until the center of the
sun is geometrically 6 degrees below the horizon; nearly all
objects can still be clearly seen during this period. Nautical
twilight refers to a time frame when the center of the sun is 6-12
degrees below the horizon; object shapes and the horizon itself are
still visible (named for mariners using the horizon for
navigation). Finally, astronomical twilight is when the center of
the sun is positioned 12-18 degrees below the horizon, before
complete darkness (on a moonless night); illumination is mostly
indistinguishable.
[0293] Exposure to bright light during the day is significantly
correlated with improved `sleep quality` and lower `fatigue`, when
controlling for gender, age, eye correction, seasonal sensitivity
and chronotype (i.e., morningness or eveningness of an individual).
Daytime exposure to bright light (>1000 lux), as compared to dim
light (5 lux), decreases sleepiness and improves sustained
attention. Hence, lighting intensity will be 100% during the day
and maintained at about 5% at night in order to achieve these
illuminance levels at eye-height (as indicated before, the actual
illuminance levels depend on a number of factors of lighting
design, interior design, etc.). A table of local sunset times will
be included in the programming.
[0294] A field measurement will typically be conducted to correlate
different light intensity levels with illuminance levels in
regularly occupied areas in order to meet the requirements.
[0295] In one approach, a circadian scene has a CCT set to
2300-2500K during the evening since studies using lights with a CCT
of 2300-2500K have demonstrated to have minimal effects on sleep,
alertness, and glare. The CCT will increase gradually through
astronomical, nautical and civil twilights, reaching a peak of
6500K where it will remain until the onset of sunset (entering
civil twilight again), when it will reverse the process, reducing
to 2300-2500K by nightfall. A table of local sunset times will be
included in the programming.
[0296] Although CCT is a widely used parameter in the lighting
industry for setting up the system, a certain CCT is not directly
correlated with a type of spectral power distribution (SPD), which
correlates to the actual EML values. In other words, a particular
CCT value can have numerous types of SPD, which may result in
different EML values, and therefore may have different circadian
effects on the residents.
[0297] During the circadian setting, the blackout shades will open
1.5 hour before sunrise and close 1.5 hours after sunset. Shades
can be automatically opened if the dawn simulation scene is active,
closed during the ready for sleep scene, or can be opened/closed by
residents manually. If shades are open, they will automatically
close 1.5 hours after sunset (the maximum nautical and civil
twilight in Australia). A table of sunrise/sunset times specific to
location will be included in the programming.
[0298] Given that the temperature setpoint throughout the day and
night depends on individual thermal comfort preferences, cultural
differences, energy considerations, activities, clothing
insulation, and many other factors, the circadian scene will not
alter the temperature setpoint, but will allow other scenes to
automatically alter the temperature based on different use cases,
and allow to be manually changed by the occupants.
[0299] FIG. 12 illustrates the sequence of operations for the
circadian scene described above.
Example 2: Energizing Scene
[0300] The human body clock runs on a schedule that is naturally
about 24 hours and 15-30 minutes long. Unless regularly reset, this
15 to 30-minute discrepancy makes us want to go to sleep later and
wake later, relying on alarm clocks in the morning in order to
function on a 24-hour day schedule. Bright light is the strongest
entraining agent of the human circadian rhythm, and exposure to
light in the morning can make waking up easier. Morning use of
bright light is known to phase-advance (shifting the sleep phase
earlier), whereas evening use is known to phase-delay (shifting the
sleep phase later) the circadian rhythm. In order to have sleep and
wake patterns that are better aligned with the schedules of work,
school or social activities, individuals who are very early risers
may want to delay the timing of their sleep, whereas "night owls"
may want to advance it. Phase advancing may also be of interest to
individuals who are traveling east in order to reduce the symptoms
of jet lag, and to shift workers on early morning shifts who want
to fall asleep and wake earlier.
[0301] There are a variety of psychological factors that determine
how "energized" or "awake" an individual feels. Two external
factors that influence this internal state are the thermal and
lighting environments. It is important to note that thermal
perception is related to not only air temperature, but also air
velocity, relative humidity, clothing insulation, occupant
metabolic rate, and mean radiant temperature of the environment, as
defined by ASHRAE thermal comfort model. High indoor illuminance
(1000 lux, as compared to the normal 200 lux) at eye level has
alertness-enhancing effects (feeling more energetic and less
sleepy) during both daytime and nighttime. The relationship between
alertness and illuminance can be described as a sigmoid (s-shaped)
function with a linear rise, representing increasing effects of
light intensity on alertness, in normal room lighting.
[0302] The purpose of the Energizing Scene in the bedroom is to
create ambiance that may help the residents feel more energized
through lighting, shades, and HVAC system settings at daytime or
nighttime.
[0303] The energizing scene is generally the second control scene
in the bedroom that can be activated by both the keypad and the
smart phone app. After the energizing scene is activated, the fully
color-tunable LED downlights are programmed to provide high
correlated color temperature (CCT=6500K) and full intensity (100%).
The blackout shades are programmed to stay open during daytime for
maximum daylight, but fully closed after sunset for privacy. The
thermostat is programmed to provide cooler air temperature by
decreasing the current thermostat setting by 2 degrees Celsius.
[0304] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), intensity, CCT, and temperature, used for an
energizing scene. Illuminance is the amount of light reaching a
surface area from a light source and is commonly measured in either
lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot candle; 1 lux=1 lumen/m2, 1
fc=1 lumen/ft2). The lux unit, furthermore, is normalized to the
color sensitivity of a standard observer at 1 m, with a peak
sensitivity at .about.550 nm (green), representing the accumulated
activity of the three cone system in the foveal region of the eye
(short-, middle-, and long-wavelength sensitive, or the blue,
green, and red cones). Thus, the lux unit is useful in describing
the amount of light that will be perceived by conscious high
acuity, image-forming vision. The circadian system, however, relies
on a combination of the three cone system and a system that is
intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the melanopsin system. Unlike the three
cone system used for image-formation, melanopsin is mostly
sensitive to short (blue, .about.490 nm4) wavelengths of light. A
new unit, the melanopic lux (also referred to as melanopic
illuminance) has been proposed as the amount of light that enters
our eye affecting the melanopsin pigment in ipRGCs, taken as a
multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a given melanopic ratio. For
proper alignment of the circadian system to the normal day, it is
essential that there is a contrast between the EML during the day
and during the night, with a greater EML throughout the day and
lower at night. The greater the daytime light exposure, the higher
the night time light exposure can be without deleterious effects on
the circadian system.
[0305] As discussed above, the effects of light on the energized
state will be due to an effect that is measured by a combination of
lux and melanopic lux. Light has both a direct and indirect effect
on mood and emotion. The indirect effect of light would be that
mediated by changes in circadian synchronization. A circadian clock
that is exposed to regular light patterns will lead to improved
mood and energy levels. Individuals with erratic light exposure
patterns often express depressive symptoms, which can then lead to
a negative cycle in which the depression then leads to increasingly
erratic light patterns. Light also has a direct effect on mood and
energy levels. This is also mediated by the ipRGC system through
the activation of non-circadian circuits in the hypothalamus of the
brain. Humans must receive sufficient light exposure to maintain an
optimal mood.
[0306] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0307] The intensity (brightness) of the light has an impact on
circadian phase shift, mood, and alertness. To provide the highest
level of electric lighting, the intensity is recommended to be set
at maximum level (100%) for the energizing scene.
[0308] A field measurement may be conducted to ensure that 100%
intensity of electric lighting in combination with daylight will
result in 1000-2000 lux in regularly occupied areas of the bedroom
for an energizing scene, as measured on the horizontal plane or in
a typical angle of gaze.
[0309] The CCT of a light source is "a specification of the color
appearance of the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color to
the color of light from a reference source when heated to a
particular temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K). Based on
the research on the effects of bright light exposure on circadian
phase shift, mood and alertness, the CCT for the Energizing Light
scene is recommended to be set at 6500K for the energizing
scene.
[0310] Although CCT is a widely used parameter in the lighting
industry for setting up the system, a certain CCT is not directly
correlated with a type of spectral power distribution (SPD), which
correlates to the actual EML values. In other words, a particular
CCT value can have numerous types of SPD, which may result in
different EML values, and therefore may have different circadian
effects on the residents.
[0311] In one approach, the blackout shade position is controlled
by the local sunset time. During daytime before sunset, to maximize
the daylight in the bedroom for the energizing scene, the shade is
recommended to be set at fully open. At 1.5 hours after sunset, in
order to protect the residents' privacy, the blackout shades are
recommended to be set at fully closed. In one illustrative
approach, a table of local sunset times will be included in the
programming.
[0312] Thermal environments can influence physiological and
psychological parameters associated with alertness, focus and
comfort. Although temperatures below 23 degrees Celsius are
typically associated with perceptions of discomfort, moderate
exposure to cooler temperatures (20 degrees Celsius) have been
shown to activate the nervous system controlling thermoregulation,
which elevates mental alertness. Performance in general has been
found to decrease as temperature rises above 24 degrees Celsius.
Indoor temperature between 20 degrees Celsius and 22 degrees
Celsius is found to have positive impact on occupant alertness and
performance. Given that the temperature set-point throughout the
day and night depends on individual thermal comfort preference,
cultural differences, energy considerations, activities, clothing
insulation, and many other factors, the temperature value for the
energizing Scene is set to be 2 degrees Celsius lower than the
temperature setting prior to switching on the Energizing Scene.
[0313] FIG. 13 illustrates the sequence of operations for the
energizing scene described above.
Example 3: Relax Scene
[0314] The indoor luminous environment has an impact on a person's
visual and non-visual physiological and psychological functions.
High indoor illuminance (1000 lux, as compared to the normal 200
lux) at eye level has alertness-enhancing effects (feeling more
energetic and less sleepy) during both daytime and nighttime. The
relationship between alertness and illuminance can be described as
a sigmoid (s-shaped) function with a linear rise, representing
increasing effects of light intensity on alertness, in normal room
lighting. The color temperature of light also impacts alertness,
with one study showing that exposure to low correlated color
temperature (2700K) in children is "efficient at creating relaxing
environments such as for those causing sleepiness". Another study
on students showed that diastolic blood pressure under high CCT
(7500K) was higher by 15% compared to that under other color
temperature conditions. A study on adults also reported that
participants felt more relaxed in warmer CCT environments compared
to those with higher CCT.
[0315] Human thermal perception is related to not only air
temperature, but also air velocity, relative humidity, clothing
insulation, occupant metabolic rate, and mean radiant temperature
of the environment, as defined by ASHRAE thermal comfort model. The
perceptions of ambient thermal environments change with age, as
elderly populations are physically more vulnerable to colder
conditions. Indoor temperature between 20 degrees Celsius and 22
degrees Celsius is found to have positive impact on occupant
alertness and performance. Lower room air temperature increased
whole-body cooling sensation, which activates the brain and excites
the nervous system controlling thermoregulation. Therefore, a
higher room air temperature is desired for the Relax Scene.
[0316] The purpose of the relax scene in the bedroom is to create
ambiance that may help the residents feel more relaxed through
lighting, shades, and HVAC system settings at daytime or
nighttime.
[0317] The Relax Scene is generally a scene for the bedroom that
can be activated by both a keypad and smart phone app or other
input device. After the relax scene is activated, the fully
color-tunable LED downlights are programmed to provide low
intensity (50%) and low CCT (2700K) light, the blackout or privacy
shades on windows are programmed to be fully closed for both
daytime and nighttime for privacy, and the thermostat is programmed
to provide warmer temperature (+2 degrees Celsius). The shades may
close over time or immediately. In some embodiments where multiple
layers of shades are used, privacy shades may be lowered
immediately while full blackout shades are lowered over time or
also immediately. Electrochomatic glass also may be used to vary
the transparency of the glass or the amount of light passing
through the glass.
[0318] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), intensity, CCT, blackout shades, and
temperature, used for a relax scene. Illuminance is the amount of
light reaching a surface area from a light source and is commonly
measured in either lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot candle; 1
lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2). The lux unit, furthermore, is
normalized to the color sensitivity of a standard observer at 1 m,
with a peak sensitivity at .about.550 nm (green), representing the
accumulated activity of the three cone system in the foveal region
of the eye (short-, middle-, and long-wavelength sensitive, or the
blue, green, and red cones). Thus, the lux unit is useful in
describing the amount of light that will be perceived by conscious
high acuity, image-forming vision. The circadian system, however,
relies on a combination of the three cone system and a system that
is intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the melanopsin system. Unlike the three
cone system used for image-formation, melanopsin is mostly
sensitive to short (blue, .about.490 nm4) wavelengths of light. A
new unit, the melanopic lux (also referred to as melanopic
illuminance) has been proposed as the amount of light that enters
our eye affecting the melanopsin pigment in ipRGCs, taken as a
multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a given melanopic ratio. For
proper alignment of the circadian system to the normal day, it is
essential that there is a contrast between the EML during the day
and during the night, with a greater EML throughout the day and
lower at night. The greater the daytime light exposure, the higher
the night time light exposure can be without deleterious effects on
the circadian system.
[0319] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0320] The intensity (brightness) of the light has an impact on
circadian phase shift, mood, and alertness. The relationship
between alertness and illuminance can be described as a sigmoid
(s-shaped) function with a linear rise, representing increasing
effects of light intensity on alertness, in normal room lighting.
During daytime when light intensity is greater, meaning that there
is a reduction in the sensitivity of the circadian system because
the background light intensity is greater. Studies have shown high
illuminance (1000 lux compared to 200 lux) at eye level to have
alertness-enhancing effects (feeling more energetic and less
sleepy) during both daytime and nighttime. In order to help the
residents achieve a relaxing effect, the intensity of the Relax
Scene is set at 50%. The exact light intensity will be determined
in practice when measuring the light levels in the specific
room.
[0321] A field measurement may be conducted to ensure that 50%
intensity will result in less than 200 lux at regularly occupied
areas of the bedroom for the relax scene.
[0322] The CCT of a light source is "a specification of the color
appearance of the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color to
the color of light from a reference source when heated to a
particular temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K). Studies
have shown low CCT (2700K) to be efficient in creating a relaxed
environment.
[0323] Although CCT is a widely used parameter in the lighting
industry for setting up the system, a certain CCT is not directly
correlated with a type of spectral power distribution (SPD), which
correlates to the actual EML values. In other words, a particular
CCT value can have numerous types of SPD, which may result in
different EML values, and therefore may have different circadian
effects on the residents.
[0324] The blackout shade position is recommended to be fully
closed to protect the residents' privacy and may be programmed to
operate as such for the relax scene.
[0325] Given that the temperature setpoint throughout the day and
night depends on individual thermal comfort preference, cultural
differences, energy considerations, activities, clothing
insulation, and many other factors, the temperature setpoint is set
to be 2 degrees Celsius warmer of its current setting for the relax
setting.
[0326] FIG. 14 illustrates the sequence of operations for the
relaxation scene described above.
Example 4: Play Scene
[0327] The play scene is designed for residents to perform
entertainment-related physical activities. The purpose of the play
scene in the bedroom is to create exciting and colorful ambiance
through certain settings of lighting, shades, and HVAC systems at
daytime or nighttime.
[0328] The play scene is generally scene for a bedroom or other
sub-space that can be activated by a keypad, smart phone app, or
other input device. After the scene is activated, the fully
color-tunable LED downlights are programmed to provide dynamic
color show with 100% intensity. The blackout shades are programmed
to be fully closed for both daytime and nighttime for privacy. The
thermostat is programmed to decrease the temperature by 2 degrees
Celsius.
[0329] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as CCT,
intensity, blackout shades, and temperature, used for a play scene.
Dynamic colors may be used for the play scene. Possible colors that
can be considered for transitioning at certain time intervals and
can be adjusted (from 1 second to 60 seconds) through a smartphone
app. The default transition time is 3 seconds. The residents also
may be able to pick a specific color for the entire time through
their smartphone app for the play scene.
[0330] Three play scene modes can generally be set: rainbow mode
(with full color light cycles through red colors at the beginning
to pink/purple colors at the end); random mode (use a random
algorithm (e.g., Monte Carlo) to select a color from the entire
table and cycle through different random colors); and a manual mode
(where the color space is shown on the smartphone app, and the
occupant can pick any color manually through the app).
[0331] To provide the highest level of electric lighting level in
the room for the play scene, the intensity is recommended to be set
at the maximum level (100%) for the play scene. The residents have
the ability to adjust the lighting intensity through the smart
phone app.
[0332] The blackout shade position will be fully closed to protect
residents' privacy for the play scene. The residents will have the
ability to raise the shades if they want to.
[0333] The play scene is designed for entertainment-related
physical activities, which may increase occupants' metabolic rate.
Given that the temperature setpoint throughout the day and night
depends on individual thermal comfort preference, culture
difference, energy considerations, activities, clothing insulation,
and many other factors, the air temperature setpoint is set to be 2
degrees Celsius lower compared to its current setting in the play
scene.
[0334] FIG. 15 illustrates the sequence of operations for the play
scene described above.
Example 5: Dawn Simulation Scene
[0335] Waking up with gradually increasing light--dawn
simulation--can help to create a more pleasant waking up
experience, including greater alertness, better mood, lower sleep
inertia, and over time lead to improved circadian entrainment. The
Dawn Simulation Scene provides a carefully coordinated schedule of
six parameters--melanopic lux (m-lux), illuminance (lux),
correlated color temperature (CCT), environmental temperature
(.degree. C.), sound intensity (dBA), and blackout shade
movement--to ensure an improved waking up experience and circadian
entrainment over time.
[0336] The dawn simulation scene can be activated via the smart
phone app; the activation time needs to be set in the evening,
prior to going to bed or can be synchronized with the alarm clock
setting. Once activated, the fully color-tunable LED downlights are
programmed to provide a gradual increase in CCT (1400K-2750K) and
intensity (0-100%) over the course of 30 minutes. Over the last 2
minutes, nature sounds (forest birds, ocean waves, rain, etc.) are
starting to play at a gradually increasing volume (30 dB-55 dB),
reaching the maximum dB level 4 minutes after the maximum
illuminance has been reached. At the end of the 30 minutes, the
blinds go up, while the lights stay on at the same setting they had
reached by the end of the 30 minutes for another 20 minutes, and
are then changed to default bedroom control scene--circadian (or
can be turned off via keypad or smartphone app). The sounds can
either stay on at the maximum level that was reached at the
4-minute peak for the rest of the time that the lights stay on, or
can be turned off via keypad or smartphone app. After the dawn
simulation scene is complete, the lights may slowly fade over a
particular amount of time to correct the circadian setting for the
particular time of day.
[0337] In addition, after the dawn scene is activated, the
thermostat is programmed to gradually increase the temperature by 2
degrees Celsius over the course of 30 minutes, then increase by
another 1 degrees Celsius over the course of 20 minutes.
[0338] The thermostat is also programmed to decrease in temperature
over a period of time via the Ready for Sleep setting until the
start of the Dawn Simulation scene is activated. Sigmoid functions
are implemented in the transition periods to minimize the
noticeable change between different intensity levels.
[0339] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), intensity, CCT, speaker, blackout shades, and
temperature, used for a dawn simulation scene. Illuminance is the
amount of light reaching a surface area from a light source and is
commonly measured in either lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot
candle; 1 lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2). The lux unit,
furthermore, is normalized to the color sensitivity of a standard
observer at 1 m, with a peak sensitivity at .about.550 nm (green),
representing the accumulated activity of the three cone system in
the foveal region of the eye (short-, middle-, and long-wavelength
sensitive, or the blue, green, and red cones). Thus, the lux unit
is useful in describing the amount of light that will be perceived
by conscious high acuity, image-forming vision. The circadian
system, however, relies on a combination of the three cone system
and a system that is intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the melanopsin
system. Unlike the three cone system used for image-formation,
melanopsin is mostly sensitive to short (blue, .about.490 nm)
wavelengths of light. A new unit, the melanopic lux (also referred
to as melanopic illuminance) has been proposed as the amount of
light that enters our eye affecting the melanopsin pigment in
ipRGCs, taken as a multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a given
melanopic ratio. For proper alignment of the circadian system to
the normal day, it is essential that there is a contrast between
the EML during the day and during the night, with a greater EML
throughout the day and lower at night. The greater the daytime
light exposure, the higher the night time light exposure can be
without deleterious effects on the circadian system.
[0340] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0341] Gradually increasing light intensity and color temperature
during sunrise is the sun's natural pattern seen in nature. In
several studies, dawn simulation devices had an increasing
illuminance levels from 0 to 250-300 lux. These levels were found
to have an effect on improving cognitive performance; earlier
awakening, feeling more alert at awakening, getting up easier and
having higher alertness at 2nd lesson at school in children and
adolescents; improved alerting effect in adolescents; significantly
gradient reduction in heart rate during the transition from sleep
to wakefulness; improved perceived sleep quality, greater
alertness, improved cognitive and physical performance after
waking; improved subjective well-being, tension and mood, and
improved cognitive performance; significant reduction in sleep
inertia severity complaints and improved subjective well-being;
significantly lower levels of sleepiness and greater levels of
subjective activity; greater arousal (reporting being more alert
and less tired); improved subjective sleep quality; and improved
quality of awakening.
[0342] A field measurement may be conducted to correlate different
intensity levels with the actual illuminance and EML at the bed
surface, as measured on the horizontal plane or in a typical angle
of gaze, to ensure the illuminance and EML requirements are
met.
[0343] Although CCT is a widely used parameter in the lighting
industry for setting up the system, a certain CCT is not directly
correlated with a type of spectral power distribution (SPD). In
other words, a particular CCT value can have numerous types of SPD,
which may result in different EML values, and therefore may have
different circadian effects on occupants.
[0344] The presence of sounds before, at and after sunrise--birds,
insects, and other animals, flowing water, rain, thunder, ocean
waves and others are commonly heard in nature. Sound intensity
depends on the distance from the source of the sound, frequency of
the sound, temperature, humidity, and various other factors. The
range of dBA levels recorded in nature for bird sounds (flying,
singing, song/call notes) varies from 30 to 62 dBA at a distance of
5-100 meters from the source; the range of wind sounds: 20-62 dBA;
rainfall: 40-50 dBA; rustling leaves: 20-40 dBA; stream of flowing
water: 73 dBA; pounding surf: 70 dBA; thunderstorm: 95-120 dB;
waterfall: 45 dBA.
[0345] While there is a very wide variation of sound intensities
with which people wake up (depending on the person's age, stage of
sleep, hearing impaired/non-impaired status, intoxication, gender
and others), a review of studies on fire alarm sound levels reports
that dBA levels of 55-60 at pillow level will wake the average
unimpaired sleeping adult.
[0346] The research on the effects of noise/sound and music on
waking up/sleep inertia is scarce, but one study looking at the
effects of sleep inertia dissipation after a 20-minute nap found
greater reduction in subjective sleepiness, and further reduction
in sleepiness and subjective comfort when hearing music of a higher
preference.
[0347] Based on the sound intensity levels observed in nature that
are noted above, the dawn simulator sound could vary between 20 and
around 50-55 dBA, for the dawn simulation scene, with the highest
levels occurring during the time after the highest lighting
intensity has been reached. The goal is to awaken with increasing
light levels, and ultimately circadian entrainment, not to be
awoken by greater sound levels; sound is a component of the
experience, but is not intended to act as an alarm to ensure
awakening.
[0348] The thermal environment just prior to and immediately
following a sleep period can have a significant impact on the ease
of sleep initiation, the quality of sleep, and the rapidity of the
transition from sleep to wake. During sleep, there is a 1.degree.
C. drop in the temperature of the brain, which activates
cold-sensitive neurons in the brain that help to promote sleep. In
the hours prior to normal arousal from sleep, there is a gradual
return to daytime temperature in the brain, which helps to
deactivate these sleep-promoting neurons and allow for a normal
transition to wakefulness. The external thermal environment can be
manipulated to accentuate this transition and create a state that
is more conducive to arousal from sleep. More specifically, heat
loss occurs through specialized blood vessels, arteriovenous
anastomoses, which are present in the palms of the hands, soles of
the feet, and on the face. During the arousal phase immediately
preceding the transition from sleep to wake, there may be an
increase in core body and brain temperature, which can be aided by
a slightly warmer environment.
[0349] Temperature may vary throughout the day to reflect the
temperature variation outdoors, both in terms of time of day as
well as in terms of seasonality. Changes in temperature during the
later portion of the day, starting at or before bed time and
continuing until shortly after wake time, are especially important;
daytime temperature regulation may be less important considering
that the building residents may not be home.
[0350] The specific temperature values, or the starting value
selected in the evening from which the temperature will start to
drop until sunrise and then increase after sunrise may be chosen by
the resident. However, the falling/increasing range will be
defined, e.g., a drop in 3.degree. C. then an increase in 3.degree.
C. The ranges may be informed by/consider the average drop in
nighttime temperature and increase after sunrise at a given time of
year, in the geographical area where the residents live; however,
the temperature ranges in the home do not need to be as
extreme/uncomfortable as they are in nature.
[0351] Having the blinds go up in the morning at the end of the
dawn simulation is intended to allow the light from the outside to
come in at the time the person has intended to wake up. The blinds
may not go up earlier than at the end of the 30-minute dawn
simulation period because if the light levels outside are greater
than those provided by the dawn simulator at that time, then the
lighting schedule may be thrown off track.
[0352] As another example of a dawn simulation scene, albeit one
with an alarm type feature, suppose a user sets a wake up time
alarm for 7:00 AM and the user goes to sleep in a bedroom or other
sub-space. For purposes of the scene, a system, controlling device,
controllable device or other device may then trigger an HVAC system
to increase temperature two degrees Celsius from a nighttime set
point over a thirty minute period starting at 6:30 AM. Prior to the
alarm time (e.g., four minutes before 7:00 AM), the system,
controlling device, controllable device or other device may trigger
a sound or speaker system to gradually increase the dB level of
biophila or other sounds in the bedroom or sub-space. At the wake
up time of 7:00 AM, the system, controlling device, controllable
device or other device raises the dB level of the sound over ten
minutes unless the alarm is disabled. At the set alarm time of 7:00
AM, the system, controlling device, controllable device or other
device may trigger blackout shades in for windows in the bedroom or
space to fully open. Lighting in room also may be varied in a dawn
simulation scene fashion prior to the alarm time of 7:00 AM to
gradually help the user wake up.
[0353] FIG. 16 illustrates the sequence of operations for the dawn
simulation scene described above.
[0354] After the dawn simulation is complete, the scene transitions
over time to the correct circadian setting based on that time of
day, for example by fading the lights over the course of several
minutes.
Example 6: Ready for Sleep Scene
[0355] Exposure to light at night disrupts the circadian rhythm and
leads to melatonin suppression--a key hormone that signals to the
body that it is time to go to sleep. Even brief exposures to light
at night, especially light that is of short wavelength (in the blue
spectrum), can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, making it hard to fall
back to sleep and in turn making it harder to wake up early in the
morning.
[0356] Reduction in thermal climates at night are associated with
better sleep quality, and room temperature can reach as low as 15
degrees Celsius while maintaining occupant thermal comfort.
Temperatures that are too high (32 degrees Celsius) may increase
sleep disturbances due to behavioral thermoregulation, increase
incidences of mid-sleep waking, and decrease stage 2 and stage 4
sleep length (so-called, deep sleep). One study examining the
cyclic changes in ambient bedroom temperatures found that gradual
decreases in temperature from 27 degrees Celsius to 25.5 degrees
Celsius between midnight and 4 am resulted in subjective reports of
higher sleep quality.
[0357] The purpose of the Ready for Sleep scene in the bedroom is
to create a transitional ambiance to prepare the residents for
sleep through lighting, shades, and HVAC system settings at
nighttime.
[0358] The Ready for Sleep scene can be activated only by the smart
phone app. After the scene is activated, the fully color-tunable
LED downlights are programmed to provide a CCT and light intensity
that gradually transitions from the current setting to 2500K and
10%, respectively, over 15-60 minutes, depending on the user's
choice (15, 30, 45, 60 minutes), then reducing the intensity to 0%
5 seconds after the set time has elapsed. The blackout shades are
programmed to stay fully closed. The thermostat has two different
settings depending on whether the Dawn Simulation scene is enabled
or not. If the Dawn Simulation scene is enabled, the thermostat is
programmed to decrease the temperature by 3 degrees Celsius during
the whole night until the Dawn Simulation scene is activated in the
morning. The decrease is sharpest at the beginning of the night,
with a more gradual continuing decrease later in the night. If the
Dawn Simulation scene is not enabled, however, the thermostat is
programmed to decrease the temperature by 3 degrees Celsius during
the 3 hour period after this scene has been activated. Then the
thermostat setting will remain the same throughout the night. Then
it will be automatically reset to its original setting at 10 am in
the morning.
[0359] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), intensity, CCT, blackout shades, and
temperature, used for a ready for sleep scene. Illuminance is the
amount of light reaching a surface area from a light source and is
commonly measured in either lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot
candle; 1 lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2). The lux unit,
furthermore, is normalized to the color sensitivity of a standard
observer at 1 m, with a peak sensitivity at .about.550 nm (green),
representing the accumulated activity of the three cone system in
the foveal region of the eye (short-, middle-, and long-wavelength
sensitive, or the blue, green, and red cones). Thus, the lux unit
is useful in describing the amount of light that will be perceived
by conscious high acuity, image-forming vision. The circadian
system, however, relies on a combination of the three cone system
and a system that is intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the melanopsin
system. Unlike the three cone system used for image-formation,
melanopsin is mostly sensitive to short (blue, .about.490 nm)
wavelengths of light. A new unit, the melanopic lux (also referred
to as melanopic illuminance) has been proposed as the amount of
light that enters our eye affecting the melanopsin pigment in
ipRGCs, taken as a multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a given
melanopic ratio. For proper alignment of the circadian system to
the normal day, it is essential that there is a contrast between
the EML during the day and during the night, with a greater EML
throughout the day and lower at night. The greater the daytime
light exposure, the higher the night time light exposure can be
without deleterious effects on the circadian system.
[0360] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0361] Melatonin, an essential hormone in the onset of sleep, can
be fully suppressed at higher light intensities, typically over
1000 lux. Partial suppression, however, begins at much lower levels
of illuminance (.about.20-50 lux) and even normal room light can
cause significant suppression of melatonin. Since it may still be
important to have some light for safe navigation before bed, the
light intensity is set at 10% in the ready to sleep scene. Once the
scene ends, the lights fade off over 5 seconds (0% intensity) in
this scene.
[0362] A field measurement may be conducted to correlate different
intensity levels with the actual illuminance and EML levels at the
bed surface to ensure the illuminance and EML requirements are
met.
[0363] The CCT of a light source is "a specification of the color
appearance of the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color to
the color of light from a reference source when heated to a
particular temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K). A study
examining the effects of different color temperature on sleepiness
found that 2500K had the least impact on alerting effects (reducing
sleepiness) and was associated with higher levels of salivary
melatonin production.
[0364] Although CCT is a widely used parameter in the lighting
industry for setting up the system, a certain CCT is not directly
correlated with a type of spectral power distribution (SPD). In
other words, a particular CCT value can have numerous types of SPD,
which may result in different EML values, and therefore may have
different circadian effects on the occupants.
[0365] The blackout shade position is recommended to be fully
closed to protect the residents' privacy and prevent any daylight
entering the room during the ready to sleep scene.
[0366] Gradual decreases before sleeping have been associated with
better quality sleep. Since thermal comfort is highly individual,
depending on insulation layers, and individual and cultural
differences, relative changes in temperature, dependent upon what
the occupants may be set as their optimal temperature on the
in-built thermostat. A 3.degree. C. change in temperature over a
3-hour period starting at sunset time has been shown to have
significant effects on sleep onset and waking.
[0367] As one example, for a sleep scene selected by a user or
implemented in a space or sub-space, a system, controlling device,
controlled device or other device may cause temperature in the
space or sub-space to decrease two degrees Celsius over a thirty
minute period and black-out shades or privacy shades to close at
the beginning of the scene or gradually over time. Background white
noise also may be played to limit the impact or irregular or other
sounds which may be heard in the space by the user or which may
make it difficult for the user to fall asleep.
[0368] FIG. 17 illustrates the sequence of operations for the sleep
scene described above.
Example 7: Night Light Scene
[0369] Exposure to light at night disrupts the circadian rhythm and
leads to melatonin suppression 34--a key hormone that signals to
the body that it is time to go to sleep. Even brief exposures to
light at night, especially light that is of short wavelength (in
the blue spectrum), can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, making it
hard to fall back to sleep and in turn making it harder to wake up
early in the morning. It is therefore essential to provide night
lighting that is dim and of a spectrum that minimizes the light in
the blue band while providing adequate light levels for safe night
time navigation.
[0370] Exposure to light at night disrupts the circadian rhythm and
leads to melatonin suppression--a key hormone that signals to the
body that it is time to sleep. Even brief exposures to light at
night, especially light that is of short wavelength (in the blue
spectrum), can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, making it hard to fall
back to sleep and in turn making it harder to wake up early in the
morning.
[0371] The purpose of the Night Light scene in the bedroom is to
provide minimum lighting for residents to safely get up and
navigate the room at night with reduced disruption to their
circadian rhythm.
[0372] The Night Light scene is activated by motion and light
sensors. After the scene is activated, the night light is turned
on. The light is turned off after 5 minutes when no motion is
detected. The residents may be able to disable or turn off the
night light via a wall switch or smart phone app.
[0373] Below are a number of parameter settings, such as equivalent
melanopic lux (EML), illuminance, light wavelength, and CCT used
for a ready for the night light scene. Illuminance is the amount of
light reaching a surface area from a light source and is commonly
measured in either lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot candle; 1
lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2). The lux unit, furthermore, is
normalized to the color sensitivity of a standard observer at 1 m,
with a peak sensitivity at .about.550 nm (green), representing the
accumulated activity of the three cone system in the foveal region
of the eye (short-, middle-, and long-wavelength sensitive, or the
blue, green, and red cones). Thus, the lux unit is useful in
describing the amount of light that will be perceived by conscious
high acuity, image-forming vision. The circadian system, however,
relies on a combination of the three cone system and a system that
is intrinsic to the ipRGCs--the melanopsin system. Unlike the three
cone system used for image-formation, melanopsin is mostly
sensitive to short (blue, .about.490 nm) wavelengths of light. A
new unit, the melanopic lux (also referred to as melanopic
illuminance) has been proposed as the amount of light that enters
our eye affecting the melanopsin pigment in ipRGCs, taken as a
multiple of photopic lux (RGB) and a given melanopic ratio. For
proper alignment of the circadian system to the normal day, it is
essential that there is a contrast between the EML during the day
and during the night, with a greater EML throughout the day and
lower at night. The greater the daytime light exposure, the higher
the night time light exposure can be without deleterious effects on
the circadian system.
[0374] The overall illuminance and EML at eye level are dependent
on the building's lighting design (e.g., number, installation, and
photometrics of light fixtures, etc.), fenestration design (e.g.,
number, size, layout of windows), interior design (e.g., interior
wall color, ceiling color, floor color, furniture color, furniture
layout), the orientation of the room, shade positions, and other
factors that reflect light. The melanopic ratio is a function of
light type and CCT, however, CCT and intensity setting of electric
lighting are only some of the parameters that can be influenced by
the building control system; all other factors also may be
considered (simulated or measured).
[0375] Illuminance is the amount of light reaching a surface area
from the light source and is measured in either lux or foot candles
(unit: lux or foot candle; 1 lux=1 lumen/m2, 1 fc=1 lumen/ft2).
Illuminance below 15 lux (at corneal level in the horizontal angle
of gaze) has been found to evoke minimal melatonin phase shift.
However, given the dark adapted state of the retina, the intention
to not wake up a partner who may also be sleeping in the bedroom,
and to minimize melatonin suppression and circadian disruption, the
illuminance of night lights may be even lower--at or below 5 lux,
as measured at corneal level in the horizontal angle of gaze.
[0376] If needed, the lighting can be programmed to provide greater
illuminance (15-20 lux) for individuals with vision impairments
such as cataracts or glaucoma, as less light would be penetrating
the lens in these conditions.
[0377] The various types of light that make up the electromagnetic
spectrum differ in wavelength. The human circadian system is
particularly sensitive to short wavelength light in the blue
spectrum, with peak circadian sensitivity at 470-490 nm.4 At the
wavelength of 555 nm and greater, the relative sensitivity to
melatonin suppression drops significantly. Therefore, the majority
of the spectral power of the night lights may be greater than 555
nm, which still significantly stimulates the image formation
necessary to safely navigate to the bathroom, while minimizing the
proportion of 480 nm band of the spectrum.
[0378] The CCT of a light source is "a specification of the color
appearance of the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color to
the color of light from a reference source when heated to a
particular temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K)". for a
night light scene, the recommended CCT is 2300 K or lower, based on
a study that found no effect of melatonin secretion with exposure
to light of 2300 K, 200 lux (at eye level) for 1.5 hours at
midnight, whereas melatonin secretion was measurably suppressed at
3000 K and acutely suppressed at 5000 K.
[0379] FIG. 18 illustrates the sequence of operations for the night
light scene described above.
[0380] Several other scenes are also possible in any of the spaces
or sub-spaces discussed above. The following are additional
illustrative examples of scenes for use in an office space or work
space. In one illustrative approach, a focus scene is configured
with work lights that brighten and a temperature that drops in
order to help a user focus on the task at hand. In another
approach, a dynamic scene includes lighting, temperature, and/or
ambient noise that varies overtime to simulate the dynamic
conditions one would experience outside. For example, the lights
could slightly dim and temperature slightly drop to simulate a
cloud passing in front of the sun.
[0381] By one approach, one or more office scenes may be triggered
by certain scheduled events. For example, when the calendar has a
meeting scheduled for a conference room, the ventilation can be
increased and the temperature decreased shortly before the meeting
in order to correct for or anticipate the large amount of people
scheduled to be entering the conference room. The breakroom can be
cooled in anticipation for the lunch break and sound masking can be
increased to correct for the large number of people expected. Or
sound masking can be increased in an office at the start of the
business day to cover the noise of people arriving at work and
making their small talk as they enter.
[0382] By another approach, one or more office scenes may be
triggered by sensors. If a user's wearable sensors or chair sensors
detect that the user has been seated for an extended period of time
or is seated with poor posture, it may prompt the user to get up
and move around and/or cause the configuration of the workspace to
change by converting the desk to a standing desk. If the wearable
sensor or sensors in the kitchen detect that a user has made
several trips to a soft drink fridge or snack cabinet the user may
be prompted to adjust their diet. If emergency sensors detect an
emergency situation, workstation lights may shutoff to prevent a
user from continuing to work, alarms may notify the user of the
emergency, and lights may illuminate the pathway to the appropriate
exit or shelter.
[0383] Residences of senior citizens or other at risk individuals
are also well suited for a number of scenes. Wearable sensors,
smart floor sensors, bed sensors, motion sensors, and/or door
sensors can detect the amount of time a person spends in bed. If
the user spends too much time in bed the system may alert them to
get up and move around, or could alert a caregiver to help the user
get up and move around. In some embodiments, the wearable device
includes a UV sensor, when it detects that the user has not spent
enough time in sunlight it may prompt the user to go outside and/or
opens blinds. The prompt could be an audio queue signifying the
outside, such as the sound of birds chirping. When a wearable
sensor, motion sensor, floor sensors, and/or door sensors detect
that the user has not entered the kitchen in an extended period of
time, the system may notify the user to get food. When the
emergency sensors detect an emergency (such as, for example, the
floor sensors detecting a sudden and large force hitting the
floor), an emergency scene alerting the user (and medical
personnel) can be triggered. Furthermore, the emergency scene may
be personalized to compensate for any weakened senses the user(s)
have, for example the indicators can be sound based in the
residence of a user with poor eyesight, or sight based in the
residence of a user with poor hearing. Additionally, sensors can
monitor the user's ECG, pulse, blood pressure, or activity level.
When a medical emergency is detected the system may contact medical
personnel, emergency services, and/or an emergency contact and may
unlock the door to grant the first responder access to the space or
sub-space. Lights and/or sound may be used to direct the first
responder to the user.
[0384] Residential scenes can also be used to prompt users to carry
out basic household chores. Illustrative examples include
indications to walk, feed, and/or water pets, indicators when it is
time to prepare meals, indicators to take out the garbage on
garbage day, and indicators to mow the lawn, among many others.
[0385] Gyms are another space with a number of possible scenes.
Sensors can be used to detect the number of patrons in a gym, their
location within the gym, and their activity. HVAC, humidity
controls, noise masking, aroma control, and other systems can be
controlled to preemptively mitigate the problems associated with
smaller or larger groups. Lights and sound can also be used to
direct the gym patrons through their exercise. For example, higher
tempo music and or strobe lights can be used to set a fast workout
pace, and slower music and dim lights can be used to set a cooldown
pace.
[0386] In the above examples, the means used to alert the user can
vary. Alerts can involve blinking or adjusting lights, emitting
sounds, emailing or texting the user, or having an application give
a notification on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Alternatively,
the user may direct the system to automatically adjust for certain
detected conditions without alerting the user or other
inhabitants.
[0387] In some embodiments, a system may set a scene within a space
or sub-space at a certain or preset time, upon request from a user
or input or other device in the space or sub-space, upon request
from a user or input or other device external to the space or
sub-space, automatically upon a user condition (e.g., heart rate,
body temperature, galvanic skin response, lack of movement for a
designated period of time), upon the identification or
determination of a usage occasion or user goal, automatically upon
a condition within the space or sub-space preset by a user internal
to or external to the space or sub-space, upon a specific
environmental condition within the space or sub-space, and/or upon
a specific environmental condition external to the space or
sub-space, among others. In some embodiments, preset or operating
times for one or more scenes for a space or sub-space may vary by
date, day of week, month of year, time of day, season, external
weather conditions, user preferences, user needs, user goals, type
of space or sub-space, configuration of space or sub-space,
intended use of space or sub-space, number of occupants in a space
or sub-space, controllable devices available for the space or
sub-space, and/or other factors.
[0388] In some embodiments, if a user regularly changes a setting
within a scene in a space or sub-space, a system may reset the
default conditions for the scene automatically or upon requesting
and/or receiving approval from the user and/or based on one or more
other inputs. For example, if a user regularly reduces the air
temperature or lighting intensity in a space or sub-space after the
system sets a default scene for the space or sub-space, the system
may adjust the default for the scene so that the lower air
temperature and lighting intensity is established as the default
setting for the scene. As another example, if multiple users in
different but similar spaces or sub-spaces, regularly change a
setting within a scene for such space or sub-space, a system
monitoring, managing and/or controlling such spaces or sub-spaces
may change the default settings for the scene in some or all of the
spaces or sub-spaces monitored, managed or controlled by the
system, even if one or more users in one or more similar spaces or
sub-spaces have not made similar changes to the default settings
for the scene or requests for such changes.
[0389] In some embodiments, a system may change one or more
settings temporarily or permanently in a scene due to external
conditions, time of day, day of week, month of year, season, date,
cultural norms or traditions, location of space or sub-space,
attribute of a user, attribute of a group of users, user goal,
usage occasion, attribute or feature of a space or sub-space, etc.
This may happen automatically on a temporary or permanent basis by
a system, upon request and/or approval from a user, upon receipt of
a signal from an input device, upon request from the system, only
after multiple users make such a request, after other conditions or
requirements are met, etc. For example, if the air temperature
outside a space or sub-space is unusually high or depending on the
date or season, the system may change the default setting for a
scene temporarily or permanently to facilitate creation of or
shorten transition to the scene within the space or sub-space or to
increase likelihood of the scene being maintained with the space or
sub-space. As another example, if a space or sub-space is located
in a city or other location having poor air quality, the system may
change the air quality setting for a scene to make sure that the
opening of doors or windows do not adversely impact environmental
conditions within the space or sub-space or that that a scene
having specific air quality requirements is obtained faster within
the space or sub-space. As another example, desired lighting levels
when dining may vary by type or location of a restaurant, type of
food being served at the restaurant, cultural differences, etc. A
system may change default one or more default settings associated
with the scene based on such variances.
[0390] In some embodiments, a system or device associated with a
space or sub-space may provide or help provide one or more outputs
to a system or one or more devices in or related to the system, to
a space or sub-space, one or more devices in or related to a space
or sub-space, one or more users, etc. Outputs may include or be
signals, data, information, etc. For example, such outputs may
include one or more of the outputs described in the table below or
one or more other outputs.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 OUTPUTS Signal or Turn on, turn off,
reconfigure, reset, recalibrate information Change or override
setting limits sent to Change or override user preferences or
settings controlled Change or override default setting device Turn
on, turn off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate Establish, end or
change a scene Signal or Change setting or operation of controlled
device information Provide information regarding current setting or
operation sent to of controlled device controlling Turn on, turn
off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate a controlled device device
Turn on, turn off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate Establish or
change a scene Signal or Change, delete or add data information
Change, add or delete access, security, or back-up processes sent
to Turn on, turn off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate data storage
Document scene setting, scene change, scene launch, scene device
end, etc. Document information regarding a user, space, sub-space
or scene Signal or Create low, medium or high alert information
Send additional alarm notification sent to Operate independently
going forward alerting Activate additional sensor or transducer
device capability device Turn on, turn off, reconfigure, reset,
recalibrate Signal or Collect additional or new data information
Change measurement target or measuring process sent to Turn on,
turn off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate sensor Send alert or
notification to local device, space or sub-space or other manager
or managing device, etc. transducer device Signal or Via phone,
computer, speaker, terminal, tablet, display, information
controlling device, controlled device, alerting device, sent to
wearable device, space or sub-space feature or device, other user
device, etc. Via local or remote third party Via known or unknown
third party Via direct or indirect route or means In conjunction
with alerting, configuration, tagging or other information
regarding controlled device, controlling device, alerting device,
sensors or other transducer devices, location, space, sub-space,
data storage device, etc. Current environmental condition within a
space or sub-space Current operational state of a device within a
space or sub- space Potential operational state of a device with a
space or sub- space Current or expected environmental condition
external to a space or sub-space Recommended scene, scene schedule,
scene change, etc. Current scene, scene setting, scene change,
scene duration, scene feature, scene transition plan, etc. Signal
or Update, ignore, replace, add or delete data or input information
Turn on, turn off, reconfigure, reset, recalibrate sent to Update,
modify, reset or ignore inputs, previous results, analysis
algorithms, user requests, scene default settings, etc. device
Resend or recalculate prior output Evaluate or analyze scene, user,
space, sub-space, device, usage occasion, user attribute, etc.
Determine or establish a new scene Determine transition plan to new
scene Determine capability of controlled device in a space or sub-
space Determine location of user in a space of sub-space Determine
current or prior environmental parameter in a space or sub-space
Establish new default setting for scene Determine ability of scene
to be established in a space or sub-space Determine ability of a
controlled device to establish an environmental parameter in a
scene, space or sub-space
[0391] The foregoing detailed description has set forth various
embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block
diagrams, schematics, and examples. Insofar as such block diagrams,
schematics, and examples contain one or more functions and/or
operations, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that
each function and/or operation within such block diagrams,
flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or
collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or
virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the present
subject matter may be implemented via Application Specific
Integrated Circuits (ASICs) or programmable gate arrays or
programmable logic circuits (PLCs). However, those skilled in the
art will recognize that the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole
or in part, can be equivalently implemented in standard integrated
circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more
computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more
computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more
controllers (e.g., microcontrollers) as one or more programs
running on one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors), as
firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that
designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software
and or firmware would be well within the skill of one of ordinary
skill in the art in light of this disclosure.
[0392] The above discloses the use of air filters, aromatherapy,
blackout shades, circadian lighting, comfort flooring, energizing
light, interior wall acoustics, night lights, point of use water
filtration, and UVGI lights. Exemplary specifications for each of
these are provided below. The exemplary specifications below can be
used in any of the embodiments described above.
[0393] Air constantly flows into homes and is subject to a wide
range of pollutants both from outdoor air pollution and source
contaminants within the home. Indoor air pollution is among the top
five environmental health risks and has been shown to be 2-5 times
higher than the pollution of outdoor spaces--up to 100 times higher
in extreme cases. Therefore, effectively managing indoor air
quality through the filtration of air drawn from outdoors and the
circulation of indoor air can help reduce the concentration of
contaminants in the home. Table 4, below, outlines exemplary
specifications for the use of air filters used in some
embodiments.
TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS MERV 13
Filter According to ASHRAE 52.2 (2012, with 2015 or higher Based
amendments), filters with MERV ratings of 10 or on A SHRAE higher
will remove at least 50% of all particles of 1 to 52.2 3 .mu.m,
those of 13 or higher will remove at least 85%, and those with a
MERV 14 filter will remove at least 75% of particles with a
diameter of 0.3 to 1 .mu.m (see table below). The MERV 13
requirement only applies to the ducted air distribution systems;
non-ducted air systems should have similar air filters inside the
airhandling unit. Note: Higher MERV ratings do not contribute to
significant changes in energy consumption; in a study on two
typical residential systems (forced air for heating and direct
expansion for cooling), one of the conclusions was that "daily
energy consumption did not significantly differ between low- and
high-MERV filter installations" (low = MERV 4 and high = MERV 11).
Between MERV 8 and MERV 11, there was minimum difference in energy.
No Electronic Electronic air cleaners may be effective in removing
Air Cleaners small particles but are not as effective in removing
large ones. In addition, they can produce ozone (amounts vary
depending on the model), which is a lung irritant. When ozone
produced by the electronic air cleaners reacts with particles from
household cleaning products, off-gassed particles and other
chemicals present in the space, ultrafine particles can be formed,
which may be associated with adverse health outcomes in sensitive
populations. Fine Fiber Filters with a fine fiber media are
preferable to those Media with coarse fibers. Fine fiber media does
not rely on an electrostatic charge whereas coarse fiber does; this
allows fine fiber media to maintain efficiency over time, while the
electrostatic charge in coarse fibers loses efficiency over time.
No Ozone Based on the evidence on the harmful effects of ozone,
Emissions and products formed via reaction of ozone with other
particles on human health, the U.S. EPA recommends not to use air
cleaners that emit ozone. When present in the air and inhaled,
ozone can lead to chest pain, coughing, lung damage, and lead to
worsening of chronic respiratory diseases (e.g., asthma). Based on
the EPA's recommendation, air filters preferably do not produce
ozone. Ventilation Rate The air distribution systems with the
required air filters Requirements preferably meet the minimum
ventilation rate requirements defined by ASHRAE 62.1-2013.
[0394] Derived from traditional remedies, aromatherapy is the use
of essential oils from herbs, flowers and trees to support
emotional and spiritual well-being. Aromatherapy is preferably
delivered through cool diffusion to avoid changing the natural
properties of the essential oils. Some benefits of aromatherapy
include alleviating anxious behaviors and aiding in relaxation.
Table 5, below, outlines exemplary specifications for the use of
essential oils used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS 100%
Natural Since synthetic fragrances can be produced from Essential
Oils petrochemicals, aromatherapy products are preferably made from
100% natural essential oils. Steam Essential oils are preferably
extracted through a steam Distillation distillation process in
order to minimize or remove human toxicity. Non Toxic Oils used do
not fall into toxicity/poison schedules of the following bodies: US
Food & Drugs Administration (FDA), Australian Government
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and Council of Europe
(Active principals list). Cool Diffusion Diffusion methods
involving heat can change the Methods natural properties of
essential oils and leave behind a sticky residue. Cool diffusion
methods are preferably utilized. Safety Labels All aromatherapy
products are labelled for intended use (e.g., inhalation, topical,
consumption, etc.) and precautions in handling (e.g., Keep out of
reach of children; Do NOT swallow) and storage (temperature,
relative humidity ranges). Information for recovery of immediate
exposure is made readily available.
[0395] Exposure to light at night during sleep time--even in minute
quantities--can have dramatic impacts on the circadian rhythm.
Especially in urban settings, light pollution at night has become a
major concern for human health. While indoor lighting can be easily
controlled by occupants, it is also important to provide means for
occupants to minimize light from outdoors through
fenestrations.
[0396] Blackout shades are typically used to help minimize outdoor
light intrusions during night time, including but not limited to
roller shades, cellular shades and drapery shades. Table 6, below,
outlines exemplary specifications for the use of blackout shades
used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS Visible
Light VLT is defined as the percentage of the total visible
Transmittance light allowed to pass through the shades and (VLT)
fenestrations combined. In order to minimize the outdoor light
intrusions, the blackout shades preferably have a VLT rating of
approximately 0. Side and Bottom Channels or pockets are utilized
to prevent outdoor Channels (or light leakage into the interior
spaces. pockets) (only applies to roller shades) Minimal VOC The
blackout shades preferably meet third party Emissions certification
low VOC (e.g., Greenguard Gold or Green Tag Certification)
requirements. Controls Motorized (or automated) blackout shades are
recommended. Studies show that compared to manual shades, motorized
(or automated) shades are more often used by occupants, which may
increase the occupants' willingness to use blackout shades at
night.
[0397] In addition to vision, light influences the human body in a
number of ways to which people respond subconsciously, including
mood, alertness, and cognitive ability. Humans and animals have an
internal clock that keeps the body on a roughly 24-hour cycle, in
what is called the circadian rhythm. Multiple bodily processes,
including sleep and digestion are regulated in part by the daily
hormonal fluctuations of the circadian rhythm. These hormones are
released by an area in the brain called the hypothalamus. The
hypothalamus times its hormonal outputs based on the timing of
light exposure, which it receives via specialized cells in the eye,
called ipRGCs. Daily, regularly-timed light exposure is required to
maintain a healthy and robust circadian rhythm, called
"entrainment". Table 7, below, outlines exemplary specifications
for the use of circadian lighting used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS
Correlated color The CCT of a light source is "a specification of
the temperature color appearance of the light emitted by a lamp,
(CCT) range relating its color to the color of light from a
reference source when heated to a particular temperature, measured
in degrees Kelvin (K)". 17 The range of CCT capability is
preferably 2700- 6500 K. Fully Color- The circadian lighting
solutions preferably allow for Tunable full color tunability. This
allows for infinite and appropriate color selection. Programmable
Ability to customize CCT, light output (lumens) and Light
Parameters chromaticity via manual or automated controls. The
lighting parameters are be programmable. Color Rendering The color
rendering index (CRI) is a quantitative Index (CRI) measure of the
ability of a light source to reveal the colors of various objects
accurately in comparison to a reference light source. The CRI is
preferably greater than 80 and the light is capable of maintaining
that CRI at any point along the Black Body Curve from 2700 K to
6500 K. Dimming Range Ability to increase or decrease light output
(lumens). The dimming range is from 0.1% to 100%. Color Point LED
lights preferably employ closed loop optical Accuracy and thermal
feedback capable of maintaining color point accuracy of <1
MacAdam Ellipse. Light Output A measure of the total quantity of
visible light emitted by a source. A-Lamps preferably have a lumen
output rating of at least 600 lumens.
[0398] Whether standing all day or working in the kitchen, the air
contained between the millions of cork cells provides a supported
feel underfoot. It does not feel spongy since it layers under the
floor tiles, but it does act as a shock absorber and provides
sufficient comfort to people standing on their feet for long
periods of time. Table 8, below, outlines exemplary specifications
for the use of comfort flooring used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS
Compression ASTM F36-15 is a standard test method to understand the
short-time compressibility and resilience at room temperature of
gasket materials. Cork flooring with higher compression versus
lower compression should be used. Minimal Cork flooring preferably
meets third party certification VOC low VOC (e.g., Greenguard Gold
or Green Tag Emissions Certification) requirements. Tensile ASTM
F152-95 is a standard test method to understand Strength the
tensile strength of nonmetallic gasket materials such as cork (Type
2 in Classification F104), given as a measurement of force in
kilopascals (kPa). Cork flooring with higher tensile strength
versus lower tensile strength should be used. Recovery Describes
the amount of indentation that remains after the cork has been
depressed and allowed to recover for a certain amount of time. It
is usually stated as a percentage of the original depression. Cork
flooring with higher recovery rate versus lower recovery rate
should be used.
[0399] The human body clock runs on a schedule that is naturally
about 24 hours and 15-30 minutes long. Unless regularly reset, this
15 to 30-minute discrepancy makes us want to go to sleep later and
wake later, relying on alarm clocks in the morning in order to
function on a 24-hour day schedule. Bright light is the strongest
entraining agent of the human circadian rhythm, and exposure to
light in the morning can make waking up easier.
[0400] Morning use of bright light is known to phase-advance
(shifting the sleep phase earlier), whereas evening use is known to
phase-delay (shifting the sleep phase later) the circadian rhythm.
In order to have sleep and wake patterns that are better aligned
with the schedules of work, school or social activities,
individuals who are very early risers may want to delay the timing
of their sleep, whereas "night owls" may want to advance it. Phase
advancing may also be of interest to individuals who are traveling
east in order to reduce the symptoms of jet lag, and to shift
workers on early morning shifts who want to fall asleep and wake
earlier. Table 9, below, outlines exemplary specifications for the
use of energizing light used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS
Illuminance Illuminance is the amount of light reaching a surface
area from the light source and is measured in either lux or foot
candles (unit: lux or foot candle; 1 lux = 1 lumen/m.sup.2, 1 fc =
1 lumen/ft.sup.2). Based on four studies examining the effects of
bright light exposure on circadian phase shift, mood and alertness,
the level of illuminance for the Energizing Light is between ~3000
lux and ~9000 lux, as measured at eye level in the angle of gaze.
Due to the high illuminance levels towards the higher end of this
range, the illuminance of the Energizing Light should preferably be
towards the lower end (~3000 lux) of the spectrum. Correlated The
CCT of a light source is "a specification of the color Color
appearance of the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color
Temperature to the color of light from a reference source when
heated to (CCT) a particular temperature, measured in degrees
Kelvin (K)". Based on four studies examining the effects of bright
light exposure on circadian phase shift, mood and alertness, the
CCT for Energizing Light is be between 4100 K to 6500 K. Duration
of Based on three studies examining the effects of bright light
Exposure exposure on circadian phase shift, mood and alertness, the
duration of exposure is preferably between 12 and 30 minutes to
achieve an effect of increased mood, alertness, and phase shifting
of about 1-2 hours. Longer exposures may have longer phase shifting
effects. Time of To phase-advance the circadian rhythm, exposure
needs to Exposure occur in the morning: "from before a few hours
before habitual wake time and for several hours after habitual wake
time"; to phase-delay, it needs to occur in the evening: "before
bedtime and in the first part of habitual sleep". However, light in
the morning is preferably not administered more than one hour
before habitual wake time as it could result in phase-delay instead
of the desired phase-advance effect.
[0401] The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep
Research Society recommend at least 7 hours of sleep per night for
adults aged 18-60 years old to promote optimal health and
well-being. Sleep is one of the body's most critical activities and
there are wide ranges of environmental factors that can impact it.
For example, noise at night can make it difficult to fall asleep
and can create short disturbances of natural sleep patterns by
causing shifts from deep to lighter stages. Since most people get
the majority of their sleep in their home, a bedroom conducive to
healthy and restorative rest requires the creation of a quiet
environment. In the bedroom, utilizing materials with a high sound
transmission class and high sound reduction index can minimize
noise intrusion from outside the bedroom and outside the home.
Table 10, below, outlines exemplary specifications for using and
manipulating interior wall acoustics in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMEMNTS Sound
Interior bedroom walls preferably have an STC rating Transmission
of 50 or higher. Class (STC) Rating Low VOC The interior wall
materials preferably meet third party Compliance certification low
VOC (e.g., Greenguard Gold or Green Tag Certification)
requirements.
[0402] Exposure to light at night disrupts the circadian rhythm and
leads to melatonin suppression--a key hormone that signals to the
body that it is time to go to sleep. Even brief exposures to light
at night, especially light that is of short wavelength (in the blue
spectrum), can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, making it hard to fall
back to sleep and in turn making it harder to wake up early in the
morning. It is therefore essential to provide night lighting that
is dim and of a spectrum that minimizes the light in the blue band
while providing adequate light levels for safe night time
navigation. Table 11, below, outlines exemplary specifications for
the use of night lights used in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND PARAMETER
REQUIREMENTS Light The various types of light that make up the
electromagnetic Wavelength spectrum differ in wavelength. The human
circadian system is particularly sensitive to short wavelength
light in the blue spectrum, with peak circadian sensitivity at
460-480 nm. At the wavelength of 555 nm and greater, the relative
sensitivity to melatonin suppression drops significantly.
Therefore, the majority of the spectral power of the night lights
are greater than 555 nm, while minimizing the proportion of 460-480
nm band of the spectrum. Illuminance Illuminance is the amount of
light reaching a surface area from the light source and is measured
in either lux or foot candles (unit: lux or foot candle; 1 lux = 1
lumen/m.sup.2, 1 fc = 1 lumen/ft.sup.2). Illuminance below 15 lux
(at corneal level in the horizontal angle of gaze) has been found
to evoke minimal melatonin phase shift. Therefore, to minimize
melatonin suppression and circadian disruption, the illuminance of
night lights are preferably below 15 lux, as measured at corneal
level in the horizontal angle of gaze. Correlated The CCT of a
light source is "a specification of the color Color appearance of
the light emitted by a lamp, relating its color Temperature to the
color of light from a reference source when heated to (CCT) a
particular temperature, measured in degrees Kelvin (K)". The CCT is
2300-2500 K or lower, since studies using lights with a CCT of
2300-2500 K have demonstrated to have minimal effects on sleep,
alertness, and glare. The properties of different CCT of lights are
illustrated in FIG. 20. Motion and The night lights are only
activated when motion is detected Light and when the lighting
levels in the room are low (below 15 Activated lux, as measured on
the vertical of the night light). Alternatively, night lights can
be connected to the home automation system and be activated by
separate motion or light sensors. Manual A manual override is
preferably in place to disable the night Override light when it is
not needed. Installation Location where the night light is
installed. The night light is Location preferably be installed no
higher than 30 cm [1 ft] above the floor, without a beam angle
above the horizontal plane. FIG. 19 illustrates the location of the
night light relative to the floor and moulding.
[0403] Access to water that is clear of inorganic, organic and
biological contaminants is essential for maintaining optimal human
health. These contaminants, especially in high doses, can be toxic
and impair health and overall quality of life. Removal of
contaminants can be achieved by installing filters at the
point-of-use (assuming the water is mostly potable), most commonly
at sink and shower faucets. When selecting a water filter, strict
performance criteria must be met to minimize the risks posed by
contaminants. Table 12, below, outlines exemplary specifications
for the incorporation of point of use water filtration systems used
in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS
NSF/ANSI Testing for aesthetic effects reducing chlorine, taste,
odor, 42 Rated or and particulates. The product is preferably
certified Equivalent through NSF 42 or testing to the NSF 42
protocol. NSF/ANSI Reduce specific contaminants including organic
volatile 53 Rated or impurities (VOIC), biological contaminants,
methyl tert- Equivalent butyl ether (MTBE). Includes material
safety, structural integrity, and health related contaminants
performance. The product is preferably be certified through NSF 53
or tested to the NSF 53 protocol. Micron The maximum size of
openings in a filter media. The Rating point of use is preferably
be less than 1 micron (<1 .mu.m in diameter) since this would
filter out cryptosporidium and giardia. Flow Rate Measured in
either liters per minute (lpm) or gallons per minute (gpm), flow
rates specify how much water can flow through the specified filter.
Depending on the use case, filters have different flow rates. If
the goal is not to install a separate faucet for drinking water,
the flow rate is preferably be no greater than 2.2 GPM [8.33 LPM].
Pressure A measure of the force of the water, and is measured in
pound-force per square inch (PSI). Measurements are taken when no
water is flowing ("static" pressure). The pressure is between
10-125 PSI. Lifetime The life of the media rated in terms of
removal efficiency of a specific chemical.
[0404] The growth and spread of health-threatening biotic agents is
a primary concern for moisture buildup in HVAC systems. The use of
ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) lights installed on the
upstream side of the coil in HVAC systems has been associated with
a significant reduction in microorganism concentrations on
irradiated cooling coils and drip pans. According to a study
conducted on office workers, significantly fewer work-related
respiratory, mucosal, and overall health symptoms were reported
when a UVGI system was used; the use of UVGI also resulted in a 99%
reduction in the concentrations of bacteria, fungi, and endotoxins
on irradiated surfaces in the HVAC system. Table 13, below,
outlines exemplary specifications for the use of UVGI lights used
in some embodiments.
TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 13 CRITERIA DEFINITION AND REQUIREMENTS UVGI
Light Ultraviolet light in the range of 100-280 nm is the UVC
Wavelength spectrum of radiation. Over 90% of the total spectral
power Range of low-pressure mercury vapor lamps is emitted at 253.7
nm, which is effective in minimizing HVAC system buildup of
bacteria, fungi and dust mites. The UVGI lights have at least 90%
of their total spectral power distributed at 253.7 (~254) nm. Third
Party Third party lab testing is preferably used to verify that a
Testing company's product effectively reduces microbial Conducted
concentrations on irradiated cooling coils and drip pans. UVGI
Light Lights preferably have a lifetime of at least 1 year before
Lifetime needing to be replaced. No Ozone Ozone is harmful for
health and exposure to ozone creates a Production risk for a
variety of symptoms and diseases associated with the respiratory
tract; therefore, products are tested and confirmed to emit no
ozone.
[0405] In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
the mechanisms taught herein are capable of being distributed as a
program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative
embodiment applies equally regardless of the particular type of
signal bearing media used to actually carry out the distribution.
Examples of nontransitory signal bearing media include, but are not
limited to, the following: recordable type media such as portable
disks and memory, hard disk drives, CD/DVD ROMs, digital tape,
computer memory, and other non-transitory computer-readable storage
media.
[0406] In addition, the sensors used in above can be used to
provide other notifications to the user. These include alerts to
remind the user to change water filters or air filters, or alerts
when a water leak is detected. Alternatively, the system can be
programmed to automatically order replacement water filters or air
filters when they are needed.
[0407] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/694,125, filed
Aug. 28, 2012 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/012,444,
filed Aug. 28 2013 are incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety. The various embodiments described above can be combined
to provide further embodiments. Aspects of the embodiments can be
modified, if necessary or desirable to provide yet further
embodiments.
[0408] These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in
light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the
following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit
the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the
specification and the claims, but should be construed to include
all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents
to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not
limited by the disclosure.
* * * * *