US20110088416A1 - Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor - Google Patents
Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110088416A1 US20110088416A1 US12/906,352 US90635210A US2011088416A1 US 20110088416 A1 US20110088416 A1 US 20110088416A1 US 90635210 A US90635210 A US 90635210A US 2011088416 A1 US2011088416 A1 US 2011088416A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- freeze
- signal
- vacuum
- sensor
- hvac system
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/30—Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
- F24F11/32—Responding to malfunctions or emergencies
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F11/00—Control or safety arrangements
- F24F11/50—Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
- F24F11/52—Indication arrangements, e.g. displays
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24F—AIR-CONDITIONING; AIR-HUMIDIFICATION; VENTILATION; USE OF AIR CURRENTS FOR SCREENING
- F24F2110/00—Control inputs relating to air properties
- F24F2110/40—Pressure, e.g. wind pressure
Abstract
An apparatus for monitoring an HVAC system. The apparatus comprises a freeze-up sensor, a vacuum sensor, and a thermostat. The freeze-up sensor communicates a signal to indicate that ice is developing in the HVAC system and the vacuum sensor communicates a signal to indicate that a vacuum pressure exists in the HVAC system. When a signal is detected, the apparatus deactivates the HVAC system to prevent damage. The thermostat comprises a touch-screen display with a continuous set-point.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/252,249 filed Oct. 16, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated fully herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to thermostats and air conditioning units, and particularly to systems for monitoring the condition of the air conditioning units and preventing system failure.
- The present invention is directed to an apparatus for monitoring a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The HVAC system comprises a thermostat, a condensing unit, an evaporator coil, and a filter. The system comprises a freeze-up sensor, a receiver, a switch, and an indicator. The freeze-up sensor is located proximate the evaporator coil such that when the sensor detects a threshold temperature the sensor transmits a freeze-up signal. The receiver is for receiving the freeze-up signal. The switch is operatively connected to the HVAC system to disable the compressor and condensing unit after the freeze-up signal is received by the receiver. The indicator is located proximate the thermostat indicating receipt of the freeze-up signal by the receiver.
- Another embodiment of the invention is directed to an apparatus for monitoring an HVAC system. The HVAC system comprises a thermostat, a condensing unit, an evaporator coil, and a filter. The apparatus comprises a freeze-up sensor located proximate the evaporator coil such that when the sensor detects a threshold temperature and condensation the freeze-up sensor transmits a freeze-up signal, a vacuum sensor located proximate the filter to transmit a vacuum signal upon detection of a vacuum pressure at or exceeding a threshold vacuum pressure, a receiver for receiving the freeze-up signal and the vacuum signal, a switch to disable the compressor and condensing unit after the receiver is receives the freeze-up signal or the vacuum signal, and an indicator located proximate the thermostat indicating the switch has disabled the compressor and condensing unit.
- Still another embodiment of the invention is directed to a method for monitoring an HVAC system. The HVAC system comprises a thermostat, a condensing unit, a compressor, an evaporator coil, and a filter. The method comprises detecting a threshold temperature and condensation proximate the evaporator coil, transmitting a freeze-up signal after detection of the threshold temperature and condensation proximate the evaporator coil, receiving the freeze-up signal at a receiver, transmitting a shut-down signal to the compressor and condensing unit upon receipt of the freeze-up signal at the receiver, ceasing operation of the compressor and condensing unit after receiving the freeze-up signal, resuming operation of the compressor and condensing unit when the freeze-up signal is no longer received by the receiver.
- Another embodiment is directed to a thermostat for use with an HVAC system comprising a filter. The thermostat comprises a touch screen display, a freeze-up sensor indicator located on the touch screen display and operatively connected to an freeze-up sensor, a vacuum sensor indicator located on the touch screen display and operatively connected to a vacuum sensor; wherein the freeze-up sensor indicator indicates the HVAC system is not operating due to a low temperature and condensation in the HVAC system and the vacuum sensor indicates the HVAC system is not operating due to a vacuum pressure in the HVAC system, and a continuous setpoint graph located at and adjustable on the touch screen display for creating a continuous temperature setpoint.
-
FIG. 1 is diagrammatic representation of an HVAC system for use with the apparatus for monitoring an HVAC system in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is diagrammatic representation of an inside unit and an apparatus for monitoring an HVAC system. -
FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic representation of an outside unit and the apparatus for monitoring the HVAC system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a thermostat and thermostat display for use with an apparatus for monitoring the HVAC system ofFIG. 1 . - Air conditioners, or HVAC systems, suffer from two problems which are addressed by the present invention. First, ice formation within an HVAC system causes multiple problems, including overheating a blower motor and pumping liquid Freon through the unit's compressor. Further, ice build-up can cause the HVAC system to operate at reduced efficiency. Second, clogged return air filters will restrict the flow of air into the HVAC system, which will cause the blower motor to work at a lower efficiency and limit the life of the motor. The present invention seeks to eliminate these two problems by utilizing sensors with a monitor in a system that can be read and operated by both owners and technicians. Further, the present invention allows limited operation of an HVAC system under ice build-up conditions to enable a building to be cooled when, for instance, occupants are away. Finally, ice build-up conditions can lead to a vacuum reading within an HVAC system and a clogged filter may lead to mild ice-up conditions. Therefore, there is a need for a thermostat which notes the first condition to arise so that an occupant or technician can know the origination of the problem with the HVAC system.
- Turning to the drawings in general and
FIG. 1 in particular, shown therein is anHVAC system 12. TheHVAC system 12 comprises anoutside unit 24 and aninside unit 26. Theoutside unit 24 may comprise acondenser 16 and acompressor 18. Theoutside unit 24 is generally located outside of a building, and is the equipment one thinks of when considering an air conditioner. Thecompressor 18 compresses refrigerant received from theinside unit 26 to raise its density and raise its temperature. Thecondenser 16 then uses the outside air to cool the dense refrigerant, often using a large fan (not shown) within the outside unit, condensing the pressurized vapor to a fluid. Theinside unit 26 comprises ablower 20, anevaporator coil 14, and afilter 28. Thefilter 28 is adapted to remove dust and other impurities from air within a building. Theblower 20 operates to move warm air from a building through thefilter 28 and across theevaporator coil 14. Theevaporator coil 14 is the primary heat exchange used for cooling a building. Theevaporator coil 14 expands the condensed refrigerant fluid, causing the temperature to drop. The temperature of thecoil 14 thus allows the air pushed across the coil by theblower 20 to cool. Thethermostat 22 is operatively connected to theHVAC system 12 by aconnection system 29 and may be located remote from theinside unit 24 andoutside unit 26, at a location inside a building where a temperature set point can be initiated. - As shown by directional arrows in
FIG. 1 , theblower 20 causes air to be forced into theinside unit 26 through thefilter 28. The air is forced past theevaporator coil 14, cooled, and returned to the building. - With reference now to
FIG. 2 , theinside unit 26 of the present invention is shown. Theinside unit 26 comprises a freeze-up sensor 30, avacuum sensor 32, and asensor monitor 34. The freeze-up sensor 30 is positioned proximate theevaporator coil 14 and adapted to determine whether an air temperature within theinside unit 26 proximate the evaporator coil is near a threshold temperature. The freeze-up sensor 30 may comprise an electronic or mechanical sensor capable of detecting air temperature. Preferably, the freeze-up sensor 30 is capable of detecting both an air temperature and condensation. When the freeze-upsensor 30 detects a threshold temperature near freezing, it sends a freeze-up signal to thesensor monitor 34. Preferably, the freeze-upsensor 30 sends the freeze-up signal to thesensor Monitor 34 when a temperature below 35 degrees Fahrenheit is detected and more preferably when a temperature below 30 degrees Fahrenheit is detected. One freeze-upsensor 30 which may be used is a cooling coil temperature sensor having a temperature sensitivity of two degrees Celsius. - The
vacuum sensor 32 is adapted to detect a vacuum pressure within theHVAC system 10. A vacuum pressure in excess of a threshold pressure can cause theblower 20 to work harder and ultimately fail. Thevacuum sensor 32 is adapted to transmit a vacuum signal to thesensor monitor 34 when the threshold pressure is reached. Preferably, the threshold pressure at which the vacuum sensor transmits the vacuum signal is adjustable. Thevacuum sensor 32 may be any one of a number of commercially available pressure sensors. Oneparticular vacuum sensor 32 that can be used is an external fan box differential pressure sensor, having a 2 inHg pressure range, though other sensors can be used. As shown inFIG. 2 , thevacuum sensor 32 is located proximate thefilter 28. - Continuing with
FIG. 2 , the freeze-up sensor 30 and thevacuum sensor 32 are operatively connected to thesensor monitor 34 such that the sensor monitor can detect whether the freeze-up sensor 30 is transmitting a freeze-up signal and/or thevacuum sensor 32 is transmitting a vacuum signal. The sensor monitor 34 transmits an indicator signal to anindicators thermostat 22. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 2 , theindicators monitor light 36 b. The vacuum monitor light 36 a is illuminated when thevacuum sensor 32 is transmitting a vacuum signal, and the freeze-upmonitor light 36 b is illuminated when the freeze-upsensor 30 is transmitting the freeze-up signal. - In a preferred embodiment, the sensor monitor 34 further comprises a processor (not shown) programmed to determine which of the freeze-up
monitor light 36 a and the vacuum monitor light 36 b was activated first. The processor may activate an additional light, or a setting recorded in the memory of the sensor monitor 34 or the indicator 36. Thus, a technician or occupant could determine the cause of problems with theHVAC system 12 and more efficiently address the problem. - With reference to
FIG. 3 , theHVAC system 12 may further comprise aswitch 50 operatively connected to thesensor monitor 34 and to theoutside unit 24. Theswitch 50 is usually open, such that in normal operation of theHVAC system 12, components of theoutside unit 24 such as thecompressor 18 andcondenser 16 operate normally. However, when thesensor monitor 34 receives the freeze-up signal or the vacuum signal, theswitch 50 closes, causing thecondenser 16 andcompressor 18 to shut off, preventing damage to theHVAC system 12. When the sensor monitor 34 no longer receives the freeze-up signal or the vacuum signal, theswitch 50 re-opens, allowing some limited non-destructive operation of theHVAC system 12 even when a defective condition may still exist. Theindicators FIG. 2 ) indicate whether theswitch 50 has deactivated thecompressor 18 andcondenser 16. - The
thermostat 22 may be any of a number of commercially available thermostats, and adapted for use with theindicators apparatus 10. With reference now toFIG. 4 , an improved embodiment of thethermostat 22 for use in the present invention is shown in more detail. Thethermostat 22 comprises achassis 101 to support atouch screen display 100. Preferably, thetouch screen display 100 is a resistive interface compatible with a finger and/or stylus (not shown). Thetouch screen display 100 comprises acontinuous setpoint graph 102 for programming a temperature. Thecontinuous setpoint graph 102 is adjustable on thetouch screen display 100 and may be used to create a continuous temperature setpoint for operation of theHVAC system 12 over an extended period of time. Multiple functions of thethermostat 22 andHVAC system 12 may be adjusted at thetouch screen display 100, such as the time, threshold temperature for the freeze-up sensor 30 (FIG. 2 ), threshold pressure for the vacuum sensor 32 (FIG. 2 ), and other operational and automated functions. Further, thethermostat 22 contains a memory device (not shown) which allows data logging and updating of the thermostat software. Thetouch screen display 100 may further comprise acontrol interface 104 to control operation of theHVAC system 12, an internal clock, the blower fan 20 (FIG. 1 ), and settings such as Fahrenheit reading vs. Celsius reading and display language. Additionally, thethermostat 22 may comprise a battery backup in the case of external power failure. As shown, theindicators thermostat 22, and the freeze-upmonitor indicator 36 a and vacuum monitorindicator 36 b are located on thetouch screen display 100. - In operation, the
apparatus 10 is used to provide a method for monitoring theHVAC system 12. First, the freeze-upsensor 30 detects temperature and the presence of condensation proximate theevaporator coil 14. When the threshold temperature is detected, the freeze-upsensor 30 transmits a freeze-up signal to thesensor monitor 34. After receiving the freeze-up signal, a processor (not shown) located at thethermostat 22 transmits a shutdown signal to thecompressor 18 and/or thecondenser 16. Finally, operation of thecompressor 18 andcondenser 16 may resume when the freeze-up signal is no longer received by thesensor monitor 34. - The
vacuum sensor 32 may also transmit a vacuum signal when thevacuum sensor 32 indicates a threshold vacuum pressure proximate thefilter 28. Thefilter 28 may be replaced with a clean filter if the filter is viewed as the cause of the problem, for example, if the vacuum signal was transmitted prior to the freeze-up signal. A desired vacuum pressure at which thevacuum sensor 32 transmits the vacuum signal may be set at thethermostat 22. Thethermostat 22 may also allow an occupant to set acontinuous temperature setpoint 102. - Various modifications in the design and operation of the present invention are contemplated without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the
apparatus 10 andHVAC unit 12 may be operated remotely, or through Internet access. Thus, while the principal preferred construction and modes of operation of the invention have been illustrated and described in what is now considered to represent its best embodiments it should he understood that the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described.
Claims (16)
1. An apparatus for monitoring a HVAC system, the HVAC system comprising a thermostat, a condensing unit, a compressor, an evaporator coil, and a filter, the apparatus comprising:
a freeze-up sensor located proximate the evaporator coil such that when the sensor detects a threshold temperature the sensor transmits a freeze-up signal;
a receiver for receiving the freeze-up signal;
a switch operatively connected to the HVAC system and the receiver to disable the compressor and condensing unit after the freeze-up signal is received by the receiver;
an indicator located proximate the thermostat indicating receipt of the freeze-up signal by the receiver.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a vacuum sensor located proximate the filter to detect a threshold vacuum pressure and transmit a vacuum signal to the receiver upon detection of a vacuum pressure at or exceeding the threshold vacuum pressure.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising a screen located proximate the thermostat comprising:
a touch screen display;
the indicator; and
a continuous setpoint graph located at and adjustable on the touch screen display for creating a continuous temperature setpoint.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the threshold temperature is less than 35 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the freeze-up sensor is adapted to detect condensation proximate the evaporator coil.
6. An apparatus for monitoring a HVAC system, the HVAC system comprising a thermostat, a condensing unit, a compressor, an evaporator coil, and a filter, the apparatus comprising:
a freeze-up sensor located proximate the evaporator coil such that when the sensor detects a threshold temperature and condensation proximate the evaporator coil the freeze-up sensor transmits a freeze-up signal;
a vacuum sensor located proximate the filter to transmit a vacuum signal upon detection of a vacuum pressure at or exceeding a threshold vacuum pressure;
a receiver for receiving the freeze-up signal and the vacuum signal;
a switch to disable the compressor and condensing unit after the receiver receives the freeze-up signal or the vacuum signal; and
an indicator located proximate the thermostat indicating the switch has disabled the compressor and condensing unit.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the receiver is proximate the thermostat.
8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the receiver comprises a sensor monitor.
9. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the indicator indicates whether the freeze-up signal or the vacuum signal occurred first.
10. A method for monitoring an HVAC system, the HVAC system comprising a thermostat, a condensing unit, a compressor, an evaporator coil, and a filter, the method comprising:
detecting a threshold temperature and condensation proximate the evaporator coil;
transmitting a freeze-up signal after detection of the threshold temperature and condensation proximate the evaporator coil;
receiving the freeze-up signal at a receiver;
transmitting a shut-down signal to the compressor and condensing unit upon receipt of the freeze-up signal at the receiver;
ceasing operation of the compressor and condensing unit after receiving the freeze-up signal; and
resuming operation of the compressor and condensing unit when the freeze-up signal is no longer received by the receiver.
11. The method of claim 10 further comprising transmitting a vacuum signal when the vacuum sensor indicates a vacuum pressure at or exceeding a threshold vacuum pressure proximate the filter.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising adjusting the threshold vacuum pressure at which the vacuum-sensor transmits a vacuum signal.
13. The method of claim 11 further comprising detecting which of the vacuum signal and the freeze-up signal was transmitted first.
14. The method of claim 13 further comprising replacing the filter if the vacuum signal was transmitted prior to the freeze-up signal.
15. The method of claim 10 further comprising setting a continuous temperature setpoint at the thermostat.
16. A thermostat for use with an HVAC system comprising a filter, the thermostat comprising:
a touch screen display;
a freeze-up indicator located on the touch screen display and operatively connected to a freeze-up sensor;
a vacuum indicator located on the touch screen display and operatively connected to a vacuum sensor;
wherein the freeze-up indicator indicates the HVAC system is not operating due to a low temperature and condensation in the HVAC system and the vacuum sensor indicates the HVAC system is not operating due to a vacuum pressure at or exceeding a threshold pressure in the HVAC system; and
a continuous setpoint graph located at and adjustable on the touch screen display for creating a continuous temperature setpoint.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/906,352 US20110088416A1 (en) | 2009-10-16 | 2010-10-18 | Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US25224909P | 2009-10-16 | 2009-10-16 | |
US12/906,352 US20110088416A1 (en) | 2009-10-16 | 2010-10-18 | Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110088416A1 true US20110088416A1 (en) | 2011-04-21 |
Family
ID=43878245
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/906,352 Abandoned US20110088416A1 (en) | 2009-10-16 | 2010-10-18 | Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20110088416A1 (en) |
Cited By (20)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20150325394A1 (en) * | 2014-05-12 | 2015-11-12 | Cooper Technologies Company | Vacuum loss detection |
US9417754B2 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2016-08-16 | P4tents1, LLC | User interface system, method, and computer program product |
US9890971B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2018-02-13 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device with hinged mounting plate |
US10162327B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2018-12-25 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with concierge features |
US10318266B2 (en) | 2015-11-25 | 2019-06-11 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Modular multi-function thermostat |
US10410300B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2019-09-10 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with occupancy detection based on social media event data |
US10458669B2 (en) | 2017-03-29 | 2019-10-29 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with interactive installation features |
US10546472B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2020-01-28 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with direction handoff features |
US10655881B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2020-05-19 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with halo light system and emergency directions |
US10677484B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2020-06-09 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device and multi-function home control system |
US10712038B2 (en) | 2017-04-14 | 2020-07-14 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with air quality display |
US10760809B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2020-09-01 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with mode settings for multiple zones |
US10941951B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2021-03-09 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Systems and methods for temperature and humidity control |
US10976066B2 (en) | 2017-10-19 | 2021-04-13 | KBE, Inc. | Systems and methods for mitigating ice formation conditions in air conditioning systems |
US11107390B2 (en) | 2018-12-21 | 2021-08-31 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Display device with halo |
US11131474B2 (en) | 2018-03-09 | 2021-09-28 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with user interface features |
US11162698B2 (en) | 2017-04-14 | 2021-11-02 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with exhaust fan control for air quality and humidity control |
US11216020B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2022-01-04 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Mountable touch thermostat using transparent screen technology |
US11277893B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2022-03-15 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with area light system and occupancy sensor |
US11933530B2 (en) | 2021-01-22 | 2024-03-19 | Raytheon Company | Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration protection system |
Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4850200A (en) * | 1987-07-10 | 1989-07-25 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Refrigerating circuit device for air conditioning apparatus and control method thereof |
US5150584A (en) * | 1991-09-26 | 1992-09-29 | General Motors Corporation | Method and apparatus for detecting low refrigerant charge |
US5218836A (en) * | 1992-06-11 | 1993-06-15 | Eaton Corporation | Measuring evaporator load in an automotive air conditioning system for compressor clutch control using evaporator inlet temperature |
US5315838A (en) * | 1993-08-16 | 1994-05-31 | Whirlpool Corporation | Air conditioner filter monitor |
US5992163A (en) * | 1997-08-23 | 1999-11-30 | Behr Gmbh & Co. | Process and arrangement for an air conditioner control with an evaporator protected against icing |
US6029465A (en) * | 1998-02-14 | 2000-02-29 | Bascobert; Rene F | Control system for mobile air conditioning apparatus |
US20060196953A1 (en) * | 2005-01-19 | 2006-09-07 | Tim Simon, Inc. | Multiple thermostat installation |
US20070130974A1 (en) * | 2005-12-12 | 2007-06-14 | Gatlin Gary L | Air conditioner defrost system |
US20070277538A1 (en) * | 2006-05-30 | 2007-12-06 | B/E Aerospace, Inc. | Refrigeration unit and diagnostic method therefor |
US20080149837A1 (en) * | 2004-01-07 | 2008-06-26 | Alan Bagley | Optical frost sensor |
-
2010
- 2010-10-18 US US12/906,352 patent/US20110088416A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4850200A (en) * | 1987-07-10 | 1989-07-25 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Refrigerating circuit device for air conditioning apparatus and control method thereof |
US5150584A (en) * | 1991-09-26 | 1992-09-29 | General Motors Corporation | Method and apparatus for detecting low refrigerant charge |
US5218836A (en) * | 1992-06-11 | 1993-06-15 | Eaton Corporation | Measuring evaporator load in an automotive air conditioning system for compressor clutch control using evaporator inlet temperature |
US5315838A (en) * | 1993-08-16 | 1994-05-31 | Whirlpool Corporation | Air conditioner filter monitor |
US5992163A (en) * | 1997-08-23 | 1999-11-30 | Behr Gmbh & Co. | Process and arrangement for an air conditioner control with an evaporator protected against icing |
US6029465A (en) * | 1998-02-14 | 2000-02-29 | Bascobert; Rene F | Control system for mobile air conditioning apparatus |
US20080149837A1 (en) * | 2004-01-07 | 2008-06-26 | Alan Bagley | Optical frost sensor |
US20060196953A1 (en) * | 2005-01-19 | 2006-09-07 | Tim Simon, Inc. | Multiple thermostat installation |
US20070130974A1 (en) * | 2005-12-12 | 2007-06-14 | Gatlin Gary L | Air conditioner defrost system |
US20070277538A1 (en) * | 2006-05-30 | 2007-12-06 | B/E Aerospace, Inc. | Refrigeration unit and diagnostic method therefor |
Cited By (90)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10606396B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-03-31 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen methods for duration-based functions |
US10156921B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-12-18 | P4tents1, LLC | Tri-state gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US11740727B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2023-08-29 | P4Tents1 Llc | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US11061503B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2021-07-13 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10996787B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2021-05-04 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10013094B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-07-03 | P4tents1, LLC | System, method, and computer program product for a multi-pressure selection touch screen |
US10013095B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-07-03 | P4tents1, LLC | Multi-type gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10031607B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-07-24 | P4tents1, LLC | System, method, and computer program product for a multi-pressure selection touch screen |
US10120480B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-11-06 | P4tents1, LLC | Application-specific pressure-sensitive touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10133397B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-11-20 | P4tents1, LLC | Tri-state gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10146353B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-12-04 | P4tents1, LLC | Touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10642413B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-05 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10162448B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2018-12-25 | P4tents1, LLC | System, method, and computer program product for a pressure-sensitive touch screen for messages |
US10936114B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2021-03-02 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10838542B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-11-17 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10203794B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-02-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure-sensitive home interface system, method, and computer program product |
US10209809B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-02-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure-sensitive touch screen system, method, and computer program product for objects |
US10209807B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-02-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure sensitive touch screen system, method, and computer program product for hyperlinks |
US10209806B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-02-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Tri-state gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10209808B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-02-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure-based interface system, method, and computer program product with virtual display layers |
US10222895B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-03-05 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure-based touch screen system, method, and computer program product with virtual display layers |
US10222893B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-03-05 | P4tents1, LLC | Pressure-based touch screen system, method, and computer program product with virtual display layers |
US10222891B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-03-05 | P4tents1, LLC | Setting interface system, method, and computer program product for a multi-pressure selection touch screen |
US10788931B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-09-29 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10222892B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-03-05 | P4tents1, LLC | System, method, and computer program product for a multi-pressure selection touch screen |
US10275086B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-04-30 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10275087B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-04-30 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10782819B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-09-22 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10725581B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-07-28 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10338736B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-07-02 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10345961B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-07-09 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices and methods for navigating between user interfaces |
US10671212B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-06-02 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10365758B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-07-30 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10386960B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-08-20 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10671213B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-06-02 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10664097B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-26 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10656758B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10521047B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-12-31 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10534474B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-01-14 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10540039B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-01-21 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices and methods for navigating between user interface |
US10656759B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10551966B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-02-04 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10656753B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10592039B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-03-17 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product for displaying multiple active applications |
US10656755B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10222894B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2019-03-05 | P4tents1, LLC | System, method, and computer program product for a multi-pressure selection touch screen |
US9417754B2 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2016-08-16 | P4tents1, LLC | User interface system, method, and computer program product |
US10649578B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10649571B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10649580B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical use interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10649581B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10649579B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-12 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices, methods, and graphical user interfaces for manipulating user interface objects with visual and/or haptic feedback |
US10656756B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10656757B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US10656754B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Devices and methods for navigating between user interfaces |
US10656752B1 (en) | 2011-08-05 | 2020-05-19 | P4tents1, LLC | Gesture-equipped touch screen system, method, and computer program product |
US20150325394A1 (en) * | 2014-05-12 | 2015-11-12 | Cooper Technologies Company | Vacuum loss detection |
US9870885B2 (en) * | 2014-05-12 | 2018-01-16 | Cooper Technologies Company | Vacuum loss detection |
US10677484B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2020-06-09 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device and multi-function home control system |
US9964328B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2018-05-08 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device with cantilevered display |
US10808958B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2020-10-20 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device with cantilevered display |
US10627126B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2020-04-21 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device with hinged mounting plate |
US11216020B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2022-01-04 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Mountable touch thermostat using transparent screen technology |
US9890971B2 (en) | 2015-05-04 | 2018-02-13 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | User control device with hinged mounting plate |
US10559045B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2020-02-11 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with occupancy detection based on load of HVAC equipment |
US10510127B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2019-12-17 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat having network connected branding features |
US11087417B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2021-08-10 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with bi-directional communications interface for monitoring HVAC equipment |
US11080800B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2021-08-03 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat having network connected branding features |
US10760809B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2020-09-01 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with mode settings for multiple zones |
US10769735B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2020-09-08 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with user interface features |
US10410300B2 (en) | 2015-09-11 | 2019-09-10 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with occupancy detection based on social media event data |
US10310477B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2019-06-04 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with occupant tracking features |
US10732600B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2020-08-04 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with health monitoring features |
US10345781B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2019-07-09 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with health monitoring features |
US10162327B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2018-12-25 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with concierge features |
US10180673B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2019-01-15 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with emergency direction features |
US10969131B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2021-04-06 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Sensor with halo light system |
US10546472B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2020-01-28 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with direction handoff features |
US11277893B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2022-03-15 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with area light system and occupancy sensor |
US10655881B2 (en) | 2015-10-28 | 2020-05-19 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with halo light system and emergency directions |
US10318266B2 (en) | 2015-11-25 | 2019-06-11 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Modular multi-function thermostat |
US10941951B2 (en) | 2016-07-27 | 2021-03-09 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Systems and methods for temperature and humidity control |
US10458669B2 (en) | 2017-03-29 | 2019-10-29 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Thermostat with interactive installation features |
US11441799B2 (en) | 2017-03-29 | 2022-09-13 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with interactive installation features |
US10712038B2 (en) | 2017-04-14 | 2020-07-14 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Multi-function thermostat with air quality display |
US11162698B2 (en) | 2017-04-14 | 2021-11-02 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with exhaust fan control for air quality and humidity control |
US10976066B2 (en) | 2017-10-19 | 2021-04-13 | KBE, Inc. | Systems and methods for mitigating ice formation conditions in air conditioning systems |
US11131474B2 (en) | 2018-03-09 | 2021-09-28 | Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP | Thermostat with user interface features |
US11107390B2 (en) | 2018-12-21 | 2021-08-31 | Johnson Controls Technology Company | Display device with halo |
US11933530B2 (en) | 2021-01-22 | 2024-03-19 | Raytheon Company | Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration protection system |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20110088416A1 (en) | Vacuum And Freeze-Up HVAC Sensor | |
US8600559B2 (en) | Method of controlling equipment in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning network | |
US7274973B2 (en) | HVAC/R monitoring apparatus and method | |
EP3643980B1 (en) | Hvac system and method of circulating flammable refrigerant | |
US7343750B2 (en) | Diagnosing a loss of refrigerant charge in a refrigerant system | |
US20160282026A1 (en) | Air conditioner amd method of controlling an air conditioner | |
US9809088B2 (en) | Controlling HVAC speed of condenser fans using pressure sensors | |
WO2018142711A1 (en) | Outdoor unit of air conditioner, air conditioner, and air-conditioning management method | |
US20120031985A1 (en) | Fault tolerant appliance | |
US10156396B2 (en) | System for operating an HVAC system having tandem compressors | |
US20210293432A1 (en) | Environmental Control Unit including Maintenance Prediction | |
KR20180082240A (en) | Air-conditioner system | |
US20230106462A1 (en) | Frost remidiation and frost sensor | |
US20170100985A1 (en) | Refrigeration efficiency monitoring system | |
EP2639665A2 (en) | Air-conditioning system | |
JP4288928B2 (en) | Air conditioner | |
CN112344517B (en) | Air conditioner detection method, mobile air conditioner and computer readable storage medium | |
JP7040420B2 (en) | Failure analysis system, failure analysis device | |
JP4854457B2 (en) | Air conditioner | |
JP4798954B2 (en) | Refrigeration air conditioner | |
CA2885449C (en) | System for controlling operation of an hvac system having tandem compressors | |
CN114061254A (en) | Method and device for self-protection of refrigeration equipment, refrigeration equipment and storage medium | |
CN101836064A (en) | Refrigerator | |
WO2023234768A1 (en) | A system for determining cleanliness of an air conditioner | |
JP2006078089A (en) | Air conditioner |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CORERED, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KOETHLER, CORNELIUS Z.;REEL/FRAME:025152/0295 Effective date: 20101015 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |