HVAC Health Monitoring Systems and Methods

[0001] Home automation systems may offer a notification if there is an issue with the home's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (“HVAC”) system. Existing systems may provide an alert that there is an issue, however existing systems fail to further identify the problem, issue, or error or provide information allowing the homeowner to resolve the problem, issue, or error. The homeowner is often left with no option other than to hire an HVAC professional to fix the issue, sometimes needlessly costing the homeowner time and money.

[0002] In some embodiments, a method may be provided including receiving, at an electronic device, a temperature value from a temperature sensor located at a vent grate of an HVAC system, the temperature value indicating the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system. The method may include receiving, at the electronic device, an airflow value from a pressure sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the airflow value determined by the pressure differential of the air emitting from the HVAC system. The method may include calculating, at the electronic device, a temperature delta value based on the temperature value and an ambient temperature value. The method may include comparing, at the electronic device, the temperature delta value with a predetermined temperature delta threshold value, wherein the predetermined temperature delta threshold value is stored in a storage device communicatively coupled to the electronic device. The method may include comparing, at the electronic device, the airflow value with a predetermined airflow threshold value, wherein the predetermined airflow threshold value is stored in the storage device. The method may include identifying, by the electronic device, based at least in part on at least one of the comparing the temperature delta value step and the comparing the airflow value step, an error with the HVAC system. The method may include sending a notification of the error from the electronic device to a user.

[0003] Embodiments of such a method may include one or more of the following features: The method may include receiving, at the electronic device, a known good airflow value from the pressure sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the known good airflow value determined by the pressure differential of the air emitting from the HVAC system during a known good operating cycle. The method may include receiving, at the electronic device, a known good temperature value from the temperature sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the known good temperature value indicating the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system during a known good operating cycle. The method may include calculating, by the electronic device, the predetermined airflow threshold value based on the known good airflow value. The method may include calculating, by the electronic device, the predetermined temperature delta threshold value based on the known good temperature value. The method may include storing the predetermined airflow threshold value and the predetermined temperature delta threshold value in the storage device.

[0004] The method may further include receiving, at the electronic device, a carbon monoxide value from a carbon monoxide sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the carbon monoxide value indicating the level of carbon monoxide emitting from the HVAC system. The method may include identifying, by the electronic device, the error as a leak in a heat exchanger based on determining, by the electronic device, the temperature delta value is below the upper temperature delta threshold value and above the lower temperature delta threshold value, indicating the temperature delta value is an acceptable value; determining, by the electronic device, the airflow value is below the upper airflow threshold value and above the lower airflow threshold value, indicating the airflow value is an acceptable value; comparing, by the electronic device, the carbon monoxide value with a predetermined carbon monoxide threshold; and determining, by the electronic device, that the carbon monoxide value is above the predetermined carbon monoxide threshold, indicating the carbon monoxide value is a dangerous level. The method may include alerting the user to vacate the premises. The method may include sending a signal from the electronic device to an electronic window opening device instructing the electronic window opening device to open the window. The method may include receiving, at the electronic device, the ambient temperature value from a second temperature sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system.

[0005] The method may include identifying, by the electronic device, the error as an HVAC system failure based on receiving, at the electronic device, a signal from the HVAC system indicating that the HVAC system is actively running and determining, by the electronic device, based on comparing the airflow value with the predetermined airflow threshold value, that the HVAC system is not actively running or running poorly.

[0006] The method may include identifying, by the electronic device, the error as degrading of a filter based on determining, by the electronic device, that the airflow value is below the predetermined airflow threshold value and determining, by the electronic device, that the temperature delta value is above the predetermined temperature delta threshold, wherein the notification may alert the user to change the filter.

[0007] The method may include identifying, by the electronic device, the error as a pilot light failure based on determining, by the electronic device, that the airflow value is an acceptable value and determining, by the electronic device, that the temperature delta value is below the predetermined temperature delta threshold value, wherein the notification may alert the user to light the pilot light.

[0008] In some embodiments, a system may be provided including a temperature sensor, the temperature sensor being located in a vent grate of a Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

[0009] (HVAC) system and configured to measure a temperature of air emitting from the HVAC system. The system may include a pressure sensor, the pressure sensor being located in the vent grate of the HVAC system and configured to measure an airflow of air emitting from the HVAC system. The system may include a storage device. The system may include an electronic device communicatively coupled to the temperature sensor, the pressure sensor, and the storage device, and the electronic device may include one or more processors and memory communicatively coupled with and readable by the one or more processors and having stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive a temperature value from the temperature sensor; receive an airflow value from the pressure sensor; calculate a temperature delta value based on the temperature value and an ambient temperature value; compare the temperature delta value with a predetermined temperature delta threshold value, wherein the predetermined temperature delta threshold value is stored in the storage device; compare the airflow value with a predetermined airflow threshold value, wherein the predetermined airflow threshold value is stored in the storage device; identify, based on at least one of comparing the temperature delta value with the predetermined temperature delta threshold value and comparing the airflow value with the predetermined airflow threshold value, an error with the HVAC system; and send a notification of the error to a user.

[0010] Embodiments of such a system may include one or more of the following features: The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive a known good airflow value from the pressure sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the known good airflow value determined by the pressure of the air emitting from the HVAC system during a known good operating cycle; receive a known good temperature value from the temperature sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the known good temperature value indicating the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system during a known good operating cycle; calculate the predetermined airflow threshold value based on the known good airflow value; calculate the predetermined temperature delta threshold value based on the known good temperature value; and store the predetermined airflow threshold value and the predetermined temperature delta threshold value in the storage device.

[0011] The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive a carbon monoxide value from a carbon monoxide sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system, the carbon monoxide value indicating the level of carbon monoxide emitting from the HVAC system; and identify the error as a leak in a heat exchanger based on determining the temperature delta value is an acceptable value based on comparing the temperature delta value with the predetermined temperature delta threshold value, determining the airflow value is an acceptable value based on comparing the airflow value with the predetermined airflow threshold value, comparing the carbon monoxide value with a predetermined carbon monoxide threshold, and determining that the carbon monoxide value is above the predetermined carbon monoxide threshold, indicating the carbon monoxide value is a dangerous level. The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to send a signal to an electronic window opening device instructing the electronic window opening device to open the window.

[0012] The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to identify the error as an HVAC system failure based on receiving a signal from the HVAC system indicating that the HVAC system is actively running and determining, based on comparing the airflow value with the predetermined airflow threshold value, that the HVAC system is not actively running or running poorly.

[0013] The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to identify the error as degrading of a filter based on determining that the airflow value is below the predetermined airflow threshold value and determining that the temperature delta value is above the predetermined temperature delta threshold.

[0014] The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to identify the error as a pilot light failure based on determining that the airflow value is an acceptable value and determining that the temperature delta value is below the predetermined temperature delta threshold value, wherein the predetermined temperature delta threshold value indicates a pilot light failure.

[0015] The memory further may have stored therein processor-readable instructions which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive the ambient temperature value from a second temperature sensor located at the vent grate of the HVAC system.

[0025] In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same numerical reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components and/or features. If only the first numerical reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and/or features having the same first numerical reference label irrespective of the letter suffix.

[0026] The ability to diagnose an issue (e.g., an error) with a home heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (“HVAC”) system can be useful to a homeowner, in some cases saving the homeowner hundreds of dollars in unnecessary work by professional HVAC repairmen. While issues with a home's HVAC system are sometimes obvious (e.g., the furnace is not heating the home), the reason for the issue is not always apparent. Receiving notifications from a home automation system with information detailing the reason for any issues with the HVAC system can be useful to the homeowner.

[0027] Embodiments detailed herein present an HVAC health monitoring device that can be installed in a vent grate of an HVAC system. The device can surveil the output of the HVAC system. The device can include sensors that can track, for example, the temperature and pressure output of the HVAC system.

[0028] In some embodiments, the device can be installed as part of a home automation system. The device can communicate with an electronic device, for example, a home automation control unit. The home automation control unit can receive data (e.g., the sensor output) from the device and utilize the data to determine whether the HVAC system is experiencing issues. The home automation control unit can then notify the homeowner of the issue, including details about the issue and possible resolutions. After describing media service systems and electronic devices in FIGS. 1 and 2 that may be utilized in the present technology, methods and systems will be explained with the remaining figures.

[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a satellite television distribution system 100. While a home automation system may be incorporated with various types of television receivers, various embodiments may be part of a satellite-based television distribution system. Cable, IP-based, wireless, and broadcast focused systems are also possible. Satellite television distribution system 100 may include: television service provider system 110, satellite transmitter equipment 120, satellites 130, satellite dish 140, television receiver 150, home automation service server 112, and display device 160. The display device 160 can be controlled by, for example, a user using a remote control device that can send wired or wireless signals to communicate with the STB 150 and/or display device 160. Alternate embodiments of satellite television distribution system 100 may include fewer or greater numbers of components. While only one satellite dish 140, television receiver 150, and display device 160 (collectively referred to as “user equipment”) are illustrated, it should be understood that multiple (e.g., tens, thousands, millions of) instances and types of user equipment may receive data and television signals from television service provider system 110 via satellites 130.

[0030] Television service provider system 110 and satellite transmitter equipment 120 may be operated by a television service provider. A television service provider may distribute television channels, on-demand programming, programming information, and/or other content/services to users. Television service provider system 110 may receive feeds of one or more television channels and content from various sources. Such television channels may include multiple television channels that contain at least some of the same content (e.g., network affiliates). To distribute television channels for presentation to users, feeds of the television channels may be relayed to user equipment via multiple television distribution satellites. Each satellite may relay multiple transponder streams. Satellite transmitter equipment 120 may be used to transmit a feed of one or more television channels from television service provider system 110 to one or more satellites 130. While a single television service provider system 110 and satellite transmitter equipment 120 are illustrated as part of satellite television distribution system 100, it should be understood that multiple instances of transmitter equipment may be used, possibly scattered geographically, to communicate with satellites 130. Such multiple instances of satellite transmitting equipment may communicate with the same or with different satellites. Different television channels may be transmitted to satellites 130 from different instances of transmitting equipment. For instance, a different satellite dish of satellite transmitter equipment 120 may be used for communication with satellites in different orbital slots.

[0031] Satellites 130 may be configured to receive signals, such as streams of television channels, from one or more satellite uplinks such as satellite transmitter equipment 120. Satellites 130 may relay received signals from satellite transmitter equipment 120 (and/or other satellite transmitter equipment) to multiple instances of user equipment via transponder streams. Different frequencies may be used for uplink signals 170 from downlink signals 180. Satellites 130 may be in geosynchronous orbit. Each of the transponder streams transmitted by satellites 130 may contain multiple television channels transmitted as packetized data. For example, a single transponder stream may be a serial digital packet stream containing multiple television channels. Therefore, packets for multiple television channels may be interspersed. Further, information used by television receiver 150 for home automation functions may also be relayed to a television receiver via one or more transponder streams.

[0032] Multiple satellites 130 may be used to relay television channels from television service provider system 110 to satellite dish 140. Different television channels may be carried using different satellites. Different television channels may also be carried using different transponders of the same satellite; thus, such television channels may be transmitted at different frequencies and/or different frequency ranges. As an example, a first and second television channel may be relayed via a first transponder of satellite 130a. A third, fourth, and fifth television channel may be relayed via a different satellite or a different transponder of the same satellite relaying the transponder stream at a different frequency. A transponder stream transmitted by a particular transponder of a particular satellite may include a finite number of television channels, such as seven. Accordingly, if many television channels are to be made available for viewing and recording, multiple transponder streams may be necessary to transmit all of the television channels to the instances of user equipment.

[0033] Satellite dish 140 may be a piece of user equipment that is used to receive transponder streams from one or more satellites, such as satellites 130. Satellite dish 140 may be provided to a subscriber for use on a subscription basis to receive television channels provided by the television service provider system 110, satellite transmitter equipment 120, and/or satellites 130. Satellite dish 140, which may include one or more low noise blocks (LNBs), may be configured to receive transponder streams from multiple satellites and/or multiple transponders of the same satellite. Satellite dish 140 may be configured to receive television channels via transponder streams on multiple frequencies. Based on the characteristics of television receiver 150 and/or satellite dish 140, it may only be possible to capture transponder streams from a limited number of transponders concurrently. For example, a tuner of television receiver 150 may only be able to tune to a single transponder stream from a transponder of a single satellite at a given time. The tuner can then be re-tuned to another transponder of the same or a different satellite. A television receiver 150 having multiple tuners may allow for multiple transponder streams to be received at the same time.

[0034] In communication with satellite dish 140 may be one or more television receivers. Television receivers may be configured to decode signals received from satellites 130 via satellite dish 140 for output and presentation via a display device, such as display device 160. A television receiver may be incorporated as part of a television or may be part of a separate device, commonly referred to as a set-top box (STB). Television receiver 150 may decode signals received via satellite dish 140 and provide an output to display device 160. On-demand content, such as PPV content, may be stored to a computer-readable storage medium. FIG. 2 provides additional detail of various embodiments of a television receiver. A television receiver is defined to include set-top boxes (STBs), and also circuitry having similar functionality that may be incorporated with another device. For instance, circuitry similar to that of a television receiver may be incorporated as part of a television. As such, while FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of television receiver 150 as separate from display device 160, it should be understood that, in other embodiments, similar functions may be performed by a television receiver integrated with display device 160. Television receiver 150 may include home automation engine 211, as detailed in relation to FIG. 2.

[0035] Display device 160 may be used to present video and/or audio decoded and output by television receiver 150. Television receiver 150 may also output a display of one or more interfaces to display device 160, such as an electronic programming guide (EPG). In many embodiments, display device 160 is a television. Display device 160 may also be a monitor, computer, or some other device configured to display video and, possibly, play audio.

[0036] Uplink signal 170a represents a signal between satellite transmitter equipment 120 and satellite 130a. Uplink signal 170b represents a signal between satellite transmitter equipment 120 and satellite 130b. Each of uplink signals 170 may contain streams of one or more different television channels. For example, uplink signal 170a may contain a first group of television channels, while uplink signal 170b contains a second group of television channels. Each of these television channels may be scrambled such that unauthorized persons are prevented from accessing the television channels.

[0037] Downlink signal 180a represents a signal between satellite 130a and satellite dish 140.

[0038] Downlink signal 180b represents a signal between satellite 130b and satellite dish 140. Each of downlink signals 180 may contain one or more different television channels, which may be at least partially scrambled. A downlink signal may be in the form of a transponder stream. A single transponder stream may be tuned to at a given time by a tuner of a television receiver. For example, downlink signal 180a may be a first transponder stream containing a first group of television channels, while downlink signal 180b may be a second transponder stream containing a different group of television channels. In addition to or instead of containing television channels, a transponder stream can be used to transmit on-demand content to television receivers, including PPV content, which may be stored locally by the television receiver until output for presentation.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates downlink signal 180a and downlink signal 180b, being received by satellite dish 140 and distributed to television receiver 150. For a first group of television channels, satellite dish 140 may receive downlink signal 180a and for a second group of channels, downlink signal 180b may be received. Television receiver 150 may decode the received transponder streams. As such, depending on which television channels are desired to be presented or stored, various transponder streams from various satellites may be received, descrambled, and decoded by television receiver 150.

[0040] Network 190, which may include the Internet, may allow for bidirectional communication between television receiver 150 and television service provider system 110, such as for home automation related services provided by home automation service server 112.

[0041] Although illustrated as part of the television service provider system, the home automation service server 112 may be provided by a third party in embodiments. In addition or in alternate to network 190, a telephone, e.g., landline, or cellular connection may be used to enable communication between television receiver 150 and television service provider system 110.

[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a television receiver 200, which may represent television receiver 150 of FIG. 1. Television receiver 200 may be configured to function as a host for a home automation system either alone or in conjunction with a communication device. Television receiver 200 may be in the form of a separate device configured to be connected with a display device, such as a television. Embodiments of television receiver 200 can include set top boxes (STBs). In addition to being in the form of an STB, a television receiver may be incorporated as part of another device, such as a television, other form of display device, video game console, computer, mobile phone or tablet, or the like. For example, a television may have an integrated television receiver, which does not involve an external STB being coupled with the television.

[0043] Television receiver 200 may be incorporated as part of a television, such as display device 160 of FIG. 1. Television receiver 200 may include: processors 210, which may include control processor 210a, tuning management processor 210b, and possibly additional processors, tuners 215, network interface 220, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 225, electronic programming guide (EPG) database 230, television interface 235, digital video recorder (DVR) database 245, which may include provider-managed television programming storage and/or user-defined television programming, on-demand programming database 227, home automation settings database 247, home automation script database 248, remote control interface 250, security device 260, and/or descrambling engine 265. In other embodiments of television receiver 200, fewer or greater numbers of components may be present. It should be understood that the various components of television receiver 200 may be implemented using hardware, firmware, software, and/or some combination thereof. Functionality of components may be combined; for example, functions of descrambling engine 265 may be performed by tuning management processor 210b. Further, functionality of components may be spread among additional components.

[0044] Processors 210 may include one or more specialized and/or general-purpose processors configured to perform processes such as tuning to a particular channel, accessing and displaying EPG information from EPG database 230, and/or receiving and processing input from a user. It should be understood that the functions performed by various modules of FIG. 2 may be performed using one or more processors. As such, for example, functions of descrambling engine 265 may be performed by control processor 210a.

[0045] Control processor 210a may communicate with tuning management processor 210b. Control processor 210a may control the recording of television channels based on timers stored in DVR database 245. Control processor 210a may also provide commands to tuning management processor 210b when recording of a television channel is to cease. In addition to providing commands relating to the recording of television channels, control processor 210a may provide commands to tuning management processor 210b that indicate television channels to be output to decoder module 233 for output to a display device. Control processor 210a may also communicate with network interface 220 and remote control interface 250. Control processor 210a may handle incoming data from network interface 220 and remote control interface 250. Additionally, control processor 210a may be configured to output data via network interface 220.

[0046] Control processor 210a may include home automation engine 211. Home automation engine 211 may permit television receiver and control processor 210a to provide home automation functionality. Home automation engine 211 may have a JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) command interpreter or some other form of command interpreter that is configured to communicate with wireless devices via network interface 220 and a message server, possibly via a message server client. Such a command interpreter of home automation engine 211 may also communicate via a local area network with devices without using the Internet. Home automation engine 211 may contain multiple controllers specific to different protocols; for instance, a ZigBee® controller, a Z-Wave® controller, and/or an IP camera controller, wireless LAN, 802.11, may be present. Home automation engine 211 may contain a media server configured to serve streaming audio and/or video to remote devices on a local area network or the Internet. Television receiver may be able to serve such devices with recorded content, live content, and/or content recorded using one or more home automation devices, such as cameras.

[0047] Tuners 215 may include one or more tuners used to tune to transponders that include broadcasts of one or more television channels. Such tuners may be used also to receive for storage on-demand content and/or addressable television commercials. In some embodiments, two, three, or more than three tuners may be present, such as four, six, or eight tuners. Each tuner contained in tuners 215 may be capable of receiving and processing a single transponder stream from a satellite transponder or from a cable network at a given time. As such, a single tuner may tune to a single transponder stream at a given time. If tuners 215 include multiple tuners, one tuner may be used to tune to a television channel on a first transponder stream for display using a television, while another tuner may be used to tune to a television channel on a second transponder for recording and viewing at some other time. If multiple television channels transmitted on the same transponder stream are desired, a single tuner of tuners 215 may be used to receive the signal containing the multiple television channels for presentation and/or recording. Tuners 215 may receive commands from tuning management processor 210b. Such commands may instruct tuners 215 to which frequencies are to be tuned.

[0048] Network interface 220 may be used to communicate via an alternate communication channel with a television service provider, if such communication channel is available. A communication channel may be via satellite, which may be unidirectional to television receiver 200, and the alternate communication channel, which may be bidirectional, may be via a network, such as the Internet. Data may be transmitted from television receiver 200 to a television service provider system and from the television service provider system to television receiver 200. Information may be transmitted and/or received via network interface 220. For instance, instructions from a television service provider may also be received via network interface 220, if connected with the Internet. Besides the primary communication channel being satellite, cable network, an IP-based network, or broadcast network may be used. Network interface 220 may permit wireless communication with one or more types of networks, including using home automation network protocols and wireless network protocols. Also, wired networks may be connected to and communicated with via network interface 220. Device interface 221 may represent a USB port or some other form of communication port that permits communication with a communication device as will be explained further below.

[0049] Storage medium 225 may represent one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage mediums. Storage medium 225 may include memory and/or a hard drive. Storage medium 225 may be used to store information received from one or more satellites and/or information received via network interface 220. Storage medium 225 may store information related to on-demand programming database 227, EPG database 230, DVR database 245, home automation settings database 247, and/or home automation script database 248. Recorded television programs may be stored using storage medium 225 as part of DVR database 245. Storage medium 225 may be partitioned or otherwise divided, such as into folders, such that predefined amounts of storage medium 225 are devoted to storage of television programs recorded due to user-defined timers and stored television programs recorded due to provider-defined timers.

[0050] Home automation settings database 247 may allow configuration settings of home automation devices and user preferences to be stored. Home automation settings database 247 may store data related to various devices that have been set up to communicate with television receiver 200. For instance, home automation settings database 247 may be configured to store information on which types of events should be indicated to users, to which users, in what order, and what communication methods should be used. For instance, an event such as an open garage may only be notified to certain wireless devices, e.g., a cellular phone associated with a parent, not a child, notification may be by a third-party notification server, email, text message, and/or phone call. In some embodiments, a second notification method may only be used if a first fails. For instance, if a notification cannot be sent to the user via a third-party notification server, an email may be sent.

[0051] Home automation settings database 247 may store information that allows for the configuration and control of individual home automation devices which may operate using Z-wave® and ZigBee®-specific protocols. To do so, home automation engine 211 may create a proxy for each device that allows for settings for the device to be passed through a UI, e.g., presented on a television, to allow for settings to be solicited for and collected via a user interface presented by television receiver or overlay device. The received settings may then be handled by the proxy specific to the protocol, allowing for the settings to be passed on to the appropriate device. Such an arrangement may allow for settings to be collected and received via a UI of the television receiver or overlay device and passed to the appropriate home automation device and/or used for managing the appropriate home automation device. For example, a piece of exercise equipment that is enabled to interface with the home automation engine 211, such as via device interface 221, may be configured at the electronic device 211 in addition to on the piece of exercise equipment itself Additionally, a mobile device or application residing on a mobile device and utilized with exercise equipment may be configured in such a fashion as well for displaying received fitness information on a coupled display device.

[0052] Home automation script database 248 may store scripts that detail how home automation devices are to function based on various events occurring. For instance, if stored content starts being played back by television receiver 200, lights in the vicinity of display device 160 may be dimmed and shades may be lowered by communicatively coupled and controlled shade controller. As another example, when a user shuts programming off late in the evening, there may be an assumption the user is going to bed. Therefore, the user may configure television receiver 200 to lock all doors via a lock controller, shut the garage door via garage controller, lower a heat setting of thermostat, shut off all lights via a light controller, and determine if any windows or doors are open via window sensors and door sensors, and, if so, alert the user. Such scripts or programs may be predefined by the home automation/television service provider and/or may be defined by a user.

[0053] In some embodiments, home automation script database 248 may allow for various music profiles to be implemented. For instance, based on home automation settings within a structure, appropriate music may be played. For instance, when a piece of exercise equipment is connected or is used, energizing music may be played. Conversely, based on the music being played, settings of home automation devices may be determined. If television programming, such as a movie, is output for playback by television receiver 150, a particular home automation script may be used to adjust home automation settings, e.g., lower lights, raise temperature, and lock doors.

[0054] EPG database 230 may store information related to television channels and the timing of programs appearing on such television channels. EPG database 230 may be stored using storage medium 225, which may be a hard drive or solid-state drive. Information from EPG database 230 may be used to inform users of what television channels or programs are popular and/or provide recommendations to the user. Information from EPG database 230 may provide the user with a visual interface displayed by a television that allows a user to browse and select television channels and/or television programs for viewing and/or recording. Information used to populate EPG database 230 may be received via network interface 220, via satellite, or some other communication link with a television service provider, e.g., a cable network. Updates to EPG database 230 may be received periodically. EPG database 230 may serve as an interface for a user to control DVR functions of television receiver 200, and/or to enable viewing and/or recording of multiple television channels simultaneously. EPG database 240 may also contain information about on-demand content or any other form of accessible content.

[0055] Decoder module 233 may serve to convert encoded video and audio into a format suitable for output to a display device. For instance, decoder module 233 may receive MPEG video and audio from storage medium 225 or descrambling engine 265 to be output to a television. MPEG video and audio from storage medium 225 may have been recorded to DVR database 245 as part of a previously-recorded television program. Decoder module 233 may convert the MPEG video and audio into a format appropriate to be displayed by a television or other form of display device and audio into a format appropriate to be output from speakers, respectively. Decoder module 233 may have the ability to convert a finite number of television channel streams received from storage medium 225 or descrambling engine 265, simultaneously. For instance, decoders within decoder module 233 may be able to only decode a single television channel at a time. Decoder module 233 may have various numbers of decoders.

[0056] Television interface 235 may serve to output a signal to a television or another form of display device in a proper format for display of video and playback of audio. As such, television interface 235 may output one or more television channels, stored television programming from storage medium 225, e.g., television programs from DVR database 245, television programs from on-demand programming 230 and/or information from EPG database 230, to a television for presentation. Television interface 235 may also serve to output a CVM.

[0057] Digital Video Recorder (DVR) functionality may permit a television channel to be recorded for a period of time. DVR functionality of television receiver 200 may be managed by control processor 210a. Control processor 210a may coordinate the television channel, start time, and stop time of when recording of a television channel is to occur. DVR database 245 may store information related to the recording of television channels. DVR database 245 may store timers that are used by control processor 210a to determine when a television channel should be tuned to and its programs recorded to DVR database 245 of storage medium 225. In some embodiments, a limited amount of storage medium 225 may be devoted to DVR database 245. Timers may be set by the television service provider and/or one or more users of television receiver 200.

[0058] DVR database 245 may also be used to record recordings of service provider-defined television channels. For each day, an array of files may be created. For example, based on provider-defined timers, a file may be created for each recorded television channel for a day. For example, if four television channels are recorded from 6-10 PM on a given day, four files may be created; one for each television channel. Within each file, one or more television programs may be present. The service provider may define the television channels, the dates, and the time periods for which the television channels are recorded for the provider-defined timers. The provider-defined timers may be transmitted to television receiver 200 via the television provider's network. For example, in a satellite-based television service provider system, data necessary to create the provider-defined timers at television receiver 150 may be received via satellite.

[0059] On-demand programming database 227 may store additional television programming.

[0060] On-demand programming database 227 may include television programming that was not recorded to storage medium 225 via a timer, either user- or provider-defined. Rather, on-demand programming may be programming provided to the television receiver directly for storage by the television receiver and for later presentation to one or more users. On-demand programming may not be user-selected. As such, the television programming stored to on-demand programming database 227 may be the same for each television receiver of a television service provider. On-demand programming database 227 may include pay-per-view (PPV) programming that a user must pay and/or use an amount of credits to view. For instance, on-demand programming database 227 may include movies that are not available for purchase or rental yet.

[0061] Referring back to tuners 215, television channels received via satellite or cable may contain at least some scrambled data. Packets of audio and video may be scrambled to prevent unauthorized users, e.g., nonsubscribers, from receiving television programming without paying the television service provider. When a tuner of tuners 215 is receiving data from a particular transponder of a satellite, the transponder stream may be a series of data packets corresponding to multiple television channels. Each data packet may contain a packet identifier (PID), which can be determined to be associated with a particular television channel. Particular data packets, referred to as entitlement control messages (ECMs), may be periodically transmitted. ECMs may be associated with another PID and may be encrypted; television receiver 200 may use decryption engine 261 of security device 260 to decrypt ECMs. Decryption of an ECM may only be possible if the user has authorization to access the particular television channel associated with the ECM. When an ECM is determined to correspond to a television channel being stored and/or displayed, the ECM may be provided to security device 260 for decryption.

[0062] When security device 260 receives an encrypted ECM, security device 260 may decrypt the ECM to obtain some number of control words. In some embodiments, from each

[0063] ECM received by security device 260, two control words are obtained. In some embodiments, when security device 260 receives an ECM, it compares the ECM to the previously received ECM. If the two ECMs match, the second ECM is not decrypted because the same control words would be obtained. In other embodiments, each ECM received by security device 260 is decrypted; however, if a second ECM matches a first ECM, the outputted control words will match; thus, effectively, the second ECM does not affect the control words output by security device 260. Security device 260 may be permanently part of television receiver 200 or may be configured to be inserted and removed from television receiver 200, such as a smart card, cable card, or the like.

[0064] Tuning management processor 210b may be in communication with tuners 215 and control processor 210a. Tuning management processor 210b may be configured to receive commands from control processor 210a. Such commands may indicate when to start/stop receiving and/or recording of a television channel and/or when to start/stop causing a television channel to be output to a television. Tuning management processor 210b may control tuners 215. Tuning management processor 210b may provide commands to tuners 215 that instruct the tuners which satellite, transponder, and/or frequency to tune to. From tuners 215, tuning management processor 210b may receive transponder streams of packetized data.

[0065] Descrambling engine 265 may use the control words output by security device 260 in order to descramble video and/or audio corresponding to television channels for storage and/or presentation. Video and/or audio data contained in the transponder data stream received by tuners 215 may be scrambled. Video and/or audio data may be descrambled by descrambling engine 265 using a particular control word. Which control word output by security device 260 to be used for successful descrambling may be indicated by a scramble control identifier present within the data packet containing the scrambled video or audio. Descrambled video and/or audio may be output by descrambling engine 265 to storage medium 225 for storage, in DVR database 245, and/or to decoder module 233 for output to a television or other presentation equipment via television interface 235.

[0066] In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 may be configured to periodically reboot in order to install software updates downloaded over the network 190 or satellites 130. Such reboots may occur for example during the night when the users are likely asleep and not watching television. If the system utilizes a single processing module to provide television receiving and home automation functionality, then the security functions may be temporarily deactivated. In order to increase the security of the system, the television receiver 200 may be configured to reboot at random times during the night in order to allow for installation of updates. Thus, an intruder is less likely to guess the time when the system is rebooting. In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 may include multiple processing modules for providing different functionality, such as television receiving functionality and home automation, such that an update to one module does not necessitate reboot of the whole system. In other embodiments, multiple processing modules may be made available as a primary and a backup during any installation or update procedures.

[0067] For simplicity, television receiver 200 of FIG. 2 has been reduced to a block diagram; commonly known parts, such as a power supply, have been omitted. Further, some routing between the various modules of television receiver 200 has been illustrated. Such illustrations are for exemplary purposes only. The state of two modules not being directly or indirectly connected does not indicate the modules cannot communicate. Rather, connections between modules of the television receiver 200 are intended only to indicate possible common data routing. It should be understood that the modules of television receiver 200 may be combined into a fewer number of modules or divided into a greater number of modules. Further, the components of television receiver 200 may be part of another device, such as built into a television. Television receiver 200 may include one or more instances of various computerized components, such as disclosed in relation to computer system 900 of FIG. 9.

[0068] While the television receiver 200 has been illustrated as a satellite-based television receiver, it is to be appreciated that techniques below may be implemented in other types of television receiving devices, such a cable receivers, terrestrial receivers, IPTV receivers or the like. In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 may be configured as a hybrid receiving device, capable of receiving content from disparate communication networks, such as satellite and terrestrial television broadcasts. In some embodiments, the tuners may be in the form of network interfaces capable of receiving content from designated network locations. The home automation functions of television receiver 200 may be performed by an overlay device. If such an overlay device is used, television programming functions may still be provided by a television receiver that is not used to provide home automation functions.

[0069] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of an HVAC health monitoring system 300. The HVAC health monitoring system 300 can include an HVAC health monitoring device 340, a pressure sensor 335, a temperature sensor 330, a carbon monoxide sensor 325, tubing 350, and an ambient temperature sensor 320. Additionally depicted in FIG. 3 are a wall 310, a vent grate 315, and an HVAC duct 345. The HVAC health monitoring system 300 can be used to alert the homeowner or a resident of the premises associated with the HVAC system of an error with the HVAC system by, for example, providing a warning or notification about the functioning of the system, as described further below.

[0070] The HVAC health monitoring system 300 can be installed in the vent grate 315 of a wall 310. The vent grate 315 can cover the opening of an HVAC duct 345 in wall 310. In some embodiments, the vent grate 315 can cover the opening of an HVAC duct 345 in a floor (not shown) or a ceiling (not shown). Installation of HVAC health monitoring system 300 can be performed by a professional, by a homeowner, or by any other suitable individual or company.

[0071] Vent grate 315 can be made of metal, wood, plastic, or any other suitable material to cover the opening of HVAC duct 345. Vent grate 315 can have slotted openings or any other suitable openings such that heated or cooled air from HVAC duct 345 can be distributed throughout the home or premises.

[0072] HVAC duct 345 can be coupled to an HVAC system, for example, HVAC system 500 of FIG. 5. The HVAC duct 345 can function to allow heated or cooled air from HVAC system 500 to be distributed to the various rooms of a home or premises.

[0073] HVAC health monitoring system 300 can include an HVAC health monitoring device 340, pressure sensor 335, temperature sensor 330, carbon monoxide sensor 325, tubing 350, and ambient temperature sensor 320.

[0074] Pressure sensor 335 can be an absolute pressure sensor or a differential pressure sensor. Pressure sensor 335 can measure the pressure or pressure differential in HVAC duct 345. The pressure differential in HVAC duct 345 can represent the airflow of the system (i.e., the pressure of the air emitting from an HVAC system when the system is actively running) For example, the airflow of HVAC system 500; FIG. 5 can be measured by pressure sensor 335. In some embodiments, the pressure can be measured by an absolute pressure sensor when the system is actively running and when the system is not actively running The value of the pressure when the system is not actively running can be subtracted from the value of the pressure when the system is actively running to obtain the airflow (i.e., the pressure differential) in HVAC system 500. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 335 can be a differential pressure sensor and the value can represent the airflow (i.e., the pressure differential) in HVAC system 500. In such an embodiment, tubing 350 can be used like a pitot tube to funnel the air travelling through HVAC duct 350 for measurement by pressure sensor 335. Pressure sensor 335 can be located in or near HVAC health monitoring device 340. The pressure in HVAC duct 345 can be high or increased if the HVAC system is actively running (i.e., a furnace is heating air or an air conditioner is cooling air). In a typical HVAC system, distribution of the heated or cooled air includes circulating the air through the premises by pushing it via a fan through the HVAC ducts. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 335 can be included in HVAC health monitoring system 300 by being coupled to the HVAC health monitoring device 340 directly via electrical wiring. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 335 can be wirelessly coupled to the HVAC health monitoring device 340 using, for example, Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, any of the IEEE 802.11 family of wireless protocols, or any other wireless protocol.

[0075] Temperature sensor 330 can be a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature in HVAC duct 345. The temperature in HVAC duct 345 can represent the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system (e.g., HVAC system 500; FIG. 5). The temperature in HVAC duct 345 can be high or increased a furnace (e.g., furnace 510; FIG. 5) of the HVAC system is actively running The temperature in HVAC duct 345 can be low or decreased if an air conditioner (e.g., air conditioner 520; FIG. 5) of the HVAC system is actively running In some embodiments, temperature sensor 330 can be coupled to HVAC health monitoring device 340 either through direct wiring or wirelessly similarly to pressure sensor 335 as described above.

[0076] Carbon monoxide sensor 325 can be a sensor for measuring the level of carbon monoxide in HVAC duct 345. The carbon monoxide level in HVAC duct 345 can represent the amount of carbon monoxide emitting from the HVAC system (e.g. HVAC system 500; FIG. 5). In some embodiments, carbon monoxide sensor 325 can be wired or wirelessly coupled to HVAC health monitoring device 340, similarly to pressure sensor 335 as described above.

[0077] Tubing 350 can be used to direct the local air in HVAC duct 345 for measurement by pressure sensor 335. Tubing 350 can be, for example, a pitot tube. Tubing 350 can be positioned directly in the path of the air flowing through HVAC duct 345 to allow a very accurate reading of the airflow in HVAC duct 345 and allow pressure sensor 335 to be positioned in or near HVAC health monitoring device 340. Pressure sensor 335 can be positioned near the end of tubing 350 nearest HVAC health monitoring device 340 to accurately read the airflow in HVAC duct 345. Tubing 350 can include an attachment mechanism (not shown) to attach the tubing 350 to the HVAC duct 345 through the vent grate 315. For example, tubing 350 can include an adhesive that can attach to HVAC duct 345. As another example, tubing 350 can include a clipping mechanism that can attach to vent grate 315. Tubing 350 can be rigid or flexible. In some embodiments, tubing 350 can be flexible such that it can be adjusted to most suitably attach to the HVAC duct 345 or vent grate 315. In some embodiments, tubing 350 can be flexible such that it can be inserted into vent grate 315 through existing slots in vent grate 315. In other embodiments, tubing 350 can be installed by cutting an opening in vent grate 315 for insertion of tubing 350 and the other components of HVAC health monitoring system 300 that can be inserted into HVAC duct 345.

[0078] In some embodiments, pressure sensor 335, tubing 350, carbon monoxide sensor 325, and temperature sensor 330 can be distributed within vent grate 315 and individually attach to HVAC duct 345. In some embodiments, one or more of pressure sensor 335, tubing 350, carbon monoxide sensor 325, and temperature sensor 330 can be coupled together and collectively attached within vent grate 315 to HVAC duct 345.

[0079] Ambient temperature sensor 320 can be a temperature sensor for measuring the ambient temperature of the room or premises. The ambient temperature of the room or premises can indicate the “room temperature.” While the temperature may be heated or cooled based on the

[0080] HVAC system (e.g. HVAC system 500; FIG. 5), the heated or cooled air is dissipated in the volume of the room, making, in some cases, the ambient temperature of the room different than the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system when the HVAC system is actively running In some embodiments, ambient temperature sensor 320 can be wired or wirelessly coupled to HVAC health monitoring device 340, similarly to pressure sensor 335 as described above.

[0081] HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340 can be wired or wirelessly coupled to components including, for example, pressure sensor 335, temperature sensor 330, carbon monoxide sensor 325, and ambient temperature sensor 320. HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340 can also include a communication component (not shown) that can wirelessly communicate with an electronic device, such as, for example television receiver 200 (FIG. 2). HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340 can communicate with the electronic device, sending, for example, airflow values from pressure sensor 335, temperature values from temperature sensor 330, carbon monoxide values from carbon monoxide sensor 325, and ambient temperature values from ambient temperature sensor 320. HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340 can communicate with the electronic device through a wired connection or wirelessly. If communicating wirelessly, any suitable wireless communication protocol can be used, including, for example, Bluetooth®, ZigBee®, any of the IEEE 802.11 family of wireless protocols, or any other wireless protocol.

[0082] In use, HVAC Health Monitoring System 300 can be used to communicate information regarding the HVAC system (e.g., HVAC system 500; FIG. 5) to an electronic device (e.g., television receiver 200; FIG. 2) for inspection. In some embodiments, the furnace (e.g. furnace 510) of the HVAC system is operating (i.e., the furnace is on and actively heating air). As the furnace heats the air, a fan is typically used to distribute the air to the premises through HVAC duct 345. As the heated air flows past pressure sensor 335, the pressure can be measured in HVAC duct 345 and the pressure value can be communicated to HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340. As the heated air flows past temperature sensor 330, the temperature can be measured in HVAC duct 345 and the temperature value can be communicated to HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340. Similarly, the carbon monoxide sensor 325 can measure the carbon monoxide level in HVAC duct 345 and communicate the carbon monoxide level to the HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340. Ambient temperature sensor 320 can measure the ambient temperature of the room or premises and communicate the ambient temperature to HVAC Health Monitoring Device. The ambient temperature measurement can be taken at any time, whether the HVAC system is actively operating or not. After receiving one or more of the values from the various sensors, HVAC Health Monitoring Device 340 can provide the values to the electronic device through wired or wireless communication as described above. Processing of the data by the electronic device will be discussed in more detail below.

[0083] FIG. 4 illustrates a room 400 with a window 420 having an electronic window opening device 410, the room also having HVAC health monitoring system 300 as described in FIG. 3.

[0084] HVAC health monitoring system 300 can be in room 400. As described in more detail above, HVAC health monitoring system 300 can include vent grate 315 and HVAC health monitoring device 340 including ambient temperature sensor 320 and tubing 350. HVAC health monitoring system 300 can also include the other components such as pressure sensor 335, temperature sensor 330, and carbon monoxide sensor 325, though they are not shown in FIG. 4.

[0085] Room 400 can include window 420, which can be any window capable of opening. Electronic window opening device 410 can be associated with window 420 such that it is capable of opening window 420. For example, electronic window opening device 410 can be attached to a mechanical device (not shown) that can open window 420. The mechanical device can be a hydraulic device, a gear system, a pulley system, or any other device capable of opening window 420.

[0086] In use, electronic window opening device 410 can receive a signal from an electronic device, such as, for example, television receiver 200 (FIG. 2). The signal can notify the electronic window opening device 410 to open window 420. This signal can be in response to the electronic device identifying an error in the HVAC system, as described in more detail below.

[0087] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of an HVAC system 500. FIG. 5 includes house 530, which includes HVAC system 500. HVAC system 500 includes air conditioner 520, furnace 510, and HVAC duct 345. Cutout line 540 is intended to indicate that the wall of house 530 is cutaway to expose furnace 510 and HVAC duct 345.

[0088] House 530 can include one or more rooms. House 530 can be any premises or dwelling that includes HVAC system 500.

[0089] Air conditioner 520 can be any air conditioner used in an HVAC system. Air conditioner 520 can cool air, which is distributed through the HVAC duct 345 to the rooms of house 530. In some embodiments, HVAC system 500 does not include air conditioner 520.

[0090] Furnace 510 can be any furnace used in an HVAC system. Furnace 510 can heat air, which is distributed through the HVAC duct 345 to the rooms of house 530. In some embodiments, HVAC system 500 does not include furnace 510.

[0091] In a typical HVAC system, either the furnace 510 can be actively running or the air conditioner 520 can be actively running, but not both. In other words, the furnace 510 can be heating air or the air conditioner 520 can be cooling air, but not at the same time. Actively running means, with respect to furnace 510 or air conditioner 520 or HVAC system 500, for the purposes of this disclosure, actively heating or cooling air. For example, if the furnace 510 is on, but not currently heating air, it is not actively running Similarly, if the air conditioner 520 is on, but not currently cooling air, it is not actively running

[0092] Furnace 510 may cycle to keep house 530 at a relatively constant temperature as set by a thermostat (not shown). A cycle may include the furnace 510 actively running to heat air until the thermostat reaches a threshold upper temperature reading at which time the furnace 510 stops actively running While the furnace 510 is still on, it is not actively running until the thermostat reaches a threshold lower temperature at which time the furnace 510 starts actively running again.

[0093] Similarly, air conditioner 520 may cycle to keep house 530 at a relatively constant temperature as set by a thermostat (not shown). A cycle may include the air conditioner 520 actively running to cool air until the thermostat reaches a threshold lower temperature reading at which time the air conditioner 520 stops actively running While the air conditioner 520 is still on, it is not actively running until the thermostat reaches a threshold upper temperature at which time the air conditioner 520 starts actively running again.

[0094] HVAC duct 345 shows only a small portion of the ductwork that can be in house 530. All HVAC ductwork throughout house 530 can be included in HVAC system 500.

[0095] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a method 600 for using an HVAC health monitoring system, such as HVAC health monitoring system 300 (FIG. 3). The method will be described in relation to the system components described above with respect to FIGS. 3-5. While the embodiments and system components described with respect to FIGS. 3-5 are an embodiment of the present invention, other embodiments and components can be used to complete the method illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0096] An electronic device, such as the television receiver 200 shown in FIG. 2, can be used to complete method 600. For example, the television receiver 200 can receive a temperature value from temperature sensor 330 which is located at vent grate 315 of HVAC system 500. More specifically, for example, the temperature sensor 330 can obtain the temperature value while HVAC system 500 is actively running The temperature value can be communicated to the HVAC health monitoring device 340 through a wired or wireless connection that can couple the temperature sensor 330 and HVAC health monitoring device 340. HVAC health monitoring device 340 can wirelessly transmit the temperature value to the network interface 220 of the television receiver 200 via, for example, ZigBee®.

[0097] The television receiver 200 can also receive an airflow value from pressure sensor 335 located at vent grate 315 of the HVAC system 500. More specifically, for example, the pressure sensor 335 can obtain the airflow value while HVAC system 500 is actively running The airflow value can be communicated to the HVAC health monitoring device 340 through a wired or wireless connection that couples the pressure sensor 335 and HVAC health monitoring device 340. HVAC health monitoring device 340 can wirelessly transmit the airflow value to the network interface 220 of the television receiver 200 via, for example, ZigBee®.

[0098] The television receiver 200 can calculate a temperature delta value based on the temperature value and an ambient temperature value. The television receiver 200 can obtain the ambient temperature value in a number of ways. For example, in some embodiments, the ambient temperature sensor 320 can obtain the ambient temperature value and communicate it to HVAC health monitoring device 340 through a wired connection that can couple the ambient temperature sensor 320 and HVAC health monitoring device 340. HVAC health monitoring device 340 can wirelessly transmit the ambient temperature value to the network interface 220 of the television receiver 200 via, for example, ZigBee®. In some embodiments, the ambient temperature value can be obtained from an ambient temperature sensor that is not coupled to HVAC health monitoring device 340. In such embodiments, the ambient temperature value can be communicated through a wired connection or a wireless connection to television receiver 200. Once the television receiver 200 has obtained the ambient temperature value, control processor 210a can calculate the delta between the temperature value and the ambient temperature value by subtracting the two values.

[0099] The television receiver 200 can compare the temperature delta value with a predetermined upper temperature delta threshold value and with a predetermined lower temperature delta threshold value. Threshold values can be stored in the storage medium 225. For example, home automation settings database 247 can contain the predetermined upper temperature delta threshold value and predetermined lower temperature delta threshold value, which can be entered into the home automation settings database 247 upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300. The threshold values can be automatically configured and stored upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300, for example, by downloading the appropriate values from the television service provider system 110. In some embodiments, the threshold values can be calculated based on a known good temperature value, which is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 7.

[0100] In some embodiments, there may be multiple upper temperature delta threshold values and multiple predetermined lower temperature delta threshold values. For example, if the air conditioner 520 were being evaluated, the upper and lower temperature delta threshold values can be lower than if the furnace 510 were being evaluated.

[0101] Additionally, there may be an upper temperature delta threshold to indicate that the temperature emitting from the HVAC system 500 is elevated due to a dirty furnace filter. For example, if the furnace filter were dirty, the air would be unable to flow as quickly past the filter. Therefore, the air may be exposed to the furnace heat source longer. As a result, the air emitting from the HVAC system 500 can have an elevated temperature, resulting in an elevated temperature delta value. Therefore, there can be a dirty furnace filter upper temperature delta threshold value.

[0102] There may also be a lower temperature delta threshold value that correlates to a pilot light failure. If, for example, the pilot light has failed, the furnace 510 may not heat the air and the temperature of the air emitting from the HVAC system 500 would be much lower than if the pilot light had not failed.

[0103] In some embodiments, when the temperature delta value is below the upper temperature delta threshold and above the lower temperature delta threshold, there is an indication that the temperature delta value is acceptable. An acceptable temperature delta value may indicate that the HVAC system 500 is running properly or that there may be no errors with the HVAC system 500.

[0104] The television receiver 200 can compare the airflow value with a predetermined upper airflow threshold value and with a predetermined lower airflow threshold value. Threshold values can be stored in the storage medium 225. For example, home automation settings database 247 can contain the predetermined upper airflow threshold value and predetermined lower airflow threshold value, which can be entered into the home automation settings database 247 upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300. The threshold values can be automatically configured and stored upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300, for example, by downloading the appropriate values from the television service provider system 110. In some embodiments, the threshold values can be calculated based on a known good airflow value, which is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 7.

[0105] In some embodiments, there may be multiple upper airflow threshold values and multiple predetermined lower airflow threshold values. For example, if the air conditioner 520 were being evaluated, the upper and lower airflow threshold values may be different than if the furnace 510 were being evaluated.

[0106] Additionally, there may be a lower airflow threshold to indicate that the pressure emitting from the HVAC system 500 is decreased or very low because the HVAC system 500 is not actively running For example, if the HVAC system 500 were not actively running, the fan on the HVAC system may not be operating. Without the fan on the HVAC system 500 to force the air through the HVAC duct 345, the airflow value would be very low. Therefore, there may be a lower airflow threshold value that indicates the HVAC system 500 is not actively running

[0107] There may also be a lower airflow threshold value that correlates to a degraded furnace filter. If, for example, the furnace filter is degraded, the air flow through the filter may be impeded. Therefore, the pressure of the air emitting from the HVAC system 500 may be lower than if the filter were not degraded. As such, a lower airflow threshold value can be implemented that indicates a degraded furnace filter.

[0108] In some embodiments, when the airflow value is below the upper airflow threshold and above the lower airflow threshold, there is an indication that the airflow value is acceptable. An acceptable airflow value may indicate that the HVAC system 500 is running properly or that there may be no errors related to the HVAC system 500.

[0109] The television receiver 200 can identify, based on at least one of the comparing the temperature delta value to the temperature delta thresholds and the comparing the airflow value to the airflow thresholds, an error with the HVAC system 500.

[0110] For example, in some embodiments, the error with the HVAC system can be identified as a degraded filter. As discussed above, there may be lower airflow threshold value that indicates a degraded filter and an upper temperature delta threshold that indicates a degraded filter. If the comparison of the airflow value with the lower airflow threshold value indicates a degraded filter and the comparison of the temperature delta value with the upper temperature delta threshold value indicates a degraded filter, the television receiver 200 can identify the HVAC system error as a degraded filter.

[0111] As another example, in some embodiments, the error with the HVAC system can be identified as a pilot light failure. As discussed above, the airflow value may be an acceptable value, falling below the upper airflow threshold and above the lower airflow threshold. Also, there may be a lower temperature delta threshold value that indicates a pilot light failure. If the comparison of the temperature delta value with the lower temperature delta threshold indicates a pilot light failure and the airflow value is an acceptable value, the television receiver 200 can identify the HVAC system error as a pilot light failure.

[0112] In some embodiments, television receiver 200 can also receive notification from the HVAC system 500 whether the HVAC system 500 is actively running, whether the furnace 510 is actively running, and/or whether air conditioner 520 is actively running In such embodiments, television receiver 200 can determine there is an HVAC system failure (e.g., furnace 510 failure and/or air conditioner 520 failure) based on the airflow value being very low. If, for example, the television receiver 200 receives an indication from HVAC system 500 is actively running, but the airflow value is at or near zero (0), the airflow value is indicating that the HVAC system is not actively running In such embodiments, the television receiver 200 can identify the error as an HVAC system failure.

[0113] In some embodiments, the error can be identified based on a trend. For example, the television receiver can use the temperature and pressure values that have been received, and in some embodiments stored in a storage device, to see that the pressure value has been rising or decreasing over time and/or that the temperature value has been rising or decreasing over time. For example, a degraded filter can be noted when the airflow value has fallen slowly over a period of time.

[0114] The television receiver 200 can send a notification of the error to a user (e.g., a warning). In some embodiments, the user can be the homeowner or a resident of the premises. In some embodiments, the user can be any other user responsible for the maintenance of house 530 or the premises in which the HVAC system 500 is included. The notification can include an alert notifying the user that there is an error, what type of error the HVAC system is experiencing, and/or remedial steps to take in response to the error. For example, if the error identified is a degraded filter, the television receiver 200 can send a notification to the user stating that there is an error, that the error is the result of a degraded filter, and/or that the user should replace the filter. In some embodiments, the notification can be sent, for example, via email, text, and/or displayed on a television in house 530.

[0115] As another example, in some embodiments, if the error identified is a pilot light failure, the television receiver 200 can send a notification to the user stating that there is an error, that the error is the result of a pilot light failure, and/or that the user should relight the pilot.

[0116] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a method 700 for using an HVAC health monitoring system, such as HVAC health monitoring system 300 (FIG. 3). The method will be described in relation to the system components described above with respect to FIGS. 3-5. While the embodiments and system components described with respect to FIGS. 3-5 are an embodiment of the present invention, other embodiments and components can be used to complete the method illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0117] An electronic device, such as the television receiver 200 shown in FIG. 2 can be used to complete method 700. For example, the television receiver 200 can receive a known good airflow value from pressure sensor 335 located at vent grate 315. An airflow value can be a known good airflow value when the measurement is taken during a known good cycle of the HVAC system 500. For example, when the HVAC system 500 is serviced, it is in a known good state. The HVAC serviceman or the homeowner can utilize a user interface, for example through the television, to calibrate the HVAC health monitoring system 300. For example, the user interface can allow the user to set the HVAC health monitoring system 300 to measure the airflow value at pressure sensor 335, and once television receiver 200 receives the airflow value television receiver 200 can mark the airflow value as a known good airflow value. In some embodiments, the control processor 210a of the television receiver 200 can store the known good airflow value in the storage medium 225. In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 can self-calibrate the HVAC health monitoring system 300. For example, in some embodiments, the television receiver 200 can recognize that after receiving multiple (e.g., 10) airflow values that are acceptable values (i.e., below the upper airflow threshold and above the lower airflow threshold), the television receiver 200 can determine that the HVAC system 500 is in a known good state. The television receiver 200 can then use the next received airflow value as the known good airflow value. In some embodiments, there may be more than one known good airflow value. For example, the known good airflow value may be different when the furnace 510 is actively running than when the air conditioner 520 is actively running In such embodiments, the multiple known good values can be marked accordingly in, for example, the home automation settings database 247. For example, the database can include fields for the known good airflow values that correlate to the active operation of the furnace 510 or the air conditioner 520 as well as information about when the known good value was captured including date, time, and method (e.g., self-captured or through the user interface).

[0118] The television receiver 200 can also receive a known good temperature value from temperature sensor 330 located at vent grate 315. A temperature value can be a known good temperature value when the measurement is taken during a known good cycle of the HVAC system 500. For example, when the HVAC system 500 is serviced, it is in a known good state. The HVAC serviceman or the homeowner can utilize a user interface, for example through the television, to calibrate the HVAC health monitoring system 300. For example, the user interface can allow the user to set the HVAC health monitoring system 300 to measure the temperature at temperature sensor 330, and once television receiver 200 receives the temperature value television receiver 200 can mark the temperature value as a known good temperature value. In some embodiments, the control processor 210a of the television receiver 200 can store the known good temperature value in the storage medium 225. In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 can self-calibrate the HVAC health monitoring system 300. For example, in some embodiments, the television receiver 200 can recognize that after receiving multiple (e.g., 10) temperature values that are acceptable values (i.e., below the upper temperature delta threshold and above the lower temperature delta threshold), the television receiver 200 can determine that the HVAC system 500 is in a known good state. The television receiver 200 can then use the next received temperature value as the known good temperature value. In some embodiments, there may be more than one known good temperature value. For example, the known temperature value may be different when the furnace 510 is actively running than when the air conditioner 520 is actively running In such embodiments, the multiple known good values can be marked accordingly in, for example, the home automation settings database 247. For example, the database can include fields for the known good temperature values that correlate to the active operation of the furnace 510 or the air conditioner 520 as well as information about when the known good value was captured including date, time, and method (e.g., self-captured or through the user interface).

[0119] The television receiver 200 can calculate the predetermined upper airflow threshold value and predetermined lower airflow threshold value based on the known good airflow value. As discussed above, there may be multiple upper airflow threshold values and lower airflow threshold values. The television receiver 200 can calculate the lower airflow threshold value, for example, by subtracting a certain pressure value from the known good value which indicates certain types of errors. For example, if a certain pressure decrease (e.g., 2 psi) indicates a degraded filter, the control processor 210a can subtract that pressure from the known good value and use the result as the lower airflow threshold value for degraded filter errors. Similarly the television receiver 200 can calculate the upper airflow threshold value by adding a certain pressure value to the known good value to indicate certain types of errors.

[0120] The television receiver 200 can calculate the predetermined upper temperature delta threshold value and the predetermined lower temperature delta threshold value based on the known good temperature value. As discussed above, there may be multiple upper temperature delta threshold values and lower temperature delta threshold values. The television receiver 200 can calculate the lower temperature delta threshold value, for example, by adding a certain temperature value to the known good value which indicates certain types of errors. For example, if a certain temperature increase (e.g., 5 degrees) indicates a degraded filter, the control processor 210a can add that temperature to the known good value and use the result as the upper temperature delta threshold value for degraded filter errors. Similarly the television receiver 200 can calculate the lower temperature delta threshold value by subtracting a certain temperature value from the known good value to indicate certain types of errors.

[0121] The television receiver 200 can store the predetermined upper airflow threshold value, the predetermined lower airflow threshold value, the predetermined upper temperature delta threshold value, and the predetermined lower temperature delta threshold value in the storage device. In some embodiments, the control processor 210a of the television receiver 200 can store the threshold values in the storage medium 225. In such embodiments, for example, the values can be stored in the home automation settings database 247. The database 247 can include fields for the threshold values that correlate to the active operation of the furnace 510 or the air conditioner 520 as well as information about the type of threshold it is correlated to (e.g., pilot light failure, HVAC system failure, etc.).

[0122] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a method 800 for using an HVAC health monitoring system, such as HVAC health monitoring system 300 (FIG. 3). The method will be described in relation to the system components described above with respect to FIGS. 3-5. While the embodiments and system components described with respect to FIGS. 3-5 are an embodiment of the present invention, other embodiments and components can be used to complete the method illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0123] An electronic device, such as the television receiver 200 shown in FIG. 2 can be used to complete method 800. For example, at 810, the television receiver 200 can receive a carbon monoxide value from a carbon monoxide sensor 325 located at vent grate 315 of HVAC system 500. More specifically, for example, the carbon monoxide sensor 325 can obtain the carbon monoxide value while HVAC system 500 is actively running In some embodiments, carbon monoxide sensor 325 can obtain the carbon monoxide value while HVAC system 500 is not actively running The carbon monoxide value can be communicated to the HVAC health monitoring device 340 through the wired connection located in tubing 350 that couples the carbon monoxide sensor 325 and HVAC health monitoring device 340. HVAC health monitoring device 340 can wirelessly transmit the carbon monoxide value to the network interface 220 of the television receiver 200 via, for example, ZigBee®.

[0124] At 820, the television receiver 200 can determine the temperature delta value is below the upper temperature delta threshold value by comparing the temperature delta value with the upper temperature delta threshold value. The television receiver 200 can also determine the temperature delta value is above the lower temperature delta threshold value by comparing the temperature delta value with the lower temperature delta threshold value. The television receiver 200 can determine that the temperature delta value falls within the acceptable region and that the temperature delta value is an acceptable value.

[0125] At 830, the television receiver 200 can determine the airflow value falls within the acceptable region for the airflow thresholds and that the airflow value is an acceptable value similarly to how it determined the temperature delta value is an acceptable value.

[0126] At 830, the television receiver 200 can compare the carbon monoxide value with a predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold value. The predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold value can be stored in a storage device, such as, for example, home automation settings database 247. The predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold value can be entered into the home automation settings database 247 upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300. The upper carbon monoxide threshold value can be automatically configured and stored upon installation of the HVAC health monitoring system 300, for example, by downloading the appropriate value from the television service provider system 110.

[0127] At 850, the television receiver 200 can determine that the carbon monoxide value is above the predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold. A carbon monoxide value that exceeds the predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold can indicate a dangerous level of carbon monoxide. A carbon monoxide value that exceeds the predetermined upper carbon monoxide threshold can indicate a leak in the heat exchanger of the furnace in HVAC system 500.

[0128] At 860, the television receiver 200 can identify the HVAC system 500 error as a leak in the heat exchanger based on the carbon monoxide value exceeding the upper carbon monoxide threshold and the temperature delta value being acceptable values.

[0129] At 870, the television receiver 200 can send a notification of the error to a user. In some embodiments, the user can be the homeowner. In some embodiments, the user can be any other user responsible for the maintenance of house 530 or the premises in which the HVAC system 500 is included. The notification can include an alert notifying the user that there is an error, what type of error the HVAC system is experiencing, and/or remedial steps to take in response to the error. The television receiver 200 can send a notification to the user, for example, that the error is a leak in the heat exchanger, the notification to the user can also include an alert to leave the premises (e.g., house 530) because the carbon monoxide levels are dangerous.

[0130] In some embodiments, the notification can be sent by displaying the notification on a display device. For example, television receiver 200 can output the notification to display device 160, thereby notifying the homeowner. In some embodiments, television receiver 200 can detect whether the display device 160 is on, and send the notification to display device 160 only if display device 160 is powered on. If display device 160 is powered off, the notification can be sent to the user or homeowner via an alternative method, such as, for example, via the user's mobile device. In some embodiments, if the display device 160 is powered off, the television receiver 200 can power the display device 160 on and output the notification to display device 160.

[0131] In some embodiments, the notification can be sent by the electronic device to the homeowner's mobile device via text message or automated phone call. For example, television receiver 200 can communicate via network interface 220 with the user or homeowner's cellular phone by sending a text message or making an automated call and if necessary leaving an automated voicemail. If, for example, television receiver 200 detects that the homeowner is not in the house 530 (perhaps, for example, via motion sensors that are installed as part of a home automation system), television receiver 200 can send the notification to the homeowner via the homeowner's mobile device. In some embodiments, the television receiver 200 may be able to detect which room the homeowner is in and turn on a display device 160 in the appropriate room occupied by the homeowner to display the notification on.

[0132] In some embodiments, the notification can be sent differently, according to predetermined settings, based on time of day and/or type of error. For example, if the detected error is not urgent (e.g., degraded filter) and/or it is late at night (e.g. 2 am) the television receiver 200 can send the notification to display device 160 next time the user or homeowner powers display device 160 on. As another example, if the detected error is very urgent (e.g., a leak in the heat exchanger resulting in elevated carbon monoxide levels), regardless of time of day, the television receiver can, for example, power some or all display devices 160 in house 530 on and display the notification and/or send the notification to the user/homeowner via text and/or phone call and/or notify the fire department of the error.

[0133] In some embodiments, the electronic device can notify the authorities as appropriate. For example, the electronic device (e.g., television receiver 200) can communicate with the police department and/or fire department when, for example, an elevated carbon monoxide value is detected.

[0134] At 880, in some embodiments, the television receiver 200 can send a signal to an electronic window opening device instructing the electronic window opening device to open the window. For example, television receiver 200 can send a signal to electronic window opening device 410 to open window 420.

[0135] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a computer system 900. A computer system 900 as illustrated in FIG. 9 may be incorporated into devices such as an STB, a first electronic device, DVR, television, media system, personal computer, and the like. Moreover, some or all of the components of the computer system 900 may also be incorporated into a portable electronic device, mobile phone, or other device as described herein. FIG. 9 provides a schematic illustration of one embodiment of a computer system 900 that can perform some or all of the steps of the methods provided by various embodiments. It should be noted that FIG. 9 is meant only to provide a generalized illustration of various components, any or all of which may be utilized as appropriate. FIG. 9, therefore, broadly illustrates how individual system elements may be implemented in a relatively separated or relatively more integrated manner.

[0136] The computer system 900 is shown comprising hardware elements that can be electrically coupled via a bus 905, or may otherwise be in communication, as appropriate. The hardware elements may include one or more processors 910, including without limitation one or more general-purpose processors and/or one or more special-purpose processors such as digital signal processing chips, graphics acceleration processors, and/or the like; one or more input devices 915, which can include without limitation a mouse, a keyboard, a camera, and/or the like; and one or more output devices 920, which can include without limitation a display device, a printer, and/or the like.

[0137] The computer system 900 may further include and/or be in communication with one or more non-transitory storage devices 925, which can comprise, without limitation, local and/or network accessible storage, and/or can include, without limitation, a disk drive, a drive array, an optical storage device, a solid-state storage device, such as a random access memory (“RAM”), and/or a read-only memory (“ROM”), which can be programmable, flash-updateable, and/or the like. Such storage devices may be configured to implement any appropriate data stores, including without limitation, various file systems, database structures, and/or the like.

[0138] The computer system 900 might also include a communications subsystem 930, which can include without limitation a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, a wireless communication device, and/or a chipset such as a Bluetooth™ device, an 802.11 device, a WiFi device, a WiMax device, cellular communication facilities, etc., and/or the like. The communications subsystem 930 may include one or more input and/or output communication interfaces to permit data to be exchanged with a network such as the network described below to name one example, other computer systems, television, and/or any other devices described herein. Depending on the desired functionality and/or other implementation concerns, a portable electronic device or similar device may communicate image and/or other information via the communications subsystem 930. In other embodiments, a portable electronic device, e.g. the first electronic device, may be incorporated into the computer system 900, e.g., an electronic device or STB, as an input device 915. In many embodiments, the computer system 900 will further comprise a working memory 935, which can include a RAM or ROM device, as described above.

[0139] The computer system 900 also can include software elements, shown as being currently located within the working memory 935, including an operating system 940, device drivers, executable libraries, and/or other code, such as one or more application programs 945, which may comprise computer programs provided by various embodiments, and/or may be designed to implement methods, and/or configure systems, provided by other embodiments, as described herein. Merely by way of example, one or more procedures described with respect to the methods discussed above, such as those described in relation to FIG. 6, 7 or 8, might be implemented as code and/or instructions executable by a computer and/or a processor within a computer; in an aspect, then, such code and/or instructions can be used to configure and/or adapt a general purpose computer or other device to perform one or more operations in accordance with the described methods.

[0140] A set of these instructions and/or code might be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as the storage device(s) 925 described above. In some cases, the storage medium might be incorporated within a computer system, such as computer system 900. In other embodiments, the storage medium might be separate from a computer system e.g., a removable medium, such as a compact disc, and/or provided in an installation package, such that the storage medium can be used to program, configure, and/or adapt a general purpose computer with the instructions/code stored thereon. These instructions might take the form of executable code, which is executable by the computer system 900 and/or might take the form of source and/or installable code, which, upon compilation and/or installation on the computer system 900 e.g., using any of a variety of generally available compilers, installation programs, compression/decompression utilities, etc., then takes the form of executable code.

[0141] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that substantial variations may be made in accordance with specific requirements. For example, customized hardware might also be used, and/or particular elements might be implemented in hardware, software including portable software, such as applets, etc., or both. Further, connection to other computing devices such as network input/output devices may be employed.

[0142] As mentioned above, in one aspect, some embodiments may employ a computer system such as the computer system 900 to perform methods in accordance with various embodiments of the technology. According to a set of embodiments, some or all of the procedures of such methods are performed by the computer system 900 in response to processor 910 executing one or more sequences of one or more instructions, which might be incorporated into the operating system 940 and/or other code, such as an application program 945, contained in the working memory 935. Such instructions may be read into the working memory 935 from another computer-readable medium, such as one or more of the storage device(s) 925. Merely by way of example, execution of the sequences of instructions contained in the working memory 935 might cause the processor(s) 910 to perform one or more procedures of the methods described herein. Additionally or alternatively, portions of the methods described herein may be executed through specialized hardware.

[0143] The terms “machine-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium,” as used herein, refer to any medium that participates in providing data that causes a machine to operate in a specific fashion. In an embodiment implemented using the computer system 900, various computer-readable media might be involved in providing instructions/code to processor(s) 910 for execution and/or might be used to store and/or carry such instructions/code. In many implementations, a computer-readable medium is a physical and/or tangible storage medium.

[0144] Such a medium may take the form of a non-volatile media or volatile media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical and/or magnetic disks, such as the storage device(s) 925. Volatile media include, without limitation, dynamic memory, such as the working memory 935.

[0145] Common forms of physical and/or tangible computer-readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, or any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, any other optical medium, punchcards, papertape, any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, or any other medium from which a computer can read instructions and/or code.

[0146] Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to the processor(s) 910 for execution. Merely by way of example, the instructions may initially be carried on a magnetic disk and/or optical disc of a remote computer. A remote computer might load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the instructions as signals over a transmission medium to be received and/or executed by the computer system 900.

[0147] The communications subsystem 930 and/or components thereof generally will receive signals, and the bus 905 then might carry the signals and/or the data, instructions, etc. carried by the signals to the working memory 935, from which the processor(s) 910 retrieves and executes the instructions. The instructions received by the working memory 935 may optionally be stored on a non-transitory storage device 925 either before or after execution by the processor(s) 910.

[0148] The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and/or various stages may be added, omitted, and/or combined. Also, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of the configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also, technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.

[0149] Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary configurations including implementations. However, configurations may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the configurations. This description provides example configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing described techniques. Various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

[0150] Also, configurations may be described as a process which is depicted as a flow diagram or block diagram. Although each may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process may have additional steps not included in the figure. Furthermore, examples of the methods may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as a storage medium. Processors may perform the described tasks.

[0151] Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the technology. Also, a number of steps may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered. Accordingly, the above description does not bind the scope of the claims.

[0152] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a user” includes a plurality of such users, and reference to “the processor” includes reference to one or more processors and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0153] Also, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, “contains”, “containing”, “include”, “including”, and “includes”, when used in this specification and in the following claims, are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups.