US11029056

US011029056B2
United States
(12) Assouad Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 11,029,056 B2
et al . (45 ) Date of Patent : Jun . 8 , 2021
( 54 ) AUTOMATIC SWITCHOVER THERMOSTAT ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search
SYSTEM BASED ON APPARENT CPC F24F 11/67 ; F24F 11/523 ; F24F 11/80 ;
TEMPERATURE AND METHOD FOR F24F 2110/10; F24F 2110/20 ; G05D
DETERMINING AND AUTOMATICALLY 22/02 ; G05D 23/1919 ; G05D 27/02
CONTROLLING THE APPARENT See application file for complete search history .
TEMPERATURE OF A CONDITIONED
SPACE (56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
(71 ) Applicants : Bechara Philippe Assouad , Ashrafieh
( LB ) ; Dimitri S. Chamieh , Pasadena, 4,557,317 A * 12/1985 Harmon , Jr. GO5D 23/1902
CA (US ) 165/201
4,616,325 A * 10/1986 Heckenbach GO5D 23/1905
( 72 ) Inventors: Bechara Philippe Assouad , Ashrafieh 700/276
( LB ) ; Dimitri S. Chamieh , Pasadena, (Continued )
CA (US )
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(73 ) Assignee : FRONTIERTECH
INTERNATIONAL INC . , Pasadena , CN 107166637 A 9/2017
JP 2010266318 A 11/2010
CA (US ) (Continued )
( * ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 OTHER PUBLICATIONS
U.S.C. 154 ( b ) by 86 days.
Anderson et.al. “ Methods to Calculate the Heat Index as an Expo
(21 ) Appl . No .: 16 /158,154 sure Metric in Environmental Health Research ”, Environmental
Health Perspectives vol . 121 , No. 10 , p . 111-1119 , Oct. 2013 ( Year :
(22) Filed : Oct. 11 , 2018 2013 ) . *
(Continued )
(65 ) Prior Publication Data
Primary Examiner Bernard G Lindsay
US 2019/0107309 A1 Apr. 11 , 2019 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm - Lewis Roca Rothgerber
Related U.S. Application Data Christie LLP
( 60 ) Provisional application No. 62/ 570,835 , filed on Oct. (57 ) ABSTRACT

11 , 2017 A climate control unit configured to control a heating unit
( 51 ) Int . Ci . and a cooling unit. The climate control unit includes a
F24F 11/67 ( 2018.01 )
temperature sensor configured to measure a current dry bulb
F24F 11/80 (2018.01 )
temperature, a humidity sensor configured to measure a
current relative humidity, a processor, and a storage medium
(Continued ) operably coupled to the processor. The storage medium has
(52) U.S. CI . software instructions stored therein , which , when executed
CPC F24F 11/67 (2018.01 ) ; F24F 11/523 by the processor, cause the processor to determine a current
(2018.01 ) ; F24F 11/80 (2018.01 ) ; G05D 22/02 apparent temperature based on the current dry bulb tem
( 2013.01 ); perature and the current relative humidity, receive a user
(Continued ) ( Continued )
400
START
- 410
DETERMINE DRY BULB TEMPERATURE
- 420
DETERMINE RELATIVE HUMIDITY
-430
DETERMINE APPARENT TEMPERATURE
440
RECEIVE USER - SELECTED DESIRED
APPARENT TEMPERATURE
450
CALCULATE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
USER - SELECTED DESIRED APPARENT
TEMPERATURE AND APPARENT TEMPERATURE
460
DETERMINE TARGET DRY BULB TEMPERATURE
AND / OR TARGET RELATIVE HUMIDITY
-470
CONTROL HEATING UNIT OR COOLING UNIT
APPARENT
NO TEMPERATURE EQUAL TO
DESIRED APPARENT
TEMPERATURE
YES
END
US 11,029,056 B2
Page 2
selected desired apparent temperature, activate a heating 2012/0061068 A1 * 3/2012 Anderson F24F 11/30
mode when the current apparent temperature is below a 165/254
2013/0087630 A1 * 4/2013 Castillo F24F 11/0008
lower apparent temperature threshold , and activate a cooling 236/44 C
mode when the current apparent temperature is above an 2014/0263678 A1 9/2014 Schnell et al .
upper apparent temperature threshold . The software instruc 2014/0277756 A1 9/2014 Bruce et al .
tions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor 2014/0358294
2015/0203125
Al 12/2014 Nichols et al.
A1 * 7/2015 Penilla B60W 50/08
to automatically switch between the heating mode and the 701/1
cooling mode. 2016/0187899 A1 * 6/2016 Lee GO5D 22/02
236/44 C
27 Claims , 12 Drawing Sheets 2017/0211830 A1 7/2017 Kosaka et al .
2017/0268793 A1 9/2017 Cardonha et al .
2018/0156487 A1 6/2018 Beitelmal
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

(51 ) Int. Ci.
F24F 11/523 ( 2018.01 ) JP 2014066432 A 4/2014
G05D 27/02 ( 2006.01 ) WO WO 2015/014229 Al 2/2015
G05D 23/19 ( 2006.01 ) WO WO 2016/008431 A1 1/2016
G05D 22/02 ( 2006.01 ) WO WO 2018/117344 Al 6/2018
F24F 110/10 ( 2018.01 )
F24F 110/20 ( 2018.01 ) OTHER PUBLICATIONS
(52) U.S. Ci. International Preliminary Report on Patentability for International
CPC G05D 23/1919 (2013.01 ) ; G05D 27/02
( 2013.01 ) ; F24F 2110/10 (2018.01 ) ; F24F Application No. PCT /US2018 /055514, dated Dec. 13 , 2019 , 7
pages.
2110/20 ( 2018.01 ) International Search Report and Written Opinion for International
( 56 ) References Cited
Application No. PCT /US2018 /055514, dated Jan. 25 , 2019 , 11
pages .
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
https://web.archive.org/web/20170421115116/http://www .
meteosuivialsace.fr/la-temperature-apparente ), 2 pages , retrieved Jan.
5,737,934 A * 4/1998 Shah F24F 11/0008 10, 2019 .
165/223 https://www.azosensors.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=487, Publica
6,012,296 A 1/2000 Shah tion date : May 14 , 2014 , Date Accessed : Sep. 27 , 2018 , 4 pages .
2002/0166659 A1 * 11/2002 Wagner GO5D 23/1919 Steadman , “ A Universal Scale of Apparent Temperature, ” Journal of
165/254 Climate and Applied Meteorology, vol . 23 , 14 pages , Dec. 1984 .
2008/0256475 A1 10/2008 Amundson et al . Chinese Office action for Application No. 201880079797.5 dated
2011/0166712 A1 * 7/2011 Kramer GO5D 23/1919 Mar. 3 , 2021 , 22 pages.
700/278
2011/0168792 Al 7/2011 Riley, * cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Jun . 8 , 2021 Sheet 1 of 12 US 11,029,056 B2
100
FIG . 1A 105
25 ° C
65 % 106
106-1
ECONOMY COMFORT
1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
5 10
200
106-2
FIG . 1B 300
202 A/C UNIT 203

HEATING UNIT 201 CONTROL
301 C 302 COMPRESSOR VALVE
RELAY
EVAPORATOR FURNANCE 204
EVAPORATOR
100
CONTROLLER 108
101 -103
TEMPERATURE
SENSOR PROCESSOR
107 C105
BUS DISPLAY
102 106 104

HUMIDITY USER INPUT
SENSOR MEMORY
DEVICE
9.59.9
9.019.990.4832 2836574.564
1
. 7
4
2
3
5
6
8 .32
6
8
5
1
7
0
9
4
9.6198.2820.176 91203.273894 140523.187236905 145236.23860459 16384975.7104 124870596.7845130 21509768.3057248 2.1396078.307582194 218734590.45793016 128935064.56491320 230469851.0798 2350149768.6825743910 237561984.235087 32087651.96420831 321065784.3569082 321487605.0516824 32410786.6950241 324871906.237950641 32419075.325960
HRUEMLIADTVY 100.
90.
|
80.
70.
60.
50.
40.
30.
20.
%
10.
3.4209576.172469
CDITAEPMLGSRNUTE 9.18.28.77.86.16.57.07.4
8.08.57.17.6 2109.76
10.0 1 .0 12.0 13.0 14.0 15.0 16.0 17.0 18.0 19.0 20.0 21.0 2 .0 23.0 24.0 25.0 26.0 27.0 28.0 29.0 30.0 31.0 32.0 3 .0
2A
.
FIG DRY BULB TEMP
7620859.780342
190638152.7039651
HFITAEPMHRNUT RUEMLIADTVYE 54063879.109385644598162704.8327596415432169087.208516374582391760.31502465231078694.42156942831075.98657403 5604381927.16083724562743890.7526931056745980631.5918724 67804391.704596186739248561.,17386092567851203.17348056786320491.46192767895240316.267319507813795.120 7895321.1532986704 879054261.1260345798792831546.8143570298917403861.9428)91630482.9582107 8190572648.6928704135819043761852.7685
70.
60.
50.
40.
30.
20.
%
10.
100.
90.
80.
63.9
89.9
65291.285
9816.84
2B
.
FIG DRY BULB TEMP
U.S. Patent Jun . 8. 2021 Sheet 4 of 12 US 11,029,056 B2
17.8178.60
16.67.5123 20.320.120.820.6|
15.815.615.415.215.115.014.814.7 16.216.015.915.715.615.516.716.41 17.417.217.116.918.418.117.917.61 20.920.520.320.019.719.519.201 2345.1485937 26.125.725.324.924.524.123.823.4

22.121.821.421.120.820.6
1)2890.2.1 370254.8 25.525.131.330.830.229.629.128.628.127.627.126.726.325.9
19.756318.907356821. 23.623.222.822.522121.81.14
2218.60134527.51280369754. 124.8.5134268.01294507163. 219.7134562.90817240593. 28.127.627.126.626.225.725.324.924.524.28.7
213.864579031.0358261.7321.0678945132.41369401582. 3214.107945683.172813952.
100.
95.
90.
85.
80.
75.
70.
65.
60.
55.
50.
45.
40.
35.
30.
25.
20.
15.
%
10. 11*2|0.78906214.821679025813.4 12.89761204.723581460.9 112.38904.26179245810. 1217.389021.375120468395. 213.4501892.7314298576. 21 516034.96.120745982613.7 2147.5013267.01524798360.
2119.13456278.51247036159. 211308.23456718.2497108532. 24.924.524.123.823.423.122.722.428.327.727.226.726.324127.825.453.890 18406 27.226.726.225.825.324.924.524.123.823.428.7.28.22128.313.731.9057182913. 231 14567890.23.104826391.
CITBDEMUPLRSNAITYBE HRUEMLIADTVYE 1192.0763819.472908. 11290.3867.180297351. 18.12.49851.2073469 12675890.801346925 129032.4560.64813725
11879.56821.746280351 211 4130.45.72391205.6
)216347.50.12681950. 226.13.19678.41307846051.2
32.631.931.330.830.229.629.132.234.295
124.3.01265 |
25.6
213.6890.317298
FIG.3A
61.147 69.769.268.7
72.771.571.070.470.0
68.6701892.36.7205841
634578.704261 77.776.976.275.474.774.173.472.872.271.771.2 73.673.076.175.474.874.278.477.676.880.079.21 75.474.874.273.677.576.876.180.879.979.178.3 83.182.281.380.479.678.878.177.476.776.075.4 83.882.982.081.180.379.578.778.077.376.676.0 84.683.682.781.981.080.279.478.677.977.276.6
6)19.483027.416 570368.129 73.871.270.6

556132.890461.7359241806.61)4.3890127 .65218694037 6178.234579160.758130469. .6176492.4503917.64897016526710.2345791.687149302. 167531.9478.820479316 68.67152.8905741.307316529. 6713.980125.721483706. 7164.278901.5321906 671.8012394765.18739204.569.671.90123487.5894073.1 7)814.39124560.823162740985. 78190.6453279018 .840213796.
100.
95.
90.
85.
80.
75.
70.
65.
60.
55.
50.
45.
40.
35.
30.
25.
20.
15.
%
10.
7168.5012349.678120473956. 671890123458..8604832975.1 78115.162345908.0183951420. 78176.25.43901768.921485309.6 78159.46023187.641285076. 7891 30124567. .910538764.2
FITBDEAMHUPRNLTYBIE HRUEMLIADTVY 61507.24938.601794523 6)11780.12345.6419703568.2
67166.4.107893.1295712506. 7345.863 7182345689.0.1784130265. 78176.9.01236.48 218640975.
78135.469012.847295301 79.7814.9012768.39876105. 89181.02.456731.9818902
89.090.989.89188.787.686.685.684.683.682.23.137
83.819.4567190.318019.2
7180.56971308.
3B
.
FIG
80F
78F
76F
@7LTBDEM4IUPR.NLA5TYUEBFR
@7LTBDEM2IUPR.NLA5TYUEBFR 74F
%
90 %
80 %
70 %
60 %
50 40
% %
30 %
20
72F
ONBMHEAOSTDIENG ONBMCOASLDIENG 70F

TBDEMUPRLATYBE TBDEMUPRLATYBE
68F
4A
.
FIG az M
80F
7AND45%H.U2M.ID5ITFY 78F
@TAEPM RATEUNAND45%H7U4MI.D5ITFY A
T
.EPM RAETN
U
76F
74F
%
90 %
80 %
70 60
% %
50 %
40 %
30 20
%
72F
70F
TBAEPMURLBNTE TBAEPMURLNTE
ONBMHEAOSTDIENG ONBMCOASLDIENG
68F
4B
.
FIG
80F
@TAEPMRUNTE 45%HA7U2MNI.D5DTFY 78F

@TAEPMRUNTE 45%HA7U4MNI.D5DTFY
@7LDRYB4IU.NL5EBF 76F
@7LDRYB2IU.NL5EBF IV
74F
%
90 %
80 %
70 %
60 %
50 40
% %
30 %
20
72F
III
ASNOISCTWROEHNGFILROCENT
NAHCEORTLSIEANGY CTWRISOEHNGFLIROCENT 70F
TBAPERWHOACENS
|
68F
4C
.
FIG
s
80F
@TAEPM RTEUN AND45%H7U3MI.D5TFY 78F

B
76F
@7LDRYB3IU.NL5EBF
74F
%
90 %
80 %
70 %
60 %
50 %
40 30
% %
20
72F
A
70F
5
.
FIG
68F
88
%
10
86F
%
20
84F
%
30
82F
%
80 70
% %
60 50
%
%
40 R3 80F
78F
%
90 R4 76F
DRYBULBLINE@79F 74F
@66FLDRYBIUNLEB
@TAEPMRUNTE 66FAND45%HUMIDTY 72F
70F
.
12 68F
R2 H
66F
@TAEPMRUNTE 79FAND45%HUMIDTY R1 64F
FIG
6
.
60F62F
FIG . 7 400
START
410
DETERMINE DRY BULB TEMPERATURE
420
DETERMINE RELATIVE HUMIDITY
430
DETERMINE APPARENT TEMPERATURE
440
RECEIVE USER - SELECTED DESIRED
APPARENT TEMPERATURE
450
CALCULATE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
USER - SELECTED DESIRED APPARENT
TEMPERATURE AND APPARENT TEMPERATURE
460
DETERMINE TARGET DRY BULB TEMPERATURE
AND / OR TARGET RELATIVE HUMIDITY
470
CONTROL HEATING UNIT OR COOLING UNIT
APPARENT
NO TEMPERATURE EQUAL TO
DESIRED APPARENT
TEMPERATURE
?
YES
END
510 FALSE CMODE

?. CROULENR L
SAEST
MLOADSET 514
TRUE FOR
0
=
T
TO600
D O N E ATP RENT TEMP ?
TRUE
SSET>UM ER 1SECDELAY
511 F A L S E 513
N E XT
N E X T 1SECDELAY T E M P F A L S E 0
=
FOR
501
502 TRUE TATPRUENT W
S
>INE
T T
R C
SOT L
O EP
R TO300
512 515 DONE

AP RENT
LO P ATCP1PLAURENT SSET>UM ERTEMP TRUE
P5
A
TTP REUN T
506 509 DONE P8
LO P
FALSP2E ATP RENT WS>INET R TEMP 1SECDELAY 2
TSETS>UM ER EMP TRUE HSP7ETAOEPR NEXTFALSEFOR1=0?300TO
?
505 F A L S E 507
503 FALSE 1SECDELAY
P4 FOR NEXT
0
=
P3
504 600
TO ?
A
T P R E N T W
S
> I
?
N
E T R TEMP FALSE
DONE 508 P6
8
.
FIG
T M R
LOU
ADE
S T C
:
HREUATNER S
L A
E ST M
H OD E
FALSE
US 11,029,056 B2
1 2
AUTOMATIC SWITCHOVER THERMOSTAT below a lower apparent temperature threshold based on the
SYSTEM BASED ON APPARENT user- selected desired apparent temperature, and activate the
TEMPERATURE AND METHOD FOR cooling unit in a cooling mode when the current apparent
DETERMINING AND AUTOMATICALLY temperature is above an upper apparent temperature thresh
CONTROLLING THE APPARENT 5 old based on the user - selected desired apparent temperature .
TEMPERATURE OF A CONDITIONED The software instructions, when executed by the processor,
SPACE cause the processor to automatically switch between the
heating mode and the cooling mode .
CROSS - REFERENCE TO RELATED The software instructions may include a lookup table , and
10
APPLICATION ( S ) the software instructions, when executed by the processor,
may cause the processor to determine the current apparent
The present application claims priority to and the benefit temperature from the lookup table .
of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 570,835 , filed The software instructions may include a semi-empirical
Oct. 11 , 2017 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the algebraic equation defining the current apparent tempera
entire contents of which are incorporated herein by refer- 15 ture, and the software instructions, when executed by the
ence .
processor, may cause the processor to calculate the current
FIELD apparent temperature from the semi- empirical algebraic
equation .
The present disclosure relates generally to climate control 20 The semi-empirical algebraic equation may be
units and methods of controlling the climate of an interior
space .
AT = Tq + 0.33 * p -0.70 * WS – 4.00 ,
BACKGROUND
wherein
25
Heating, ventilation , and air - conditioning (HVAC ) sys
tems are commonly used to regulate the temperature of an p = rh * 6.105*e(1727-237huta).
interior space , such as a room in a residential or commercial
building or industrial building, etc. In general, HVAC sys- where AT is the apparent temperature in ° C .; Ta is the dry
tems are configured to maintain the temperature set on a 30 bulb temperature in ° C .; p is the water vapor pressure ( hPa );
thermostat. However, conventional HVAC systems are not ws is the wind speed ; and rh is the relative humidity (% ) .
configured to account for other factors that affect the comfort The software instructions, when executed by the proces
level of occupants in the space , such as relative humidity, sor , may further cause the processor to calculate a target dry
radiative heat transfer from other individuals in the space , bulb temperature corresponding to the user - selected desired
and equipment operating in the space . For instance , a variety 35 apparent temperature and the current relative humidity.
of factors may change the relative humidity inside the space , The software instructions may include a polynomial equa
such as a change in outside temperature or weather condi tion , and the software instructions, when executed by the
tions , a change in room occupancy, and a change in the heat processor, may cause the processor to calculate the target dry
generated inside the space , and a HVAC system with a bulb temperature from the polynomial equation.
conventional thermostat will continue to maintain the set 40
temperature without regard for the change in relative humid The polynomial equation may be -0.002227XAT2 + 1.06x
ity, which can cause the space to become uncomfortable for AT + 3.4902xRH2-3.6014xRH - 0.33346XATXRH + 4.0937,
the occupants. where AT is the user -selected desired apparent temperature
More complex HVAC systems are configured to adjust and RH is the current relative humidity.
both the temperature and the relative humidity of the interior 45 sorThe software instructions, when executed by the proces
, may further cause the processor to calculate a target
space . However, these more complex HVAC systems typi
cally include a humidifier, a dehumidifier, and a reheat relative humidity corresponding to the user -selected desired
system , which are expensive. apparent temperature and the current dry bulb temperature .
The system may further include an input unit configured
SUMMARY 50 to input the user- selected desired apparent temperature.
The input unit may be configured to cause the processor
The present disclosure is directed to various embodiments to calculate the current apparent temperature and cause the
of a climate control system configured to control a heating processor to set the lower apparent temperature threshold
unit and a cooling unit. In one embodiment, the climate equal to the current apparent temperature when the system
control system includes a temperature sensor configured to 55 is operating in the heating mode and to set the upper
measure a current dry bulb temperature, a humidity sensor apparent temperature threshold equal to the current apparent
configured to measure a current relative humidity , a proces- temperature when the system is operating in the cooling
sor, and a non - transitory computer -readable storage medium mode .
operably coupled to the processor. The non - transitory com- The system may include a display configured to display at
puter -readable storage medium having software instructions 60 least one of the current dry bulb temperature, the current
stored therein , which , when executed by the processor, cause relative humidity, the current apparent temperature, and the
the processor to determine a current apparent temperature user- selected desired apparent temperature .
based on at least the current dry bulb temperature measured The non -transitory computer -readable storage medium
by the temperature sensor and the current relative humidity may be configured to store a first user - selected desired
measured by the humidity sensor, receive a user - selected 65 apparent temperature associated with a first user, and store
desired apparent temperature, activate the heating unit in a a second user -selected desired apparent temperature associ
heating mode when the current apparent temperature is ated with a second user .
US 11,029,056 B2
3 4
The present disclosure is also directed to various methods medium . In one embodiment, the non -transitory computer
of controlling the climate of a conditioned space . In one readable storage medium has software instructions stored
embodiment, the method includes determining a current dry therein , which , when executed by a processor, cause the
bulb temperature of the conditioned space , determining a processor to determine a current dry bulb temperature ,
current relative humidity of the conditioned space , calculat- 5 determine a current relative humidity, determine a current
ing or determining a current apparent temperature of the apparent temperature based on the current dry bulb tem
conditioned space based on at least the current relative perature and the current relative humidity, receive a user
humidity and the current dry bulb temperature of the con- selected desired apparent temperature, activate a heating
ditioned space , activating a heating unit in a heating mode 10
unit in a heating mode when the current apparent tempera
when the current apparent temperature is below a lower ture is below a lower apparent temperature threshold based
apparent temperature threshold based on a user - selected on the user- selected desired apparent temperature, activate a
desired apparent temperature, activating a cooling unit in a cooling unit in a cooling mode when the current apparent
cooling mode when the current apparent temperature is temperature is above an upper apparent temperature thresh
above an upper apparent temperature threshold based on the 15 old based on the user -selected desired apparent temperature,
user- selected desired apparent temperature , and automati- and automatically switch between the heating mode and the
cally switching between the heating mode and the cooling cooling mode.
mode . This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
Determining the current dry bulb temperature may features and concepts of embodiments of the present dis
include measuring the current dry bulb temperature with a 20 closure that are further described below in the detailed
temperature sensor, and determining the current relative description . This summary is not intended to identify key or
humidity may include measuring the current relative humid- essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it
ity with a humidity sensor. intended to be used in limiting the scope of the claimed
The method may also include receiving the user - selected subject matter. One or more of the described features may be
desired apparent temperature of the conditioned space . 25 combined with one or more other described features to
The method may include determining a difference provide a workable device .
between the user -selected desired apparent temperature and
the current apparent temperature of the conditioned space . BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The method may include determining a target dry bulb
temperature corresponding to the user -selected desired 30 These and other features and advantages of embodiments
apparent temperature and the current relative humidity in the of the present disclosure will become more apparent by
conditioned space. reference to the following detailed description when con
Determining the target dry bulb temperature may include sidered in conjunction with the following drawings. In the
calculating the target dry bulb temperature from a polyno
mial equation . The polynomial equation may be 35 figures to, like
drawings reference numerals are used throughout the
reference like features and components. The
0.002227 * AT2 + 1.06 * AT + 3.4902* RH2–3.6014 * RH figures are not necessarily drawn to scale .
0.33346 * AT * RH + 4.0937, where AT is the user - selected
desired apparent temperature and RH is the current relative FIGS . 1A - 1B are a schematic view and a block diagram
humidity. view , respectively, of a thermostat system connected to
The method may include determining a target relative 40 control an air-conditioning unit of a heating , venting, and
humidity corresponding to the user - selected desired appar- air -conditioning (HVAC ) system according to one embodi
ent temperature and the current dry bulb temperature in the ment of the present disclosure;
conditioned space. FIGS . 2A and 2B are tables depicting the apparent tem
Calculating or determining the current apparent tempera-
ture may include determining the current apparent tempera- 45
perature in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit, respec
tively, as a function of dry bulb temperature and relative
ture from a lookup table . humidity according to one embodiment of the present dis
Calculating or determining the apparent temperature my closure ;
include calculating the current apparent temperature with a FIGS . 3A and 3B are tables depicting the dry bulb
semi-empirical algebraic equation. temperature in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit,
The semi-empirical algebraic equation may be 50 respectively, as a function of apparent temperature and
relative humidity according to one embodiment of the
present disclosure;
AT = Ta + 0.33 * P - 0.70 * WS – 4.00 , FIGS . 4A - 4C are graphs comparing the temperature swi
wherein
tchover control methodology for conventional thermostats
55 and the temperature switchover control methodology
p = rh 46.105 +e[1727-2372 ). according to one embodiment of the present disclosure with
dead bands;
FIG . 5 is a graph comparing the temperature switchover
where AT is the apparent temperature in ° C .; Ta is the dry control methodology for conventional thermostats and the
bulb temperature in ° C .; p is the water vapor pressure (hPa); 60 temperature switchover control methodology according to
ws is the wind speed ; and rh is the relative humidity (% ) . one embodiment of the present disclosure without dead
Calculating or determining the current apparent tempera- bands;
ture may be based on one or more additional factors, such as FIG . 6 is a graph comparing the temperature switchover
radiated heat loads , outside temperature, a season, activity control methodology for conventional thermostats and the
level , clothing, radiation , wind speed, etc. 65 temperature switchover control methodology according to
The present disclosure is also directed to various embodi- one embodiment of the present disclosure with a wide dead
ments of a non - transitory computer - readable storage zone for maximum energy cost savings ;
US 11,029,056 B2
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FIG . 7 is a flowchart illustrating tasks of a method of system . In one or more embodiments, the input device 106
controlling the apparent temperature of a controlled space may include one or more physical controls on a housing of
according to one embodiment of the present disclosure ; and the system ( e.g. , one or more push buttons, a slider, and / or
FIG . 8 is a flowchart depicting tasks of an algorithm one or more knobs). In one or more embodiments , the input
configured to control switchover between heating and cool- 5 device 106 may be a graphic displayed on the display 105
ing modes according to one embodiment of the present that may be selected by touching the display 105 ( e.g. , the
disclosure . display 105 may be a touch screen) . In one or more
embodiments, the input device 106 may be a wired or
DETAILED DESCRIPTION wireless device , such as a remote control. In one or more
10 embodiments , the input device 106 may include a network
The present disclosure is directed to various embodiments adapter configured to communicate wirelessly with a mobile
of systems and methods configured to control and maintain device, such as a cellular device (e.g. , a smartphone ) or a
the comfort level of one or more occupants in a controlled device configured to communicate wirelessly over short
or conditioned space , such as the interior space of a resi- distances ( e.g. , a Bluetooth® device ). Additionally, in one or
dential building or a commercial building or industrial 15 more embodiments, the input device 106 is configured to
building, etc., by maintaining the apparent temperature in enable a user to select the current apparent temperature of
the controlled space , which is a function of both the dry bulb the controlled space as the desired apparent temperature
temperature and the relative humidity in the controlled without specifying a particular desired apparent tempera
space . Additionally , in various embodiments, the systems ture . For instance, in one or more embodiments , the input
and methods of the present disclosure are configured to 20 device 106 may include a button 106-1 which , when
provide energy cost savings when operated under certain depressed by a user , cause the processor 103 to determine or
conditions compared to conventional thermostats that mea- calculate the current apparent temperature from the current
sure only the dry bulb temperature of the space . dry bulb temperature measured by the temperature sensor
With reference now to FIGS . 1A - 1B , a climate control 101 and the current relative humidity measured by the
system 100 according to one embodiment of the present 25 humidity sensor 102 , and cause the processor 103 to store
disclosure includes a temperature sensor 101 configured to this current apparent temperature as the user - selected
measure a dry bulb temperature of a controlled space ( e.g. , desired apparent temperature in the memory 104. In one or
an interior space of a residential or commercial building or more embodiments, the button 106-1 , when depressed by a
industrial building, etc. ), a humidity sensor 102 (e.g. , a user, may cause the processor 103 determine or calculate the
hygrometer) configured to measure a relative humidity of 30 current apparent temperature in the conditioned space and to
the controlled spaced, a processor 103 , a memory 104 (i.e. , set either an upper apparent temperature limit or threshold or
a non - transitory computer -readable storage medium) , a dis- a lower apparent temperature limit of or threshold of a dead
play 105 for displaying images , and user input device 106 band equal or substantially equal to the current apparent
configured to enable a user to select a desired apparent temperature depending on whether the system 100 is oper
temperature of the controlled space . As used herein , the term 35 ating in a cooling mode or a heating mode . For example, in
“ dry bulb temperature ” refers to the temperature of air one or more embodiments, when the system 100 is operating
measured by a thermometer freely exposed to the air, but in cooling mode and the button 106-1 is pressed , the system
shielded from radiation and moisture . Additionally, in the 100 may shift the upper and lower apparent temperature
illustrated embodiment, the system 100 includes a system limits (as shown, e.g. , in FIG . 6 ) such that the upper apparent
bus 107 over which the temperature sensor 101 , the humid- 40 temperature threshold of the dead band is equal or substan
ity sensor 102 , the processor 103 , the memory 104 , the tially equal to the current apparent temperature determined
display 105 , and the user input device 106 communicate or calculated when the button 106-1 is pressed . Additionally,
with each other. in one or more embodiments , when the system 100 is
The term “ processor ” is used herein to include any operating in heating mode and the button 106-1 is pressed ,
combination of hardware ,firmware, and software, employed 45 the system 100 may shift the upper and lower apparent
to process data or digital signals . The hardware of a pro- temperature limits (as shown , e.g. , in FIG . 6 ) such that the
cessor may include, for example , application specific inte- lower apparent temperature threshold of the dead band is
grated circuits (ASICs ) , general purpose or special purpose equal or substantially equal to the current apparent tempera
central processors (CPUs ) , digital signal processors (DSPs ) , ture determined or calculated when the button 106-1 is
graphics processors (GPUs ) , and programmable logic 50 pressed . In one or more embodiments, the input device 106
devices such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs ). In may include a slider 106-2 configured to allow a user to
a processor, as used herein , each function is performed either indirectly select the desired apparent temperature. For
by hardware configured, i.e. , hard -wired , to perform that instance , in one or more embodiments, the slider 106-2
function, or by more general purpose hardware, such as a enables a user to select a balance between comfort (e.g. , in
CPU , configured to execute instructions stored in a non- 55 which the system 100 is configured to strictly maintain the
transitory storage medium . A processor may be fabricated on desired apparent temperature) and economy ( e.g. , in which
a single printed wiring board ( PWB ) or distributed over the system 100 is configured to activate the heating and / or
several interconnected PWBs . A processor may contain cooling unit only when the actual apparent temperature is
other processors ; for example a processor may include two outside of threshold limits ( e.g. , a dead band ) above and
processors , an FPGA and a CPU , interconnected on a PWB . 60 below the desired apparent temperature . In one or more
The input device 106 may be any suitable device that embodiments, the size of the dead band (e.g. , the amount
enables a user to enter the desired apparent temperature of that the threshold limits are above and below the desired
the controlled space , which is a function of both dry bulb apparent temperature ) increases as the slider 106-2 is moved
temperature and relative humidity, rather than the desired toward the “ Economy” setting and decreases as the slider
dry bulb temperature of space as in conventional thermo- 65 106-2 is moved toward the “ Comfort ” setting (e.g. , the slider
stats . As used herein , the term “ user” refers to a user of a 106-2 is configured to widen and narrow the dead band ). For
single - user system , a dual - user system , or a multi -user example, in one or more embodiments, the user may input
US 11,029,056 B2
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a desired apparent temperature of 75 ° F. ( e.g. , by pressing an an average relative humidity measured by the humidity
icon on the display 105 , engaging one or more physical sensor ). For instance, in one or more embodiments, if the dry
controls, such as the button 106-1 , and /or by utilizing a bulb temperature is 20.0 ° C. ( 68.0 ° F. ) (as measured by the
remote device, such as a cellular phone) and then the user temperature sensor 101 or calculated as an average or two or
may adjust the slider 106-2 to the desired position along the 5 more temperature measurements over a predefined time
spectrum between the “ Comfort” setting, in which the period ) and the relative humidity is 30 % ( as measured by the
system 100 would calculate a narrow dead band ( e.g. , humidity sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or
+/- 0.5 ° F. ) or no dead band about the desired apparent more relative humidity measurements over a predefined time
temperature of 75 ° F. , and the “ Economy ” setting, in which period ), the instructions stored in the memory 104 , when
the system 100 would calculate a maximum width dead band 10 executed by the processor 103 , would cause the processor
( e.g. , +/– 6.0 ° F. ) about the desired apparent temperature of 103 to reference the lookup tables in FIGS . 2A - 2B and
75 ° F. determine that the corresponding apparent temperature is
In one or more embodiments, the memory 104 may 18.1 ° C. (64.6 ° F.) .
include persistent memory, such as NAND flash memory, In one or more embodiments, the instructions stored in the
for storing user settings entered via the one or more input 15 memory 104 include one or more semi-empirical algebraic
devices 106. For instance , in one or more embodiments, the equations defining the apparent temperature as a function of
memory 104 may be configured to store the individual the dry bulb temperature ( as measured by the temperature
preferred temperature settings of two or more individual sensor 101 or calculated as an average or two or more
users which may be recalled for later use (e.g. , " user 1 ” : 75 ° temperature measurements over a predefined time period )
F. apparent temperature ; “ user 2 ” : 77 ° F. apparent tempera- 20 and the relative humidity (as measured by the humidity
ture ; " user 3” : 68 ° F. apparent temperature ). Accordingly, in sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or more
one or more embodiments, a user may select , through the relative humidity measurements over a predefined time
input device 106 , a profile identifying that individual user period ). In one embodiment, the semi-empirical algebraic
(e.g. , " user 1 " ) such that the instructions stored in the equations are the following equations developed by R. G.
memory 104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause the 25 Steadman :
processor 103 to control an air- conditioning unit until the
apparent temperature of the controlled space is equal to or
substantially equal to the desired apparent temperature (e.g. , AT = Ta + 0.33 * p - 0.70 * WS – 4.00 , Equation 1
75 ° F. ) associated with that user .
The memory 104 of the system 100 stores instructions 30 Equation 2
that, when executed by the processor 103 , cause the pro p = rh46.105 *e(17.27.237.htra)
cessor 103 to calculate an apparent temperature in the
controlled space based on the dry bulb temperature mea- where AT is the Apparent Temperature in ° C .; Ta is the dry
sured by the temperature sensor 101 and the relative humid- bulb temperature in ° C .; p is the water vapor pressure (hPa);
ity measured by the humidity sensor 102. In one or more 35 ws is the wind speed ; and rh is the relative humidity (% ) .
embodiments , the temperature sensor 101 and the humidity Accordingly, in one embodiment, the instructions stored in
sensor 102 may continuously measure the dry bulb tempera- the memory 104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause
ture and the relative humidity, respectively, of the condi- the processor 103 to calculate the vapor water pressure p
tioned space . In one or more embodiments , the temperature according to Equation 2 above based on the dry bulb
sensor 101 and the humidity sensor 102 may measure the dry 40 temperature (as measured by the temperature sensor 101 or
bulb temperature and the relative humidity , respectively, of calculated as an average or two or more temperature mea
the conditioned spaced at discrete times ( e.g. , regular inter- surements over a predefined time period ) and the relative
vals ) . Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the instruc- humidity ( rh ) (as measured by the humidity sensor 102 or
tions stored in the memory 104 , when executed by the calculated as an average or two or more relative humidity
processor 103 , cause the processor 103 to calculate or 45 measurements over a predefined time period ), and cause the
determine an average of the dry bulb temperature and an processor 103 to calculate the apparent temperature (AT )
average of the relative humidity over a predefined time according to Equation 1 above based on the dry bulb
period (e.g. , a time period in a range from approximately 1 temperature , the water vapor pressure ( p ) determined
minute to approximately 15 minutes or more ), and to cal- according to Equation 2 , and the wind speed ( ws). In one or
culate the apparent temperature of the conditioned - spaced 50 more embodiments, the instructions stored in the memory
based on the average dry bulb temperature and the average 104 may include any other suitable empirical or semi
relative humidity over the predefined time period. empirical algebraic equation (s ) for determining the apparent
In one or more embodiments, the instructions stored in the temperature based on the dry bulb temperature (as measured
memory 104 include a lookup table that lists the apparent by the temperature sensor 101 or calculated as an average or
temperature that corresponds to a given dry bulb tempera- 55 two or more temperature measurements over a predefined
ture and a given relative humidity. FIGS . 2A - 2B are lookups time period ) and the relative humidity (as measured by the
tables showing the apparent temperature as a function of dry humidity sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or
bulb temperature and relative humidity according to one more relative humidity measurements over a predefined time
embodiment of the present disclosure . Accordingly, in one period ). For instance, in one or more embodiments, the
or more embodiments , the instructions stored in the memory 60 instructions stored in memory 104 may include any other
104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause the pro- apparent temperature formula or a combination of formulas
cessor 103 to reference a lookup table ( e.g. , one of the or modified formulas developed, for instance, through field
lookup tables in FIGS . 2A - 2B ) to determine the apparent testing . Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the
temperature associated with the dry bulb temperature mea- instructions stored in the memory 104 may include either a
sured by the temperature sensor 101 (or an average dry bulb 65 lookup table (e.g. , one of the lookup tables in FIGS . 2A - 2B )
temperature measured over a predefined time period ) and the or one or more semi-empirical algebraic equations ( e.g. ,
relative humidity measured by the humidity sensor 102 (or Equation 1 and Equation 2 above ) for determining or
US 11,029,056 B2
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calculating the apparent temperature from the dry bulb unit 300 may be an indoor unit . In one or more embodi
temperature and the relative humidity. In one or more ments, both the air -conditioning unit 200 and the heating
embodiments, the instructions stored in the memory 104 unit 300 may be indoor units .
may be programmed with both a lookup table and one or In one embodiment, the instructions stored in the memory
more semi-empirical algebraic equations for determining the 5 104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause the pro
apparent temperature from the dry bulb temperature and the cessor 103 to calculate or determine the target dry bulb
relative humidity. temperature of the controlled space that corresponds to the
In one or more embodiments , the instructions stored in the desired apparent temperature and the current relative humid
memory 104 may include an algebraic equation ( s ) or a ity of the controlled space (as measured by the humidity
lookup table for determining the apparent temperature in the 10 sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or more
controlled spaced that accounts for other factors or variables relative humidity measurements over a predefined time
in addition to the dry bulb temperature and the relative period ). FIGS . 3A - 3B are lookup tables listing the target dry
humidity, such as , for instance , air velocity , radiated heat bulb temperature that corresponds to a given desired appar
loads in the controlled space (e.g. , radiated heat loads from ent temperature and a given relative humidity according to
occupants in the controlled space) , net radiation absorbed 15 one embodiment of the present disclosure . In one or more
per unit area of body surface , the outside temperature (e.g. , embodiments, the processor 103 may be configured to input
the ambient temperature outside of the residential or com- the user - selected desired apparent temperature and the cur
mercial building or industrial building, etc. ), the season rent relative humidity of the controlled space into a lookup
(e.g. , fall, winter, spring , or summer ), the activity level of table ( e.g. , one of the lookup tables illustrated in FIGS .
one or more occupants in the controlled space , the type or 20 3A - 3B ) to determine the target dry bulb temperature that
kind of clothing worn by one or more occupants in the corresponds to the desired apparent temperature and the
controlled space , wind speed , etc. current relative humidity in the controlled space . For
The instructions stored in the memory 104 , when example , in one or more embodiments, if the desired appar
executed by the processor 103 , also cause the processor 103 ent temperature is 75.0 ° F. (23.9 ° C. ) and the current relative
to calculate a difference between the apparent temperature in 25 humidity in the controlled space is 70% , the target dry bulb
the controlled space and a user- selected apparent tempera- temperature of the controlled space that corresponds to the
ture ( i.e. , an apparent temperature desired by a user ) input by desired apparent temperature and the current relative humid
the input device 106 . ity is 71.2 ° F. ( 21.8 ° C. ) . Once the target dry bulb tempera
With continued reference to the embodiment illustrated in ture of the controlled space is determined, the instructions
FIG . 1B , the system 100 also includes a controller 108 ( e.g. , 30 stored in the memory 104 , when executed by the processor
a proportional - integral- derivative ( PID microcontroller) 104 , may cause the controller 108 to control the air -condi
configured to control an air- conditioning unit 200 and /or a tioning to increase or decrease the dry bulb temperature in
heating unit 300 to achieve and maintain the desired appar- the controlled space until the dry bulb temperature (as
ent temperature in the controlled space . Additionally, in one measured by the temperature sensor 101 or calculated as an
or more embodiments , the instructions stored in the memory 35 average or two or more temperature measurements over a
104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause the con- predefined time period ) matches or substantially matches the
troller 108 to control the air -conditioning unit 200 and / or the target dry bulb temperature. For instance, in the above
heating unit 300 to increase or decrease the dry bulb described example in which the current relative humidity in
temperature in the controlled space until the apparent tem- the controlled space is 70 % and the desired apparent tem
perature in the controlled space , as determined based at least 40 perature is 75.0 ° F. (23.9 ° C. ) , the controller 108 may control
in part by the dry bulb temperature ( as measured by the the air - conditioning unit until the dry bulb temperature in the
temperature sensor 101 or calculated as an average or two or conditioned space is 71.2 ° F. (21.8 ° C. ) or approximately
more temperature measurements over a predefined time 71.2 ° F. ( 21.8 ° C. ) .
period) and the relative humidity ( as measured by the In one embodiment, the instructions stored in the memory
humidity sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or 45 104 include a polynomial equation defining the target dry
more relative humidity measurements over a predefined time bulb temperature of the controlled spacethat corresponds to
period ), is equal or substantially equal to the user - selected the desired apparent temperature and the current relative
desired apparent temperature in the controlled space . The humidity of the controlled space . In one or more embodi
controller 108 may be configured to control the air-condi- ments, the polynomial equation defining the target dry bulb
tioning unit 200 in any suitable manner. For instance, in one 50 temperature is as follows:
or more embodiments, the controller 108 may be configured
to actuate a relay 201 (e.g. , open or close a switch) to cause -0.002227 * ATP + 1.06 * AT + 3.4902 * RH2-3.6014 * RH
0.33346 * AT * RH + 4.0937 Equation 3
the air -conditioning unit 200 to start and stop to increase or
decrease the dry bulb temperature in the controlled space . In where AT is the desired apparent temperature and RH is the
one or more embodiments, the controller 108 may be 55 current relative humidity of the controlled space ( as mea
configured to control (e.g. , vary ) the speed of a compressor sured by the humidity sensor 102 or calculated as an average
202 in the air - conditioning unit 200 to increase or decrease or two or more relative humidity measurements over a
the dry bulb temperature in the controlled space . Addition- predefined time period ).
ally, in one or more embodiments, the controller 108 may be Accordingly, in one or more embodiments, the instruc
configured to regulate a control valve 203 of the air- 60 tions stored in the memory 104 , when executed by the
conditioning unit 200 to increase or decrease the dry bulb processor 103 , cause the processor 103 to calculate from an
temperature in the controlled space . In one or more embodi- equation ( e.g. , Equation 3 above) the target dry bulb tem
ments, the controller 108 may be configured to control an perature of the controlled space that corresponds to the
evaporator 301 and / or a furnace 302 of the heating unit 300 desired apparent temperature and the current relative humid
to increase or decrease the dry bulb temperature in the 65 ity of the controlled space (as measured by the humidity
controlled space . In one or more embodiments, the air- sensor 102 or calculated as an average or two or more
conditioning unit 200 may be an outdoor unit and the heating relative humidity measurements over a predefined time
US 11,029,056 B2
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period ). Once the target dry bulb temperature has been expansion evaporator) or increasing the refrigerant medium
calculated , the instructions stored in the memory 104 , when temperature (if the air -conditioning unit includes a fan coil ) .
executed by the processor 104 , may cause the controller 108 In one or more embodiments , the signal from the system 100
to control the air -conditioning to increase or decrease the dry to the air -conditioning unit 200 may be a PID signal and a
bulb temperature in the controlled space until the dry bulb 5 cooling or heating mode signal .
temperature (as measured by the temperature sensor 101 or Accordingly, the system 100 is configured to achieve and
calculated as an average or two or more temperature mea- maintain the desired apparent temperature in the conditioned
surements over a predefined time period) matches or sub- space by controlling the air- conditioning unit 200 to vary the
stantially matches the target dry bulb temperature . dry bulb temperature and / or the relative humidity in the
In one embodiment, the instructions stored in the memory 10 conditioned space .
104 , when executed by the processor 103 , cause the pro- In one or more embodiments , the systems and methods of
cessor to calculate or determine the target relative humidity the present disclosure are configured to provide energy cost
of the controlled space that corresponds to the desired savings when operated under certain conditions compared to
apparent temperature and the current dry bulb temperature conventional thermostats that measure only the dry bulb
of the controlled space (as measured by the temperature 15 temperature of the space . For instance, when the system 100
sensor 101 or calculated as an average or two or more is operating in heating mode ( e.g. , the controller 108 is
temperature measurements over a predefined time period ). controlling the heating unit 300 to increase the dry bulb
In one or more embodiments, the controller 108 may be temperature of the space ) and the desired apparent tempera
configured to input the user - selected desired apparent tem- ture of the space is higher than or equal to the dry bulb
perature and the current dry bulb temperature of the con- 20 temperature associated with the desired apparent tempera
trolled space into a lookup table ( e.g. , one of the lookup ture (to the right of and below the bold line in the tables in
tables illustrated in FIGS . 3A - 3B ) to determine the target FIGS . 2A - 2B ) , the system 100 will stop heating the space
relative humidity that corresponds to the desired apparent when the desired appare temperature is reached , which is
temperature and the current dry bulb temperature in the below the dry bulb temperature of the space . Accordingly,
controlled space . In one or more embodiments , if the desired 25 when the system 100 is operating in heating mode under the
apparent temperature is 75.0 ° F. (23.9 ° C. ) and the current temperature and humidity conditions shown to the right of
dry bulb temperature in the controlled space is 70.0 ° F. and below the bold line in FIGS . 2A - 2B , the system 100 of
( 21.1 ° C. ) , the target relative humidity that corresponds to the present disclosure provides energy cost savings com
the desired apparent temperature and the current dry bulb pared to a conventional thermostats that control the heating
temperature is approximately 80% . Once the target relative 30 unit to heat the space until the desired dry bulb temperature
humidity of the controlled space is determined, the instruc- is reached . Likewise , when the system 100 is operating in
tions stored in the memory 104 , when executed by the cooling mode (e.g. , the controller 108 is controlling the
processor 103 , may cause the controller 108 to control the air -conditioning unit 200 to decrease the dry bulb tempera
air - conditioning unit 200 to increase or decrease the relative ture of the space ) and the desired apparent temperature of the
humidity in the controlled space until the relative humidity 35 space is less than dry bulb temperature associated with the
measured ( as measured by the humidity sensor 102 or desired apparent temperature, the system 100 will stop
calculated as an average or two or more relative humidity cooling the space when the desired apparent temperature is
measurements over a predefined time period) matches or reached , which is higher than the dry bulb temperature of the
substantially matches the target relative humidity. For space , which results in energy cost savings compared to
instance, if the current dry bulb temperature in the controlled 40 conventional thermostats that control the air-conditioning to
space is 70.0 ° F. ( 21.1 ° C. ) and the desired apparent tem- cool the space until the desired dry bulb temperature is
perature is 75.0 ° F. ( 23.9 ° C. ) , the controller 108 , according reached .
to one or more embodiments, may control the air -condition- FIGS . 4A - 4C compare the automatic switchover between
ing unit 200 until the relative humidity in the conditioned heating and cooling modes of a conventional thermostat
space is 80% or approximately 80 % . 45 based on dry bulb temperature with the automatic switcho
In one embodiment, the controller 108 may be configured ver between heating and cooling modes based on apparent
to lower the refrigerant temperature of the air -conditioning temperature according to one or more embodiments of the
unit 200 to decrease the relative humidity in the space , and present disclosure.
configured to increase the refrigerant temperature of the FIG . 4A depicts the automatic switchover functionality of
air -conditioning unit 200 to increase the relative humidity in 50 a conventional thermostat in which the thermostat is con
the space ( e.g. , the controller 108 may be configured to vary figured to activate a heater when the dry bulb temperature
the refrigerant temperature of the air -conditioning unit 200 falls below a lower dry bulb temperature threshold ( e.g. ,
to achieve a desired apparent temperature in the space and 72.5 ° F. ) and is configured to activate a cooling unit when
to maintain a constant or substantially constant apparent the dry bulb temperature exceeds an upper dry bulb tem
temperature of the space) . In one embodiment, the controller 55 perature threshold (e.g. , 74.5 ° F. ) . Additionally, FIG . 4A
108 may be configured to lower the refrigerant temperature depicts a dead band between the upper and lower dry bulb
of the air-conditioning unit 200 by decreasing the airflow temperature thresholds (e.g. , a dead band from a dry bulb
through an evaporator 204 of the air -conditioning unit 200 temperature of 72.5 ° F. to a dry bulb temperature of 74.5 ° F. )
and / or reducing the expansion valve capacity (if the air- in which the thermostat is configured not to activate either
conditioning unit includes a direct expansion evaporator) or 60 the heating unit or the cooling unit if the dry bulb tempera
reducing the refrigerant medium temperature ( if the air- ture falls within this range.
conditioning unit includes a fan coil ) . In one embodiment, FIG . 4B depicts the automatic switchover functionality
the controller 108 may be configured to increase the refrig- based on apparent temperature according to one or more
erant temperature of the air -conditioning unit 200 by embodiments of the present disclosure in which the system
increasing the airflow through the evaporator 204 of the 65 is configured to activate a heater when the apparent tem
air - conditioning unit 200 and / or increasing the expansion perature falls below a lower apparent temperature threshold
valve capacity ( if the air -conditioning unit includes a direct (e.g. , the apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of
US 11,029,056 B2
13 14
72.5 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity ) and is configured to heating and cooling modes based on apparent temperature
activate a cooling unit when the apparent temperature provides greater user comfort compared to a convention
exceeds an upper apparent temperature threshold (e.g. , the thermostat by not activating the wrong unit in these condi
apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of 74.5 ° F. tions ( e.g. , not activating the heating unit when the cooling
and 45 % relative humidity ). Additionally, FIG . 4B depicts a 5 unit should be activated, and not activating the cooling unit
dead band between the upper and lower apparent tempera- when the heating unit should be activated to maintain
ture thresholds in which the system is configured not to desired user comfort ).
activate either the heating unit or the cooling unit if the FIG . 5 is a graph comparing the automatic switchover
apparent temperature (as determined from the measured dry functionality of a conventional thermostat based on dry bulb
bulb temperature and relative humidity ) falls within this 10 temperature with the automatic switchover functionality
range . based on apparent temperature according to one or more
FIG . 4C is a graph depicting both the automatic switcho- embodiments of the present disclosure without dead bands .
ver functionality of conventional thermostats based on dry FIG . 5 depicts a single dry bulb temperature threshold ( e.g. ,
bulb temperature ( as shown in FIG . 4A) and the automatic 73.5 ° F. ) . The conventional thermostat is configured to
switchover functionality based on apparent temperature 15 activate a heater when the dry bulb temperature falls below
according to one or more embodiments of the present the dry bulb threshold temperature (e.g. , 73.5 ° F. ) and is
disclosure (as shown in FIG . 4B ) . FIG . 4C illustrates the configured to activate a cooling unit when the dry bulb
energy cost savings of the automatic switchover based on temperature exceeds the dry bulb threshold temperature
apparent temperature compared to the automatic switchover (e.g. , 73.5 ° F. ) . FIG . 5 also depicts a single apparent tem
based on dry bulb temperature of conventional thermostats . 20 perature threshold ( e.g. , the apparent temperature at a dry
For instance, Region I indicates the conditions in which a bulb temperature of 73.5 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity ).
conventional thermostat would activate the heating unit The automatic switchover based on apparent temperature of
because the dry bulb temperature is below the lower dry bulb the present disclosure is configured to activate a heater when
temperature threshold (e.g. , 72.5 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic the apparent temperature falls below the apparent tempera
switchover based on apparent temperature according to the 25 ture threshold ( e.g. , the apparent temperature at a dry bulb
present disclosure would not activate either the cooling unit temperature of 73.5 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity ) and is
or the heating unit because the apparent temperature is in the configured to activate a cooling unit when the apparent
dead band (i.e. , the apparent temperature is below the upper temperature exceeds the threshold apparent temperature
apparent temperature threshold and above the lower appar- (e.g. , the apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of
ent temperature threshold ). Additionally, Region II indicates 30 73.5 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity ). Region A in FIG . 5
the conditions in which a conventional thermostat would indicates the conditions in which a conventional thermostat
activate the cooling unit because the dry bulb temperature would activate the heating unit because the dry bulb tem
exceeds the upper dry bulb temperature threshold ( e.g. , perature is below the dry bulb temperature threshold ( e.g. ,
74.5 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic switchover based on appar- 73.5 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic switchover based on appar
ent temperature according to the present disclosure would 35 ent temperature according to the present disclosure would
not activate either the cooling unit or the heating unit activate the cooling unit because the apparent temperature ,
because the apparent temperature is in the dead band (i.e. , which is a function of both dry bulb temperature and relative
the apparent temperature is below the upper apparent tem- humidity , exceeds the apparent temperature threshold ( e.g. ,
perature threshold and above the lower apparent temperature the apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of 73.5 °
threshold ). Accordingly, the automatic switchover between 40 F. and 45 % relative humidity ). Region B indicates the
heating and cooling modes based on apparent temperature conditions in which a conventional thermostat would acti
saves energy compared to a conventional thermostat by not vate the cooling unit because the dry bulb temperature
needlessly activating the heating unit or the cooling unit in exceeds the dry bulb temperature threshold ( e.g. , 73.5 ° F. ) ,
these conditions. whereas the automatic switchover based on apparent tem
FIG . 4C also depicts that the automatic switchover control 45 perature according to the present disclosure would activate
methodology of the present disclosure is configured to the heating unit because the apparent temperature, which is
provide greater user comfort compared to a conventional a function of both dry bulb temperature and relative humid
thermostat configured to switch between heating and cooling ity, is below the apparent temperature threshold ( e.g. , the
modes based only on dry bulb temperature. For instance , apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of 73.5 ° F.
Region III in FIG . 4C indicates the conditions in which a 50 and 45 % relative humidity ). Thus, the automatic switchover
conventional thermostat would activate the heating unit between heating and cooling modes based on apparent
because the dry bulb temperature falls below the lower dry temperature provides greater user comfort compared to a
bulb temperature threshold (e.g. , 72.5 ° F. ) , whereas the convention thermostat by not activating the wrong unit in
automatic switchover based on apparent temperature these conditions . Additionally , as illustrated in FIG . 5 , not
according to the present disclosure would activate the cool- 55 providing the dead bands creates larger areas of conflict
ing unit because the apparent temperature, which is a between the automatic switchover based on dry bulb tem
function of both dry bulb temperature and relative humidity, perature and the automatic switchover based on apparent
exceeds the upper apparent temperature threshold . Region temperature than when the dead bands are provided (e.g. , as
IV indicates the conditions in which a conventional thermo- illustrated in FIGS . 4A - 4C ) .
stat would activate the cooling unit because the dry bulb 60 The temperature thresholds depicted in FIG . 5 are selected
temperature exceeds the upper dry bulb temperature thresh- for explanatory purposes only and in no way limit the scope
old (e.g. , 72.5 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic switchover based of the present disclosure. Instead, the temperature thresholds
on apparent temperature according to the present disclosure may be selected to have any suitable values depending, for
would activate the heating unit because the apparent tem- instance, on the desired user comfort and / or desired
perature , which is a function of both dry bulb temperature 65 economy. Accordingly, the systems and methods of the
and relative humidity, is below the lower apparent tempera- present disclosure cover any and all suitable temperature
ture threshold . Thus, the automatic switchover between thresholds.
US 11,029,056 B2
15 16
FIG . 6 is a graph comparing the automatic switchover vate the cooling unit because the apparent temperature ,
functionality of a conventional thermostat based on dry bulb which is a function of both dry bulb temperature and relative
temperature with the automatic switchover functionality humidity, exceeds the upper apparent temperature threshold
based on apparent temperature according to one or more (e.g. , the apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of
embodiments of the present disclosure in which a wide dead 5 79 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity ). Thus, the automatic
zone is provided for maximum energy cost savings. FIG . 6 switchover between heating and cooling modes based on
depicts a lower dry bulb temperature threshold of 66 ° F. apparent temperature provides greater user comfort com
below which the conventional thermostat is configured to pared to a convention thermostat which would not activate
activate a heating unit and an upper dry bulb temperature the heating or cooling units in these conditions .
threshold of 79 ° F. above which the conventional thermostat 10 The upper and lower temperature thresholds of the dead
is configured to activate a cooling unit (i.e. , FIG . 6 depicts bands depicted in FIGS . 4A - 4C and 6 are selected for
a dead band from 66 ° F. to 79 ° F. ) . FIG . 6 also depicts a explanatory purposes only and in no way limit the scope of
lower apparent temperature threshold at a dry bulb tempera- the present disclosure. Instead , the upper and lower tem
ture of 66 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity below which the perature thresholds may be selected to have any suitable
system and method according to one embodiment of the 15 values depending, for instance, on the desired user comfort
present disclosure is configured to activate a heating unit and and /or desired economy. Additionally, the systems and
an upper apparent temperature threshold at a dry bulb methods of the present disclosure cover any and all suitable
temperature of 79 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity above dead band values , including single dead bands, dual dead
which the system and method according to one embodiment bands, and multi dead bands.
of the present disclosure is configured to activate a cooling 20 FIG . 7 is a flowchart illustrating tasks of a method 400 of
unit ( i.e. , FIG . 6 depicts a dead band from an apparent controlling the apparent temperature of a controlled space ,
temperature at 66 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity to an which is a function of both the dry bulb temperature and the
apparent temperature at 79 ° F. and 45 % relative humidity) . relative humidity of the controlled space , according to one
Region R1 in FIG . 6 indicates the conditions in which a embodiment of the present disclosure . In the illustrated
conventional thermostat would activate the heating unit 25 embodiment, the method 400 includes a task 410 of deter
because the dry bulb temperature is below the lower dry bulb mining a dry bulb temperature of the controlled space . In
temperature threshold (e.g. , 66 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic one embodiment, the task 410 of determining the dry bulb
switchover based on apparent temperature according to the temperature of the controlled space includes measuring the
present disclosure would not activate either the cooling unit dry bulb temperature with a temperature sensor. In one
or the heating unit because the apparent temperature is in the 30 embodiment, the task 410 may include measuring, with the
dead band (i.e. , the apparent temperature is below the upper temperature sensor, the dry bulb temperature continuously
apparent temperature threshold and above the lower appar- or at discrete intervals. Additionally, in one or more embodi
ent temperature threshold ). Additionally, Region R3 in FIG . ments, the task 410 of determining the dry bulb temperature
6 indicates the conditions in which a conventional thermo- of the controlled space includes averaging the measurements
stat would activate the cooling unit because the dry bulb 35 of the dry bulb temperature by the temperature sensor over
temperature exceeds the upper dry bulb temperature thresh- a predefined time period (e.g. , a time period in a range from
old (e.g. , 79 ° F. ) , whereas the automatic switchover based on approximately 1 minute to approximately 15 minutes or
apparent temperature according to the present disclosure more ).
would not activate either the cooling unit or the heating unit In the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 also
because the apparent temperature is in the dead band (i.e. , 40 includes a task 420 of determining a relative humidity of the
the apparent temperature is below the upper apparent tem- conditioned space . In one embodiment, the task 420 of
perature threshold and above the lower apparent temperature determining the relative humidity of the controlled space
threshold ). Accordingly, the automatic switchover between includes measuring the relative humidity with a humidity
heating and cooling modes based on apparent temperature sensor . In one embodiment, the task 420 may include
saves energy compared to a conventional thermostat by not 45 measuring, with the humidity sensor, the relative humidity
needlessly activating the heating unit or the cooling unit in continuously or at discrete intervals . Additionally, in one or
these conditions and also achieves greater user comfort. more embodiments, the task 420 of determining the relative
Region R2 in FIG . 6 indicates the conditions in which a humidity of the controlled space includes averaging the
conventional thermostat would not activate either the heat- measurements of the relative humidity by the humidity
ing unit or the cooling unit because the dry bulb temperature 50 sensor over a predefined time period ( e.g. , a time period in
is in the dead band (e.g. , the dry bulb temperature is above a range from approximately 1 minute to approximately 15
the lower dry bulb temperature threshold of 66 ° F. and below minutes or more) . In one embodiment, the tasks 410 , 420 of
the upper dry bulb temperature threshold of 79 ° F. ) , whereas averaging the measurements of the relative humidity and the
the automatic switchover based on apparent temperature measurements of dry bulb temperature may be performed
according to the present disclosure would activate the heat- 55 over the same predefined time period .
ing unit because the apparent temperature, which is a In the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 also
function of both dry bulb temperature and relative humidity, includes a task 430 of determining the actual apparent
is below the lower apparent temperature threshold ( e.g. , the temperature of the conditioned space based on the dry bulb
apparent temperature at a dry bulb temperature of 66 ° F. and temperature of the conditioned space determined in task 410
45 % relative humidity ). Region R4 indicates the conditions 60 and the relative humidity of the conditioned spaced deter
in which a conventional thermostat would not activate either mined in task 420. In one embodiment, the task 430 of
the heating unit or the cooling unit because the dry bulb determining the actual apparent temperature of the condi
temperature is in the dead band ( e.g. , the dry bulb tempera- tioned space includes referencing a lookup table (e.g. , the
ture is above the lower dry bulb temperature threshold of 66 ° lookup tables illustrated in FIGS . 2A - 2B ) that lists the
F. and below the upper dry bulb temperature threshold of 790 65 apparent temperature corresponding to the determined dry
F. ) , whereas the automatic switchover based on apparent bulb temperature and the determined relative humidity. In
temperature according to the present disclosure would acti- one embodiment, the task 430 of determining the actual
US 11,029,056 B2
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apparent temperature of the conditioned space includes temperature determined in task 460. In one embodiment, the
calculating the apparent temperature from a semi-empirical task 470 includes controlling the air - conditioning unit to
algebraic equation ( s ) that defines the apparent temperature decrease or increase the relative humidity in the conditioned
as a function of dry bulb temperature and relative humidity space until the relative humidity measured by the humidity
( e.g. , calculating the apparent temperature from Equations 1 5 sensor is equal or substantially equal to the target relative
and 2 above ). humidity determined in task 460. In one or more embodi
In the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 also ments, the task 470 may include changing the refrigerant
includes a task 440 of receiving a user - selected desired temperature of the air -conditioning unit to change the rela
apparent temperature of the conditioned space . In one or tive humidity in the conditioned space ( e.g. , lowering the
more embodiments, the user- selected desired apparent tem- 10 refrigerant temperature of the air -conditioning unit to
perature may be input through any suitable input device , decrease the relative humidity in the space or increasing the
such as , for instance, a remote control, an application on a refrigerant temperature of the air -conditioning unit to
portable electronic device (e.g. , a smartphone ), one or more increase the relative humidity in the space ) . The task of
physical controls (e.g. , one or more buttons, sliders , and / or lowering the refrigerant temperature of the air -conditioning
knobs ), and /or an icon displayed on a touch screen display. 15 the
In one or more embodiments, user- selected desired apparent
may airinclude decreasing the airflow through an evaporator of
- conditioning unit and/ or reducing the expansion
temperature may be the current apparent temperature in the valve capacity ( if the air - conditioning unit includes a direct
conditioned space ( e.g. , when the user desires to maintain expansion evaporator) or reducing the refrigerant medium
the current apparent temperature in the conditioned space temperature (if the air -conditioning unit includes a fan coil ) .
without specifying a particular desired apparent tempera- 20 Increasing the refrigerant temperature of the air -condition
ture ). ing unit may be performed by increasing the airflow through
In the illustrated embodiment, the method 400 also the evaporator of the air - conditioning unit and / or increasing
includes a task 450 of calculating a difference between the the expansion valve capacity ( if the air -conditioning unit
user- selected desired apparent temperature received in task includes a direct expansion evaporator ) or increasing the
440 and the actual apparent temperature of the space deter- 25 refrigerant medium temperature (if the air -conditioning unit
mined in task 430 . includes a fan coil ) . In one or more embodiments, the task
In one or more embodiments, the method 400 also 470 may include controlling the air -conditioning unit and /or
includes a task 460 of determining (e.g. , calculating) the the heating unit to vary both the dry bulb temperature and
target dry bulb temperature that corresponds to the desired the relative humidity in the conditioned space to achieve the
apparent temperature and the current relative humidity in the 30 desired apparent temperature in the controlled space .
controlled space , and / or determining (e.g. , calculating) the In one or more embodiments, the tasks 430 , 440 , 450 ,
target relative humidity that corresponds to the desired 460 , 470 of determining the apparent temperature , receiving
apparent temperature and the current dry bulb temperature in the user- selected desired apparent temperature , calculating
the controlled space . In one embodiment, the task 460 the difference between the user- selected desired apparent
includes determining the target dry bulb temperature by 35 temperature and the actual apparent temperature of the
referencing a lookup table that lists dry bulb temperature as space , determining ( e.g. , calculating ) the target dry bulb
a function of the user- selected desired apparent temperature temperature and / or the target relative humidity, and control
and relative humidity ( e.g. , the lookup tables in FIGS . ling the air - conditioning unit and /or the heating unit to
3A - 3B ) . In one embodiment, the task 460 includes calcu- change the dry bulb temperature and / or the humidity in the
lating the target dry bulb temperature from an equation 40 conditioned space until the apparent temperature in the
defining the dry bulb temperature as a function of the desired conditioned space is equal or substantially equal to the
apparent temperature and the relative humidity ( e.g. , calcu- user- selected desired apparent temperature may be repeat
lating the dry bulb temperature from Equation 3 above ) . In edly ( e.g. , continuously or at predefined intervals) per
one embodiment, the task 460 includes determining the formed to maintain the user- selected desired apparent tem
target relative humidity by referencing a lookup table that 45 perature in the conditioned space even if factors or variables
lists relative humidity as a function of the desired apparent affecting the relative humidity and / or the dry bulb tempera
temperature and dry bulb temperature . In one embodiment, ture in the controlled space change, such as the outside
the task 460 includes calculating the target relative humidity temperature , weather conditions, room occupancy, and / or
from an equation defining the relative humidity as a function radiative heat loads .
of the desired apparent temperature and the dry bulb tem- 50 FIG . 8 is a flowchart depicting tasks of an algorithm
perature. configured to control switchover between heating and cool
In one embodiment, the method 400 also includes a task ing modes according to one embodiment of the present
470 of controlling an air -conditioning unit and / or a heating disclosure. The left hand side of the flowchart depicts the
unit to change the dry bulb temperature and / or the humidity tasks associated with operating in a heating mode , and the
in the conditioned space until the apparent temperature in 55 right hand side of the flowchart depicts the tasks associated
the conditioned space is equal or substantially equal to the with operating in a cooling mode. As illustrated in FIG . 8 ,
user- selected desired apparent temperature received in task the algorithm includes a task 501 of determining the actual
440. The task 470 of controlling the air - conditioning unit apparent temperature of a conditioned space based on the
may include controlling a relay ( e.g. , a switch) to cause the dry bulb temperature of the conditioned space ( e.g. , as
air - conditioning unit to start and stop , controlling ( e.g. , 60 measured by a temperature sensor) and the relative humidity
varying ) the speed of a compressor in the air- conditioning of the conditioned spaced ( e.g. , as measured by a humidity
unit , and / or regulating a control valve of the air -conditioning sensor ). In one embodiment, the task 501 of determining the
unit . In one embodiment, the task 470 includes controlling actual apparent temperature of the conditioned space
the air - conditioning unit and / or the heating unit to decrease includes referencing a lookup table (e.g. , the lookup tables
or increase the dry bulb temperature in the conditioned space 65 illustrated in FIGS . 2A - 2B ) that lists the apparent tempera
until the dry bulb temperature measured by the temperature ture corresponding to the determined dry bulb temperature
sensor is equal or substantially equal to the target dry bulb and the determined relative humidity. In one embodiment,
US 11,029,056 B2
19 20
the task 501 of determining the actual apparent temperature If the apparent temperature is greater than the upper
of the conditioned space includes calculating the apparent apparent temperature threshold , as determined in task 502 ,
temperature from a semi-empirical algebraic equation ( s ) then the algorithm includes a task 510 of determining if the
that defines the apparent temperature as a function of dry last mode was the heating mode (e.g. , Last mode = heating
bulb temperature and relative humidity (e.g. , calculating the 5 “ H ” ). If the algorithm determines, in task 510 , that the last
apparent temperature from Equations 1 and 2 above ). mode was the heating mode, then the algorithm includes a
The algorithm also includes a task 502 of comparing the task 511 of executing a delay of a predetermined time period
actual apparent temperature of the conditioned space deter- (e.g. , 10 minutes ) before changing from the heating mode to
mined in task 501 to an upper apparent temperature limit or the cooling mode. Additionally, in the illustrated embodi
threshold ( e.g. , a set summer apparent temperature limit ) . 10 ment, the algorithm includes a task 512 of determining if the
The upper apparent temperature limit may be input by a user actual apparent temperature determined in task 501 is less
or may be determined from a dead band area calculated than the lower apparent temperature limit , which, if true , is
based on the user- selected desired apparent temperature . If an indication that the conditioned space is being cooled by
the actual apparent temperature determined in task 501 is not the outside weather or the previous increase in temperature
greater than the upper apparent temperature limit ( e.g. , the 15 was due to an overshoot from the heating mode , which
actual apparent temperature is less than the upper apparent would indicate that the system should return to the heating
temperature limit ) , the algorithm includes a task 503 of mode. This task 512 of the algorithm is configured to prevent
comparing the actual apparent temperature determined in triggering an unnecessary cooling mode .
task 501 to a lower apparent temperature limit or threshold Following the task 511 of executing the time delay, the
(e.g. , a set winter apparent temperature limit) . If, as deter- 20 algorithm includes a task 513 of determining if the apparent
mined in task 503 , the actual apparent temperature deter- temperature of the conditioned space is still greater than the
mined in task 501 is greater than the lower apparent tem- upper apparent temperature threshold . If the apparent tem
perature threshold , then the algorithm repeats the loop of perature of the conditioned space is still greater than the
comparing the actual apparent temperature against the upper upper apparent temperature threshold , then the algorithm
and lower apparent temperature thresholds because the 25 includes a task 514 of activating the cooling unit . Following
actual apparent temperature is in a dead band between the the task 514 of activating the cooling unit , the algorithm will
upper and lower apparent temperature thresholds. repeat task 513 to determine if the apparent temperature is
If the actual apparent temperature determined in task 501 greater than the upper apparent temperature threshold . If it
is not greater than the lower apparent temperature limit (e.g. ,
is determined in task 513 that the apparent temperature is not
the actual apparent temperature is less than the lower 30 greater than the upper apparent temperature threshold ( e.g. ,
apparent temperature limit) , then the algorithm includes a the apparent temperature is less than the upper apparent
task 504 of determining if the last mode operated by the temperature threshold ) following the task 514 of activating
system was the cooling mode (e.g. , Last mode=cooling the cooling unit, then the algorithm includes a task 515 of
“ C ” ). If the algorithm determines, in task 504 , that the last stopping the cooling unit. In one or more embodiments, the
mode was the cooling mode , then the algorithm includes a 35 algorithm includes an anti - short cycle timer configured to
task 505 of executing a delay of a predetermined time period delay any operation by a set period of time ( e.g. , 5 minutes ).
( e.g. , 10 minutes ) before changing from the cooling mode to The above -described tasks can be repeatedly performed
the heating mode . Additionally, in the illustrated embodi- (e.g. , continuously or at regular intervals) to maintain the
ment, the algorithm includes a task 506 of determining if the user- selected desired apparent temperature or to maintain
actual apparent temperature determined in task 501 is 40 the apparent temperature within a dead band around the
greater than the upper apparent temperature limit , which , if user- selected desired apparent temperature.
true, is an indication that the conditioned space is being While certain embodiments of the present invention have
heated either by an internal heat source or by the outside been illustrated and described, it is understood by those of
weather or the previous drop in temperature was due to an ordinary skill in the art that certain modifications and
undershoot from the cooling mode , which would indicate 45 changes can be made to the described embodiments without
that the system should return to the cooling mode . Accord- departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention
ingly, the task 506 of the algorithm is configured to prevent as defined by the following claims , and equivalents thereof.
triggering an unnecessary heating mode. As used herein , the term “ substantially , ” “ about,” and simi
Following the task 505 of executing the time delay , the lar terms are used as terms of approximation and not as
algorithm includes a task 507 of determining if the apparent 50 terms of degree , and are intended to account for the inherent
temperature of the conditioned space is still not greater than deviations in measured or calculated values that would be
the lower apparent temperature threshold (e.g. , less than the recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover,
lower apparent temperature threshold ). If the apparent tem- the tasks described above may be performed in the order
perature of the conditioned space is still not greater than the described or in any other suitable sequence . Additionally, the
lower apparent temperature threshold (e.g. , less than the 55 methods described above are not limited to the tasks
lower apparent temperature threshold ), then the algorithm described . Instead , for each embodiment, one or more of the
includes a task 508 of activating the heating unit . Following tasks described above may be absent and / or additional tasks
the task 508 of activating the heater, the algorithm will may be performed . Furthermore, as used herein , when a
repeat task 507 to determine if the apparent temperature is component is referred to as being “ coupled ” to another
greater than the lower apparent temperature threshold . If it 60 component, it can be directly attached to the other compo
is determined in task 507 that the apparent temperature is nent or intervening components may be present therebe
greater than the lower apparent temperature threshold fol- tween .
lowing the task 508 of activating the heating unit, then the
algorithm includes a task 509 of stopping the heating unit. What is claimed is :
In one or more embodiments, the algorithm includes an 65 1. A climate control system configured to control a heating
anti - short cycle timer configured to delay any operation by unit and a cooling unit , the climate control system compris
a set period of time (e.g. , 5 minutes ). ing :
US 11,029,056 B2
21 22
a temperature sensor configured to measure a current dry processor to calculate a target dry bulb temperature corre
bulb temperature ; sponding to the user- selected desired apparent temperature
a humidity sensor configured to measure a current relative and the current relative humidity.
humidity ; 6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the software instruc
a processor; and 5 tions comprise a polynomial equation, and wherein the
a non - transitory computer- readable storage medium oper software instructions, when executed by the processor, cause
ably coupled to the processor, the non - transitory com the processor to calculate the target dry bulb temperature
puter -readable storage medium having software from the polynomial equation .
7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the software instruc
instructions stored therein , which , when executed by 10 tions , when executed by the processor, further cause the
the processor, cause the processor to :
determine a current apparent temperature based on at least processor to calculate a target relative humidity correspond
the current dry bulb temperature measured by the ing to the user- selected desired apparent temperature and the
temperature sensor and the current relative humidity current dry bulb temperature.
8. The system of claim 1 , further comprising an input unit
measured by the humidity sensor ; 15 configured to input the user- selected desired apparent tem
receive a user- selected desired apparent temperature ; perature.
activate the heating unit in a heating mode when the 9. The system of claim 8 , wherein the input unit is
current apparent temperature is below a lower apparent configured to cause the processor to calculate the current
temperature threshold below the user - selected desired apparent temperature and cause the processor to set the
apparent temperature, wherein the lower apparent tem- 20 lower apparent temperature threshold equal to the current
perature threshold is a constant based on the user- apparent temperature when the system is operating in the
selected desired apparent temperature ; heating mode and to set the upper apparent temperature
activate the cooling unit in a cooling mode when the threshold equal to the current apparent temperature when the
current apparent temperature is above an upper appar- system is operating in the cooling mode .
ent temperature threshold above the user -selected 25 10. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a display
desired apparent temperature, wherein the upper appar- configured to display at least one of the current dry bulb
ent temperature threshold is a constant based on the temperature, the current relative humidity, the current appar
user- selected desired apparent temperature; and ent temperature, and the user - selected desired apparent
not activate either the cooling unit or the heating unit temperature.
when the current apparent temperature is in a dead band 30 11. The system of claim 1 , wherein non - transitory com
between the lower apparent temperature threshold and puter - readable storage medium is configured to store a first
the upper apparent temperature threshold , user- selected desired apparent temperature associated with a
wherein the software instructions, when executed by the first user, and store a second user- selected desired apparent
processor, cause the processor to automatically switch temperature associated with a second user.
between the heating mode and the cooling mode, 35 12. The climate control system of claim 1 , wherein :
wherein each of the user -selected desired apparent tem- the lower apparent temperature threshold is a curve
perature , the lower apparent temperature threshold , and defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb
the upper apparent temperature threshold is based on a temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
combination of a respective dry bulb temperature and a stant lower apparent temperature, and
corresponding relative humidity. 40 the upper apparent temperature threshold is a curve
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the software instruc defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb
tions comprise a lookup table , and wherein the software temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
instructions, when xecuted by the processor, cause the stant upper apparent temperature.
processor to determine the current apparent temperature 13. A climate control system configured to control a
from the lookup table . 45 heating unit and a cooling unit , the climate control system
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the software instruc- comprising:
tions comprise a semi- empirical algebraic equation defining a temperature sensor configured to measure a current dry
the current apparent temperature, and wherein the software bulb temperature;
instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the a humidity sensor configured to measure a current relative
processor to calculate the current apparent temperature from 50 humidity ;
the semi-empirical algebraic equation . a processor; and
4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the semi-empirical a non - transitory computer- readable storage medium oper
algebraic equation is ably coupled to the processor, the non - transitory com
puter - readable storage medium having software
55 instructions stored therein , which, when executed by
AT = Ta +0.33 * 2-0.70 * WS – 4.00 , the processor, cause the processor to :
wherein
determine a current apparent temperature based on at least
the current dry bulb temperature measured by the
p = rh*6.105*e(17.27*237.htta) temperature sensor and the current relative humidity
60 measured by the humidity sensor ;
receive a user -selected desired apparent temperature;
where AT is the apparent temperature in ° C .; Ta is the dry activate the heating unit in a heating mode when the
bulb temperature in ° C .; p is the water vapor pressure current apparent temperature is below a lower apparent
(hPa ); ws is the wind speed ; and rh is the relative temperature threshold based on the user -selected
humidity ( % ). 65 desired apparent temperature ; and
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the software instruc- activate the cooling unit in a cooling mode when the
tions , when executed by the processor, further cause the current apparent temperature is above an upper appar
US 11,029,056 B2
23 24
ent temperature threshold based on the user -selected 18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising deter
desired apparent temperature, mining a target dry bulb temperature corresponding to the
wherein the software instructions, when executed by the user- selected desired apparent temperature and the current
processor, cause the processor to automatically switch relative humidity in the conditioned space .
between the heating mode and the cooling mode, 5 19. The method of claim 18 , wherein the determining the
wherein the software instructions, when executed by the target dry bulb temperature comprises calculating the target
processor, further cause the processor to calculate a dry bulb temperature from a polynomial equation , and
target dry bulb temperature corresponding to the user- wherein the polynomial equation is -0.002227 * ATP +
selected desired apparent temperature and the current 10
1.06 * AT + 3.4902* RH2-3.6014 * RH - 0.33346 * AT * RH +
relative humidity , 4.0937 , where AT is the user- selected desired apparent
wherein the software instructions comprise a polynomial temperature and RH is the current relative humidity.
equation , and wherein the software instructions, when 20. The method of claim 17 , further comprising deter
executed by the processor, cause the processor to mining a target relative humidity corresponding to the
calculate the target dry bulb temperature from the 15 user- selected desired apparent temperature and the current
polynomial equation, dry bulb temperature in the conditioned space .
wherein the polynomial equation is -0.002227 * AT + 21. The method of claim 14 , wherein the calculating or
1.06 * AT + 3.4902* RH2-3.6014 * RH determining the current apparent temperature comprises
0.33346 * AT * RH + 4.0937 , where AT is the user -se- determining the current apparent temperature from a lookup
lected desired apparent temperature and RH is the 20 table .
current relative humidity.
14. A method of controlling the climate of a conditioned
22. The method of claim 14 , wherein the calculating or
determining the apparent temperature comprises calculating
space , the method comprising: the current apparent temperature with a semi-empirical
determining a current dry bulb temperature of the condi- algebraic equation .
tioned space ; 25 23. The method of claim 22 , wherein the semi-empirical
determining a current relative humidity of the conditioned algebraic equation is
space ;
calculating or determining a current apparent temperature
of the conditioned space based on at least the current AT = Tq + 0.33 * p -0.70 * WS – 4.00 ,
relative humidity and the current dry bulb temperature 30 wherein
of the conditioned space;
activating a heating unit in a heating mode when the p = rh* 6.105 * e(17.27*237.htra)
current apparent temperature is below a lower apparent
temperature threshold below a user -selected desired
apparent temperature, wherein the lower apparent tem- 35 where AT is the Apparent Temperature in ° C .; Ta is the
perature threshold is a constant based on the user dry bulb temperature in C .; p is the water vapor
O
selected desired apparent temperature ; pressure ( hPa ); ws is the wind speed ; and rh is the
activating a cooling unit in a cooling mode when the relative humidity (% ) .
current apparent temperature is above an upper appar- 24. The method of claim 14 , wherein the calculating or
ent temperature threshold above the user - selected 40 determining the current apparent temperature is based on
desired apparent temperature, wherein the upper appar- one or more additional factors selected from the group
ent temperature threshold is a constant based on the consisting of radiated heat loads , outside temperature, a
user- selected desired apparent temperature ; season , activity level, clothing , radiation, and wind speed .
not activating either the cooling unit or the heating unit 25. The method of claim 14 , wherein :
when the current apparent temperature is in a dead band 45 the lower apparent temperature threshold is a curve
between the lower apparent temperature threshold and defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb
the upper apparent temperature threshold ; and temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
automatically switching between the heating mode and stant lower apparent temperature , and
the cooling mode, the upper apparent temperature threshold is a curve
wherein each of the user -selected desired apparent tem- 50 defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb
perature, the lower apparent temperature threshold , and temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
the upper apparent temperature threshold is based on a stant upper apparent temperature.
combination of a respective dry bulb temperature and a 26. A non -transitory computer - readable storage medium
corresponding relative humidity . having software instructions stored therein , which , when
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the determining the 55 executed
current dry bulb temperature comprises measuring the cur-
by a processor, cause the processor to :
determine a current dry bulb temperature ;
rent dry bulb temperature with a temperature sensor, and determine a current relative humidity ;
wherein the determining the current relative humidity com- determine a current apparent temperature based on the
prises measuring the current relative humidity with a humid current dry bulb temperature and the current relative
ity sensor. 60 humidity ;
16. The method of claim 14 , further comprising receiving receive a user -selected desired apparent temperature;
the user- selected desired apparent temperature of the con- activate a heating unit in a heating mode when the current
ditioned space. apparent temperature is below a lower apparent tem
17. The method of claim 16 , further comprising deter perature threshold below the user- selected desired
mining a difference between the user- selected desired appar- 65 apparent temperature , wherein the lower apparent tem
ent temperature and the current apparent temperature of the perature threshold is a constant based on the user
conditioned space. selected desired apparent temperature ;
US 11,029,056 B2
25 26
activate a cooling unit in a cooling mode when the current
apparent temperature is above an upper apparent tem
perature threshold above the user- selected desired
apparent temperature, wherein the upper apparent tem
perature threshold is a constant based on the user 5
selected desired apparent temperature;
not activate either the cooling unit or the heating unit
when the current apparent temperature is in a dead band
between the lower apparent temperature threshold and
the upper apparent temperature threshold ; and 10
automatically switch between the heating mode and the
cooling mode ,
wherein each of the user -selected desired apparent tem
perature, the lower apparent temperature threshold , and
the upper apparent temperature threshold is based on a 15
combination of a respective dry bulb temperature and a
corresponding relative humidity.
27. The non - transitory computer -readable storage
medium of claim 26 , wherein :
the lower apparent temperature threshold is a curve 20
defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb
temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
stant lower apparent temperature, and
the upper apparent temperature threshold is a curve
defined by a plurality of combinations of dry bulb 25
temperature and relative humidity that achieve a con
stant upper apparent temperature.

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US011029056B2

( 60 ) Provisional application No. 62/ 570,835 , filed on Oct. (57 ) ABSTRACT

FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS

202 A/C UNIT 203

102 106 104

15.815.615.415.215.115.014.814.7 16.216.015.915.715.615.516.716.41 17.417.217.116.918.418.117.917.61 20.920.520.320.019.719.519.201 2345.1485937 26.125.725.324.924.524.123.823.4

6)19.483027.416 570368.129 73.871.270.6

ONBMHEAOSTDIENG ONBMCOASLDIENG 70F

@TAEPMRUNTE 45%HA7U2MNI.D5DTFY 78F

@TAEPM RTEUN AND45%H7U3MI.D5TFY 78F

510 FALSE CMODE

512 515 DONE

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