INFORMATION CONTROL SYSTEM

Abstract

A system and method is used to characterize a user with properties, such as location in relation to established geo-fences, speed of traverse, projected traveling time required for a particular distance, etc. Those properties contribute to yielding a quantitative result in the calculated lead time period prior to the user arriving at a monitored space, including but not limited to a rented room in a hotel, and a house. The method uses the user's arrival time to estimate the setback temperature, which is the indoor temperature of a monitored space maintained during unattended time periods. The method also uses the user's arrival time to estimate the heated water volume to be provided, as well as, to house watch other property management interests.

Claims

1. An information control system method, comprising: (i) determining distances between one or more mobile devices and a monitored space, and whether the distances between the one or more mobile devices and the monitored space are within or beyond one or more threshold distances from the monitored space; or projecting lead time periods of one or more mobile devices before arriving at a monitored space; (ii) associating the one or more mobile devices with the monitored space in part on the pertinent users personal data and the determined distances or projected lead time periods.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining distances between one or more mobile devices and a monitored space, comprises: (i) obtaining information pertaining to the present geographic positions of the one or more mobile devices; (ii) computing distances of the present geographic positions from the monitored space.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein projecting lead time periods of one or more mobile devices before arriving at a monitored space, comprises: obtaining present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein projecting lead time periods of one or more mobile devices before arriving at a monitored space, further comprises: (i) sending to the one or more mobile devices requests for information pertaining to the present geographic positions of the one or more mobile devices; (ii) receiving from the one or more mobile devices the pertinent present geographic positions, or proximity logs.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein associating the one or more mobile devices with the monitored space in part on the pertinent users personal data and the determined distances or projected lead time periods, comprises any one or more of: (i) associating the monitored space, or one or more spaces of the monitored space, in correspondence with the one or more mobile devices in accordance with the pertinent present geographic positions, or proximity logs; (ii) obtaining and enabling utilization of the present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices arriving at the monitored space; (iii) obtaining the lead time periods, on the basis of the present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices, and sending to one or more monitored space related devices.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein associating the one or more mobile devices with the monitored space in part on the pertinent users personal data and the determined distances or projected lead time periods, further comprises any one or more of: (i) utilizing the proximity logs pertaining to the one or more mobile devices for display by one or more monitored space related devices; (ii) controlling the operative modes, as in operating or non-operating, of one or more monitored space related devices in accordance with the present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices; (iii) adjusting the operative settings of each of the one or more monitored space related devices, on the basis the operative modes, in accordance with of a calculated number of total users arriving at the monitored space with respect to time and personal attributes.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein associating the one or more mobile devices with the monitored space in part on the pertinent users personal data and the determined distances or projected lead time periods, further comprises: (i) monitoring the setting of an environmental attribute of a monitored space; (ii) determining a setback setting of the environmental attribute by calculating an arrival time on the basis of the smallest difference in the present geographic positions between the one or more monitored space associated mobile devices and the monitored space, or the smallest lead time period before arriving at the monitored space, and, in accordance with an established drive relationship and drift relationship; (iii) wherein the drive relationship describes the change of the environmental attribute of the monitored space with respect to time when being driven from a minimal setting toward a setpoint setting, whereas, the drift relationship describes the change of the environmental attribute of the monitored space with respect to time when drifting to a minimal setting from a setpoint setting; (iv) wherein the setback setting is determined such that a setback recovery time period representing a length of time that the environmental attribute of the monitored space takes to be driven from the setback setting to the setpoint setting in accordance with the established drive relationship, is equal to or less than the smallest lead time period, of the one or more mobile devices, between the present time and the corresponding calculated arrival time at the monitored space; (v) allowing the environmental attribute of the monitored space to drift to the setback setting, and driving the environmental attribute so it reaches the setpoint setting at the calculated arrival time.

8. The method according to claim 3, wherein the proximity log comprises any one or more of: (i) geographic positions; (ii) threshold distance pertinent zone information; (iii) a lead time period between the present time and the calculated arrival time of a pertinent mobile device at the monitored space, in which the lead time period is assigned as a preconfigured value when the present geographic position of the mobile device is within a threshold distance, and another preconfigured value when the present geographic position of the mobile device is beyond the threshold distance; (iv) an arrival time calculated on the basis of the lead time period of a pertinent mobile device at the monitored space.

9. The method according to claim 7, wherein the environmental attribute of the monitored space is indoor temperature, and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a temperature sensor, and at least one of a heating unit, an air conditioning unit and a ventilating unit.

10. The method according to claim 7, wherein the environmental attribute of the monitored space is a temperature of heated water reserve in a storage tank, and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a sensor for measuring the heated water temperature in the storage tank and a water heating unit.

11. The method according to claim 7, further comprising: (i) the environmental attribute of the monitored space being a reserve quantity at a predetermined temperature in a heated water storage tank and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a storage tank, a sensor for obtaining the heated water reserve quantity in the storage tank and a water heating unit; (ii) wherein the drive relationship describes the change of the heated water reserve quantity with respect to time when being driven from a minimal setting toward a setpoint setting, at which the setting of the heated water reserve quantity corresponds with a number of users based on the calculated arrival times of users, wherein the setback setting of the heated water reserve quantity corresponds with a number of present users at the monitored space, and wherein the drift relationship describes the change the said heated water reserve quantity with respect to time for being drifted to the minimal setting from the setpoint setting.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: (i) the one or more monitored space related devices include displays equipped computers, door locks, lighting systems, home appliances, climate control systems, and water heating systems; (ii) the monitored space includes hotel, house, building, or, a room within a hotel or house or building.

13. An information control system, comprising: a server possessing computing capability and coupled memory configured for storing information, and which performs: (i) determining distances between one or more mobile devices and a monitored space, and whether the distances between the one or more mobile devices and the monitored space are within or beyond one or more threshold distances from the monitored space, through obtaining the pertinent present geographic positions from the one or more mobile devices; or projecting lead time periods of one or more mobile devices before arriving at a monitored space, through receiving the pertinent geographic positions, or proximity logs, from the one or more mobile devices; (iii) associating the one or more mobile devices with the monitored space in part on the pertinent users personal data and the determined distances or projected lead time periods.

14. The system according to claim 13, further comprising utilizing the lead time periods, on the basis of the present geographic position, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices, for display by one or more monitored space related devices.

15. The system according to claim 13, further comprising any one or more of: (i) obtaining the lead time periods, on the basis of the present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices, and sending to one or more monitored space related devices; (ii) controlling the operative modes, as in operating or non-operating, of the one or more monitored space related devices in accordance with the present geographic positions, or proximity logs, pertaining to the one or more mobile devices; (iii) adjusting the operative settings of each of the one or more monitored space related devices, on the basis of the operative modes, in accordance with a calculated number of total users arriving at the monitored space with respect to time and personal attributes.

16. The system according to claim 13, further comprising any one or more of: (i) environmental attribute means monitoring the setting of an environmental attribute of the monitored space; (ii) environmental attribute means controlling a setback setting of the environmental attribute on the basis of an arrival time calculated on the basis of the smallest difference in the present geographic positions between the one or more monitored space associated mobile devices and the monitored space, or the smallest lead time period before arriving at the monitored space, and, in accordance with an established drive relationship and drift relationship; (iii) wherein the drive relationship describes the change of the environmental attribute of the monitored space with respect to time when being driven from a minimal setting toward a setpoint setting, whereas, the drift relationship describes the change of the environmental attribute of the monitored space with respect to time when drifting to a minimal setting from a setpoint setting; (iv) wherein the setback setting is determined such that a setback recovery time period representing a length of time that the environmental attribute of the monitored space takes to be driven from the setback setting to the setpoint setting in accordance with the established drive relationship, is equal to or less than the smallest lead time period, of the one or more mobile devices, between the present time and the corresponding calculated arrival time at the monitored space; (v) environmental attribute means allowing the environmental attribute of the monitored space to drift to the setback setting, and driving the environmental attribute so it reaches the setpoint setting at the calculated arrival time.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the environmental attribute of the monitored space is indoor temperature, and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a temperature sensor, and at least one of a heating unit, an air conditioning unit and a ventilating unit.

18. The system according to claim 16, wherein the environmental attribute of the monitored space is a temperature of heated water reserve in a storage tank, and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a sensor for measuring the heated water temperature in the storage tank and a water heating unit.

19. The system according to claim 16, further comprising: (i) the environmental attribute of the monitored space being a reserve quantity at a predetermined temperature in a heated water storage tank and in which the environmental attribute means comprises a storage tank, a sensor for obtaining the heated water reserve quantity in the storage tank and a water heating unit; (ii) wherein the drive relationship describes the change of the heated water reserve quantity with respect to time when being driven from a minimal setting toward a setpoint setting, at which the setting of the heated water reserve quantity corresponds with a number of users based on the calculated arrival times of users, wherein the setback setting of the heated water reserve quantity corresponds with a number of present users at the monitored space, and wherein the drift relationship describes the change the said heated water reserve quantity with respect to time for being drifted to the minimal setting from the setpoint setting.

20. The system according to claim 13, further comprising: (i) the one or more monitored space related devices include displays equipped computers, door locks, lighting systems, home appliances, climate control systems, and water heating systems; (ii) the monitored space includes hotel, house, building, or, a room within a hotel or house or building.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The drawings constitute to embodiments of the present invention and serve to depict the apparatuses infrastructure and operating principles.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram representation of the present invention of the tracking system.

[0014] FIG. 2A depicts a traveling trace of user carried mobile device with respect to a polygonal geo-fenced area.

[0015] FIG. 2B depicts the locations of user carried mobile device at different instantaneous times with respect to a circular geo-fenced area.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a graph depicting the calculated thermal drift & drive relationships within a monitored space, using a non-linear equation.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a graph depicting the thermal drift & drive relationships within a monitored space, identifying recorded data samples over a period of time.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting a method to calculate setback room temperature settings, and the projected heated water consumption quantity, using the user location and projected user's arrival time at a hotel.

[0019] FIG. 6A is a graph depicting the historic heated water consumption rate on an average day at a hotel.

[0020] FIG. 6B is a graph depicting the recorded heated water consumption rate, and projected heated water consumption rate based on a plurality of projected users' arrival times at a hotel.

[0021] FIG. 7A depicts a schedule for allocating human resources in service provisions with prioritization in accordance with rented room users' arrival times.

[0022] FIG. 7B is a flow chart depicting a method to house watch a monitored space.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The present invention may be better understood with reference to embodiments depicted by supporting drawings, however, it is not intended that the invention be restricted to those depicted embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that variations and modifications can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention as defined by the claims. It is therefore intended to include within the invention all such variations and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates the present invention in environment 100, in which certain preferences in geo-fence details, operating parameters and controls information are selectively sent from application server 110 to mobile device 103. Mobile device 103 is enabled to transmit preferred messages to application server 110 for data logging. Application server 110 performs projection of the arrival time at the rented room of the user carrying mobile device 103. At any time, the user can send a manually entered arrival time through mobile device 103 to application server 110.

[0025] Geo-location system 101 is a terrestrial or satellite based positioning system; some of which include but not limited to the Beidou Navigation System, Differential GPS (DGPS), Eurofix DGPS, Global Positioning System (GPS), pertaining to the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). In other types of positioning systems, geo-location system 101 comprising cellular communication towers, or other systems providing reference points, transmit RF signals that are received by mobile device 103.

[0026] Mobile device 103 encompasses embedded device 104 (e.g. an onboard computer with memory means (not shown) and limited functionality), geo-receiver 105, telematics device 106 and the corresponding antennae 108, 107. Embedded device 104 is wirelessly loaded with operating parameters, which include but not limited to the geo-fence boundary definitions, the clock time, and the polling interval, etc. Mobile devices 103 include a cellular phone, and a handheld device possessing wireless communication connectivity, such as a tablet computer, and the like.

[0027] Typically, geo-receiver 105 processes geo-location system 101 sent signals received by antenna 108, for obtainment of the concurrent location of mobile device 103. In one embodiment, mobile device 103 determines its location by engaging in the trilateration process. Telematics device 106 transmits to application server 110 via antenna 107at constant or variable specific frequency in time as per the preconfigured polling intervalcoded wireless messages comprising the present location and a unique identifier of mobile device 103. In an alternative embodiment, mobile device 103 transmits to application server 110 by telematics device 106 via antenna 107 said coded wireless messages at a defined polling interval in accordance with received application server 110 sent periodic probe requests.

[0028] Application server 110 receives information encompassing the mobile device 103 location and unique identifier via network 102. Application server 110 executes a program which calculates the lead time period pertaining to the user's arrival time at the related rented room. Alternatively, application server 110 assigns a predefined lead time period on the basis of the geo-fenced arearelated to a geo-fence boundaryin which mobile device 103 is located. The lead time period and the operating parameters of mobile device 103 may be changed in accordance with change in the mobile device 103 located geo-fenced area. Application server 110 may be any equipment capable of facilitating two way communications with telematics device 106 on mobile device 103. In another embodiment, mobile device 103 calculates the lead time period pertaining to the user's arrival time at the related rented room; it sends the most updated proximity logencompassing at least the calculated lead time period and the unique identifierto application server 110 in said coded wireless messages.

[0029] A library of predefined geo-fence boundaries, the polling interval at constant or variable frequency directing data logging between application server 110 and mobile device 103, quantitative calculations performed by application server 110, and other information such as personal data of the user, is stored in memory means 111 and retrieved by application server 110 via a wired or wireless communicative network. Memory means 111, working with or within application server 110, can be any device, including magnetic, optical or solid-state memory; where stored information can be changed via a communicatively connected thin client 113.

[0030] In an outdoor environment for use with geo-location system 101, network 102 uses a combination of wireless and landline communication infrastructure such as a cellular telecommunication system and the internet, provides two-way data logging between telematics device 106 and application server 110.

[0031] On the other hand, the wireless and landline communication infrastructure of network 102 pertinent to an indoor tracking system, as depicted in FIG. 1, typically encompasses a combination of WLAN/Ethernet. Wherein, user carried mobile device 103 possessing Bluetooth communicative components and functionality is continually tracked through a node based mesh network (not shown) constructed on basis of a plurality of Bluetooth beacons 112. Bluetooth beacon 112 transmits a signal to mobile device 103 in the indoor environment, and transports the returning signal to the communicatively connected application server 110. Operatively similar to said outdoor tracking system, the proximity log encompassing the lead time period pertaining to the user's arrival time at the related rented room is obtained by application server 110 on basis of the position of mobile device 103.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 2A, geo-fenced area 203 is the area within a polygonal geo-fence boundary 204. The geo-fenced area 203 has a center-of-mass 201, and a computed circular approximation 205 with radius 202, corresponding to the maximum offset between the computed center-of-mass 201 and the furthest edge of geo-fence boundary 204. The dotted trace 220 depicts an exemplary path of mobile device 103 crossing geo-fence boundary 204 and traveling away from center-of-mass 201, being the related rented room at a hotel, as in one embodiment.

[0033] In FIG. 2A, a zone of Level 0 is defined as an area beyond circular approximation 205: a zone of Level 1 may be defined as the area within circular approximation 205. Application server 110 can alter the shape of geo-fence boundary 204 within zone Level 1, in accordance with preconditioning factors pertinent to traffic conditions, time of the day, the unique identifier of mobile device 103 and characteristics of the user or the related rented room, etc.

[0034] In one embodiment, application server 110 correlates the data pertinent to the real-time location of the user carrying mobile device 103 to a preconfigured lead time period t.sub., which is the time period between the concurrent time and the projected user's arrival time at center-of-mass 201. For instance, a preconfigured value is assigned for lead time period t.sub.1 when mobile device 103 is at position 211, and within the geo-fenced area 203; another preconfigured value is assigned for lead time period t.sub.2 when mobile device 103 is at position 212, which is outside geo-fence boundary 204.

[0035] Referring now to FIG. 2B, illustrated is geo-fenced area 253 pertaining to circular geo-fence boundary 254. Geo-fence boundary 254 having radius 252 has been defined around central point 251, being the rented room at the hotel, as in one embodiment. The dotted trace 221 depicts an exemplary path of mobile device 103 crossing geo-fence boundary 254 and traveling toward central point 251. A zone of Level 0 is defined as an area outside geo-fence boundary 254: a zone of Level 1 is the area within geo-fence boundary 254. Application server 110 can alter the coverage of zone Level 1 within geo-fence boundary 254, in accordance with preconditioning factors pertinent to traffic conditions, time of the day, the unique identifier of mobile device 103 and characteristics of the user or the related rented room, etc.

[0036] In an alternative embodiment, application server 110 correlates the data pertinent to the real-time location of mobile device 103 to a mathematical calculation of lead time period t.sub., as follows:

[00001]$.Math..Math.t_a=.Math.\frac{d}{V}$

where t.sub. is the lead time period between the concurrent time and the projected user's arrival time at the rented room of central point 251; represents a preconfigured factor pertinent to the uncertain preconditions affecting lead time period t.sub., such as time of the day, the unique identifier of mobile device 103 and characteristics of the user or the related rented room, etc.; d is the distance between the concurrent location of the monitored mobile device 103 and central point 251; v is the user's velocity of travel, which may be calculated, using:

[00002]$\begin{array}{cc}v=\frac{\left(d_2-d_1\right)}{\left(t_2-t_1\right)}& \left[2\right]\end{array}$

where v, is periodically calculated on basis of the time difference to travel from one location to another. For instance, v is indicated by the difference between d.sub.1 (traversal distance between first position 261 and central point 251), and d.sub.2 (traversal distance between second position 262 and central point 251), divided by the difference of t.sub.1 (instantaneous time recorded at first position 261), and t.sub.2 (instantaneous time recorded at second position 262). Other formulae and methods may seem fit in different situations where appropriate and therefore can also be applied for calculation of lead time period t.sub. Application server 110 performs the calculations and sends the calculated values of lead time period t.sub. to control station 120 and other systems.

[0037] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary methods disclosed herein may be applied to any geo-fenced area represented by any number of shapes and sizes. A geo-fence around a center of mass may range in complexity from a line to a highly irregular shape which more accurately follows the landscape of the hotel premises and neighborhood. There are a number of methods for constructing these geo-fences which will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

Thermal Drift & Drive Relationships

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary temperature change in an indoor space, wherein the outdoor temperature is lower than indoor setpoint temperature T.sub.set of the space. Ambient temperature T.sub.amb is the temperature at which indoor temperature T(t) will theoretically reach in accordance with indefinite increase in time t, when the HVAC heating operation is off; it is at a constant level in this case for demonstration purposes.

[0039] Drift curve 300-1 represents the drift process of indoor temperature T(t) with respect to time, beginning at a rapid rate decreasing from setpoint temperature T.sub.set as indoor temperature T(t) approaches the steady-state temperature, which is substantially the same as ambient temperature T.sub.amb Drive curve 300-2 represents the drive process of indoor temperature T(t) of the space being driven from ambient temperature T.sub.amb up to setpoint temperature T.sub.set in relation to time during a HVAC heating operation. The drive rate is decreasing as indoor temperature T(t) approaches setpoint temperature T.sub.set. The required time period to drift indoor temperature T(t) from one level to another varies in accordance with time and season, as well as other factors such as the weather and energy sinks within the space. In contrast, drive curve 300-2 is dependent on the unique space environment, and HVAC system performance. The data pertaining to the relationships between temperature responses to HVAC operation must be obtained to project the time period for indoor temperature T(t) to drift from one point to another, as well as the time to drive indoor temperature T(t) from one point to another. For a cooled room on a warm day, the principles are the same, yet the directions of increasing temperature on the y-axis would be inverted.

[0040] In one embodiment, mathematical functions may be used to describe the temperature responses through drift curve 300-1 and drive curve 300-2. In an exemplary use case, Newton's Law of Cooling is used for calculation of the drift and drive performances. The rate of change of indoor temperature T(t) over time dT/dt, is proportional to the difference between indoor temperature T(t) and ambient temperature T.sub.amb. A differential equation is used in a mathematical form, as follows:

[00003]$\frac{\mathrm{dT}}{\left(T-T_{\mathrm{amb}}\right)}=k.Math.\mathrm{dt}$

where indoor temperature T(t) corresponds to a drift process from setpoint temperature T.sub.set to ambient temperature T.sub.amb. Solving the differential equation, we yield an equation having indoor temperature T(t) as a function of time:

T(t)=T.sub.amb+(T.sub.setT.sub.amb)e.sup.-kt [4]

where k is a constant dependent on the surrounding environment within the space. Having measured indoor temperature T(t) at any time t, and knowing ambient temperature T.sub.amb, the value of k can be easily sorted.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, application server 110 obtains ambient temperature T.sub.amb, indoor temperature T(t) pertaining to the drift and drive data from environmental attribute means 130, records, and stores the data in memory means 111. In yet another embodiment, application server 110 receives a data feed from control station 120, or other external sources, comprising drift and drive data of indoor temperature T(t), and ambient temperature T.sub.amb. Calculations, data recording and external information source pertaining to obtainment of drift data, drive data and ambient temperature T.sub.amb, can be continually processed, stored in memory means 111, and used for studying indoor temperature T(t) responses versus time t during a HVAC cooling or heating operation in a space.

[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary indoor temperature T(t) response in accordance with drift curve 400-1 and drive curve 400-2. Dotted curve 400-3 of the fluctuating ambient temperature T.sub.amb varies in compliance with outdoor temperature changes during the day.

[0043] Setback temperature T.sub.sb is a temperature level of an unoccupied rented room maintained by a HVAC system, which is intended to resume to setpoint temperature within a short time after user entry. The required time to drive setback temperature T.sub.sb to setpoint temperature T.sub.set is recovery time period t.sub.rwhich is dependent on the HVAC system capacity. It is better expressed as:

t.sub.r=t.sub.sett.sub.sb [5]

where t.sub.set is the time at which indoor temperature T(t) is driven toward setpoint temperature T.sub.set; t.sub.sb is the starting time of the drive process, at which indoor temperature T(t) equals to setback temperature T.sub.sb.

[0044] In one embodiment, application server 110 calculates recovery time period t.sub.r on the basis of the obtained user's arrival lead time period t.sub., then extrapolates the corresponding indoor setback temperature T.sub.sb, based on the relationships between the temperature responses and time in a drift process and a drive process. Attention is drawn with care to make sure that recovery time period t.sub.r should be within lead time period t.sub.60 to complete drive of setback temperature T.sub.sb to setpoint temperature T.sub.set:

t.sub.rt.sub.[6]

Or,

t.sub.r=.Math.t.sub.

Where represents a preconfigured factor mathematically describing the uncertainty affecting lead time period t.sub.. In another embodiment, recovery time period t.sub.r is also expressed as:

t.sub.r=r.Math.|T.sub.setT.sub.sb|[7]

where recovery rate r (expressed in unit time per unit temperature, such as seconds per C) is the rate for the HVAC system to drive indoor temperature toward setpoint temperature T.sub.set. Recovery rate r is calculated as follows:

[00004]$r=\frac{\left(t_{\mathrm{set}}-t\right)}{.Math.T_{\mathrm{set}}-T\left(t\right).Math.}$

where T(t) is the indoor temperature of the space during any time t.

[0045] Data encompassing recovery rate r in relation with ambient temperature T.sub.amb can be stored in memory means 111. Any technique of calculating and combining the most recently calculated recovery rate r and an archived recovery rate r can also be utilized.

[0046] Other than recovery rate r yielded by equation [8] or others, the manufacturer of the HVAC system also provides the recommended recover rate r.sub.m under different ambient conditions for assurance of optimal operative efficacies and equipment life span. Therefore, recovery rate r should be maintained at a rate not exceeding the recommended recover rate r.sub.m:

rr.sub.m [9]

Or,

r=.Math.r.sub.m

where represents a preconfigured factor mathematically describing variables affecting recovery rate r in a temperature drive operation. Substituting equations [6] and [9] into equation [7]:

[00005]$\begin{array}{cc}{T}_{\mathrm{sb}}=T_{\mathrm{set}}-\frac{\left(.Math..Math..Math.t_a\right)}{\left(.Math.r_m\right)}& \left[9\right]\end{array}$

setback indoor temperature T.sub.sb of a space using lead time period t.sub., is yielded.

[0047] These drift and drive parameters are used in the methods of the invention for determining the corresponding setback temperature T.sub.sb, as shown in flow chart 500 of FIG. 5. Typically, application server 110 determines the values of setback temperature T.sub.sb in the unoccupied rented room, while receiving different location related information pertaining to mobile device 103. It is realized that application server 110 receives information encompassing whether the rented room status is unoccupied, from a separate system.

[0048] At step 510, application server 110 periodically receives data pertaining to the rented room from control station 120, including setpoint temperature T.sub.set, indoor temperature T(t) and ambient temperature T.sub.amb, and stores the data in memory means 111 for mathematical establishment of thermal drift & drive relationships as illustrated in an exemplary graphical form in FIG. 4. It is worthwhile to point out that the objective conditionssuch as ambient temperature T.sub.ambare continuously changing; said thermal drift & drive relationships are on a continually updated mathematical platform that affects the calculated results.

[0049] In one embodiment, a user carrying mobile device 103 departs from the rented room. At step 520, application server 110 receives the proximity log from mobile device 103 carried by the user of the rented roomsaid information including but not limited to indicating the operative environment for tracking mobile device 103 being outdoor or indoor based. At the same time, application server 110 determines if the rented room is unoccupied on basis of information received from at least one other communicatively connected system. Application server 110 analyzes the proximity log and ends the process if the rented room status is identified as checked-out. Conversely, application server 110 projects the time at which the user will return to the rented room and determines a corresponding setback indoor temperature T.sub.ab, on basis of archived numerical thermal drift and drive data. The process proceeds to step 530.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 2B, application server 110 receives the proximity log from mobile device 103 corresponding to the first position 261 recorded at the first instantaneous time t.sub.1, and determines the value of d.sub.1 (traversal distance between first position 261 and central point 251). At step 530, application server 110in one embodimentuses a preconfigured value of lead time period t.sub.1 on basis of position 261 being outside geo-fenced area 253, and calculates the corresponding recovery time period t.sub.r1, using equation [6]. Application server 110 extrapolates the corresponding setback indoor temperature T.sub.sb1, based on the temperature responses in a drift process and drive process of the rented room as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, application server 110 calculates setback temperature T.sub.sb1 by using equation [10]. At step 540, application server 110 sends data pertaining to setback temperature T.sub.sb1 to control station 120, for controlling HVAC system of environmental attribute means 130 in maintaining temperature of the rented room at a less energy demanding setback temperature T.sub.sb1. The process returns to step 510. In a further embodiment, application server 110 receives the proximity log from mobile device 103 corresponding to the second position 262 recorded at the second instantaneous time t.sub.2, and determines the value of d.sub.2 (traversal distance between second position 262 and central point 251). At step 530, application server 110 calculates the user's velocity of travel v, using equation [2]:

[00006]$\begin{array}{cc}v=\frac{\left(d_2-d_1\right)}{\left(t_2-t_1\right)}& \left[2\right]\end{array}$

substituting velocity v into equation [1] to yield lead time period t.sub.2, application server 110 calculates the corresponding recovery time period t.sub.r2, using equation [6].

[0051] Application server 110 extrapolates the corresponding setback indoor temperature T.sub.sb2, based on the temperature responses in a drift process and drive process of the rented room as shown in FIG. 4. Alternatively, application server 110 calculates setback temperature T.sub.sb2 by using equation [10]. At step 540, application server 110 sends data pertaining to setback temperature T.sub.sb2 to control station 120. Control station 120 initiates HVAC system of environmental attribute means 130 for adjusting indoor temperature T(t) from setback temperature T.sub.sb1 to setback temperature T.sub.sb2. Setback temperature T.sub.sb2 will be driven to setpoint temperature T.sub.set within recovery time period t.sub.r2.

Provision of Heated Water and Services

[0052] In another aspect of the invention, the tracking system is applied to projection of the total number of tracked users at the hotel with respect to time. Having obtained each tracked user's time of departing, and time of arriving at the hotel in accordance with the user's proximity log, yields the estimated number of total users at the hotel during any time of the day. In furtherance, the settings of the temperature and the reserve volume in the hotel water heater system of environmental attribute means 130 can be projected.

[0053] The hotel's daily heated water consumption pattern is a function of the number of users and time, whereas, controls in heated water supply apply to the water flow, as well as, the heat flow. FIG. 6A illustrates the heated water consumption rate on a typical day at a hotel having an occupancy rate of 70% in an exemplary profile 600: recorded peaks exist between 6 p.m.-7 a.m. (90%-100% users on-site), 12 p.m.-1 p.m. (30%-45% users on-site), and 7 p.m.-8 p.m. (60-80% users on-site).

[0054] An exemplary profile 601 in FIG. 6B depicts the heated water consumption rate on an average day at a hotel with a 90% occupancy rate; wherein recorded data is available up to the concurrent time at 9:30 a.m. The typical historic records stored in memory means 111 (FIG. 1) including but not limited to the archived profile 600, and the projected number of users at the hotel, are attributes to establishing profile 601. The first recorded peak 601-1 exists between 6 a.m.-7 a.m. (90%-100% users on-site).

[0055] In one embodiment, application server 110 projects the total number of users at the hotel at any time, by subtracting each departed tracked user with respect to the recorded departure time, and adding an arriving tracked user with respect to the projected arrival time at the hotel, in addition to an estimated number of residing untracked users. The typical per user consumption rate of heated water at peak demand is 45 liter/hour, whereas a typical daily per user consumption of heated water at 60-160 liters. The projection on heated water consumption rate may be segregated into 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with a prime accuracy within 4 hours from concurrent time, and at a secondary accuracy from 1:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. The projected peak 601-2 at 12 p.m-1 p.m. and projected peak 601-3 at 7 p.m.-9 p.m. are shown in profile 601, which is continually amended with most recently recorded and calculated lead time period t.sub. pertinent to each tracked user.

[0056] In yet another embodiment, application server 110 calculates the required volume of heated water in a storage tank type water heater at setpoint temperature, typically between 48 C. to 60 C., which is readily for use. Energy conservation may be achieved by consistently maintaining a minimal 30 liter per user of heated water volume, or V, at setpoint temperature. The total required heated water volume in storage at any time, V.sub.tot, can be found:

V.sub.tot=n.Math.v [11]

where n is total number of users at the hotel.

[0057] The heated water consumption V within a time period .sub.t can be sought, using the following equation:

V=n.Math.Q.Math.t [12]

where Q is the per user flow rate of heated water use.

[0058] Application server 110 continually projects the total number of users n, for establishment of a database pertaining to profile 601. At step 540 of FIG. 5, application server 110 transports the related information to one or more separate systems, which includes at least one of control station 120, and water heater system of environmental attribute means 130.

Resource Allocation and Service Provision

[0059] The tracking system of the invention also applies to human resources allocation in hotelier operations. Referring to FIG. 7A, table 700 is an exemplary dynamic schedule indicating priority in providing housekeeping services in a five story hotel. This schedule can be displayed via a communicatively connected device, including but not limited to mobile device 103, and thin client 113 (FIG. 1).

[0060] Slot 701 shows the clock time used by the tracking system. Slot 702 indicates different states of a rented room. Application server 110 receives a message from a separate, communicatively connected system indicating the status of each hotel room as not rented, unoccupied, etc. Referring to FIG. 2A, the lead time period t.sub. of a user pertaining to a rented room at center-of-mass 201 is determined on the basis of a single geo-fence boundary 204 with geo-fenced area 203 pertaining to 20 minute traffic time. The lead time period t.sub. relating to the time period before the user returns to center-of-mass 201 is determined at 20 minutes, given the tracked user location is within the geo-fenced area. The lead time period t.sub. is suggested at 20 minutes+ otherwise. Application server 110 changes the lead time period t.sub. related to each unoccupied rented room in table 700 in accordance with the periodically updated proximity log of the corresponding tracked user. The housekeeping staff can prioritize the unoccupied rented rooms to be serviced; and change the room status through said communicatively connected device as room cleaned, upon completion of the housekeeping task.

House Watching a Monitored Space

[0061] The tracking system of the invention house watches a monitored space in accordance with the continually updated attributes, as well as, proximity logs of one or more mobile devices 103 carried by the related tracked users. In one aspect, the tracking system determines the security status, and the operative modes of a plurality of devices 140 within or related to a monitored house, in accordance with an exemplary method 750 in FIG. 7B.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, application server 110 determines whether one or more mobile devices 103 are within or outside the pertinent monitored house, in accordance with the corresponding proximity logs. At step 751 of process 750, application server 110 periodically receives signal transmissions, including but not limited to data comprising the occupancy attribute from occupancy attribute means 150 pertaining to the monitored house, as well as, said one or more mobile devices 103.

[0063] At step 752, application server 110 analyzes the signal transmissions. In one embodiment, signal transmissions are disrupted or discontinuedapplication server 110 sends a probe signal to control station 120 via network 102, and the response is incompliant with preconfigured parameters. At step 753, application server 110 sends an alert to a third party, comprising at least one of the property management, security organization, mobile device 103, and thin client 113. In a contrary embodiment, signal transmissions incompliance between control station 120 and application server 110 are not experienced, process 750 proceeds to step 754. Wherein, application server 110 analyzes said occupancy attribute.

[0064] In one embodiment, application server 110 determines that the house is occupied, or, application server 110 receives a message comprising change in said occupancy of the house; wherein, such change comprises a few aspects. In one exemplary aspect, device 140 comprising a door lock detects a visiting party's attempt to switch the locked state to unlocked state, and sends a corresponding signal to application server 110.

[0065] At step 755, application server 110 analyzes the proximity logs of said one or more mobile devices 103. If application server 110 fails to verify the identities of occupants in the occupied house, or, the identity of said visiting party attempting to switch the locked state to the unlocked state of a door lock pertinent to the unoccupied house, an alert is sent to said third party in accordance with step 753. In a different embodiment, the identities of occupants are verified, alternatively, the identity of said visiting party is verified. In a further embodiment, application server 110 determines in accordance with the proximity logs, one or more mobile device 103 are approaching the house within a close proximity threshold. Process 750 proceeds to step 756.

[0066] At step 756, application server 110 distinguishes said verified occupants, or verified said visiting party, or verified said approaching one or more mobile device 103, by analyzing the identifiers and the corresponding proximity logs. In accordance with the results of identity distinguishment, application server 110 sends one or more signals for receipt by said plurality of devices 140 to change the operative mode from an unattended state to a user configured state, or, from an unattended state to a management state. In one embodiment, application server 110 receives the audit trail from a door lock pertaining to device 140, records in memory means 111 (FIG. 1) and sends to said third party time-in and time-out of all entries and exits, in accordance with the results of identity verification and distinguishment.

[0067] In an alternative embodiment, application server 110 determines that the monitored house is unoccupied. At step 757, application server 110 sends to control station 120, one or more signals for receipt by a plurality of devices 140, to change the operative mode to an unattended state. Process 750 proceeds to step 758.

[0068] At step 758, application server 110 determines if there is change, including but not limited to the pertinence between said one or more mobile devices 103, and said monitored house. In one embodiment, application server 110 determines no said changeprocess 750 returns to step 751. In an alternative embodiment, application server 110 determines said change. In one exemplary aspect, the pertinence between said one or more mobile devices 103 and said housebeing a leaseis discontinued upon check-out. Process 750 is ended.

[0069] Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

TERMINOLOGY

[0070] External Devicecommunicatively connected to the system, including but not limited to a door lock, a light fixture, a home appliance, a safe, etc. Thin Clienta network linked electronic device with computing capacity, such as a microcomputer or a handheld personal digital assistant (PDA), etc. Off Modepower disconnection. Operative Modea device operating at an unspecified level. Management Statean operative mode of a device operating at configurations imposed by property management, including but not limited to reduced power consumption. Unattended Statean operative mode of a device operating at different levels, comprising: reduced power consumption, including but not limited to sleep mode and standby mode; alternatively, a device is configured to set off an alarm if the physical state is changed, including but not limited to locked to unlocked, closed to open; and, code/PIN entry for attempt of open or use. User Configured Statean operative mode of a device performing at a user specified level, selected from functions, security level, or power consumption.