Thermostat with handicap access mode
First Claim
1. A thermostat, comprising:
- a controller operable in a selectable one of;
a direct input mode in which the controller receives user commands through a mechanical actuation of an adjustment mechanism to adjust a thermostat setting; and
a handicap access mode in which the controller receives voice commands through a microphone to adjust a thermostat setting;
a switch in communication with the controller; and
an elevation compensation actuator attached to the switch, wherein the elevation compensation actuator, in part, triggers the selection of the handicap access mode when a person moves the elevation compensation actuator.
0 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An innovative thermostat having a handicap access mode is described. When the handicap access mode is triggered, the thermostat accepts voice commands to control thermostat settings. This innovative thermostat is a particularly convenient feature for the visually impaired, and individuals with limited mobility. In one exemplary embodiment, the thermostat includes a controller operable in a direct input mode and/or a handicap access mode. When in the direct input mode, the controller receives user commands through mechanical actuation of an adjustment mechanism to adjust a thermostat setting. When in the handicap access mode the controller receives voice commands through a microphone to adjust a thermostat setting.
153 Citations
14 Claims
-
1. A thermostat, comprising:
-
a controller operable in a selectable one of;
a direct input mode in which the controller receives user commands through a mechanical actuation of an adjustment mechanism to adjust a thermostat setting; and
a handicap access mode in which the controller receives voice commands through a microphone to adjust a thermostat setting;a switch in communication with the controller; and an elevation compensation actuator attached to the switch, wherein the elevation compensation actuator, in part, triggers the selection of the handicap access mode when a person moves the elevation compensation actuator. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
-
-
6. A thermostat comprising:
- a microphone adapted to receive audible sounds, a controller, a switch in communication with the controller, and an elevation compensation actuator attached to the switch, wherein movement of the elevation compensation actuator causes the switch to send a signal to the controller.
- View Dependent Claims (7, 8, 9)
-
10. A thermostat, comprising:
- a controller operable in a selectable one of;
a direct input mode in which the controller receives user commands through a touch keypad to adjust a thermostat setting; and
a handicap access mode in which the controller receives user commands to adjust a thermostat setting by receiving voice commands;a switch in communication with the controller; and a pull cord attached to the switch, whereby pulling on the pull cord, in part, triggers the selection of the handicap access mode through activation of the switch. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14)
- a controller operable in a selectable one of;
Specification