Shape memory alloy damper/register unit
AssigneeMountainlogic, Inc.
InventorScott Elliott
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A HVAC controls system for zone controls that is comprised of one or more Wall Sensor Units (WSU) and zero or more Damper/Register Units (DRUs). The invention is a low networked cost solution for residential and light commercial that is easy to install in new and existing building. The WSUs detect, log and use occupancy data to predict where in a building HVAC conditioning is needed and to save energy where it is not needed. The DRU use shape memory alloy wires to control the opening and closing of a damper plate with very little power allowing batter operation.
Claims20
A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control system for zone control, comprising:
- one or more HVAC automated damper/register units, each HVAC automated damper/register unit having:
- two shape memory alloy wires;
- two push pieces;
- a processor unit;
- and
- network communications capabilities.
A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control system automated damper/register unit, comprising:
- a plurality of shape memory alloy wire segments;
- a plurality of push pieces, each push piece coupled to a respective one of the shape memory alloy wire segments;
- a processor unit;
- and
- a network communications circuit.
A computer readable storage device having thereon a plurality of computer instructions, the computer instructions arranged to direct a processing unit to perform acts in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) damper/register unit, the acts comprising:
- applying a current to at least one shape memory alloy wire segment, the at least one shape memory alloy wire segment coupled to a functional unit operable to permit and restrict air flow through the HVAC damper/register unit.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.