Thermostat with handicap access mode
AssigneeAction Talkin Products, LLC
InventorsScott W. Flood, Christopher G. Wanlass
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An innovative thermostat having a handicap access mode is described. When the handicap access mode is triggered, the thermostat accepts voice commands to control thermostat settings. This innovative thermostat is a particularly convenient feature for the visually impaired, and individuals with limited mobility. In one exemplary embodiment, the thermostat includes a controller operable in a direct input mode and/or a handicap access mode. When in the direct input mode, the controller receives user commands through mechanical actuation of an adjustment mechanism to adjust a thermostat setting. When in the handicap access mode the controller receives voice commands through a microphone to adjust a thermostat setting.
Claims14
A thermostat, comprising:
- a controller operable in a selectable one of:
- a direct input mode in which the controller receives user commands through a mechanical actuation of an adjustment mechanism to adjust a thermostat setting;
- and a handicap access mode in which the controller receives voice commands through a microphone to adjust a thermostat setting;
- a switch in communication with the controller;
- and
- an elevation compensation actuator attached to the switch, wherein the elevation compensation actuator, in part, triggers the selection of the handicap access mode when a person moves the elevation compensation actuator.
A thermostat comprising:
- a microphone adapted to receive audible sounds, a controller, a switch in communication with the controller, and an elevation compensation actuator attached to the switch, wherein movement of the elevation compensation actuator causes the switch to send a signal to the controller.
A thermostat, comprising:
- a controller operable in a selectable one of:
- a direct input mode in which the controller receives user commands through a touch keypad to adjust a thermostat setting;
- and a handicap access mode in which the controller receives user commands to adjust a thermostat setting by receiving voice commands;
- a switch in communication with the controller;
- and
- a pull cord attached to the switch, whereby pulling on the pull cord, in part, triggers the selection of the handicap access mode through activation of the switch.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.