Lennox Industries Inc.

United States of America

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F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems 124
F24F 11/00 - Control or safety arrangements 113
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring 96
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1.

HVAC SYSTEM OPERATED WITH ADAPTIVE DISCHARGE AIR TEMPERATURE SETPOINT

      
Application Number 18544112
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-12-18
First Publication Date 2024-04-11
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Contreras Lafaire, Juan Antonio

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a blower, a variable-speed compressor, an indoor air temperature sensor that measures an indoor air temperature (IAT) of an enclosed space, and a controller. The controller stores an indoor temperature setpoint and a default discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller receives the IAT. The controller determines that the IAT is not within a threshold range of the indoor temperature setpoint. The controller then determines an adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller determines a compressor speed at which to operate the variable-speed compressor based on the adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller causes the variable-speed compressor to operate at the determined compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits

2.

SOUND-BASED MOTOR DIAGNOSTICS FOR A CONDENSING UNIT

      
Application Number 17935827
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-09-27
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Burmania, Ian
  • Aishwarya Mukunda, Fnu

Abstract

An analysis device is configured to operate a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and to receive an audio signal from a sound sensor, wherein the audio signal is associated with a condensing unit of the HVAC system. The device is configured to determine an audio signature from the audio signal and to determine whether a motor of the condensing unit is operating within a mode of operation based on the audio signature. The device is further configured to determine a fault type that is associated with the audio signature and to output a recommendation based on the determined fault type.

IPC Classes  ?

3.

DYNAMIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR A HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18525802
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-30
First Publication Date 2024-03-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Gokhale, Umesh
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to receive a temperature value and determine a load demand value based on the temperature value. The device is further configured to determine the load demand value is greater than the load capacity value for the HVAC system and, in response, identify a first setting from among a first plurality of settings for the HVAC system. By default, access to the first plurality of setting for the HVAC system is restricted for a user. The device is further configured to receive a response approving permission to operate the HVAC system using the first setting to the user and send a trigger signal to an HVAC controller to operate the one or more components of the HVAC system using the first setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing

4.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOUSINGS FOR BACKWARD-CURVED BLOWERS

      
Application Number 18512169
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-17
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan
  • Parsai, Amit
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

In an embodiment, a blower for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system includes a blower wheel and a housing. The blower wheel includes backward-curved blades configured to rotate in a rotational plane. The housing forms an at least hexagonal cross-section around at least a portion of the rotational plane, where the blower wheel is positioned within the housing such that there exists a first distance and a second distance. The first distance is measured radially outward from a center of the blower wheel to a first side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance is measured radially outward from the center of the blower wheel to a second side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance forms a an acute angle with the first distance. The first distance and the second distance are unequal and less than a diameter of the blower wheel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 7/06 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan
  • F04D 25/08 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
  • F04D 29/28 - Rotors specially adapted for elastic fluids for centrifugal or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F04D 29/42 - Casings; Connections for working fluid for radial or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F24F 7/007 - Ventilation with forced flow
  • F24F 7/08 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan with separate ducts for supplied and exhausted air
  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 13/20 - Casings or covers

5.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE HOUSINGS FOR BACKWARD-CURVED BLOWERS

      
Application Number 18512410
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-11-17
First Publication Date 2024-03-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan
  • Parsai, Amit
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

In an embodiment, a blower for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system includes a blower wheel and a housing. The blower wheel includes backward-curved blades configured to rotate in a rotational plane. The housing forms an at least hexagonal cross-section around at least a portion of the rotational plane, where the blower wheel is positioned within the housing such that there exists a first distance and a second distance. The first distance is measured radially outward from a center of the blower wheel to a first side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance is measured radially outward from the center of the blower wheel to a second side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance forms a an acute angle with the first distance. The first distance and the second distance are unequal and less than a diameter of the blower wheel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 7/06 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan
  • F04D 25/08 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
  • F04D 29/28 - Rotors specially adapted for elastic fluids for centrifugal or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F04D 29/42 - Casings; Connections for working fluid for radial or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F24F 7/007 - Ventilation with forced flow
  • F24F 7/08 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan with separate ducts for supplied and exhausted air
  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 13/20 - Casings or covers

6.

HVAC SYSTEM WITH WIRELESS DAMPER AND ZONING CONTROL

      
Application Number 17822194
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-08-25
First Publication Date 2024-02-29
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor Carpenter, Kenneth Scott

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a thermostat comprising a processor configured to determine instructions for providing a flow of conditioned air to a first zone of the HVAC system. The HVAC system includes a damper located in a duct associated with the first zone of the HVAC system. The damper includes a moveable plate configured to block the flow of conditioned air through the duct when the movable plate is in a closed position and allow the flow of conditioned air through the duct when the movable plate is in an at least partially open position. The damper includes a wireless receiver and transmitter configured to receive the instructions for providing the flow of conditioned air to the first zone. The damper includes an actuator configured to move the movable plate based at least in part on the received instructions, thereby adjusting the flow of conditioned air to the first zone.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/56 - Remote control
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • F24F 13/10 - Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers

7.

HVAC SYSTEM LEAK DETECTION

      
Application Number 18497863
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-30
First Publication Date 2024-02-22
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a high-pressure subsystem and a low-pressure subsystem. After determining that refrigerant leak diagnostics should be performed, a controllable valve is closed between a condenser and compressor of the HVAC system. The compressor then operates until a predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached. After the predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached, operation of the compressor is stopped. After stopping operation of the compressor and waiting at least a predetermined wait time, the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem of the HVAC system is monitored. A rate of change of the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem is determined. If the rate of change is negative and a magnitude of the rate of change is greater than a threshold value, a leak location is determined to be in the low-pressure subsystem.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/36 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to leakage of heat-exchange fluid
  • F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits

8.

HVAC Thermostat Assembly and Wall-Plate Connector

      
Application Number 17884543
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-08-09
First Publication Date 2024-02-15
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Renganathan, Mohan
  • Sridharan, Aravind

Abstract

An HVAC thermostat assembly has a wall-plate connector that includes a wall-plate and wire connectors as a whole that allows for a thinner, more aesthetic design. In one instance, the HVAC thermostat includes a display unit with a wall-plate connector recess having a plurality of electrical connector pins extending outward to mate with a wall-plate connector. The wall-plate connector includes a wall plate with incorporated electrical terminals. Other assemblies and systems are disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/52 - Indication arrangements, e.g. displays
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • H01R 13/516 - Means for holding or embracing insulating body, e.g. casing
  • H01R 13/506 - Bases; Cases composed of different pieces assembled by snap action of the parts

9.

VARIABLE REFRIGERANT FLOW SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18489667
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-18
First Publication Date 2024-02-08
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Hung, Der-Kai
  • Lan, Lin
  • Drury, Christopher John

Abstract

An apparatus includes a compressor, a first heat exchanger, a reheater, a first valve, a second heat exchanger, a four-way valve, a cap tube, and a blower. The compressor compresses a refrigerant. The blower moves air proximate the second heat exchanger to the reheater. During a cooling mode of operation, the four-way valve is configured to direct refrigerant from the first heat exchanger to the compressor; the compressor compresses the refrigerant received from the first heat exchanger; and the cap tube is configured to allow refrigerant to bypass the reheater.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 3/06 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the arrangements for the supply of heat-exchange fluid for the subsequent treatment of primary air in the room units
  • F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
  • F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle
  • F25B 41/20 - Disposition of valves, e.g. of on-off valves or flow control valves

10.

Wireless Remote Indoor Sensor for Home Automation

      
Application Number 18482763
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-10-06
First Publication Date 2024-02-01
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Mowery, Keith R.
  • Ho, Nguyen T.

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a network of wireless remote climate sensors to develop a complete heat map of an enclosed space. The remote climate sensor is configured to collect temperature and humidity data on a zone of the enclosed space. The HVAC system uses a network of these sensors to obtain data points across the enclosed space. The resulting heat map is used by the HVAC system to determine where to direct air in the enclosed space. By comparing the temperature and humidity at a specific remote climate sensor with the user's desired temperature and humidity, the HVAC system can decide whether to increase or decrease the air flow through a variable damper that is located near the remote climate sensor. By conducting this analysis throughout the enclosed space and making incremental adjustments to the air flow in hot and cold spots in the enclosed space, the disclosed HVAC system provides even comfort to the user along with reduced energy consumption.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/80 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air
  • F24F 11/59 - Remote control for presetting
  • F24F 11/523 - Indication arrangements, e.g. displays for displaying temperature data
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/67 - Switching between heating and cooling modes
  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 19/02 - Programme-control systems electric

11.

System and Method for Product Authentication and Validation Using Software Tokens

      
Application Number 17853107
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-29
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Lennox Industries, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Ho, Nguyen Trong

Abstract

A component authentication and validation system requests a token server to provide tokens for a product line. The system receives, from the token server, the requested tokens. The system associates each token with a unique identifier that uniquely identifies the token. The system receives, from a production line server, a request to transmit a particular number of tokens to program the components associated with the product line. The system receives, from the production line server, a report file comprising a programmed token that is programmed into a component associated with the product line. The programmed token is used to authenticate the component. The system registers the token with the token server, such that inquiries about the token are tracked by the token server.

IPC Classes  ?

12.

System and Method for Programming Products with Software Tokens

      
Application Number 17853162
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-29
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Lennox Industries, Inc, (USA)
Inventor Ho, Nguyen Trong

Abstract

A system for authenticating components using software security tokens receives, from a remote server, a security token that is a software security artifact that is used to uniquely identify a component. The system programs the security token into the component, where programming the security token into the component comprises encoding the component with the security token such that the security token in retrievable upon request for authenticating the component. The system generates a report file comprising the programmed security token. The programmed security token is used to authenticate the component. The system transmits the report file to the remote server.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system

13.

Security Token Provisioning for a Product

      
Application Number 17853215
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-29
First Publication Date 2024-01-04
Owner Lennox Industries, Inc. (USA)
Inventor Ho, Nguyen Trong

Abstract

An apparatus stores a security token in a memory associated with the apparatus. The security token is a software security artifact used to uniquely identify the apparatus. The apparatus receives a query message to provide the security token. The apparatus transmits the security token to be verified. In response to the security token being verified, the apparatus participates in a secured communication channel with a user device. The apparatus receives a second security token that is used for a subsequent authentication of the apparatus. The apparatus stores the second security token in the memory.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06F 21/44 - Program or device authentication
  • G06F 21/73 - Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer to assure secure computing or processing of information by creating or determining hardware identification, e.g. serial numbers

14.

HVAC sensor for wall mounting

      
Application Number 29834078
Grant Number D1009653
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-04-08
First Publication Date 2024-01-02
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Kunasekaran, Arun
  • Amoros Sol, Melissa Del Carmen

15.

Surface-supported, HVAC sensor

      
Application Number 29834080
Grant Number D1009654
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-04-08
First Publication Date 2024-01-02
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Kunasekaran, Arun
  • Amoros Sol, Melissa Del Carmen

16.

HVAC thermostat

      
Application Number 29844966
Grant Number D1009655
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-07-01
First Publication Date 2024-01-02
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Thirumalaisamy, Raviganesh
  • Sridharan, Aravind
  • Sol, Melissa Del Carmen Amoros

17.

OCCUPANCY TRACKING USING USER DEVICE DETECTION

      
Application Number 18464504
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-11
First Publication Date 2023-12-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad
  • Chadive, Bhavana
  • Kriti, Fnu

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to identify devices connected to an access point over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to populate entries in a device log for the identified devices. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
  • H04W 4/029 - Location-based management or tracking services
  • H04W 64/00 - Locating users or terminals for network management purposes, e.g. mobility management

18.

AUTOMATIC STAGING OF MULTIPLE HVAC SYSTEMS DURING A PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE

      
Application Number 18463148
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-09-07
First Publication Date 2023-12-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Xia, Chao
  • Hrejsa, Pete

Abstract

A system includes multiple HVAC systems. After receiving a demand request, a multiple-system controller a first anticipated power consumption associated with operating a first HVAC system at a first temperature setpoint during a future period of time of the demand response request and a second anticipated power consumption associated with operating a second HVAC system at a second temperature setpoint during the future period of time. Based at least in part on the first and the second anticipated power consumptions, a staging schedule is determined that indicates when to operate the first and second HVAC systems.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/56 - Remote control
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers

19.

CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PREVENTING EVAPORATOR COIL FREEZE

      
Application Number 18238675
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-28
First Publication Date 2023-12-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Rajan, Siddarth

Abstract

A method of preventing evaporator coil freeze in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is performed by a controller in the HVAC system. The method includes determining a reference saturated suction temperature (SST) via a sensor disposed in relation to an evaporator coil in the HVAC system. The method also includes determining whether the reference SST is below a minimum SST threshold. The method also includes, responsive to a determination that the reference SST is below the minimum SST threshold, increasing a discharge air temperature (DAT) setpoint.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 47/00 - Arrangements for preventing or removing deposits or corrosion, not provided for in another subclass
  • F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification

20.

TIME-BASED AND SOUND-BASED DIAGNOSTICS FOR A HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING BURNER ASSEMBLY

      
Application Number 18453099
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-21
First Publication Date 2023-12-07
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to ignite a burner in a burner assembly has exceeded a time threshold value and that a flame was not detected by a flame sensor. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the flame, and to determine whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the first audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/33 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to fire, excessive heat or smoke
  • G08B 21/18 - Status alarms
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • G08B 17/06 - Electric actuation of the alarm, e.g. using a thermally-operated switch
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks

21.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors for HVAC Systems

      
Application Number 17829171
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-31
First Publication Date 2023-11-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Alayil, Rajesh
  • Greist, Henry Todd
  • Hingorani, Sanjeev
  • Wolowicz, Thomas John

Abstract

A heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes at least one indoor air quality monitor. The indoor air quality monitor is formed with an arrangement of chambers—intake chamber, low-flow chamber, and outlet chamber—such that a particulate sensor on an interior and another air quality sensor are neither overwhelmed nor underwhelmed by air flow to the sensors. The indoor air quality monitor may be arranged for attaching to a surface in a conditioned space for sampling air therein or may include a bypass chamber that fluidly couples to an HVAC duct. Other systems and methods are presented.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring

22.

Indoor Air Quality Monitors for Commericial HVAC Systems

      
Application Number 17829189
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-31
First Publication Date 2023-11-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Alayil, Rajesh
  • Greist, Henry Todd
  • Hingorani, Sanjeev
  • Wolowicz, Thomas John

Abstract

An indoor air quality monitor for an HVAC system includes a monitor body formed with a plurality of chambers defined at least in part by chamber walls. A bypass chamber allows for a majority of airflow entering the monitor to pass through. An intake chamber coupled to the bypass chamber allows for a portion of air to be removed for sampling by a particulate sensor. Air from the particulate sensor is discharged to an outlet chamber that is fluidly coupled to a downstream portion of the bypass chamber. The fluid requirements of the particulate sensor are maintained without overwhelming or underwhelming the particulate sensor. Other systems and monitors are presented; some include separate TVOC sensors.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 11/70 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof

23.

PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE OPERATION OF HVAC SYSTEMS

      
Application Number 18359998
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-27
First Publication Date 2023-11-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Sathyamurthi, Vijaykumar

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a variable-speed compressor which compresses refrigerant flowing through the HVAC system, a blower which provides a flow of air through the HVAC system at a controllable flow rate, and a controller communicatively coupled to the variable-speed compressor and the blower. The controller receives a demand request, which includes a command to operate the HVAC system at a predefined setpoint temperature. In response to receiving the demand request, a setpoint temperature associated with the HVAC system can be adjusted to the predefined setpoint temperature. A speed of the variable-speed compressor is decreased to a low-speed setting. Based on the decreased speed of the variable-speed compressor, an air-flow rate can be determined to provide by the blower. The controllable flow rate of the flow of air provided by the blower can be adjusted based on the determined air-flow rate.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • F04D 27/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids
  • B60H 1/32 - Cooling devices
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems

24.

SOUND-BASED PROGNOSTICS FOR A COMBUSTION AIR INDUCER

      
Application Number 18448780
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-08-11
First Publication Date 2023-11-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the speed of a combustion air inducer has exceeded a speed threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the combustion air inducer from an audio signature library, and to determine the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination that the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 29/44 - Processing the detected response signal
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • G01N 29/14 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object using acoustic emission techniques

25.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR IDENTIFYING INDOOR AIR QUALITY (IAQ) MONITOR INSTALLATION LOCATION

      
Application Number 17825020
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-26
First Publication Date 2023-11-30
Owner LENNOX INDUSTRIES INC. (USA)
Inventor Michaelis, Calvin

Abstract

A method of monitoring a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to detect installation location of at least one indoor air quality (IAQ) monitor. The method includes monitoring, by a controller, operation of the HVAC system, determining, by the controller, whether power exists at a duct terminal of the at least one IAQ monitor and responsive to a determination that the power exists at the duct terminal of the at least one IAQ monitor, configuring, the at least one IAQ monitor as being installed within a ductwork.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • F24F 11/88 - Electrical aspects, e.g. circuits

26.

HVAC SYSTEM WITH INDOOR AIR QUALITY MONITORING AND MITIGATION

      
Application Number 17741968
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-05-11
First Publication Date 2023-11-16
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Hingorani, Sanjeev
  • Greist, Henry
  • Smirnova, Elena
  • Hrejsa, Pete
  • Abi-Habib, Emile
  • Kande, Dhishan

Abstract

An HVAC system includes one or more air quality sensors, each configured to measure an air quality and a thermostat communicatively coupled to the one or more air quality sensors. The thermostat receives indoor air quality measurements from the one or more air quality sensors. An indoor air quality score is determined based at least in part on the received indoor air quality measurements. The thermostat determines, based at least in part on the indoor air quality score, a mitigation action, wherein the mitigation action comprises one or more actions selected from the group of: (i) a filtering action comprising filtering air provided to the space using an air purification subsystem, and (ii) a ventilation action comprising ventilating the space using a ventilation subsystem. The mitigation action is executed, or implemented, by adjusting one or more components of the HVAC system.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 11/00 - Control or safety arrangements
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing

27.

SENSOR VALIDATION

      
Application Number 18353674
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-07-17
First Publication Date 2023-11-09
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Rajan, Siddarth
  • Robinson, Edward
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. A sensor measures a value associated with the refrigerant in the condenser or the evaporator, and a controller is communicatively coupled to the compressor and the sensor. The controller determines, based on an operational history the compressor, that pre-requisite criteria are satisfied for entering a sensor validation mode. After determining the pre-requisite criteria are satisfied, an initial sensor measurement value is determined. Following determining the initial sensor measurement value, the compressor is operated according to a sensor-validation mode. Following operating the compressor according to the sensor-validation mode for at least a minimum time, a current sensor measurement value is determined. The controller determines whether validation criteria are satisfied for the current sensor value. In response to determining that the validation criteria are satisfied, the controller determines that the sensor is validated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 49/00 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
  • B60H 1/32 - Cooling devices
  • F04B 49/06 - Control using electricity
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F25B 41/45 - Arrangements for diverging or converging flows, e.g. branch lines or junctions for flow control on the upstream side of the diverging point, e.g. with spiral structure for generating turbulence

28.

PREDICTIVE TEMPERATURE SCHEDULING FOR A THERMOSTAT USING MACHINE LEARNING

      
Application Number 18340116
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-23
First Publication Date 2023-10-19
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 140/50 - Load
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption

29.

OCCUPANCY TRACKING USING SOUND RECOGNITION

      
Application Number 18340470
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-23
First Publication Date 2023-10-19
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to receive a plurality of sound samples over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to compute an audio signature for each sound sample. The device is further configured to populate entries in the voice data log for the sound samples, to identify one or more clusters based on an audio signature that is associated with the populated entries, and to determine a number of clusters that are identified. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04R 3/00 - Circuits for transducers
  • G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • G06F 3/16 - Sound input; Sound output
  • G10L 25/78 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals

30.

DETERMINATION OF BLOWER FLOW RATE

      
Application Number 18341043
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-26
First Publication Date 2023-10-19
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a blower, a motor drive, and a controller. A benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower and a corresponding benchmark power output of the motor drive associated with operation of the blower at a test condition are received. The controller determines a first motor drive frequency at which the motor drive is operating. Based on the benchmark rate and a comparison of the first motor drive frequency to the predefined motor drive frequency, a first rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined. At a later time, a current power output of the motor drive is determined during operation of the blower at the test condition. Based on a comparison of the current benchmark power output to the benchmark power output, an updated benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/67 - Switching between heating and cooling modes
  • G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
  • G01F 9/00 - Measuring volume flow relative to another variable, e.g. of liquid fuel for an engine

31.

MEASURING INDOOR AIR QUALITY FOR A HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 17718084
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-04-11
First Publication Date 2023-10-12
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Greist, Henry
  • Hingorani, Sanjeev
  • Michaelis, Calvin

Abstract

An air quality measuring device that includes a first chamber, a second chamber, a third chamber, and a fourth chamber. The first chamber includes a first inlet configured to receive a first airflow, a first outlet configured to receive a first portion of the first airflow, and a second outlet configured to receive a second portion of the first airflow. The second chamber includes a second inlet configured to receive the first portion of the first airflow and a first sensor disposed within the second chamber. The third chamber includes a third inlet configured to receive the second portion of the first airflow and a second sensor disposed within the third chamber. The fourth chamber includes a fourth inlet configured to receive the second portion of the first airflow and a third sensor disposed within the fourth chamber.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 1/22 - Devices for withdrawing samples in the gaseous state
  • F24F 11/89 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices

32.

EFFICIENT SUCTION-LINE HEAT EXCHANGER

      
Application Number 18206689
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-07
First Publication Date 2023-10-12
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kuppusamy, Karthick
  • Pillai, Manian
  • Palanivelu, Ranjithkumar

Abstract

A heat exchanger includes a shell, a coiled tube, and a swirler. The shell has an inlet and an outlet and forms a cavity. A first of a liquid refrigerant and a vapor refrigerant enters the inlet of the shell. The coiled tube is positioned within the cavity and is connected to an inlet tube from outside the shell and an outlet tube to outside the shell. A second of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant enters the inlet tube of the coiled tube. The swirler is arranged adjacent the inlet of the shell and is dimensioned to distribute the first of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant across the coiled tube.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F28D 7/16 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits being arranged in parallel spaced relation
  • F28F 1/24 - Tubular elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element and extending transversely
  • F28F 13/12 - Arrangements for modifying heat transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media by creating turbulence, e.g. by stirring, by increasing the force of circulation

33.

ERROR CORRECTION FOR PREDICTIVE SCHEDULES FOR A THERMOSTAT

      
Application Number 18328627
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-06-02
First Publication Date 2023-09-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device is configured to record a plurality of actual occupancy statuses, to determine a plurality of corresponding predicted occupancy statuses, and to compare the plurality of predicted occupancy statuses to the plurality of actual occupancy statuses. The device is further configured to identify conflicting occupancy statuses based on the comparison. A conflicting occupancy status indicates a difference between an actual occupancy status and a corresponding predicted occupancy status. The device is further configured to identify timestamps corresponding with the conflicting occupancy statuses, to identify historical occupancy statuses corresponding with the identified timestamps, and to update the conflicting occupancy statuses in the predicted occupancy schedule with the historical occupancy statuses.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric

34.

HVAC SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED OPERATION OF A VARIABLE SPEED COMPRESSOR DURING A PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE

      
Application Number 17655685
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-03-21
First Publication Date 2023-09-21
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Hrejsa, Pete

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a variable speed compressor. A controller determines that the HVAC system is requested to operate according to a demand response during a demand response time. A curtailment compressor speed is determined that achieves the reduced power consumption requested by the demand response. At a start of the demand response time, the controller begins operating the variable speed compressor at the curtailment speed. During the demand response time, the controller adjusts the speed of the variable speed compressor using dynamic control logic with an offset setpoint temperature used as the control setpoint value when an indoor air temperature of the space is less than the offset setpoint temperature and greater than the baseline setpoint temperature.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors

35.

Avoiding Coil Freeze in HVAC Systems

      
Application Number 18319971
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-18
First Publication Date 2023-09-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor Goel, Rakesh

Abstract

An HVAC system includes an evaporator. The evaporator includes a sensor configured to measure a property value (i.e., a saturated suction temperature or a saturated suction pressure) associated with saturated refrigerant flowing through the evaporator. The system includes a variable-speed compressor configured to receive the refrigerant and compress the received refrigerant. The system includes a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the variable-speed compressor. The controller monitors the property value measured by the sensor and detects a system fault, based on the monitored property value. In response to detecting the system fault, the controller operates the compressor in a freeze-prevention mode, which is configured to maintain the property value above a setpoint value by adjusting a speed of the variable-speed compressor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/43 - Defrosting; Preventing freezing of indoor units
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems

36.

HVAC SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED OPERATION OF A SINGLE-STAGE COMPRESSOR DURING A PEAK DEMAND RESPONSE

      
Application Number 17654342
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-03-10
First Publication Date 2023-09-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor Brahme, Rohini

Abstract

An HVAC system is configured to regulate a temperature of a space. The HVAC system includes a single-stage compressor configured to compress a refrigerant used to cool air provided to the space and a controller communicatively coupled to the single-stage compressor. The controller determines that a demand response time period is starting at a start time. After determining that the demand response time period is starting at the start time, an operation schedule is determined indicating alternating portions of the demand response period during which the single-stage compressor is to be turned off and turned on. At or after the start time of the demand response time period, the controller begins operating the single-stage compressor according to the determined operation schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode

37.

CONTROLLING SYSTEMS WITH MOTOR DRIVES USING PULSE WIDTH MODULATION

      
Application Number 18319608
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-05-18
First Publication Date 2023-09-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor Subramaniam, Palanivel

Abstract

A system includes an electronic power converter and a controller. The electronic power converter supplies power to one or more motor drives of an HVAC system. The controller obtains a plurality of pulse width modulation (PWM) algorithms. Each PWM algorithm has an associated spectrum of frequencies. The controller further determines one or more resonance frequencies associated with the HVAC system. The controller also selects a first PWM algorithm from the plurality of PWM algorithms wherein the spectrum of frequencies of the first PWM algorithm lacks frequency peaks that overlap with the one or more resonance frequencies associated with the HVAC system. The controller further operates the electronic power converter according to the first PWM algorithm.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
  • H02P 27/08 - Arrangements or methods for the control of AC motors characterised by the kind of supply voltage using variable-frequency supply voltage, e.g. inverter or converter supply voltage using dc to ac converters or inverters with pulse width modulation
  • H02M 5/458 - Conversion of ac power input into ac power output, e.g. for change of voltage, for change of frequency, for change of number of phases with intermediate conversion into dc by static converters using discharge tubes or semiconductor devices to convert the intermediate dc into ac using devices of a triode or transistor type requiring continuous application of a control signal using semiconductor devices only

38.

Component tracking in automated manufacturing using digital fingerprints

      
Application Number 18315598
Grant Number 11954843
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-05-11
First Publication Date 2023-09-07
Grant Date 2024-04-09
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Seshayya, Satish
  • Thatigutla, Vinay R.

Abstract

A system is configured to receive an indication that an apparatus in a first assembled state should comprise a component with a first digital fingerprint and a component with a second digital fingerprint. The system is configured to receive video footage of apparatuses in the first assembled state. The system is configured to isolate an image of an apparatus in the first assembled state. The system is configured to split the image into a frame comprising a first component and a frame comprising a second component. The system is configured to identify feature points and to determine that the first set of feature points matches the first digital fingerprint and that the second set of feature points matches the second digital fingerprint. The system is configured to update a component database.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/11 - Region-based segmentation
  • G06T 7/246 - Analysis of motion using feature-based methods, e.g. the tracking of corners or segments

39.

SECURE PROVISIONING OF DIGITAL CERTIFICATE

      
Application Number 18306945
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-25
First Publication Date 2023-08-24
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ho, Nguyen Trong
  • Khiani, Sunil

Abstract

A system includes a device and a payload warehouse. The device receives a user request to initiate a feature of the device. In response to receiving the request, device information is provided to a payload warehouse. The payload warehouse stores an inventory which includes a digital payload. The digital payload includes data, such as a digital certificate, which may be used by the device to implement the user-requested feature. The payload warehouse receives the device information provided by the device and determines an encryption vector based at least in part on the received device information. Using the encryption vector, the digital payload is encrypted. The encrypted digital payload is provided to the device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • H04L 9/06 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols the encryption apparatus using shift registers or memories for blockwise coding, e.g. D.E.S. systems

40.

Dynamic temperature control for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

      
Application Number 17651559
Grant Number 11879661
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-02-17
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Grant Date 2024-01-23
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Gokhale, Umesh
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to receive a temperature value and determine a load demand value based on the temperature value. The device is further configured to determine the load demand value is greater than the load capacity value for the HVAC system and, in response, identify a first setting from among a first plurality of settings for the HVAC system. By default, access to the first plurality of setting for the HVAC system is restricted for a user. The device is further configured to receive a response approving permission to operate the HVAC system using the first setting to the user and send a trigger signal to an HVAC controller to operate the one or more components of the HVAC system using the first setting.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • F24F 140/50 - Load
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 130/10 - Weather information or forecasts

41.

TIME-BASED AND SOUND-BASED DIAGNOSTICS FOR RESTRICTIONS WITHIN A HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

      
Application Number 18306880
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-25
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system and to determine that an audio signature for a combustion air inducer is not present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine whether an audio signature for an integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • G08B 21/18 - Status alarms
  • G08B 17/06 - Electric actuation of the alarm, e.g. using a thermally-operated switch
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing

42.

LOAD BALANCING WIRELESS MESH NETWORKS FOR HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEMS

      
Application Number 18306916
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-04-25
First Publication Date 2023-08-17
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Smirnova, Elena
  • Ahmed, Mansoor

Abstract

A system that includes a plurality of controllers that are each controller is configured to operate at least a portion of includes a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The system further includes a gateway controller that is configured to determine a mesh network size for a local mesh network, to broadcast the mesh network size to other gateway controllers within a local area network, and to receive mesh network size information from the other gateway controllers. The gateway controller is further configured to compute an average mesh network size for the local area network and to determine that the mesh network size for the local mesh network is less than the average mesh network size for the local area network. The gateway controller is further configured to add one or more controllers to the local mesh network.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • H04W 24/02 - Arrangements for optimising operational condition
  • H04W 84/12 - WLAN [Wireless Local Area Networks]
  • H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks

43.

Automatic staging of multiple HVAC systems during a peak demand response

      
Application Number 17575499
Grant Number 11802703
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-01-13
First Publication Date 2023-07-13
Grant Date 2023-10-31
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Xia, Chao
  • Hrejsa, Pete

Abstract

A system includes multiple HVAC systems. After receiving a demand request, a multiple-system controller determines a first anticipated power consumption associated with operating a first HVAC system at a first temperature setpoint during a future period of time of the demand response request and a second anticipated power consumption associated with operating a second HVAC system at a second temperature setpoint during the future period of time. Based at least in part on the first and the second anticipated power consumptions, a staging schedule is determined that indicates when to operate the first and second HVAC systems.

IPC Classes  ?

44.

Method of calibrating a variable-speed blower motor

      
Application Number 18112660
Grant Number 11955848
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-02-22
First Publication Date 2023-06-22
Grant Date 2024-04-09
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Rahman, Nasim
  • Wang, Wei
  • Yang, Yan
  • Winkler, Ty

Abstract

A method of calibrating a motor assembly includes selecting an electric motor and a motor controller for the motor assembly, obtaining at least one electric motor parameter of the electric motor, calculating a correction factor for the electric motor based upon the at least one electric motor parameter, and programming the motor controller with the correction factor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
  • F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
  • G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
  • H02K 11/33 - Drive circuits, e.g. power electronics
  • H02P 6/06 - Arrangements for speed regulation of a single motor wherein the motor speed is measured and compared with a given physical value so as to adjust the motor speed
  • H02P 6/08 - Arrangements for controlling the speed or torque of a single motor

45.

Method and system for the heat-pump control to reduce liquid refrigerant migration

      
Application Number 18101724
Grant Number 11754328
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-01-26
First Publication Date 2023-06-08
Grant Date 2023-09-12
Owner Lennox Industries Inc (USA)
Inventor
  • Berg, Eric
  • Liu, Wenqian
  • Gokhale, Umesh
  • Natarajan, Srini
  • Mangum, Jeff

Abstract

A method of mitigating liquid-refrigerant migration includes comparing a requested compressor speed of a variable-speed compressor to a pre-defined threshold and, responsive to a determination that the requested compressor speed is greater than the pre-defined threshold, operating the variable-speed compressor at a first compressor speed that is less than the requested compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
  • F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle

46.

HVAC system leak detection

      
Application Number 18153237
Grant Number 11898764
Status In Force
Filing Date 2023-01-11
First Publication Date 2023-05-25
Grant Date 2024-02-13
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a high-pressure subsystem and a low-pressure subsystem. After determining that refrigerant leak diagnostics should be performed, a controllable valve is closed between a condenser and compressor of the HVAC system. The compressor then operates until a predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached. After the predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached, operation of the compressor is stopped. After stopping operation of the compressor and waiting at least a predetermined wait time, the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem of the HVAC system is monitored. A rate of change of the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem is determined. If the rate of change is negative and a magnitude of the rate of change is greater than a threshold value, a leak location is determined to be in the low-pressure subsystem.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/36 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to leakage of heat-exchange fluid
  • F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 140/12 - Heat-exchange fluid pressure
  • F24F 140/20 - Heat-exchange fluid temperature

47.

DIGITAL FINGERPRINTS GENERATED FROM COIL BRAZING

      
Application Number 18157684
Status Pending
Filing Date 2023-01-20
First Publication Date 2023-05-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Seshayya, Satish
  • Thatigutla, Vinay R.

Abstract

A system is configured to receive video footage of evaporator coil slabs after they exit an automated coil brazer. The system is further configured to convert the video footage to greyscale and isolate frames from the greyscale video footage. Each frame comprises an image of a different evaporator coil slab. The system is further configured to generate a first digital fingerprint comprising a binary feature vector for each point in a first subset of feature points from the first frame, and generate a second digital fingerprint comprising a binary feature vector for each point in a second subset of feature points from the second frame.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G06T 7/00 - Image analysis
  • G06T 7/246 - Analysis of motion using feature-based methods, e.g. the tracking of corners or segments

48.

HOUSING FOR FORWARD CURVED BLOWER

      
Application Number 17451768
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-10-21
First Publication Date 2023-04-27
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan
  • Settu, Vinoth Kumar
  • Prakasam, Prabhu
  • Sadhasivam, Sangameshwaran

Abstract

A blower of an HVAC system includes an air inlet, an air outlet, a blower wheel with blades, a motor operable to cause the blower wheel to rotate, and a blower housing within which the blower wheel is positioned. The blower housing includes a top panel, a bottom panel, and a connecting panel. The top panel and the bottom panel are connected to the connecting panel. The top panel includes a curved edge extending from a bottom edge of the connecting panel to a top edge of the connecting panel. An expansion angle of the curved edge of the top panel changes as a function of position along the curved edge of the top panel. The bottom panel may have a shape corresponding to a mirror image to that of the top panel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • B60H 1/00 - Heating, cooling or ventilating devices
  • F04D 29/28 - Rotors specially adapted for elastic fluids for centrifugal or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F04D 29/30 - Vanes
  • F04D 29/66 - Combating cavitation, whirls, noise, vibration, or the like; Balancing

49.

Secure provisioning of digital certificate

      
Application Number 18053107
Grant Number 11799669
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-11-07
First Publication Date 2023-04-13
Grant Date 2023-10-24
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ho, Nguyen Trong
  • Khiani, Sunil

Abstract

A system includes a device and a payload warehouse. The device receives a user request to initiate a feature of the device. In response to receiving the request, device information is provided to a payload warehouse. The payload warehouse stores an inventory which includes a digital payload. The digital payload includes data, such as a digital certificate, which may be used by the device to implement the user-requested feature. The payload warehouse receives the device information provided by the device and determines an encryption vector based at least in part on the received device information. Using the encryption vector, the digital payload is encrypted. The encrypted digital payload is provided to the device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
  • H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
  • H04L 9/00 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols

50.

PROPER DEICING END DETECTION AND DEFROST CYCLE OPTIMIZATION

      
Application Number 17494955
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-10-06
First Publication Date 2023-04-06
Owner LENNOX INDUSTRIES INC. (USA)
Inventor Jovet, Bastien

Abstract

A method of defrost operation optimization in a heat pump includes launching a heating mode after completion of a performed defrost operation, measuring, after launching the heating mode, a heat transfer capability, determining if the measured heat transfer capability is less than or equal to a predetermined heat transfer capability limit for a non-iced condition, and reinforcing a next defrost operation if the measured heat transfer capability is greater than the predetermined gap limit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25D 21/00 - Defrosting; Preventing frosting; Removing condensed or defrost water
  • F25D 21/06 - Removing frost

51.

Preventing evaporator coil freeze during re-heat dehumidification

      
Application Number 17994523
Grant Number 11927362
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-11-28
First Publication Date 2023-03-23
Grant Date 2024-03-12
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Rajan, Siddarth

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method of preventing evaporator coil freeze in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes determining a reference saturated suction temperate (SST) via a sensor disposed in relation to an evaporator coil in the HVAC system, where the HVAC system is operating in reheat dehumidification mode. The method also includes determining whether the reference SST is below a minimum SST threshold. The method also includes, responsive to a determination that the reference SST is below the minimum SST threshold, determining a decreased compressor speed. The method also includes modulating a variable-speed compressor in the HVAC system in correspondence to the decreased compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
  • F24F 3/153 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification with subsequent heating, i.e. with the air, given the required humidity in the central station, passing a heating element to achieve the required temperature
  • F25B 47/00 - Arrangements for preventing or removing deposits or corrosion, not provided for in another subclass
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric

52.

Tensioning systems and methods

      
Application Number 17994566
Grant Number 11859720
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-11-28
First Publication Date 2023-03-23
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Long, Jacob
  • Fontenault, Jeff
  • Montemayor, Miguel

Abstract

In an embodiment, a tensioning apparatus includes a housing and a fastener extending at least partially through the housing. The apparatus also includes a trolley adjustably positioned within the housing about the fastener. The apparatus also includes a pulley disposed outside the housing and coupled to the trolley, where the pulley moves in unison with the trolley along an opening in the housing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16H 7/12 - Means for varying tension of belts, ropes, or chains by adjusting the axis of a pulley of an idle pulley
  • F16H 7/08 - Means for varying tension of belts, ropes, or chains

53.

Occupancy tracking using user device detection

      
Application Number 18052432
Grant Number 11802712
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-11-03
First Publication Date 2023-03-23
Grant Date 2023-10-31
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad
  • Chadive, Bhavana
  • Kriti, Fnu

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to identify devices connected to an access point over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to populate entries in a device log for the identified devices. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
  • H04W 4/029 - Location-based management or tracking services
  • H04W 64/00 - Locating users or terminals for network management purposes, e.g. mobility management
  • H04W 80/12 - Application layer protocols, e.g. WAP [Wireless Application Protocol]

54.

Peak demand response operation with improved sensible capacity

      
Application Number 18052475
Grant Number 11802705
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-11-03
First Publication Date 2023-03-23
Grant Date 2023-10-31
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Sathyamurthi, Vijaykumar

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a variable-speed compressor which compresses refrigerant flowing through the HVAC system, a blower which provides a flow of air through the HVAC system at a controllable flow rate, and a controller communicatively coupled to the variable-speed compressor and the blower. The controller receives a demand request which includes a command to reduce power consumption by the HVAC system. In response to receiving the demand request, a speed of the variable-speed compressor is decreased and the controllable flow rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is adjusted.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 1/46 - Component arrangements in separate outdoor units
  • F24F 11/50 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 11/76 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by means responsive to temperature, e.g. bimetal springs
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving

55.

HVAC systems with evaporator bypass and supply air recirculation and methods of using same

      
Application Number 18047837
Grant Number 11859849
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-10-19
First Publication Date 2023-03-02
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Sathyamurthi, Vijay

Abstract

An HVAC system includes an evaporator coil disposed between a return air duct and a supply air duct. The system includes a compressor fluidically connected to the evaporator coil, and a blower for providing a flow of air through the HVAC system. A controller determines an operating mode of the HVAC system.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/81 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the air supply to heat-exchangers or bypass channels
  • F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 3/048 - Systems in which all treatment is given in the central station, i.e. all-air systems with temperature control at constant rate of air-flow
  • F24F 110/20 - Humidity
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature

56.

CONTROLLING METERING DEVICES

      
Application Number 18047626
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-10-18
First Publication Date 2023-02-23
Owner LENNOX INDUSTRIES INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Perez, Eric
  • Niemann, Shawn
  • Clara, Colin
  • Hung, Der-Kai

Abstract

A metering device may automatically control fluid flow through a valve. A control system may alter the automatic control of a metering device. In some implementations, a predetermined event may occur to alter the automatic control of the metering device.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 41/34 - Expansion valves with the valve member being actuated by electric means, e.g. by piezoelectric actuators

57.

Determination of blower flow rate

      
Application Number 18047469
Grant Number 11747040
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-10-18
First Publication Date 2023-02-23
Grant Date 2023-09-05
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a blower, a motor drive, and a controller. A benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower and a corresponding benchmark power output of the motor drive associated with operation of the blower at a test condition are received. The controller determines a first motor drive frequency at which the motor drive is operating. Based on the benchmark rate and a comparison of the first motor drive frequency to the predefined motor drive frequency, a first rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined. At a later time, a current power output of the motor drive is determined during operation of the blower at the test condition. Based on a comparison of the current benchmark power output to the benchmark power output, an updated benchmark rate of the flow of air provided by the blower is determined.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/67 - Switching between heating and cooling modes
  • G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
  • G01F 9/00 - Measuring volume flow relative to another variable, e.g. of liquid fuel for an engine

58.

Controller housing

      
Application Number 29750204
Grant Number D0976909
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-09-11
First Publication Date 2023-01-31
Grant Date 2023-01-31
Owner Lennox Industries Inc (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.

59.

Sensor validation

      
Application Number 17932083
Grant Number 11754326
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-14
First Publication Date 2023-01-05
Grant Date 2023-09-12
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Rajan, Siddarth
  • Robinson, Edward
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a compressor, condenser, and evaporator. A sensor measures a value associated with the refrigerant in the condenser or the evaporator, and a controller is communicatively coupled to the compressor and the sensor. The controller determines, based on an operational history the compressor, that pre-requisite criteria are satisfied for entering a sensor validation mode. After determining the pre-requisite criteria are satisfied, an initial sensor measurement value is determined. Following determining the initial sensor measurement value, the compressor is operated according to a sensor-validation mode. Following operating the compressor according to the sensor-validation mode for at least a minimum time, a current sensor measurement value is determined. The controller determines whether validation criteria are satisfied for the current sensor value. In response to determining that the validation criteria are satisfied, the controller determines that the sensor is validated.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
  • F25B 49/00 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
  • B60H 1/32 - Cooling devices
  • F04B 49/06 - Control using electricity
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F25B 41/45 - Arrangements for diverging or converging flows, e.g. branch lines or junctions for flow control on the upstream side of the diverging point, e.g. with spiral structure for generating turbulence

60.

Method of calibrating a variable-speed blower motor

      
Application Number 17944491
Grant Number 11658547
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-14
First Publication Date 2023-01-05
Grant Date 2023-05-23
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Styer, Austin Clay
  • Subramaniam, Palanivel
  • Khiani, Sunil K.
  • Wang, Wei
  • Rahman, Nasim

Abstract

A method of calibrating a motor assembly includes selecting an electric motor and a motor controller for the motor assembly, obtaining at least one electric motor parameter of the electric motor, determining a correction factor for the electric motor based upon the at least one electric motor parameter, and programming the motor controller with the correction factor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
  • F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
  • G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
  • H02K 11/33 - Drive circuits, e.g. power electronics
  • G06K 19/077 - Constructional details, e.g. mounting of circuits in the carrier
  • H02P 6/06 - Arrangements for speed regulation of a single motor wherein the motor speed is measured and compared with a given physical value so as to adjust the motor speed
  • H02P 6/08 - Arrangements for controlling the speed or torque of a single motor

61.

Proactive system control using humidity prediction

      
Application Number 17930271
Grant Number 11703248
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-07
First Publication Date 2023-01-05
Grant Date 2023-07-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kulandaisamy, Leema
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Selvam, Santhosh Kumar
  • John, Alwin Sebastian

Abstract

During an initial period of time, an HVAC controller stores a record of an energy demand of the HVAC system that corresponds to an amount of energy used to operate the HVAC system. For a future time period, an anticipated energy demand of the HVAC system is determined. The controller then recursively determines, for each of a plurality of time points within the future time period, an anticipated indoor humidity value using the anticipated energy demand and the record of the energy demand. The HVAC system is operated based at least in part on the anticipated indoor humidity value.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption
  • F24F 110/12 - Temperature of the outside air
  • F24F 110/22 - Humidity of the outside air
  • F24F 130/10 - Weather information or forecasts

62.

Auto addressing for hvac secondary units using delayed responses

      
Application Number 17930287
Grant Number 11828478
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-07
First Publication Date 2023-01-05
Grant Date 2023-11-28
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Lian, Hongbing
  • Selvarajan, Saravanakumar
  • Xu, Cheng Liang

Abstract

A system comprises a primary unit and a plurality of secondary units each having a unique unit number. The primary unit is configured to communicate a command to each secondary unit with instructions to reply during a time window. The primary unit is also configured to receive a reply communication indicating the secondary unit's unique unit number from at least one of the secondary units, and determine an address to assign to the replying secondary unit based at least in part on the received unique unit number.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
  • H04L 61/5038 - Address allocation for local use, e.g. in LAN or USB networks, or in a controller area network [CAN]
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 140/00 - Control inputs relating to system states
  • H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks

63.

Avoiding coil freeze in HVAC systems

      
Application Number 17823456
Grant Number 11703242
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-08-30
First Publication Date 2022-12-29
Grant Date 2023-07-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor Goel, Rakesh

Abstract

An HVAC system includes an evaporator. The evaporator includes a sensor configured to measure a property value (i.e., a saturated suction temperature or a saturated suction pressure) associated with saturated refrigerant flowing through the evaporator. The system includes a variable-speed compressor configured to receive the refrigerant and compress the received refrigerant. The system includes a controller communicatively coupled to the sensor and the variable-speed compressor. The controller monitors the property value measured by the sensor and detects a system fault, based on the monitored property value. In response to detecting the system fault, the controller operates the compressor in a freeze-prevention mode, which is configured to maintain the property value above a setpoint value by adjusting a speed of the variable-speed compressor. This prevents or delays freezing of the evaporator during operation of the system during the detected system fault.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 11/43 - Defrosting; Preventing freezing of indoor units
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems
  • F24F 140/30 - Condensation of water from cooled air
  • F24F 13/22 - Means for preventing condensation or evacuating condensate

64.

HVAC system operated with adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint

      
Application Number 17930162
Grant Number 11920819
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-09-07
First Publication Date 2022-12-29
Grant Date 2024-03-05
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Contreras Lafaire, Juan Antonio

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a blower, a variable-speed compressor, an indoor air temperature sensor that measures an indoor air temperature (IAT) of an enclosed space, and a controller. The controller stores an indoor temperature setpoint and a default discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller receives the IAT. The controller determines that the IAT is not within a threshold range of the indoor temperature setpoint. The controller then determines an adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller determines a compressor speed at which to operate the variable-speed compressor based on the adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller causes the variable-speed compressor to operate at the determined compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits

65.

HVAC controller housing

      
Application Number 29778509
Grant Number D0973518
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-04-13
First Publication Date 2022-12-27
Grant Date 2022-12-27
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ramasamy, Surendran
  • Vendt, Stephen J.
  • Kunasekaran, Arun
  • Lazar, Steve
  • Amoros, Melissa
  • Krasnicki, Michael
  • Lee, Bruce

66.

Tensioning systems and methods

      
Application Number 17359881
Grant Number 11536350
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-06-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-27
Grant Date 2022-12-27
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Long, Jacob
  • Fontenault, Jeff
  • Montemayor, Miguel

Abstract

In an embodiment, a tensioning apparatus includes a housing and a fastener extending at least partially through the housing. The apparatus also includes a trolley adjustably positioned within the housing about the fastener. The apparatus also includes a pulley disposed outside the housing and coupled to the trolley, where the pulley moves in unison with the trolley along an opening in the housing.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F16H 7/08 - Means for varying tension of belts, ropes, or chains
  • F16H 7/12 - Means for varying tension of belts, ropes, or chains by adjusting the axis of a pulley of an idle pulley

67.

HVAC system leak detection

      
Application Number 17352077
Grant Number 11578887
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-06-18
First Publication Date 2022-12-22
Grant Date 2023-02-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a high-pressure subsystem and a low-pressure subsystem. After determining that refrigerant leak diagnostics should be performed, a controllable valve is closed between a condenser and compressor of the HVAC system. The compressor then operates until a predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached. After the predetermined input refrigerant pressure is reached, operation of the compressor is stopped. After stopping operation of the compressor and waiting at least a predetermined wait time, the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem of the HVAC system is monitored. A rate of change of the pressure in the low-pressure subsystem is determined. If the rate of change is negative and a magnitude of the rate of change is greater than a threshold value, a leak location is determined to be in the low-pressure subsystem.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/36 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to leakage of heat-exchange fluid
  • F24F 11/84 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling the supply of heat-exchange fluids to heat-exchangers using valves
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 140/12 - Heat-exchange fluid pressure
  • F24F 140/20 - Heat-exchange fluid temperature

68.

COUNTER-CURRENT FLOW IN BOTH AC AND HP MODES FOR PART LOAD OPTIMIZATION

      
Application Number 17342657
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-06-09
First Publication Date 2022-12-15
Owner LENNOX INDUSTRIES INC. (USA)
Inventor
  • Jovet, Bastien
  • Chapuis, Eric

Abstract

A HVAC system having an indoor heat exchanger having a first refrigerant passage extending in a first direction and a second refrigerant extending in a second direction opposite from the first direction, a first refrigerant circuit comprising a first compressor, a first expansion valve, a first outdoor heat exchanger, the first refrigerant passage, and a first reversing valve operable to control a direction of first refrigerant in the first refrigerant circuit, and a second refrigerant circuit comprising a second compressor, a second expansion valve, a second outdoor heat exchanger, the second refrigerant passage, and a second reversing valve operable to control a direction of second refrigerant in the second refrigerant circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle
  • F25B 41/26 - Disposition of valves, e.g. of on-off valves or flow control valves of fluid flow reversing valves
  • F25B 41/31 - Expansion valves

69.

Blower with adjustable cutoff plate

      
Application Number 17892351
Grant Number 11674708
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-08-22
First Publication Date 2022-12-08
Grant Date 2023-06-13
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan
  • Parsai, Amit
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

A blower for an HVAC system, the blower includes a housing with an intake and an outlet, a fan or blower wheel disposed within the housing and configured to draw air into the housing via the intake and to exhaust air from the housing through the outlet, and an adjustable cutoff plate configured to be moved between at least a first position defining a first cutoff angle and a second position defining a second cutoff angle.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/72 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure
  • F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 1/0022 - Centrifugal or radial fans
  • F04D 29/42 - Casings; Connections for working fluid for radial or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F04D 29/46 - Fluid-guiding means, e.g. diffusers adjustable

70.

Time-based and sound-based diagnostics for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning burner assembly

      
Application Number 17333416
Grant Number 11781768
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-05-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-01
Grant Date 2023-10-10
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to ignite a burner in a burner assembly has exceeded a time threshold value and that a flame was not detected by a flame sensor. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the flame, and to determine whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the first audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the flame is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/33 - Responding to malfunctions or emergencies to fire, excessive heat or smoke
  • G08B 21/18 - Status alarms
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • G08B 17/06 - Electric actuation of the alarm, e.g. using a thermally-operated switch
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks

71.

Sound-based diagnostics for a combustion air inducer

      
Application Number 17333543
Grant Number 11655993
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-05-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-01
Grant Date 2023-05-23
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the speed of a combustion air inducer exceeds a speed threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system and to determine an audio signature for the combustion air inducer is not present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine whether an audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/56 - Remote control
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F27D 21/04 - Arrangements of indicators or alarms
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • F27D 21/00 - Arrangement of monitoring devices; Arrangements of safety devices
  • F27D 19/00 - Arrangement of controlling devices

72.

Time-based and sound-based diagnostics for restrictions within a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

      
Application Number 17333598
Grant Number 11668484
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-05-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-01
Grant Date 2023-06-06
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to close a pressure switch exceeds a time threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system and to determine that an audio signature for a combustion air inducer is not present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine whether an audio signature for an integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination of whether the audio signature for the integrated furnace controller is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • G08B 17/06 - Electric actuation of the alarm, e.g. using a thermally-operated switch
  • G08B 21/18 - Status alarms

73.

Sound-based prognostics for a combustion air inducer

      
Application Number 17333364
Grant Number 11788993
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-05-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-01
Grant Date 2023-10-17
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the speed of a combustion air inducer has exceeded a speed threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the combustion air inducer from an audio signature library, and to determine the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination that the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G01N 29/44 - Processing the detected response signal
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • G01N 29/14 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object using acoustic emission techniques

74.

Time-based and sound-based prognostics for restrictions within a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

      
Application Number 17333488
Grant Number 11598545
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-05-28
First Publication Date 2022-12-01
Grant Date 2023-03-07
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Kowald, Glenn William

Abstract

A device is configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. The device is further configured to determine that the amount of time to close a pressure switch exceeds a time threshold value. The device is further configured to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating the HVAC system, to identify an audio signature for the combustion air inducer, and to determine the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type based on the determination that the audio signature for the combustion air inducer is present within the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output a recommendation identifying the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers
  • F24F 11/56 - Remote control
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • H04R 1/08 - Mouthpieces; Attachments therefor
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • F27D 21/00 - Arrangement of monitoring devices; Arrangements of safety devices

75.

Self-configuring multiple-antenna system

      
Application Number 17874721
Grant Number 11838769
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-07-27
First Publication Date 2022-11-17
Grant Date 2023-12-05
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ahmed, Mansoor
  • Lazar, Steve

Abstract

In an embodiment, a multiple-antenna heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a first antenna disposed along a return airflow path from an enclosed space to the multiple-antenna HVAC system, where the multiple-antenna HVAC system supplies conditioned air to the enclosed space. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a second antenna disposed outside the return airflow path. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a controller in communication with the first antenna and the second antenna, where the controller wirelessly communicates via the first antenna and the second antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H04W 4/00 - Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
  • H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
  • H04W 24/02 - Arrangements for optimising operational condition
  • H04W 76/14 - Direct-mode setup
  • H01Q 1/44 - ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS - Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas using equipment having another main function to serve additionally as an antenna
  • H01Q 21/00 - Antenna arrays or systems
  • H04W 8/00 - Network data management
  • H04W 48/08 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery
  • H04B 7/06 - Diversity systems; Multi-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas at the transmitting station

76.

Occupancy tracking using sound recognition

      
Application Number 17868274
Grant Number 11747038
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-07-19
First Publication Date 2022-11-10
Grant Date 2023-09-05
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to receive a plurality of sound samples over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to compute an audio signature for each sound sample. The audio signature includes a numerical value that uniquely identifies characteristics of an audio signal. The device is further configured to populate entries in the voice data log for the sound samples, to identify one or more clusters based on an audio signature that is associated with the populated entries, and to determine a number of clusters that are identified. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
  • H04R 3/00 - Circuits for transducers
  • G10L 25/78 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals
  • G06F 3/16 - Sound input; Sound output
  • G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy

77.

Self-configuring multiple-antenna system

      
Application Number 17874623
Grant Number 11632681
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-07-27
First Publication Date 2022-11-10
Grant Date 2023-04-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Ahmed, Mansoor
  • Lazar, Steve

Abstract

In an embodiment, a multiple-antenna heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes a first antenna disposed along a return airflow path from an enclosed space to the multiple-antenna HVAC system, where the multiple-antenna HVAC system supplies conditioned air to the enclosed space. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a second antenna disposed outside the return airflow path. The multiple-antenna HVAC system also includes a controller in communication with the first antenna and the second antenna, where the controller wirelessly communicates via the first antenna and the second antenna.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
  • H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
  • H04W 24/02 - Arrangements for optimising operational condition
  • H04W 76/14 - Direct-mode setup
  • H01Q 1/44 - ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS - Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas using equipment having another main function to serve additionally as an antenna
  • H01Q 21/00 - Antenna arrays or systems
  • H04W 8/00 - Network data management
  • H04W 48/08 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery
  • H04B 7/06 - Diversity systems; Multi-antenna systems, i.e. transmission or reception using multiple antennas using two or more spaced independent antennas at the transmitting station

78.

Efficient suction-line heat exchanger

      
Application Number 17236147
Grant Number 11709020
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-04-21
First Publication Date 2022-10-27
Grant Date 2023-07-25
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kuppusamy, Karthick
  • Pillai, Manian
  • Palanivelu, Ranjithkumar

Abstract

A heat exchanger includes a shell, a coiled tube, and a swirler. The shell has an inlet and an outlet and forms a cavity. A first of a liquid refrigerant and a vapor refrigerant enters the inlet of the shell. The coiled tube is positioned within the cavity and is connected to an inlet tube from outside the shell and an outlet tube to outside the shell. A second of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant enters the inlet tube of the coiled tube. The swirler is arranged adjacent the inlet of the shell and is dimensioned to distribute the first of the liquid refrigerant and the vapor refrigerant across the coiled tube.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F28D 7/16 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary tubular conduit assemblies for both heat-exchange media, the media being in contact with different sides of a conduit wall the conduits being arranged in parallel spaced relation
  • F28F 1/24 - Tubular elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only outside the tubular element and extending transversely
  • F28F 13/12 - Arrangements for modifying heat transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media by creating turbulence, e.g. by stirring, by increasing the force of circulation
  • F28D 21/00 - Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups

79.

High-performance housings for backward-curved blowers

      
Application Number 17230037
Grant Number 11885526
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-04-14
First Publication Date 2022-10-20
Grant Date 2024-01-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Thobias, Patric Ananda Balan
  • Parsai, Amit
  • Wang, Shiliang

Abstract

In an embodiment, a blower for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system includes a blower wheel and a housing. The blower wheel includes backward-curved blades configured to rotate in a rotational plane. The housing forms an at least hexagonal cross- section around at least a portion of the rotational plane, where the blower wheel is positioned within the housing such that there exists a first distance and a second distance. The first distance is measured radially outward from a center of the blower wheel to a first side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance is measured radially outward from the center of the blower wheel to a second side of the at least hexagonal cross-section. The second distance forms a an acute angle with the first distance. The first distance and the second distance are unequal and less than a diameter of the blower wheel.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 7/06 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan
  • F24F 13/20 - Casings or covers
  • F24F 7/007 - Ventilation with forced flow
  • F24F 7/08 - Ventilation with ducting systems with forced air circulation, e.g. by fan with separate ducts for supplied and exhausted air
  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F04D 25/08 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the working fluid being air, e.g. for ventilation
  • F04D 29/28 - Rotors specially adapted for elastic fluids for centrifugal or helico-centrifugal pumps
  • F04D 29/42 - Casings; Connections for working fluid for radial or helico-centrifugal pumps

80.

HVAC sensor validation while HVAC system is off

      
Application Number 17235186
Grant Number 11796201
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-04-20
First Publication Date 2022-10-20
Grant Date 2023-10-24
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brahme, Amita
  • Gokhale, Umesh

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a suction-side sensor, a liquid-side sensor, an outdoor temperature sensor, and a controller. The controller determines that initial criteria are satisfied for initiating validation of the suction-side sensor and the liquid-side sensor. After determining that the initial criteria are satisfied, a suction-side property value, liquid-side property value, and outdoor temperature value are received. The controller determines whether a first validation criteria and a second validation criteria are satisfied. If both the first validation criteria and the second validation criteria are satisfied, the suction-side sensor, the liquid-side sensor, and the outdoor temperature sensor are determined to be functioning properly. Otherwise, the controller determines which one or more of the sensors are malfunctioning.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • F24F 11/52 - Indication arrangements, e.g. displays
  • F24F 130/10 - Weather information or forecasts
  • F24F 140/20 - Heat-exchange fluid temperature
  • F24F 140/10 - Pressure
  • F24F 110/12 - Temperature of the outside air

81.

Liquid transfer pump cycle

      
Application Number 17851103
Grant Number 11768022
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-06-28
First Publication Date 2022-10-13
Grant Date 2023-09-26
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Crawford, Carl T.
  • Uselton, Robert B.

Abstract

A method of initiating a low-energy cooling mode using a controller of an HVAC system includes measuring a temperature of ambient air proximal to a condenser coil and determining whether the temperature of the ambient air proximal the condenser coil is less than a temperature threshold. If the temperature of the ambient air is less than the temperature threshold, the HVAC system is configured to operate in a low-energy cooling mode. In the low-energy cooling mode, the controller opens a first bypass valve to allow a refrigerant to bypass a compressor and the compressor is powered off. The HVAC system is operated until a cooling demand has been met.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 49/02 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for compression type machines, plants or systems

82.

Method of calibrating a variable-speed blower motor

      
Application Number 16903497
Grant Number 11626777
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-06-17
First Publication Date 2022-10-06
Grant Date 2023-04-11
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Rahman, Nasim
  • Wang, Wei
  • Yang, Yan
  • Winkler, Ty

Abstract

A method of calibrating a motor assembly includes selecting an electric motor and a motor controller for the motor assembly, obtaining at least one electric motor parameter of the electric motor, calculating a correction factor for the electric motor based upon the at least one electric motor parameter, and programming the motor controller with the correction factor.

IPC Classes  ?

  • H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
  • F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
  • G01R 31/34 - Testing dynamo-electric machines
  • H02K 11/33 - Drive circuits, e.g. power electronics
  • H02P 6/06 - Arrangements for speed regulation of a single motor wherein the motor speed is measured and compared with a given physical value so as to adjust the motor speed
  • H02P 6/08 - Arrangements for controlling the speed or torque of a single motor

83.

Method and system for utilizing a bypass humidifier for dehumidification during cooling

      
Application Number 17751768
Grant Number 11913673
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-24
First Publication Date 2022-10-06
Grant Date 2024-02-27
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Perez, Eric
  • Berg, Eric

Abstract

An HVAC system includes an indoor heat-exchange coil disposed between a supply air duct and a return air duct. A damper is disposed in a re-circulation duct and is moveable between an open position and a closed position. A controller is configured to determine if the HVAC system is operating in a heating mode or an air-conditioning mode. Responsive to a determination that the HVAC system is operating in the air-conditioning mode, the controller is configured to determine if the variable-speed indoor circulation fan is operating at a minimum speed and if the relative humidity measured by the humidity sensor is above a pre-determined threshold. Responsive to a determination that the variable-speed indoor circulation fan is operating at the minimum speed and the relative humidity of the enclosed space is above the pre-determined threshold, the controller signals the damper to move to the open position.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 1/0007 - Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units
  • F24F 6/08 - Air-humidification by evaporation of water in the air using heated wet elements
  • F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
  • F24F 1/022 - Self-contained room units for air-conditioning, i.e. with all apparatus for treatment installed in a common casing comprising a compressor cycle
  • F24F 1/0059 - Indoor units, e.g. fan coil units characterised by heat exchangers
  • F24F 11/74 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity
  • F24F 13/10 - Air-flow control members, e.g. louvres, grilles, flaps or guide plates movable, e.g. dampers
  • F24F 13/02 - Ducting arrangements
  • F24F 11/00 - Control or safety arrangements
  • F24F 110/30 - Velocity
  • F24F 110/22 - Humidity of the outside air

84.

CONTROL SCHEME FOR AUTOMATIC FAN MODE FOR USE WITH VARIABLE REFRIGERANT FLOW SYSTEMS

      
Application Number 17841806
Status Pending
Filing Date 2022-06-16
First Publication Date 2022-09-29
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Hobson, Ben
  • Lian, Hongbing
  • Hung, Der-Kai
  • Mersh, Steve
  • Lan, Lin
  • Markarian, Shahn

Abstract

An HVAC system includes an outdoor heat exchanger. A first indoor heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger and disposed in a first zone. A second indoor heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger and disposed in a second zone. A compressor is fluidly coupled to the outdoor heat exchanger, the first indoor heat exchanger, and the second indoor heat exchanger. A first circulation fan is positioned to circulate air around the first indoor heat exchanger and a second circulation fan is positioned to circulate air around the second indoor heat exchanger. A first zone controller is electrically coupled to the first indoor heat exchanger. The first zone controller is configured to measure a temperature in the first zone, compare the measured temperature to a setpoint temperature of the first zone, and responsive to a difference between the measured temperature and the setpoint temperature, adjust a speed of the first circulation fan independent of the speed of the second circulation fan.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25D 17/06 - Arrangements for circulating cooling fluids; Arrangements for circulating gas, e.g. air, within refrigerated spaces for circulating gas, e.g. by natural convection by forced circulation
  • F25B 5/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with several evaporator circuits, e.g. for varying refrigerating capacity

85.

HVAC system operated with adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint

      
Application Number 17203528
Grant Number 11486599
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-03-16
First Publication Date 2022-09-22
Grant Date 2022-11-01
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Contreras Lafaire, Juan Antonio

Abstract

An HVAC system includes a blower, a variable-speed compressor, an indoor air temperature sensor that measures an indoor air temperature (IAT) of an enclosed space, a discharge air temperature sensor that measures a discharge air temperature (DAT) of the flow of air from an evaporator, and a controller. The controller stores an indoor temperature setpoint and a default discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller receives the IAT and the DAT. The controller determines that the IAT is not within a threshold range of the indoor temperature setpoint. The controller then determines an adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller determines a compressor speed at which to operate the variable-speed compressor based on the adaptive discharge air temperature setpoint. The controller causes the variable-speed compressor to operate at the determined compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits

86.

Cooling system

      
Application Number 17825812
Grant Number 11885570
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-26
First Publication Date 2022-09-08
Grant Date 2024-01-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Sathyamurthi, Vijaykumar
  • Hung, Der-Kai
  • Lin, Hong

Abstract

An apparatus includes first and second microchannel heat exchangers and first and second pipes. The first heat exchanger includes a first inlet, a second inlet, a first tube, a second tube, a first outlet, and a second outlet. Refrigerant at the first inlet is directed through the first tube to the first outlet and the first pipe. Refrigerant at the second inlet is directed through the second tube to the second outlet and the second pipe. The second heat exchanger includes a third inlet, a fourth inlet, a third tube, a fourth tube, a third outlet, and a fourth outlet. The third inlet directs refrigerant from the first pipe through the third tube towards the third outlet. The fourth inlet directs the refrigerant from the second pipe through the fourth tube towards the fourth outlet. The first pipe overlaps the second pipe between the two heat exchangers.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F28D 1/053 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or mo with the heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits the conduits being straight
  • F28D 15/04 - Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls in which the medium condenses and evaporates, e.g. heat-pipes with tubes having a capillary structure
  • F28D 1/04 - Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or mo with the heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with tubular conduits
  • F28D 15/02 - Heat-exchange apparatus with the intermediate heat-transfer medium in closed tubes passing into or through the conduit walls in which the medium condenses and evaporates, e.g. heat-pipes

87.

Demand defrost with frost accumulation failsafe

      
Application Number 17750736
Grant Number 11629900
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-05-23
First Publication Date 2022-09-08
Grant Date 2023-04-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Berg, Eric
  • Hrejsa, Pete

Abstract

A defrost method for a heat pump system includes running the heat pump system in a heating mode to provide heat to an enclosed space and determining if an outdoor temperature is less than an outdoor threshold temperature. Responsive to a determination that the outdoor temperature is below the outdoor threshold temperature, determining if a calibration state has been previously run. Responsive to a determination that the calibration state has not been previously run, running the heat pump system in the calibration state. Responsive to a determination that the calibration state has been previously run, determining if a temperature difference between a temperature of an evaporator coil of the heat pump system and the outdoor temperature exceeds a temperature threshold value. Responsive to a determination that the temperature difference between the evaporator coil and the outdoor temperature is greater than the temperature threshold value, running the heat pump system in a defrost state.

IPC Classes  ?

88.

Preventing evaporator coil freeze during re-heat dehumidification

      
Application Number 17181174
Grant Number 11561015
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-02-22
First Publication Date 2022-08-25
Grant Date 2023-01-24
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Goel, Rakesh
  • Rajan, Siddarth

Abstract

In an embodiment, a method of preventing evaporator coil freeze in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system includes determining a reference saturated suction temperate (SST) via a sensor disposed in relation to an evaporator coil in the HVAC system, where the HVAC; system is operating in reheat dehumidification mode. The method also includes determining whether the reference SST is below a minimum SST threshold. The method also includes, responsive to a determination that the reference SST is below the minimum SST threshold, determining a decreased compressor speed. The method also includes modulating a variable-speed compressor in the HVAC system in correspondence to the decreased compressor speed.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 3/14 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification
  • F25B 47/00 - Arrangements for preventing or removing deposits or corrosion, not provided for in another subclass
  • G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
  • F24F 3/153 - Air-conditioning systems in which conditioned primary air is supplied from one or more central stations to distributing units in the rooms or spaces where it may receive secondary treatment; Apparatus specially designed for such systems characterised by the treatment of the air otherwise than by heating and cooling by dehumidification with subsequent heating, i.e. with the air, given the required humidity in the central station, passing a heating element to achieve the required temperature

89.

Sound-based HVAC system, method and device for diagnostics analysis

      
Application Number 17183228
Grant Number 11573022
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-02-23
First Publication Date 2022-08-25
Grant Date 2023-02-07
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Kowald, Glenn William
  • Berg, Eric
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar
  • Fontenault, Jeffrey

Abstract

A device configured to operate a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system and to receive an audio signal from a microphone while operating HVAC system. The device is further configured to generate a representation of the audio signal, to compare one or more audio signatures to the representation of the audio signal, and to determine that an audio signature from among the one or more audio signatures is not present within the representation of the audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a fault type that is associated with the audio signature that is not present within the representation of the audio signal, to identify a component identifier for a component of the HVAC system that is associated with fault type, and to output the component identifier.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/38 - Failure diagnosis
  • F24F 11/48 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring prior to normal operation, e.g. pre-heating or pre-cooling
  • F24F 11/52 - Indication arrangements, e.g. displays
  • F24F 130/40 - Noise

90.

Occupancy tracking using wireless signal distortion

      
Application Number 17726233
Grant Number 11732917
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-04-21
First Publication Date 2022-08-04
Grant Date 2023-08-22
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad
  • Kriti, Fnu

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to establish a network connection with an access point and to capture wireless signal distortion information for the network connection. The device is further configured to generate statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information. The device is further configured to input the wireless signal distortion information and the statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information into a machine learning model. The machine learning model is configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the wireless signal distortion information and the statistical metadata for the wireless signal distortion information. The predicted occupancy level indicates a number of people that are present within with the space. The device is further configured to obtain the predicted occupancy level from the machine learning model and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
  • H04W 76/10 - Connection setup
  • H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
  • G10L 25/78 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
  • G10L 15/06 - Creation of reference templates; Training of speech recognition systems, e.g. adaptation to the characteristics of the speaker's voice
  • F24F 11/49 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring ensuring correct operation, e.g. by trial operation or configuration checks
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature

91.

Thermodynamic heat recovery without an additional thermodynamic circuit

      
Application Number 17159497
Grant Number 11859875
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-01-27
First Publication Date 2022-07-28
Grant Date 2024-01-02
Owner LENNOX INDUSTRIES INC. (USA)
Inventor Jovet, Bastien

Abstract

A refrigerant circuit includes a compressor operable to compress a refrigerant, an expansion valve, an outdoor heat exchanger, an indoor heat exchanger in a fresh air inlet to a conditioned space, a recovery heat exchanger in an extracted air outlet from the conditioned space, and a reversing valve operable to direct a direction of refrigerant flow between a cooling mode and a heating mode.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle
  • F25B 41/20 - Disposition of valves, e.g. of on-off valves or flow control valves

92.

Proactive system control using humidity prediction

      
Application Number 17153669
Grant Number 11473806
Status In Force
Filing Date 2021-01-20
First Publication Date 2022-07-21
Grant Date 2022-10-18
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Kulandaisamy, Leema
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Selvam, Santhosh Kumar
  • John, Alwin Sebastian

Abstract

During an initial period of time, an HVAC controller receives an indoor humidity and an outdoor humidity. A record of an energy demand of the HVAC system is stored for each indoor humidity and outdoor humidity. For a future time period, an anticipated energy demand of the HVAC system is determined. The controller then recursively determines, for each of a plurality of time points within the future time period, an anticipated indoor humidity value using the anticipated energy demand and the record of the energy demand. The HVAC system is operated based at least in part on the anticipated indoor humidity value.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/77 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the supply of treated air, e.g. its pressure for controlling air flow rate or air velocity by controlling the speed of ventilators
  • F24F 11/86 - Control systems characterised by their outputs; Constructional details thereof for controlling the temperature of the supplied air by controlling compressors within refrigeration or heat pump circuits
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption
  • F24F 110/12 - Temperature of the outside air
  • F24F 110/22 - Humidity of the outside air
  • F24F 130/10 - Weather information or forecasts

93.

HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM CONTROL USING ADAPTIVE OCCUPANCY SCHEDULING

      
Application Number 17147199
Status Pending
Filing Date 2021-01-12
First Publication Date 2022-07-14
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Brahme, Rohini
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar

Abstract

An adaptive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to identify timestamps over a time period when a space is unoccupied, to identify a set point temperature for each timestamp, and to train a machine learning model using the timestamps and corresponding set point temperatures. The device is further configured to determine a timestamp that corresponds with the current day, to input the timestamp into the machine learning model, and to obtain HVAC control settings from the machine learning model in response to inputting the timestamp into the machine learning model. The HVAC control settings include a return time and a set point temperature. The device is further configured to operate the HVAC system at the set point temperature until the return time.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric

94.

Predictive temperature scheduling for a thermostat using machine learning

      
Application Number 17655956
Grant Number 11802704
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-22
First Publication Date 2022-07-07
Grant Date 2023-10-31
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 140/50 - Load

95.

Predictive temperature scheduling for a thermostat using machine learning

      
Application Number 17655936
Grant Number 11774129
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-22
First Publication Date 2022-07-07
Grant Date 2023-10-03
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 140/50 - Load

96.

Predictive temperature scheduling for a thermostat using machine learning

      
Application Number 17655960
Grant Number 11940165
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-22
First Publication Date 2022-07-07
Grant Date 2024-03-26
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 140/50 - Load
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption

97.

Predictive temperature scheduling for a thermostat using machine learning

      
Application Number 17655984
Grant Number 11920809
Status In Force
Filing Date 2022-03-22
First Publication Date 2022-07-07
Grant Date 2024-03-05
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Venkatesh, Sridhar
  • Delgoshaei, Payam
  • Manohararaj, Janathkumar

Abstract

A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control device configured to receive a user input for controlling an HVAC system, to determine whether the user input indicates an energy saving occupancy setting, and to identify a first plurality of time entries that are associated with a confidence level for a predicted occupancy status that is less than a predetermined threshold value in the predicted occupancy schedule. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the first plurality of time entries to an away status when the user input indicates an aggressive energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to modify the predicted occupancy schedule by setting the second plurality of time entries to a present status when the user input indicates a conservative energy saving occupancy setting. The device is further configured to output the modified predicted occupancy schedule.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • F24F 110/10 - Temperature
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 120/12 - Position of occupants
  • F24F 140/50 - Load
  • F24F 140/60 - Energy consumption

98.

Occupancy tracking using sound recognition

      
Application Number 17139155
Grant Number 11448413
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-12-31
First Publication Date 2022-06-30
Grant Date 2022-09-20
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to receive a plurality of sound samples over a predetermine time period. The device is further configured to compute an audio signature for each sound sample. The audio signature includes a numerical value that uniquely identifies characteristics of an audio signal. The device is further configured to determine a direction of arrival for each sound sample. The device is further configured to populate entries in the voice data log for the sound samples, to identify one or more clusters based on an audio signature that is associated with the populated entries, and to determine a number of clusters that are identified. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
  • H04R 3/00 - Circuits for transducers
  • G10L 25/78 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals
  • G06F 3/16 - Sound input; Sound output
  • G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
  • G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy

99.

Occupancy tracking using user device detection

      
Application Number 17139201
Grant Number 11536482
Status In Force
Filing Date 2020-12-31
First Publication Date 2022-06-30
Grant Date 2022-12-27
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad
  • Chadive, Bhavana
  • Kriti, Fnu

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to identify devices connected to an access point over a predetermined time period. The device is further configured to populate entries in a device log for the identified devices. The device is further configured to determine a presence value for each device that indicates an amount of time that a device was present during the predetermined time period. The device is further configured to identify entries that are associated with a presence value that is less than a presence threshold value and to associate the entries with a user device classification. The device is further configured to identify clusters for the entries that are associated with a user device classification, to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the number of clusters that are identified, and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
  • F24F 120/10 - Occupancy
  • F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
  • H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
  • H04W 4/029 - Location-based management or tracking services
  • H04W 64/00 - Locating users or terminals for network management purposes, e.g. mobility management
  • H04W 80/12 - Application layer protocols, e.g. WAP [Wireless Application Protocol]

100.

OCCUPANCY TRACKING USING ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

      
Application Number 17139250
Status Pending
Filing Date 2020-12-31
First Publication Date 2022-06-30
Owner Lennox Industries Inc. (USA)
Inventor
  • Bondalapati, Sunil
  • Mecheri Chandravihar, Prasad
  • Chadive, Bhavana
  • Kriti, Fnu

Abstract

An occupancy tracking device configured to receive sound samples, to identify voices within the sound samples, and to determine a first occupancy level based on the identified voices. The device is further configured to identify user devices connected to an access point and to determine a second occupancy level based on the user devices that are connected to the access point. The device is further configured to measure a signal strength of a network connection with the access point and to determine a third occupancy level based on the signal strength of the network connection with the access point. The device is further configured to determine a predicted occupancy level based on the first occupancy level, the second occupancy level, and the third occupancy level and to control a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system based on the predicted occupancy level.

IPC Classes  ?

  • F24F 11/63 - Electronic processing
  • H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
  • G10L 15/20 - Speech recognition techniques specially adapted for robustness in adverse environments, e.g. in noise or of stress induced speech
  • H04B 17/318 - Received signal strength
  • G05B 13/04 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric involving the use of models or simulators
  • G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
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