Robertshaw Controls Company

John N Sharood

D Mitchell Carr

Graham Bailey

James H Turner

David Peachey

A device monitors an appliance that receives power from a source. The device includes a first coupler that couples the device to the power source. A second coupler couples the device to the appliance. A monitoring circuit is connected to the first coupler and the second coupler to monitor power supplied by the source to the appliance. A communications circuit also is provided. The monitoring circuit provides data based on the monitored power to the communications circuit for output to the first coupler. The communications circuit may include a receiver that receives a signal from the first coupler to control the monitoring circuit. The communications circuit also may include a transceiver that receives a signal from the first coupler to control the monitoring circuit and to transmit monitored power data.

Appliance retrofit monitoring device with a memory storing an electronic signature

A communications module adapted to be received by an appliance having an appliance controller is provided. The module includes a communications protocol translator. The communications protocol translator translates signals received from a communications media into appliance controller signals. The translator also translates appliance control signals received from the appliance controller into a communications protocol to be output to an appliance communications network. A network ready appliance is also provided. The appliance includes an appliance controller having a communications port. The appliance also includes a cavity, defined by a plurality of walls, adapted to receive a communications module. An opening in a wall of the appliance allows access to the cavity. A connector is attached to one of the plurality of cavity walls. A communications line connecting the communications port and the connector is also provided. The connector is electrically coupled to the appliance controller or main power supply.

Communications module and system

A unit is attached to a refrigeration appliance, such as a freezer, or refrigerator, to alert the user of a sensed condition within the appliance that food spoilage may occur. The unit can monitor temperature within the compartment and determine how long until food spoilage occurs. The unit also can alert a user, monitoring service, or call a repairperson. The unit may be retrofit into existing appliances.

Growing community of inventors

Richmond, VA, United States of America

John N Sharood