Clock operated thermostat having automatic changeover and optimum start

Claim 1

Clock thermostat means having automatic heat-cool changeover and optimum start functions, including: microcomputer means including real time clock means and memory means; data input means connected to said microcomputer means to input a sequence of desired heat and cool control temperature setpoints and times for a desired temperature control by said thermostat means; temperature sensor means including connection means to monitor temperature at said thermostat means; said connection means connected to said microcomputer means to communicate a temperature at said sensor means to said microcomputer means; said thermostat means further including switch means adapted to control heating and cooling equipment by said thermostat means; said microcomputer means and said memory means including automatic changeover program means and optimum start program means to insure an optimum operation of said thermostat means by starting a temperature change in advance of a time for said desired temperature control; and said program means maintaining a temperature differential of at least a determined amount between said heat and cool control temperature setpoints as the thermostat means switches through the sequence of desired heat and cool control temperature set points and to allow said program means to function without conflicting operation of said heating and cooling equipment.