Robert William Russ

US Patent:

57061912, Jan 6, 1998

Filed:

May 23, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/862358

Inventors:

William W. Bassett - Wheaton IL
Robert M. Russ - Los Altos Hills CA
Charles A. Glorioso - Castro Valley CA

Assignee:

Gas Research Institute - Chicago IL

International Classification:

G06F 1900

US Classification:

364138

Abstract:

A method for bringing an appliance and/or an electrical or mechanical system of a residence into communication with another, or with a control device within the residence, or with an other communication source outside the residence, so as to establish a home automation system, or enlarge upon an existing automation system. An appliance interface module apparatus is also provided for facilitating communication between an appliance, and the automation system as a whole. The appliance interface module may be capable of controlling, upon command, the specific detailed operations of the appliance to which it is attached, and may, upon inquiry, transmit data which has been recorded, stored and/or calculated by the module.

US Patent:

54859530, Jan 23, 1996

Filed:

Jan 26, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/378517

Inventors:

William W. Bassett - Wheaton IL
Robert M. Russ - Los Altos Hills CA
Thomas L. Webster - Piedmont CA

Assignee:

Gas Research Institute - Chicago IL

International Classification:

F24F 700

US Classification:

236 493

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for controlling the circulation of heat transfer fluid for thermal conditioning systems for spaces, in which the temperatures of several at least partially thermally separate spaces are monitored and averaged, and compared with a predetermined set point temperature, for purposes of controlling the operation of a source of thermal conditioning. In addition, the temperature differentials between the several spaces are also monitored, for purposes of controlling the circulation of the heat transfer fluid. The present invention permits the continued circulation of the heat transfer fluid, even if no heating or cooling is required, for purposes of reducing the temperature differentials between the several spaces.