Robert Jr., Null Osann (Los Altos, CA, US)

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09/949551

03/13/2003

09/10/2001

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(IPC1-7): G01M001/38; G05B015/00; G05D023/00; G05B013/00; G05B021/00

Robert Osann Jr., (328 COSTELLO CT, LOS ALTOS, CA, 94024, US)

What is claimed is:

1. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to the junction box; a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information, including said level of electrical current consumption, to and from a remote device.

2. The assembly of claim 1, where said digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device does so by way of the power line connection available at the junction box.

3. The assembly of claim 2, further including at least one electrical power switch.

4. The assembly of claim 2, further including at least one power plug receptacle.

5. The assembly of claim 2, further including: a sensor for measuring the ambient temperature at the assembly; and a circuit for providing said ambient temperature information in digital form and making said digital ambient temperature information available to said digital communications circuit and/or an integral display.

6. The assembly of claim 5, further including: placing said temperature sensor in a position within said assembly, and adding insulating material as required, so as to minimize any thermal influence on said temperature sensor by any heat producing device also contained within the assembly.

7. The assembly of claim 2, further including an integral digitally controlled display.

8. The assembly of claim 7, further including the capability to display: the ambient temperature at the assembly; or the power level consumed by any electrical loads connected to the junction box in terms of units of power consumption (e.g. Watts); or the power level consumed by any electrical loads connected to the junction box in terms of Cost-per-Time (e.g. $/Month).

9. The assembly of claim 2, further including: a motion detector, and a circuit interfacing with said motion detector for providing motion detection information to said digital communications circuit.

10. The assembly of claim 1, further including: a video camera powered by the electrical power available at the electrical junction box.

11. The assembly of claim 10, further including: a circuit for broadcasting said video camera output signal in analog video form.

12. The assembly of claim 10, further including: a circuit for digitizing said video camera output signal, and; a circuit for compressing said digitized video signal, and; a power line communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at the junction box, said digitized and compressed video signal being made available to said power line communications circuit.

13. The assembly of claim 2, further including: a standard network access connection jack; and a network interface circuit connected to said standard network connection jack, said network interface circuit supporting digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard, and interfacing with said digital communications circuit.

14. The assembly of claim 2, further including: an audio intercom circuit with digital capability for transmitting and receiving audio information by way of said digital communications circuit.

15. The assembly of claim 14, further including: speech recognition capability implemented as software running on a processor within the assembly or alternately running on a processor, PC, or Gateway connected as a remote device.

16. The assembly of claim 2, further including: a circuit for controlling the power applied to an electrical load connected to said electrical junction box.

17. The assembly of claim 16, further including: the capability for controlling the power applied to an electrical load such that the power may be applied fully on or off, or alternately applied at some arbitrary intermediate level.

18. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a digitally controlled panel display capable of displaying full motion video; and a circuit for driving said panel display with information received from a remote source.

19. The assembly of claim 18, further including: an audio intercom circuit with digital capability for transmitting and receiving audio information by way of a digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device.

20. The assembly of claim 19, further including: speech recognition functionality implemented as: software running on a processor within the assembly; or software running on a processor, PC, or Gateway connected as a remote device where said speech recognition functionality communicates with said assembly by way of said digital communications link.

21. The assembly of claim 18, further including: An electrical power switch.

22. The assembly of claim 21, further including: a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to said electrical power switch; and a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a digital communications circuit capable of sending said digital information regarding said level of electrical current to a remote device.

23. The assembly of claim 18, further including: a circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at the junction box.

24. A circuit breaker box, including: a plurality of current sensing elements for sensing the levels of electrical current passing through a plurality of circuit breakers; and a circuit for providing said levels of electrical current in digital form; and a digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information, including said levels of electrical current consumption, to and from a remote device.

25. The circuit breaker box of claim 24, where said circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device does so by way of the power line connections available at the circuit breaker box.

26. The circuit breaker box of claim 24, further including: a display and a keypad for entering and displaying information sent and received by way of said digital communications circuit.

27. The circuit breaker box of claim 24, further including: a circuit capable of measuring the voltage level at the power line input to the breaker box, and a circuit for providing said voltage level in digital form to said digital communications circuit.

28. The circuit breaker box of claim 24, where said breaker box is a standard breaker box and said current sensing elements, said circuit for providing, and said digital communications circuit, are designed to be retrofitted on said standard breaker box sometime after the initial installation of said standard breaker box.

29. The circuit breaker box of claim 24, where said breaker box is an enhanced design breaker box and said current sensing elements, said circuit for providing, and said digital communications circuit are designed to be integral with said standard breaker box prior to the time of the initial installation of said breaker box.

30. A circuit breaker suitable for installation in a standard circuit breaker box, including: a current sensing element for sensing the level of electrical current passing through said circuit breaker; and a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information, including said levels of electrical current consumption, to and from a remote device by way of the power line connections available at said circuit breaker box.

31. A temperature sensor assembly, including: a temperature sensor; and a circuit for digitizing the temperature information produced by said temperature sensor; and a communications circuit for transferring said temperature information through a network communications link to a remote device.

32. The assembly of claim 31, where said network communications link supports digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard such as Ethernet.

33. The assembly of claim 31, where said assembly is designed to be attached to an electrical junction box or be plugged into a power plug receptacle attached to an electrical junction box; and where said network communications link transfers information by way of the power line connections available at said electrical junction box.

34. The assembly of claim 31, where said remote device is a thermostat capable of receiving temperature information from a plurality of similar temperature sensor assemblies.

35. A thermostat assembly, controlling a heating or cooling system, said thermostat assembly being capable of receiving temperature information from a plurality of remote temperature sensors by way of a network communications link.

36. The thermostat assembly of FIG. 35 where the mode of operation reverts to that of a conventional thermostat, observing only the temperature at the location of said thermostat assembly, if communication with a predetermined number of said remote temperature sensors is lost.

37. A method of operation for the thermostat assembly of claim 35, comprising: collecting the temperatures from each of said plurality of remote temperature sensors; controlling said heating or cooling system so as to produce a predetermined temperature average when said collected temperatures are numerically averaged.

38. A method of operation for the thermostat assembly of claim 35, comprising: collecting the temperatures from each of the plurality of remote temperature sensors; controlling said heating or cooling system so as to seek to produce a predetermined temperature profile across the locations of said remote temperature sensors.

39. The method of claim 38, further comprising: altering said temperature profile according to the time of day.

40. The thermostat assembly of FIG. 35 where said network communications link transfers information by way of power lines.

41. A motion detector assembly, including: a motion detector capable of producing motion detection information indicating that motion has been detected; and a communications circuit for transferring said motion detection information through a network communications link to a remote device.

42. The assembly of claim 41, where said network communications link supports digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard such as Ethernet.

43. The assembly of claim 41, where said assembly is designed to be attached to an electrical junction box or to be plugged into a power plug receptacle located at an electrical junction box; and where said network communications link transfers information by way of the power line connections available at said electrical junction box.

44. A method for profiling electrical energy use in a home or building, comprising: gathering electrical power consumption information from remote current sensors located at circuit breaker boxes and/or electrical junction boxes distributed throughout said home or building; creating a multi-dimensional display of a floor plan for said home or building indicating the location of said current sensors; annotating at each of said sensor location indications, the power consumption measured by the corresponding sensor.

45. The method of claim, 44, further comprising: obtaining power cost information from the Internet; converting the power consumption measured by said current sensors to a cost per unit time format; annotating at each of said sensor location indications, the power consumption measured by the corresponding sensor in terms of cost per unit time.

46. The method of claim 44, further comprising: annotating each of said sensor location indications in a color shade and/or intensity according to the power consumption measured by the corresponding sensor.

47. The method of claim 44 where said gathering of electrical power consumption information from remote current sensors is performed by the transmission of digital information by way of electrical power lines.

48. A method for profiling the temperature in a home or building, comprising: gathering temperature information from remote temperature sensors distributed throughout the home or building; creating a multi-dimensional display of a floor plan for said home or building indicating the location of said temperature sensors; annotating at each of said sensor location indications, the temperature measured by the corresponding sensor.

49. The method of claim 48, further comprising: annotating each of said sensor location indications in a color shade and/or intensity according to the level of temperature measured by the corresponding sensor.

50. The method of claim 48, further comprising: annotating said multi-dimensional display with extrapolated temperature gradient information similar to that shown for temperature profiling on weather maps.

51. The method of claim 48, where said remote temperature sensors are part of an assembly designed to be attached to an electrical junction box or to be plugged into a power plug receptacle located at an electrical junction box; and where said network communications link transfers information by way of the power line connections available at said electrical junction box.

52. The method of claim 48, where said gathering of temperature information from remote temperature sensors is performed by the transmission of digital information by way of a communications link that supports digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard such as Ethernet.

53. A method for measuring the relative positions of locations within a home or building structure, comprising: sending wireless signals from a plurality of beacons to a position locating device designed to receive said signals, said beacons and position locating device having synchronized clocks, and the transmission frequency and strength of said signals selected to allow said signals to penetrate said structure's walls; recording the time when each signal is received at said position locating device relative to a synchronized time at all of said beacons; computing the distance from each beacon to said position locating device; determining, by triangulation, the position of said position locating device.

54. The method of claim 53 further comprising: Entering into said position locating device information for identifying a particular EMAC point that is temporarily connected to, or in close proximity to, said position locating device; using said information for identifying to aid in the construction of a multidimensional plan of the home or building structure showing said EMAC point locations.

55. A method for measuring the relative positions of locations within a home or building structure, comprising: sending initial wireless signals, where the transmission frequency and strength of said signals have been selected to allow said signals to penetrate said structure's walls, from multiple beacons to a position locating device designed to receive said initial signals; said position locating device automatically returning said signals to said beacons after a specific time delay period; each of said beacons measuring the distance to said position locating device by measuring the time or phase difference of the returning signal relative to the corresponding initial signal that was previously sent; communicating said distance to a central location, which may be the position locating device. determining, by triangulation, the position of said position locating device.

56. The method of claim 55 further comprising: Entering into said position locating device information for identifying a particular EMAC point that is temporarily connected to, or in close proximity to, said position locating device; using said information for identifying to aid in the construction of a multi-dimensional plan of the home or building structure showing said EMAC point locations.

57. A portable EMAC point designed to plug into a standard power plug receptacle at an electrical junction box, including: a plurality of power plug receptacles; and current sensors capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to any of said power plug receptacles; a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information, including said level of electrical current consumption, to and from a remote device; and a digitally controlled display.

58. The assembly of claim 57, where said digital communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device does so by way of the power line connection available at the junction box.

59. The assembly of claim 58, further including: a sensor for measuring the ambient temperature at the assembly; and a circuit for providing said ambient temperature in digital form and making said digital ambient temperature available to said digital communications circuit and/or an integral display.

60. The assembly of claim 58, further including: a video camera powered by the AC power available at said junction box; and a circuit for digitizing the video camera output signal; and a circuit for compressing the digitized video signal; and making this digitized video signal available to said digital communications circuit.

61. The assembly of claim 58, further including: a motion detector; and a circuit interfacing with said motion detector for providing motion detection indication to said digital communications circuit.

62. The assembly of claim 58, further including: a standard network access connection jack; and a network interface circuit connected to said standard network connection jack, said network interface circuit supporting digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard, and interfacing with said digital communications circuit.

63. The assembly of claim 58, further including: an ambient light detector; and a circuit for providing ambient light level information from said ambient light detector in digital form and making said digital light level information available to said digital communications circuit.

64. The assembly of claim 58, further including: a circuit for controlling the power applied to an electrical load connected to said portable EMAC point.

65. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a power line communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at said junction box; and a wireless communications circuit capable of communicating with other, compatible wireless communications circuits, said wireless communications circuit also capable of sending digital information to a remote device by way of said power line communications circuit.

66. A system including the assembly of claim 65, further including: a plurality of closure detection devices suitable for detecting the open or closed position of windows or doors, each of said closure detection devices including: a circuit for providing closure detection information; and a wireless communication circuit for sending said closure detection information to the assembly of claim 65.

67. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a power line communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at said junction box a video camera powered by the AC power available at said junction box; and a circuit for digitizing said video camera output signal; and a circuit for compressing said digitized video signal; said assembly constructed so as to make said digitized and compressed video signal available to said power line communications circuit.

68. The assembly of claim 67, further including: a motion detector; and a circuit interfacing with said motion detector for providing motion detection indication to said power line communications circuit; and a circuit for controlling the power applied to an electrical load connected to said assembly, said circuit for controlling receiving commands by way of said power line communications circuit.

69. The assembly of claim 68, further including: a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to said junction box; a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a sensor for measuring the ambient temperature at the assembly; and a circuit for providing ambient temperature information in digital form; where said digital ambient temperature information and said digital level of electrical current are made available to said power line communications circuit and/or an integral display.

70. The assembly of FIG. 67, further including: a re-creation of an electrical junction box interface such that any electrical assembly that might normally attach to an electrical junction box can be attached to the assembly of FIG. 67.

71. The assembly of FIG. 67, further including: an integral light assembly.

72. The assembly of FIG. 68, further including: an electrical power switch.

73. The assembly of FIG. 72, further including: a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to said junction box; a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form; and a sensor for measuring the ambient temperature at the assembly; and a circuit for providing said ambient temperature in digital form; and making said digital ambient temperature and said digital level of electrical current to said power line communications circuit and/or an integral display.

74. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a power plug receptacle; and a power line communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at said junction box; and a motion detector; and a circuit interfacing with said motion detector for providing digital motion detection information; and a sensor for measuring the ambient temperature at the assembly; and a circuit interfacing with said ambient temperature sensor for providing ambient temperature information in digital form; said assembly constructed so as to provide said digital ambient temperature information and said motion detection information to said power line communications circuit.

75. The assembly of FIG. 74, further including: a circuit for controlling the power applied to an electrical load connected to the assembly of FIG. 74, said circuit for controlling receiving commands for controlling by way of said power line communications circuit; and a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to said junction box; a circuit for providing said level of electrical current information in digital form; said assembly constructed so as to provide said level of electrical current information to said power line communications circuit and/or an integral display.

76. The assembly of FIG. 75, further including: a physical mechanism for overriding or bypassing said circuit for controlling such that the maximum allowable electrical current level for said plug receptacle is not artificially lowered by the inclusion of said circuit for controlling.

77. The assembly of FIG. 75, wherein said integral display is a digitally controlled display having the capability to display: the ambient temperature at the assembly; or the power level consumed by any electrical loads connected to the junction box in terms of units of power consumption (e.g. Watts); or the power level consumed by any electrical loads connected to the junction box in terms of Cost-per-Time (e.g. $/Month).

78. A method of collecting and managing video information from a plurality of video cameras located throughout a home or building, where each video camera has associated with it a plurality of motion detectors, and digitized video and motion detection information are provided to a digital communications network, comprising: polling each motion detector to determine if motion activity is occurring in the area observed by corresponding video cameras; storing at a central location, short samples or still versions of video information when no motion is detected; storing at a central location, continuous running video information when motion is detected.

79. The method of claim 78, further including: automatically transmitting said video information to an offsite location where it is stored;

80. The method of claim 79, where said video information is encrypted before being transmitted offsite to protect the privacy of the occupant.

81. A method for utilizing the circuit breaker box of FIG. 24 to allow identification of the power consumed by individual devices connected to a particular circuit breaker where multiple devices are connected to said particular circuit breaker, comprising: turning off all power consuming devices connected to said particular circuit breaker; turning on, one at a time, each power consuming device connected to said particular circuit breaker; measuring, one at a time, the level of electrical current consumed by each of said power consuming devices, utilizing one of said current sensing elements; providing said levels of electrical current in digital form; communicating by way of said digital communications circuit, said level of electrical current consumption, to a remote device; storing, at said remote device, the level of current consumed by each of said power consuming devices;

82. The method of claim 81, further comprising: analyzing the waveforms representing said levels of electrical current consumed by each of said power consuming devices at moment of application of power to said power consuming devices; storing, at said remote device, the results of said analysis as a form of power signature; comparing, each time additional power consumption is observed by said current sensing elements, the observed power signature with said stored power signatures; determining which power consuming device has just been activated;

83. A method for automatically controlling a light, comprising; gathering motion detection information from a plurality of motion detectors placed within and/or near the area of a home or building to be illuminated by said light; turning said light on or off in response to said motion detection information.

84. The method of claim 83, further comprising; gathering said motion detection information by way of a communications network.

85. The method of claim 84, where said communications network transfers information by way of power lines.

86. A method for controlling a heating or cooling system in order to achieve certain desired temperatures at specific locations within a home or building, comprising; gathering temperature information from a plurality of temperature sensors placed in a plurality of locations throughout said home or building; communicating said temperature information through a data communications network to a central controller; controlling a central heating or cooling source and a plurality of electrically controlled vents, ducts, or registers having controllable, variable air flow capability, such that said desired temperatures are achieved at said specific locations.

87. The method of claim 86, where a plurality of temperature sensors are placed within at least one room.

88. The method of claim 86, where said data communications network transfers information by way of power lines.

89. The method of claim 86, where a plurality of temperature sensors are placed within at least one room and where said data communications network transfers information by way of power lines.

90. A modular communications hub assembly for power line digital communications, including: a power plug connection that carries both communications signals and power to supply the energy required to operate said hub; and a plurality of plug receptacles or connection slots, each capable of attaching to digital power line communication circuit modules, said circuit modules including a circuit for transferring digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connections within the home or building and said power plug connection; and a host interface circuit connecting to and communicating with each of said plurality of plug receptacles or connection slots, said host interface circuit capable of transferring digital information to and from a local PC, Residential Gateway, or device located on the Internet.

91. The modular communications hub assembly of claim 90 where said power line communication circuit modules may each communicate according to different communications standards.

92. The modular communications hub assembly of claim 90 where said power line communication circuit modules may each communicate at different data rates.

93. A video security system for a home or building including: a centrally located Personal Computer or Residential Gateway capable of communicating via the Internet; and a plurality of video camera assemblies located throughout a home or building, each video camera assembly including: a video camera; and a circuit for digitizing said video camera output signal; and a circuit for compressing said digitized video signal; and a digital communications circuit for sending said compressed video signal to said Personal Computer or Residential Gateway; a home security system capable of generating an intruder detection indication signal upon detecting a potential intruder, said Personal Computer or Residential Gateway allowing said compressed video signals from said plurality of video cameras to be sent through the Internet to a security monitoring company or the Police only upon the occurrence of said intruder detection indication signal.

94. The system of claim 93 where said video camera assemblies are mounted at electrical junction boxes and are powered by said junction boxes.

95. The system of claim 94 where said digital communications circuit for sending said compressed video signal from said camera assembly to said Personal Computer or Residential Gateway sends said signal by way of the power line connection available at said junction box.

96. A method for profiling the temperature in a home or building, comprising: gathering temperature information from remote temperature sensors distributed throughout the home or building; creating a display indicating zones within said home or building; annotating for each of said zones, the temperature measured by the corresponding sensor.

97. The method of claim 96, where said remote temperature sensors are part of an assembly designed to be attached to an electrical junction box or to be plugged into a power plug receptacle located at an electrical junction box; and where said network communications link transfers information by way of the power line connections available at said electrical junction box.

98. The method of claim 96, where said gathering of temperature information from remote temperature sensors is performed by the transmission of digital information by way of a standard communications link that supports digital network communication in compliance with an industry standard such as Ethernet.

99. The method of claim 96, where said display is implemented on a local PC, Residential Gateway, or smart thermostat.

100. An assembly designed for attachment to an electrical junction box including: a digitally controlled panel display capable of displaying full motion video; and a powerline communications circuit capable of sending and receiving digital information to and from a remote device by way of the power line connection available at the junction box; and a circuit for driving said panel display with information received from a remote source by way of said powerline communications circuit; and buttons or keys that can be used to initiate commands sent by way of said powerline communications circuit, said commands capable of causing: specific areas of the home to be illuminated by remote control; and specific areas of the home to be viewed by video cameras where signals derived from said video cameras are transmitted by way of a powerline communications network and are received by said powerline communications circuit for display on said digitally controlled panel display; and an electrical power switch for controlling an electrical power circuit not directly related to the functions heretofore described for said assembly.

101. The assembly of claim 100, further including: a current sensor capable of determining the level of electrical current consumed by an electrical load connected to said electrical power switch; and a circuit for providing said level of electrical current in digital form to said powerline communications circuit.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED DOCUMENTS

[0001] This application is based on disclosure document serial No. 493,964 filed on May 21, 2001 under the USPTO disclosure document program, entitled “Home/Building Monitor and Control System with Emphasis on Energy Feedback and Profiling”, incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention generally relates to the field of electronic systems for homes and buildings, including systems for home networking, home energy and appliance controls, and home security/surveillance systems, with special emphasis on energy monitoring, feedback and profiling, and in particular, the use of electrical junction boxes for purposes they do not normally perform. Although many of the features of this invention will be described in relation to a residential home environment, it is understood that they are generally applicable to many office and industrial building applications as well.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Many products have been introduced over the last 25 years for controlling electrical and electronic devices and appliances within homes and buildings. It is well known to use a variety of communications mediums to enable this control (power lines, phone lines, and purpose built network connectivity such as cabled Ethernet or wireless networks).

[0004] More recently, it is known to extend this control to connection via the Internet allowing a further degree of remote control and communication. In addition, surveillance capabilities have been added by using video cameras that can transmit images to monitors in other parts of the home/building as well as supplying these images to remote locations via the Internet. Also, there is discussion that future home and building appliances (washing machines, refrigerators, etc.) will connect to the Internet such that they can communicate over the Internet directly. Among other possible remote interactions, they can communicate their condition and signal the need for service before breakdowns occur, as well as enable diagnostics to be performed remotely via the Internet.

[0005] The move toward home and building automation has not necessarily been prioritized according to how the general public accepts new things—especially in light of the fact that old habits are hard to break regarding how one deals with power consuming devices in homes and buildings. While most people may not be ready to have their lights and appliances controlled automatically, there are other motivations that may move them toward installing a home/building monitoring and control system:

[0006] Saving money given increasing energy costs

[0007] Security/Surveillance/Remote Care

[0008] The pervasive nature of home networking and Internet connectivity

[0009] Expansion of home entertainment capabilities

[0010] Interaction of Monitoring/Feedback with Automated and Manual Control

[0011] The psychological element is extremely critical in the adoption rate of any system involving monitoring and/or control. Letting a computer control one's home/building appliances that in the past were controlled manually, is a sensitive issue. A monitoring and feedback system is much less disturbing or threatening, but for users who wish to add some amount of automatic control, there must be a carefully planned interaction between the two. It is not uncommon for some lights in homes, and especially in office buildings, to be controlled by circuits containing motion detectors. Invariably, there are occurrences where the motion detector causes the lights to be shut off at the wrong time. This can easily get annoying since, as is commonly known, it takes a multitude of positive interactions to overcome the emotional effect of a single negative interaction. Alternately, let's say that there exists a local PC (Personal Computer) running software for home automation and control, and a centrally controlled light switch that is programmed to shut off at 1:00 AM regardless of switch position to ensure that it is not left on all night accidentally.

[0012] Now, let's say the user has stayed up late and is in the room with this switch. At the programmed time, the automatic control system will shut off the power at the switch. (It may signal the user some time prior to shutting off by flashing the lights). To prevent the switch in question from causing the user great aggravation, it must have the ability to override the auto shutoff event. If the switch has a transmit capability such as that described below for EMAC (Energy Monitoring And Control) points, the user could, for instance, toggle the switch or push a mode button after the flashing warning (or if the light has turned off already), and that action would be transmitted back to the central controlling PC to allow a revised scenario to occur. Even if the override can be performed locally without interaction with the central PC, it is useful to transmit back to the central PC that the event has happened to aid in avoiding similar user aggravation in the future. For instance, the central control system could “learn” and, in this case, delay the auto shutoff of that particular light switch until 1:00 AM or later, or switch to a motion detector-controlled mode after 1:00.

[0013] The most common mechanism today for controlling lights is based on motion detectors incorporated into the controlling switch assembly or alternately incorporated into the light socket assembly. These work fairly well in some circumstances—especially in spaces where people seldom go such as attics and closets. However, in primary living areas, they can often cause a negative interaction with the user. For instance, the inventor installed a light switch with motion detector at the entry to his living room. Unfortunately, the detector's range does not cover the entire room, thus occasionally leaving the inventor “in the dark”. Were there a multitude of motion detectors scattered around this same room—communicating through a data communications link such that the light control circuit was guided in a more informed manner (as described later in this invention)—the inventor would be more positively illuminated.

[0014] Interaction of Monitoring/Feedback with Audio/Video Functionality

[0015] Although this invention deals primarily with energy use, monitoring, feedback, and control, the overall system in a given home or building may also deal with the distribution and control of multi-media information including audio and video. Over time, the communications link between the EMAC points of this invention and the central controlling device (usually a PC or Residential Gateway), will have more and more bandwidth capability, such that this link also becomes the primary means for distributing digital multimedia information throughout the home or building. Thus, there will be a coexistence, if not a functional link, between the elements of this invention focused on energy monitoring, feedback, and control, and elements focused on audio/video integration and control. This transmission of audio/video information can be for communications, security, or entertainment purposes.

[0016] No Feedback on Energy Consumption

[0017] At the time of this writing, energy costs have risen substantially and are likely to continue to do so. One of the first, and most important problems consumers are faced with is knowing exactly where, and how much power is being consumed in specific areas/appliances in their homes and buildings. Today's home and building automation systems are much more focused on controlling than on providing energy usage feedback. Meanwhile, the typical occupant may have little or no idea of where the energy is actually being consumed.

[0018] Simplistic Control of Heating and Cooling Systems based on Limited Information

[0019] Today's typical control system for heating and cooling, the traditional thermostat, does not take advantage of networked connectivity and the information gathering that it affords, thereby missing the opportunity to provide a much more comfortable and energy efficient thermal environment. Even today's “programmable” thermostat observes only the temperature at it's own location. It is therefore very common for rooms or offices not containing the thermostat to be overheated or overcooled. Such rooms or offices waste energy if they are not occupied, or make the occupants uncomfortable if they are occupied.

[0020] Security Systems

[0021] The International Association of Chiefs of Police estimates that between 95% and 98% of all home-alarm calls are false, costing police departments nationwide about $600 million a year. If a Security Company, or the Police, could remotely view the interior of the home or building where the alarm has just been activated, most of this money could be saved. Security companies offer video surveillance, but the systems are complex and expensive and not easily adapted to existing homes without extensive additional wiring and adding provisions for mounting and powering the video cameras.

SUMMARY

[0022] Overall, the home system described in this invention relates to the energy distribution systems in a home or building. Much of the uniqueness in this invention deals with the combining of diverse functionalities that heretofore have not been combined in similar ways. Although the digital communications networks or links described in this invention are typically based on communication by sending signals through existing electrical power wiring (hence the term “powerline communications”), not all embodiments are restricted to this form of communications. However, when powerline communication is utilized herein, the result is a system that uses electrical wiring for energy distribution, monitoring, and control as well as security, audio/video communications and entertainment, and general network communications such as file transfers and Internet connectivity.

[0023] Energy consumption in most homes/buildings today is made up of both electrical power and some form of oil/gas based power. Some homes and buildings use electrical power only. This invention deals with both, although many of the features described can be optionally used in different combinations as desired by the customer.

[0024] A primary aspect of this invention is to provide a form of “biofeedback” for home and building energy consumption. By providing easy to understand information to consumers, they can adjust their usage of energy and still have normal control of their power-consuming devices—over time transitioning to automated control as they desire. Also, some specific capabilities of this invention enhance the effectiveness of automated energy controls.

[0025] Electrical energy is typically consumed by devices attached to electrical junction boxes. These junction boxes are typically proliferated throughout a home or building. As a result, they become not only convenient locations to measure and display electrical power consumption—they also provide a convenient means to proliferate temperature sensors, motion detectors, and video cameras. The same communications mechanism used for transmitting power-related data is typically used for these additional functionalities which aid in the enhancement of energy control (both thermal and electrical) while enhancing security at the same time.

[0026] This invention has the following primary goals regarding energy feedback:

[0027] 1) Provide “instant feedback” at the point of usage.

[0028] 2) Provide electrical energy usage profiling with multi-dimensional graphics on a centrally located PC, or Residential Gateway. Include both spatial usage and usage over time. Transfer related information via the Internet as necessary and desired.

[0029] 3) Provide thermal profiling on a centrally located PC, Residential Gateway, or Smart Thermostat. Use multi-dimensional graphics as useful or appropriate. Include both spatial profiling and profiling over time.

[0030] 4) Provide more intelligent and efficient thermal energy usage by combining a multi dimensional thermal profile with an enhanced and more intelligent (thermostat) control system for heating and cooling.

[0031] Another object of this invention is to allow easy retrofit of all components into existing homes/buildings with minimal or no modification to the home/building or special skills required on the part of the installer. This goal is greatly facilitated by attachment to and communications through existing electrical junction boxes.

[0032] Another object of this invention is to provide integration of the energy feedback and profiling mechanisms with various known and/or new types of control mechanisms.

[0033] A home/building system according to this invention provides a unique solution for energy profiling and feedback, while including network connectivity, energy control, surveillance, communications, and entertainment functionality as deemed necessary, useful, or desired. This invention essentially creates a “bio-feedback” mechanism for energy use, covering both electrical and thermal energy, through a system architecture that enables a more thorough and broad-based gathering of energy related information. This information is used by the occupant to allow manual control of power consumption in a more informed and effective manner, and also to allow either partial or fully automatic control of energy consumption to be more effectively performed as well.

[0034] For the most part, this invention takes advantage of the pervasiveness of electrical junction boxes, typically implementing power plug outlets and the wall switches, within any home or building. These become convenient locations for installing what are called EMAC (Energy Monitoring And Control) points. As explained later, an EMAC point will typically contain one or more forms of energy sensor, often containing both electrical current sensors and a temperature sensor. Since EMAC points typically reside at locations having convenient access to electrical power, they are normally powered directly by this available source, and also typically contain a digital communications circuit that communicates with the central computer, Residential Gateway, or other data gathering and/or controlling device via power line communications, although other forms of data communications—such as wireless—can be used under the right circumstances. This communication link then affords a basic backbone infrastructure for network connections in general. EMAC points may also communicate with other EMAC points as appropriate.

[0035] Thus, in an environment where network connectivity has not yet been made readily available (typically referring to the home environment), the installation of EMAC points creates a local network infrastructure that can be built upon before adding other capabilities in addition to normal computer connectivity. These include facilities for enabling home surveillance, security, and entertainment. Not all EMAC points contain a “control” capability. In some cases it is not appropriate due to the type of energy consuming device that is connected, either because it must be “on” all the time, or because it is already controlled by some other mechanism (for instance a thermostat and/or relay), or because the level of power consumption is high enough to cause a control capability to be too expensive or inappropriate.

[0036] Wall switches for controlling lights are also convenient and effective locations for mounting video security cameras. There is usually a wall switch at the entrance to a room and usually it has a relatively commanding view. The easy proliferation of video cameras throughout a home or building, by way of installation at existing junction boxes, has considerable security benefit. In particular, such a system could allow a Security Company or even the Police to view inside and around the home or building in the case of an alarm being set off, so that a “false alarm” condition can be determined without having to visit the location.

[0037] Wall switches are also convenient locations for incorporating intercom functionality. Wall mounted power plug receptacles typically have a high degree of proliferation within any room as a result of convention and also building codes. Power plug receptacles are therefore especially useful for gathering temperature information since their proliferation allows gathering a thorough profile of the temperature distribution within any room.

[0038] Power plug receptacles are also very convenient locations to offer network connection jacks where any computer or network compatible device or appliance may be attached. They are also convenient locations for adding motion detectors in order to provide a proliferation of detectors in order to enable thorough coverage of rooms not easily covered from a single vantage point.

[0039] EMAC points dealing specifically with electrical power consumption may also be added to the electrical breaker box by:

[0040] 1) Retrofitting EMAC capability into an existing breaker box.

[0041] 2) Adding smart (EMAC enabled) breakers to an existing box, or

[0042] 3) Having a replacement breaker box that has EMAC points added in series with conventional breakers.

[0043] To effectively provide the aforementioned “biofeedback capability” for energy consumption, this invention offers two forms of feedback—local/instant feedback at the point of use, and general profiling over both time and space provided to the user by software which typically runs on a central PC or Residential Gateway. To assist in creating an overall multi dimensional model for a home or building, capabilities are also described that enable either automatic or semiautomatic identification of EMAC points and their location within the home or building.

[0044] To allow a more effective, efficient, and intelligent control of thermal energy utilization, the concept of collecting temperature information in a highly distributed manner is also utilized to enhance the capabilities of the traditional thermostat transforming it into a “smart”, network enabled thermostat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The present invention is described with respect to particular exemplary embodiments thereof and reference is accordingly made to the drawings in which:

[0046] FIG. 1 shows an overall system view including power distribution, communications circuits and connectivity, central controlling elements (local PC or Residential Gateway, smart thermostat) and various forms of EMAC points;

[0047] FIG. 2 shows a typical wall switch assembly including an EMAC point;

[0048] FIG. 3 shows a wall switch assembly including an EMAC point with a variety of display formats for direct visual communication of energy consumption;

[0049] FIG. 4 shows a wall switch assembly including an EMAC point with an alternative display format for direct visual communication of energy consumption and local temperature, including a data read out and a suite of enunciators;

[0050] FIG. 5 shows a wall-mounted power-outlet assembly including an EMAC point;

[0051] FIG. 6 shows a wall-mounted power-outlet assembly with alternate functionality;

[0052] FIG. 7 shows an overall system view with emphasis on connectivity through the Internet between the local system and utility companies, security companies, and a data service company supplying information to specifically support the configuration of the particular local system;

[0053] FIG. 8 shows one form of connectivity for video surveillance where video information is transferred from EMAC points to a central location in the analog format, and are digitized and compressed at that central location before being supplied to the local PC;

[0054] FIG. 9 shows a network hub capability allowing EMAC points having different data rate transmission capabilities to all talk to the local PC;

[0055] FIG. 10 shows a smart breaker box where a form of EMAC point is used in conjunction with conventional breakers to determine the amount of electrical current being consumed by all devices that are wired to a particular breaker;

[0056] FIG. 11 shows how an EMAC point can be retrofitted in a standard, conventional breaker box, providing sensing of all incoming and outgoing electrical current;

[0057] FIG. 12 shows how smart breakers incorporating EMAC points can be retrofitted in a standard, conventional breaker box;

[0058] FIG. 13 shows how an EMAC point is used in conjunction with a conventional light bulb socket of the type typically found in attics and garages;

[0059] FIG. 14 shows how an assembly including an EMAC point is incorporated into a multi-outlet power strip;

[0060] FIG. 15 shows how an assembly including an EMAC point can be connected to flow meters monitoring natural gas or heating oil consumption to allow communication of this information to a local PC;

[0061] FIG. 16 shows a two dimensional layout drawing for a typical home that has been fully instrumented with EMAC points at wall switch and power plug locations as well as some dedicated locations for directly wired devices;

[0062] FIG. 17 shows a two dimensional layout drawing for a typical home including a detailed blow-up showing a possible visual representation for an electrical energy utilization profile;

[0063] FIG. 18 shows a two dimensional layout drawing for a typical home including a possible visual representation for a temperature profile;

[0064] FIG. 19 shows a two dimensional layout drawing for an office environment with distributed temperature sensors communicating through network connections with smart thermostats;

[0065] FIG. 20 shows an EMAC-enabled wall-outlet having a closure detection provision allowing the unit to determine when a nearby window is open;

[0066] FIG. 21 shows an EMAC-enabled wall-outlet having a closure detection provision allowing the unit to determine when a nearby window is open, including wireless communication between the EMAC point and the closure detection sensor;

[0067] FIG. 22 shows a portable or add-on EMAC wall outlet assembly that can easily be plugged into an existing conventional wall outlet and can also be easily moved to other locations within a home or building;

[0068] FIG. 23 shows a portable EMAC identification unit that is used in proximity to, or attached to, an EMAC point. When operating in conjunction with appropriate position locating apparatus, this device will assist the user in creating a two dimensional layout map of a home or building while automatically identifying the location of EMAC points;

[0069] FIG. 24 shows how a portable EMAC identification unit might be used with multiple wireless transmitting beacons to determine its position in a manner similar to that used in the GPS (Global Positioning System) system;

[0070] FIG. 25 shows how audio information can be transmitted to an EMAC point over the data connection and then be converted to audible sound by circuitry which is powered by the same power line that carried the data;

[0071] FIG. 26 shows how a full motion video panel display can be incorporated into an EMAC point allowing a multi-media intercom/teleconferencing capability as well as viewing of other areas of the home for surveillance purposes, in addition to displaying energy consumption and temperature data;

[0072] FIG. 27 shows how assemblies including EMAC points can be serialized by use of a scanned, programmable wiring matrix implemented on a PCB (Printed Circuit Board).

[0073] FIG. 28 shows an EMAC point that functions as an extension to an electrical junction box, providing a re-creation of the junction box interface, and including a video camera and motion detector.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0074] The diagram of FIG. 1 shows an architectural overview of how the present invention might be implemented in a typical home or building. The incoming AC power line passes through the Utility Company meter 1 on its way to one more breaker boxes 2 before being generally distributed throughout the home or building through conventional power wiring 3 . Throughout the home/building there are user-accessible, electrical junction box power access locations such as wall switch assembly 4 and power plug receptacle assembly 5 . In addition, there are power-consuming devices 6 that are directly connected by way of interface module 7 . Some, most, or all of these power connection locations can be implemented, within the scope of this invention, incorporating Energy Monitoring And Control (EMAC) points. Each EMAC point contains at a minimum an energy sensing capability (electrical, thermal, or both) and a digital communications circuit enabling communication with a central intelligence such as a local PC 9 (personal computer) or Residential Gateway residing in the same home/building. Note that throughout this document, “local PC” is considered to be synonymous with “central PC” and “Residential Gateway” in that they all represent a form of centrally located intelligence that may perform analysis, control, and communications functions. In today's vernacular, a Residential Gateway is considered to be always in the “ON” condition and provides a constantly available connection to the Internet 24/7 (24 hours a day and 7 days a week). Depending on the particular installation, a local PC can be “ON” for 24/7 and also perform this function. Alternately, there may be an additional device that specifically performs the Residential Gateway function shown as local PC 9 . Note that a “smart” thermostat can also be a form of “centrally located intelligence” that communicates with EMAC points.

[0075] Note that from the perspective of an EMAC point, a local PC, a Residential Gateway, a Smart Thermostat, or a device located somewhere on the Internet, as well as other EMAC points, are all considered “remote devices”. Also, much of the functionality attributed to local PC 9 can also be performed by an intelligent device located at a different physical location and connected via the Internet by way of local PC 9 or some form of Residential Gateway.

[0076] In addition to these basic capabilities, EMAC points can incorporate a number of other additional functionalities, all of which will be described herein. Also, although most figures describing the capabilities of EMAC points show current sensing as the means to measure electrical power consumption, it is understood that to compute the true power consumption, the voltage must also be known. If it is desired to measure power consumption in an accurate manner that correlates with the Utility Company power bill, then the voltage measurement used for computing power consumption should be made as close (from an electrical resistivity standpoint) to the Utility Company power meter as possible. Where any EMAC capability is included at the primary breaker box location, a voltage measurement on the input side would be a good location.

[0077] Although not strictly limited to power lines, communication between EMAC points will typically be carried out by signals sent over power lines since this medium is obviously convenient at any junction box power connection location. Where electrical devices are directly wired (not plugged-in or switched), interface modules 7 may be inserted to allow the EMAC function to be performed. Other possible locations to insert EMAC functions include light bulb sockets, circuit breaker boxes, and circuit breakers themselves, just to mention a few). Although power line communication is a focal point of this invention, depending upon the evolution of data communication technology for the home or building environment, it may become suitable to utilize other forms such as Wireless Communications in the future. It may also be that some forms of information, such as video in its analog form, may be better suited to a wireless transmission. Also, for systems implemented in office buildings, it may be convenient to communicate by way of pre-existing network connections such as Ethernet.

[0078] Another interface module 8 is used to connect between the power lines and a local PC 9 to enable the communication function to be performed. Other intelligent devices may also connect to this power line-based networking capability. In addition to the smart thermostat 10 shown in FIG. 1 , this networking infrastructure backbone for the home/building can also be used to implement capabilities in the area of home surveillance, home entertainment, or simply connecting computers so that they may exchange data or connect to the Internet 11 . Although throughout the description of this invention, reference will often be made to communication between EMAC points and a local PC 9 , it is understood that with the necessary functionality incorporated into an EMAC point, this communication could instead transfer information directly between an EMAC point and a website or other entity via the Internet. EMAC points can also be capable of transferring information among themselves, without having to communicate with any central form of intelligence such as local PC 9 , a Residential Gateway, or the Internet 11 .

[0079] EMAC Points

[0080] Energy monitoring, local feedback, data transmission/reception and control, along with other functions (such as video surveillance and/or motion detection, and general-purpose network connections), can be included at a variety of locations within the home/building. A few examples include conventional electrical junction boxes where wall switches, power plug receptacles, light bulb sockets, and other power consuming and/or power-controlling devices may be installed. Other possible locations for installing EMAC functionality include circuit breaker boxes, or circuit breakers themselves.

[0081] FIG. 2 shows how a replacement light switch assembly 12 attached to an electrical junction box might be implemented to include EMAC functionality. A current sensor 13 measures the power to the load. These sensors can use any of a number of known technologies including inductive or resistive (current shunt). An optional control unit (if present) can optionally turn the power on/off or dim (for lights) in response to a remote command, or can effect various forms of local control for dimming (for lights). Such control modes and others, as well as their implementations—(often relying on SCR (Silicon Controlled Rectifier) devices—are well known in the art. Also, various interactions that may take place between a remote device (local PC 9 , a smart thermostat, or some remote device communicating via the Internet 11 ) and a wall switch EMAC point will be discussed later. The implementation of any EMAC point that includes a switch should always include a means for sensing the switch position (open or closed), regardless of whether or not current is flowing through it. There may be circumstances where a control element in the EMAC point has blocked electrical current from passing through the switch, however it is necessary for the position of the switch to be communicated back to local PC 9 or to some other networked device.

[0082] Where a power control function is included in an EMAC point, it is important that the EMAC point operate consistently and predictably, even when the power to the home or building fluctuates or goes off and on, or when a problem arises with a remote device that may issue control commands to the particular EMAC point. A “power-on-reset” circuit should be included to insure the EMAC point never gets “confused” by power fluctuations. Also, when the EMAC point is operating in a mode where its function is being controlled by local PC 9 or some other remote device, the EMAC point may, from time to time, poll the remote device to ensure that the communications link (and the remote device) are still functioning properly. If the remote device did not respond, indicating a possible problem, the EMAC point should switch to its default mode—for instance, if there is a light switch, the power should be applied according to the position of the switch.

[0083] The multi-digit display 14 shown in FIG. 2 , as well as the displays shown in the many other figures included herein, may be used for many different purposes. A few examples are listed below:

[0084] 1) Identify to the user the particular switch or outlet assembly and the individual switches/outlets/devices within the assembly

[0085] 2) Display the current or power (KW/time) being used by the load at a switch, outlet, device, or breaker.

[0086] 3) Display the cost per time of operating the load attached to a switch, outlet, device, or breaker.

[0087] 4) Display any mode-related information in response to the optional mode button(s), in response to voice commands, and/or in response to the central PC.

[0088] 5) Display the temperature recorded by the temperature sensor.

[0089] 6) Provide feedback for calibration of the temperature sensor, the optional video camera, or the optional motion detector.

[0090] FIG. 2 also shows an optional video camera 15 as well as temperature sensor 16 , motion detector 17 and intercom capability 18 comprising microphone 18 a, and speaker 18 b. Some implementations may allow a single transducer to be used for both the microphone and speaker. Circuit 13 a shown in FIG. 2 includes a digital communications circuit containing all functionality necessary for data transmission and reception. Circuit 13 a also contains the power supply necessary to power any circuitry within the assembly from the available AC power located within the particular junction box, as well as any power control circuitry for an electrical load connected to the assembly. In addition, 13 a contains all display driver functionality as well as any circuit functionality necessary to interface with the optional video camera—including video digitization and compression functionality. Various functionalities for video digitization and compression are well known in the art.

[0091] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 both show possible implementations of this local display. In the case of electrical energy consumption, the purpose of these displays is to provide instant visual feedback to the user on energy consumption at the point of use. When displaying temperature, these displays are a guide to thermal energy efficiency by showing the user instantly where certain areas of the home/building have been made overly hot or overly cool beyond what is desired or necessary thereby consuming excess and therefore wasted energy.

[0092] These local displays may have any number of digits, depending on the specific requirement. The multi-digit display need not only be of the seven-segment variety as shown in enlarged view 14 a . One or more of the digits could be alphanumeric (either with additional segments, or a full matrix as indicated by 14 b and 14 c [e.g. 5×7, 7×12, etc.]). Utilizing more than a simple seven-segment capability may provide a more informative and intuitive user interface. This may be especially useful in displaying symbols like “$” or “¢” in the scenario described below.

[0093] A key element of this invention is related to display purpose number (3) listed above (“Display the cost per time of operating the load attached to the switch, outlet, device, or breaker.”). The local PC 9 (or Internet 11 directly) can supply the current cost per unit of energy (kW, Therm, etc.) for the consumer's home/building which, in turn, is used to convert the energy consumption level to a cost-per-time parameter, for instance $/month. Energy cost parameters can be automatically accessed from time to time over the Internet. (Energy cost parameters could also be accessed directly over the Internet by an EMAC function, if this EMAC function was designed to incorporate enough intelligence to directly access the Internet.) The energy consumption value at the point of use is then displayed on the switch panel thereby providing instant feedback to the consumer. The conversion calculation from “current consumption” to “cost per time” can be performed in the local controller at the switch or at local PC 9 . FIG. 3 shows how another alternate form of the local display can be implemented.

[0094] In addition to the forms of display shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , it is also possible to utilize a generalized LCD matrix display (discussed later with reference to FIG. 26 ) similar to those now found in small wireless communication devices and/or hand-held video games. Incorporation of an LCD matrix display would allow a full motion video image to be shown, further enhancing the overall system capability by allowing the user to view images being recorded at cameras elsewhere in the home from any room having an EMAC point with such an LCD matrix display. Since it is possible according to this invention to also add surveillance cameras which observe activity around the exteriors of the home, this capability to add video-capable LCD displays to EMAC points is also useful to enhance the security/ surveillance capabilities of the overall system.

[0095] Both FIGS. 2 and 3 show optional control buttons 118 that can be used to determine the form of the information displayed, and/or affect the operation of an EMAC function. An alternative to using any control buttons on an EMAC point and a way of adding additional functionality is to incorporate a voice recognition technology into the system. This recognition function can be performed by hardware and software contained within the EMAC point. Alternately, it can be performed without adding additional hardware cost to the EMAC point itself by utilizing the microphone, such as that required to implement intercom 18 in FIG. 2 . This microphone will receive voice information that in turn can be digitized and sent to local PC 9 for analysis. Voice recognition software is well known and can be trained to respond well to the voices of the home's primary occupants. This incorporation of voice recognition software can be used for a variety of purposes in conjunction with EMAC points including remote control of functionality at the particular EMAC point receiving the voice command or alternately controlling other EMAC points within the home. Control of any Home Systems functionality by a user interfacing with a particular EMAC point can alternately be accomplished by some form of remote control receiver—either IR (Infrared) or wireless—that is incorporated into an EMAC point.

[0096] The display incorporated into an EMAC point can also be used for displaying the temperature or other parameters. Where more parameters are to be displayed than there are digits or space available, the display can alternately display different parameters in multiplexed intervals. This is also the methodology shown in FIG. 4 for displaying the power consumption for each of multiple receptacles. Enunciator LEDs could be used or, if necessary, an additional digit can be added to indicate the position of a particular receptacle whose parameter is being displayed at the moment. To indicate what type of information is being displayed and/or what units of measurement are being displayed, other forms of display means can be used. For instance, enlarged view 14 d of display 14 in FIG. 4 shows that multiple enunciator icons 19 representing parameters or identifying power consuming loads (switches, outlets, etc.) can exist on the display. The appropriate one(s) of these enunciator icons are then illuminated/highlighted depending on what energy or temperature information is being displayed at the moment. The display technology can be LED, LCD, gas discharge, or any other available and appropriate technology. Depending upon the display technology chosen, an additional display driver chip may need to be incorporated into the EMAC function.

[0097] Also shown in FIG. 4 , are a number of optional functions including temperature sensor 16 , video camera 15 , and motion detector 17 . If motion detection is desired, it can be done through a standard sensor (usually IR), or could alternately be performed by image analysis performed on the video image either locally or remotely. Each method has advantages and disadvantages.

[0098] The easy proliferation of video cameras throughout a home or building, by way of installation at existing junction boxes, has considerable security benefit. Since video camera 15 is connected to local PC 9 through a communications link, it can be viewed remotely via the Internet after the video information has been digitized and compressed. The video camera can be statically mounted and include a wide-angle lens and manually operated gimbal capability. Optionally, the video camera could include a motorized gimbal to allow remotely controlled movement (even via the Internet). In many instances, it may be desirable to include On/Off switch 15 a to control video camera 15 such that the camera may be turned off when privacy is desired. Information regarding the position of this switch may also be made available through the communications link to local PC 9 and/or a remote device on the Internet.

[0099] Regardless of how the video camera is controlled, images that have been transferred to the central PC can also be automatically moved to an off-site web/domain server for storage. Thus, if the surveillance camera detects and captures images of an intruder or some important event, the images will be preserved even if the PC in the home/building is damaged, destroyed or stolen. A buffer of the video surveillance information storing video information for some fixed period of time into the past, can be stored at an off site location, via the Internet. In a mode where the system is armed for intruder detection, or alternately tied into a conventional security system for intruder detection, and an intruder is detected; this historical buffer of the information can be preserved to aid in the identification of the intruder and the recreation of the event. Any video information moved offsite is probably encrypted to ensure the privacy of the occupant.

[0100] The detection of a possible intruder can be performed by the elements of this invention, by a separate conventional security system, or both working together. Given the inconvenience and expense of false alarms, the distributed video capability of this invention, made easier to implement due to its installation and communications through existing junction boxes, could allow a Security Company or even the Police to view inside and around the home or building in the case of an alarm being set off, so that a “false alarm” condition can be determined without having to visit the location. To make such a capability acceptable to the occupant, especially in the case of a residence, it would be imperative that there exist a privacy mechanism (in software) such that the local PC or Residential Gateway does not allow any viewing by the Police or Security Company unless an intruder detection alert is in progress.

[0101] In general, transmission and storage of video information can be based on motion information derived from the motion detectors in each room. If no motion is occurring, storing a static snapshot taken at regular intervals may be completely adequate. When motion is detected, the video information from that area of the home or building can be recorded completely and buffered. A remote interface via the Internet coupling into this Home System can show a plan of the home or building, wherein the user can see a two dimensional map of where motion has been detected and also see the most recent snapshots (in small “thumbnail” pictures) allowing the user to click on a room or camera location and immediately see the live action video from that location.

[0102] Depending on the available bandwidth of the connection in the home/building between the video camera and local PC 9 , it may not be necessary to have full speed/live action video to serve a useful purpose. Even a “jerky” picture or one with reduced resolution may still constitute a very useful function if it is available at a significantly lower price and if the low price allows a much more prolific deployment throughout the home/building. Also, regardless of the bandwidth available to transfer digitized video images to local PC 9 or directly to the Internet, the cost of the video camera may be significantly reduced (with a corresponding reduction in image quality) by using a newly available video sensor technology. Here, video sensor arrays can be constructed on a standard CMOS semiconductor process and potentially integrated onto the same chip with other functions required to implement the various features of an EMAC function. It may also be acceptable to use black & white video if it is available at a much lower price than color.

[0103] An alternative mechanism for sending video information from an EMAC point to local PC 9 and the Internet may include analog video transmission from the EMAC point to a device, located near local PC 9 , which receives, digitizes and optionally compresses the video as will be shown in FIG. 8 .

[0104] FIG. 5 shows an EMAC configuration similar to FIG. 2 except that it describes a power plug receptacle assembly, containing at least one receptacle location 20 , instead of a switch. FIG. 5 also includes an optional video camera 15 . Note that according to this invention, any electrical junction box is a possible location for installing a video camera, and that when installed, the camera can be powered by the source of AC power available at the junction box, and the video signal, after being digitized and compressed, may be transmitted digitally by way of the available power connection to local PC 9 or some other remote device.

[0105] FIG. 6 shows a power receptacle assembly similar to FIG. 5 except that optional network connection jack 21 is included. This network connection jack can offer standard Ethernet compatibility. If the type of data transmit/receive link used to transfer information to/from the EMAC point and local PC 9 possesses a bandwidth capability compatible with normal network data, it may be convenient and useful to include this conventional network connection jack as part of the power receptacle assembly. Power receptacles are the most proliferated form of wired connection points within any home or building.

[0106] Also shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are motion detectors 17 . These can be especially useful in filling in the “blind spots” that occur if the only motion detector controlling a light is located in the wall switch assembly. To avoid unwanted detection of pet movement, the lenses for the motion detectors on power plug EMAC points can be fashioned so as to look to higher elevations for motion. Since power receptacles are so proliferated, using these locations for installing EMAC points provides a very thorough picture of temperature, motion, and even video, within the home or building.

[0107] Also shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 are circuits for controlling the power available at receptacle 20 in response to commands received from a remote communications link. In some implementations of such a power controlling circuit, the maximum allowable power that may be drawn through the receptacle may be artificially lowered by the presence of the controlling circuit. It therefore may be appropriate to provide a physical mechanism for overriding or bypassing the power controlling circuit such that the maximum allowable electrical current level for the plug receptacle is not artificially lowered.

[0108] As an alternative to the wired Ethernet connection shown in FIG. 6, a different connection methodology to allow devices or appliances within a particular room to communicate with an EMAC point for data communications would be the addition of a wireless transceiver to the EMAC point. This can be done by having a small, optional module that plugs into a connector on the EMAC point, deriving power from, and communicating with the EMAC point, while communicating in a wireless manner with other devices in the room. An example of such a wireless technology is that currently referred to as “Bluetooth”. Many wireless technologies have a limited range within which they can operate reliably, for instance 10 to 30 meters. The range of wireless technologies can vary considerably, especially within a home environment, depending upon the number of walls the signal must pass through and the structural content of each particular wall. Within a particular room, however, wireless technology can be very convenient, especially when interfacing with a portable computer or entertainment equipment. An example of a wireless communication module attached to an EMAC point is module 65 shown in FIG. 21 .

[0109] FIG. 7 shows a possible overall connection scheme for a home/building according to this invention where all EMAC points can connect with local PC 9 that, in turn, communicates via the Internet 11 where a central source of information will supply energy cost rates and other utility-related information. The central source of information could be a Utility Company 22 or a third-party supplier such as Data Service Company 23 . Information may also be transferred to and from a Security Company 24 such that any security related information such as surveillance video, motion detector outputs, or window/door open detection indications may be viewed at the Security Company.

[0110] The overall system of FIG. 7 includes wall switches 4 , receptacle plugs 5 , directly wired loads 8 , and breaker boxes 2 (both conventional and “Smart”—per FIGS. 10, 11 , and 12 ). Included in FIG. 7 is the potential for the Utility Companies to provide a “Smart Meter” that would interface with the Internet 11 and could potentially communicate with the system described in this invention. Also, as shown in FIG. 11, a smart breaker box according to this invention can measure the current entering the breaker box and therefore is capable of checking the accuracy of the existing Utility Company meter.

[0111] FIG. 8 illustrates the scenario where video information is transferred from cameras contained at EMAC points to a central location using an analog transmission format as opposed to digital. Eventually the cost of converting video information from analog to digital and performing video compression will be reduced to the point that incorporating compression into each EMAC location will be inexpensive. Also, over time, the cost of a high bandwidth connection between EMAC locations will also be greatly reduced. However initially, it may be more cost-effective to transmit information as some form of analog signal to a central location where these signals are converted to digital form and the video compression and/or conversion technology is shared among the different video sources. Such a mechanism for sharing the video compression capability is shown as interface module 25 in FIG. 8 .

[0112] The video compression function 26 shown in FIG. 8 may also be performed in the local PC 9 if the PC's processing capability is adequate. Also, as described earlier, the determination of which video signal to digitize and compress at any given point in time can be made at the local PC by examining the outputs of the motion detectors at the EMAC points from which the video signals are being sent.

[0113] FIG. 9 addresses the issue of how the data rate capabilities of available EMAC points may increase over time, and how the overall system will cope with this by offering a multi-data rate communications consolidation capability located near the local PC 9 . The capability of communicating between local PC 9 and various EMAC points at different data rates is also important since different types of EMAC points may require different data rate capabilities even though they're all being purchased and installed at the same time. For instance, an EMAC point that is controlling and monitoring power consumption and temperature may require only a very low data rate capability. EMAC points that will offer networking connectivity capable of supporting a broadband Internet connection today might require a one megabit per second capability. To offer a normal 10 megabit Ethernet connection capability, EMAC points would obviously need to communicate at 10 megabits per second. To transfer digital video would also require a reasonably fast data rate. The cost of an EMAC point is therefore significantly affected by the data rate it must support, and therefore the most cost-effective overall solution for the home system may be to utilize EMAC points having a variety of data rates. Hence an implementation strategy such as that shown in FIG. 9 containing a form of a network hub 27 and receive/transmit units 28 , which may all have different data rates, may be the appropriate solution to the problem.

[0114] A modular implementation for hub 27 can be constructed where there exist slots designed to accept cards or modules representing receive/transmit units 28 , each of which may have a different data transfer rate capability. Besides having a different transfer rate, such modular receive/transmit units may still each conform to an industry standard for powerline communications. For instance, one might conform to the X10 standard, one to the CEBus standard, and others conforming to newer standards such as those being studied by the Home Plug Alliance organization, or any future standard. Such a modular approach allows the user to mix and match capabilities as required—producing the most cost-effective and conveniently assembled home system. A modular hub assembly as just described would have a host interface circuit that could support a variety of output standards, such as standard Ethernet, USB, and/or any other, and would interface with local PC 9 or a processor performing the Residential Gateway function, or alternately a device located somewhere on the Internet.

[0115] FIG. 10 shows a “Smart” breaker box where each breaker 29 has associated with it an EM (Energy Monitoring) point 30 . EM points located in breaker boxes typically contain the current sensing, receive, transmit, and possibly display functions, but typically do not perform a control function. Sensing temperature would also not be an appropriate function within a breaker box relative to providing useful ambient temperature readings, since there is usually a natural build-up of heat within a breaker box. However, a temperature sensor might be useful if the user wished to know of the occurrence of an unusually high temperature build-up within the breaker box itself.

[0116] Information supplied by these EM points can be correlated with information sent from EMAC points located downstream of each breaker to assist in providing a clear and complete picture of where all electrical power is being consumed within the electrical circuit being served by that particular breaker. For some power-consuming devices that are directly wired, inserting an EMAC point at the breaker location may be the easiest way to retrofit the EMAC capability.

[0117] FIG. 11 shows an alternate form of a “smart” breaker box where the current sensing, display and communications capabilities commonly associated with the EMAC points of this invention, can be retrofitted into a standard breaker box. The retrofit EM (Energy Monitoring) control unit 31 supports the connection of multiple current sensing units 32 , including current sensor 33 which measures current entering the breaker box from the incoming A/C power line. Keyboard 34 on EM unit 31 , if present, aids in the identification of the particular breaker units in the box which is necessary for proper processing of energy related data at the local PC 9 , but also useful to aid the user in understanding which breaker relates to which area of their home. It is a well-known fact that in most homes, the correlation between specific breakers and the energy use locations that they supply is typically very poorly documented.

[0118] FIG. 12 shows an additional way to provide a similar capability of installing EM capability without having to retrofit the entire breaker box in an existing home/building. Here, the feedback/monitor point functions would be incorporated into the circuit breakers 35 themselves which, in turn, would fit into an existing, conventional breaker box. Obviously, breaker-related EM points would concentrate on electrical current measurement as their primary function. Integrating the EM function into the breaker itself obviously would require a high degree of miniaturization, especially if integral (and optional) display 36 is included.

[0119] It should be noted that in FIGS. 10,11 , and 12 , all relating to measurement of electrical current entering or leaving a breaker box or other electrical distribution box, that the ability to measure the incoming current with a reasonable degree of accuracy will allow the user to correlate their power consumption with that registered by their utility company's power meter, as reflected in their power bill. Many utility company power meters are extremely old and may not be consistent or properly calibrated, thereby overcharging the user.

[0120] Also, relative to the breaker box solutions shown in FIGS. 10, 11 , 12 , a particular installation may be done such that all of the loads “downstream” of a particular breaker do not include EMAC points. In fact, for some breakers, no EMAC points may exist downstream. In these circumstances, a useful method for identifying the power consumed by connected devices is to establish an “energy signature” for each device by turning on only one at a time, during a set-up/calibration process, and recording the typical energy usage for each device. This “signature” may also include any unique characteristics of the waveform shape for the ramp-up of the instantaneous electrical current consumption, or the effect on the measured voltage waveform at the breaker box, when the device is initially turned on. These “signatures” can later be used for identifying the energy used by particular electrical energy consuming devices when performing an overall profile according to this invention.

[0121] FIG. 13 shows an EMAC point designed to work in conjunction with an “old-fashioned” light bulb socket. These sockets are still prevalent in attics and garages today. In addition to monitoring the power their light bulbs use (they can easily be left on accidentally for long periods of time), since they are located in attics and garages, they can also provide an important thermal feedback function. Attics and garages tend to act as heat reservoirs that can be a source of energy in winter and a drain (due to fan/air conditioning power consumption) in summer. Notice that EMAC point 37 is somewhat remotely located from light bulb 38 to reduce any thermal contamination from the heat produced by the bulb. Intercept adapter 39 is included to divert the power to EMAC unit 37 , which is separated from bulb 38 by thermal isolation distance 40 . Also, for the unit of FIG. 13 to monitor temperature and transmit that information to the central computer, a power control function may be an absolute necessity if the bulb is to remain off when light is not required (especially important in the attic) depending on whether the bulb socket is remotely switched or not.

[0122] To demonstrate that other forms of power outlets can be adapted to include EMAC points, FIG. 14 shows how a common power strip 41 can include these capabilities. Another form of portable, add-on EMAC point is discussed in FIG. 22 in more detail.

[0123] FIG. 15 shows how the concepts described previously can be extended to other forms of energy monitoring/feedback with an emphasis on oil and natural gas used to produce thermal energy. Flow meters 42 and 43 are inserted into the line carrying the gas/oil to the thermal energy-producing device. The output of each flow meter is then connected to interface modules 44 and 45 respectively that act as EMAC points in a manner somewhat similar to the examples shown in the previous figures. In a similar way, point-of-use feedback is provided and data is transmitted to central PC 9 for use in assembling the overall profile of energy usage for the home/building.

[0124] Software operating on central PC 9 , among other functions, will be able to create a multi-dimensional map of energy usage as well as prioritized listings of where different amounts of energy are used. Some examples of this capability are described next.

[0125] FIG. 16 shows a two-dimensional plan layout for an example home where locations for all power plugs 46 , wall switches 47 , and dedicated energy using app