Abstract:
A system for a user to control a thermostat temperature setting includes a master code by which an operator gains access to the system to set the parameters by which the general user can access the system and change the temperature setting. The general user gains access by keying in a password, which may be permanent or temporary, manipulating a key in a lock mechanism, or by providing a biometric reading through a biometric reading device. The biometric readings can include one or more characteristics including thumb print, finger print, retinal scan, iris scan, and facial image. The operator with the master code enables or disables the various means of access for the general user, and can also schedule automatic thermostat adjustments at various times and dates.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to thermostat security systems and more specifically to a thermostat security system that is access controlled to prevent unauthorized changing of temperature settings. 
     2. Description of the Prior Art 
     There are other thermostat security systems. Typical of these is U.S. Pat. No. 4,133,286 issued to Linton on Jan. 9, 1979. 
     Another patent was issued to Fodera on Sep. 13, 1983 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,403,646. Yet another U.S. Pat. No. 4,663,951 was issued to Poulin on May 12, 1987 and still yet another was issued on Jun. 27, 1989 to Parker et al. as U.S. Pat. No. 4,843,084. 
     Another patent was issued to Parker et al. on Nov. 28, 1989 as U.S. Pat. No. 4,884,214. Another patent was issued to Smith et al on Jun. 25, 1996 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,230. Another patent was issued to Johnson et al. on Oct. 28, 1997 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,475. Another patent was issued to Ratcliffe et al on Nov. 4, 1997 as U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,949. Another patent was issued to Lawrence on May 1, 2001 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,223,993 B1. Another patent was issued to Kline et al. on Jun 5, 2001 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,156 B1. Another patent was issued to Natale et al. on Jul. 17, 2001 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,260,765 B1. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,133,286 
     Inventor: Jonathan L. Linton 
     Issued: Jan. 9, 1979 
     An adjustable thermostat as disclosed having an adjustment stem journaled for rotation on the thermostat body for adjusting the operating temperature of the thermostat. Mounted on the adjusting stem is a pointer member formed of deformable material such as Nylon and providing a peripheral surface which engages with interference stationary surfaces on the thermostat body. Interengagement is provided between the peripheral surface and the stationary surfaces which causes deformation of the pointer member and creates friction resisting rotation of the pointer and of the adjusting stem. A detent-like structure is provided by flats formed on the peripheral surface of the pointer which mate with the corresponding surfaces of the body to tend to lock the pointer and in turn adjusting stem at a predetermined temperature. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,403,646 
     Inventor: Anthony W. Fodera 
     Issued: Sep. 13, 1983 
     A thermostat device for motels/hotels requiring the guest use a key to select a desired room temperature which in turn requires that the thermostat must be set back to a preset temperature when guest desires to lock the door to his motel/hotel room upon leaving the room. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,663,951 
     Inventor: Fernand H. Poulin 
     Issued: May 12, 1987 
     A security device for a thermostat comprising a housing for said thermostat, a lid member secured to the housing for movement between an opened position and a closed position, to gain and prevent access to the thermostat, respectively. The thermostat has a rotatable thermostat adjustment shaft extending exteriorly of the housing for manual manipulation thereof. A lock member is mounted in the housing for movement between a first position whereat the lock member lockingly engages the adjustment shaft to prevent rotation thereof and engages the lid member to prevent opening thereof and a second position whereat the lock member is disengaged from the adjustment shaft and the lid member permitting manual manipulation of the shaft or opening of the lid member and a key-operated actuating member disposed in the housing and extending exteriorly of the housing for displacing the lock member between its first and second positions. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,843,084 
     Inventor: Jeffrey L. Parker, et al. 
     Issued: Jun. 27, 1989 
     A microcomputer-controlled thermostat for use in monitoring and controlling a single zone HVAC system which provides conditioned air to one or more zones. The thermostat can be programmed and used either as a monitor thermostat to control the HVAC unit alone and/or to control the HVAC unit and its damper in a multiple zone mode. The thermostat is also programmed as a slave thermostat in a master-slave relationship with a monitor thermostat. The microcomputer memory is supplemented with additional ROM containing control algorithms for use in system operation. Logic circuitry is used to recognize commands as being for operation of the HVAC unit, the operation of the damper, or selection of which systems sensors are to be enabled. A real time clock circuit in the monitor thermostat is used to supply data for time-based system operation. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,884,214 
     Inventor: Jeffrey L. Parker, et al. 
     Issued: Nov. 28, 1989 
     A microcomputer-controlled thermostat for use in monitoring and controlling a single zone HVAC system which provides conditioned air to one or more zones. The thermostat can be programmed and used either as a monitor thermostat to control the HVAC unit alone and/or to control the HVAC unit and its damper in a multiple zone mode. The thermostat is also programmed as a slave thermostat in a master-slave relationship with a monitor thermostat. The microcomputer memory is supplemented with additional ROM containing control algorithms for use in system operation. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,230 
     Inventor: Andrew M. Smith, et al. 
     Issued: Jun. 25, 1996 
     A new variable password safety interlock system for microwave ovens and other computerized or electrical appliance allows the user to dynamically and automatically generate a new password immediately prior to each use. The variable password comprises some prearranged transposition or combination of numbers of digits that were already entered into the microwave control panel by the user. The user first enters digits representing the microwave time, the target food temperature, the microwave power level, the actual time of day on display or some other required combination of digits or microwave console buttons, and then presses the “Start” button. The new value of the variable password for that use of the microwave will be some prearranged transposition or combination of the digits, numbers or buttons that had just previously been pressed by the user and that appeared on the microwave control panel at the moment the user pressed the “Start” button. Preferably, the password is the digits of the microwave heating time just entered by the user but in reverse order. The password does not require memorization and is easy for the user to compute because the numbers are on display to the user. This password safety interlock is child-proof because a young child will be unable to compute the ephemeral and varying password needed to operate the microwave. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,475 
     Inventor: William J. Johnson, et al. 
     Issued: Oct. 28, 1997 
     A method and system are provided for controlling access to a data processing system through the use of a variable password. In one embodiment, the invention substitutes the value of a variable into an expression contained in a predefined password, evaluates the expression and password, and compares the result of the valuation of the password to a character string input to the data processing system, granting access if they are identical. A range of values of certain characters of the password may be permitted. The password may require that certain characters be entered within a defined time interval measured from the entry of other characters. The values of environment variables, which are referenced by the variable password, may change from time to time, as a function, for example, of the current time or temperature or system utilization. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,682,949 
     Inventor: Edward L. Ratcliffe, et al. 
     Issued: Nov. 4, 1997 
     This document describes an energy management system in which microprocessor based thermostats are used to control individual room temperatures in a multiple room building in accordance with the known occupancy status of the room. The occupancy status information, as well as other control parameters, are transmitted to the thermostats from a central computer program. The control of a heating and cooling appliances is performed by an algorithm running on the electronic thermostat, which performs this function in accordance with these downloaded parameters. The system, allows room occupants to control the temperature of an occupied room within preset limits, automatically limits energy usage in unoccupied rooms, and provides additional facilities for energy management and general building management. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,223,993 B1 
     Inventor: Walter C. Lawrence 
     Issued: May 1, 2001 
     A climate control system is provided including a vacuum pump for generating a vacuum upon actuation. Also included is a thermostat for generating the activation signal upon a current temperature within the associated room being out of a predetermined range. At least one vent assembly is provided including a plurality of vanes pivotally mounted within the frame and having an unbiased open orientation for allowing the flow of air into the associated room and a biased closed orientation for precluding the flow of air into the associated room and a pneumatic servo connected to each of the vanes and in communication with the vacuum pump. The servo is adapted to transfer the vanes of the vent assembly to the closed orientation thereof only upon the receipt of vacuum. Finally, a vacuum valve is connected between the vacuum pump and the servo of the vent assembly. Such vacuum valve is connected to the thermostat for supplying the same with a vacuum during the receipt of the activation signal. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,156 B1 
     Inventor: James R. Kline, et al. 
     Issued: Jun. 5, 2001 
     An apparatus and process for individual adjustment of an operating parameter of a plurality of environmental control devices, such as VAV devices in an HVAC system. The process includes the step of connecting at least one of computers for input of a parameter control set point based signal and a unique VA device identifying signal through an Internet website to the plurality of HVAC devices. The computer is, for example, connected to the VAV devices such that the computer can be used to adjust the temperature set point of only one of the plurality of VAV devices, most typically the device located in the same space as the communicating computer. Such computer can be wired or wireless, and use the global computer network website to connect to the VAV devices through a building computer and local area network. In the preferred form, the computers are also capable of retrieving the current temperature set point from the VAV device and the current room air temperature proximate the VAV device, outputting or displaying them on a computer output or display device, and 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,156 B1 
     Inventor: James R. Kline, et al. 
     Issued: Jun. 5, 2001 
     An apparatus and process for individual adjustment of an operating parameter of a plurality of environmental control devices, such as VAV devices in an HVAC system. The process includes the step of connecting at least one of computers for input of a parameter control set point based signal and a unique VA device identifying signal through an Internet website to the plurality of HVAC devices. The computer is, for example, connected to the VAV devices such that the computer can be used to adjust the temperature set point of only one of the plurality of VAV devices, most typically the device located in the same space as the communicating computer. Such computer can be wired or wireless, and use the global computer network website to connect to the VAV devices through a building computer and local area network. In the preferred form, the computers are also capable of retrieving the current temperature set point from the VAV device and the current room air temperature proximate the VAV device, outputting or displaying them on a computer output or display device, and 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,260,765 B1 
     Inventor: Nicholas A. Natale 
     Issued: Jul. 17, 2001 
     A thermostat system for controlling activation of a temperature management system is operable in an energy-savings mode for enhancing energy savings and in a comfort mode for enhancing comfort, where the operating mode is selectable by a user. The thermostat system has operating mode control circuitry which includes (1) a manual mode control operable to cause the operating mode control circuit to switch between the energy-savings and the comfort states when pressed by the user, (2) a wireless receiver for receiving a wireless mode switching signal that causes the operating mode switching circuitry to switch between the energy-savings and the comfort states, and (3) telephone communication circuitry for receiving a telephonic mode switching signal that causes the operating mode switching circuitry to switch between the energy-savings and the comfort states. Thus, the present invention offers at least three convenient ways for the user to switch between energy-savings and comfort modes of operation. A temperature sensor senses the temperature of the air space and produces a sensed temperature signal based on the temperature of the air space. A controller produces an under-temperature signal when the sensed temperature signal indicates that the temperature is less than a minimum temperature and an over-temperature signal when the sensed temperature signal indicates that the temperature is greater than a maximum temperature. When the under-temperature or over-temperature signal is produced, the telephone communication circuitry places a telephone call to a telephone number of a designated receiving telephone to give a warning concerning the over- or under-temperature condition. 
     SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     A primary object of the present invention is to provide an access controlled thermostat. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide an access controlled thermostat designed to protect from unauthorized changing of a thermostat temperature setting. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an access controlled thermostat that would be required prior to changing the settings of the temperature. 
     Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide a thermostat with password security that the password may be changed at any time by the operator using a master code. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a thermostat with password security that temporary password codes can be issued to other people that are only valid for a pre-determined amount of time. 
     Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a thermostat system that includes a biometric reading device that require biometric input to gain access to the thermostat for changing the temperature setting. 
     Another object is to provide a thermostat that can respond to keyed manipulation of a lock mechanism if pre-authorized by the operator using the master code in the authorization process. 
     Additional objects of the present invention will appear as the description proceeds. 
     The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a thermostat access system that is programmed by an operator with a master code to include the optimal types of thermostat access that is dictated by the circumstances. The master code allows the operator to set the system to take passwords, biometric readings, or a lock and key mechanism to access the thermostat to change the temperature setting. If only one method is appropriate at a particular time, the operator can limit the system to accept only that method of access. If a different method is more applicable on a different occasion the operator with the master code can enable only that different method. Passwords can be ongoing until deliberately terminated, or can be temporary with a programmed duration before automatic invalidation. 
     A system is provided for a user to control a thermostat temperature setting, comprising: a housing component enclosing the thermostat, the housing and thermostat being positioned on a hand-accessible wall; at least one display component for displaying temperature information and control information, the temperature information including at least the actual temperature, the control information including at least prompts and messages; an access controller component having: a plurality of user-operated keys, the keys including at least a plurality of numeric keys; a memory for storing and accessing information entered by the user, the information including at least a master code and a password; the access controller component being operative to: accept a password, the password being keyed in by the user, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the password matches a password stored in the memory; reject a keyed in password if said password does not match a stored password, the display communicating the rejection; communicate the keyed in new thermostat temperature setting to the thermostat, the thermostat being adapted to adjust the temperature setting in response to the communication; and accept a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code matches the master code stored in the memory, the display then prompting the master code user to key in the user&#39;s choice of the access controller component functions the user desires to modify, and further prompting for keyed in entries to make those modifications, the available modifications at least including: modifying the acceptable passwords by adding new passwords or eliminating then stored passwords; and reject a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code does not match the master code stored in the memory. 
     A system is provided for a user to control a thermostat temperature setting, comprising: a housing component enclosing the thermostat, the housing and thermostat being positioned on a hand-accessible wall; at least one display component for displaying temperature information and control information, the temperature information including at least the actual temperature, the control information including at least prompts and messages; an access controller component having: a plurality of user-operated keys, the keys including at least a plurality of numeric keys; a biometric reading device for receiving biometric information from the user; a memory for storing and accessing information entered by the user, the information including at least a master code, a password, and a biometric record of the user; the access controller component being operative to: accept a password, the password being keyed in by the user, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the password matches a password stored in the memory; reject a keyed in password if said password does not match a stored password, the display communicating the rejection; accept a biometric reading and compare the reading to the stored biometric record, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the biometric reading matches a biometric record stored in the memory; reject a biometric reading if said reading does not match the stored biometric record of the user, the display communicating the rejection; communicate the keyed in new thermostat temperature setting to the thermostat, the thermostat being adapted to adjust the temperature setting in response to the communication; and accept a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code matches the master code stored in the memory, the display then prompting the master code user to key in the user&#39;s choice of the access controller component functions the user desires to modify, and further prompting for keyed in entries to make those modifications, the available modifications at least including: modifying the acceptable passwords by adding new passwords or eliminating then stored passwords; and modifying the biometric record by adding new biometric records or eliminating then stored biometric records; reject a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code does not match the master code stored in the memory. 
     In another embodiment, modification of acceptable passwords includes at least the options of: adding a new password; eliminating a stored password; adding a temporary password, and information determining its duration; and eliminating a temporary password, and information determining its duration. 
     In another embodiment, the available modification to the master code user also includes: setting the time; setting the date; and setting a schedule wherein the thermostat temperature setting is adjusted at various times and dates keyed-in by the master code user. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component has a clearing key that, when depressed, restores the system to the un-accessed status. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component is further operative to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access or biometric access. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component further comprises a general access key that, when depressed causes the access controller component to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access or biometric access. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component further comprises a master access key that, when depressed causes the access controller component to prompt for the master code to be keyed-in. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a thumb print, the access controller component having a biometric reading device for the thumb to contact, the device reading the thumb print and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a finger print, the access controller component having a biometric reading device for the finger to contact, the device reading the finger print and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a retinal scan, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s close gaze is directed, the device reading the retinal scan and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is an iris scan, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s close gaze is directed, the device reading the iris scan and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a voice pattern, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s voice is directed, the device reading the voice pattern and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a facial image, the access controller having a biometric reading device at which the user&#39;s face is presented, the device reading the facial image and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component also has a lock mechanism and a key for manipulating the lock mechanism, the stored and accessible memory information includes an on or off status for the lock mechanism, and the access controller component is operative to: accept a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored lock mechanism information indicates the lock mechanism is on, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting; and reject a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored information indicates the lock mechanism is off, the display communicating the rejection. 
     In another embodiment, the available modifications to the master code user also includes changing the on or off status for the lock mechanism. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component further comprises a general access key that, when depressed causes the access controller component to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access, biometric access, or key access. 
     A system is provided for a user to control a thermostat temperature setting, comprising: a housing component enclosing the thermostat, the housing and thermostat being positioned on a hand-accessible wall; display means for displaying temperature information and control information, the temperature information including at least the actual temperature, the control information including at least prompts and messages; access control means for controlling access to the thermostat, the access control means having: a plurality of user-operated keys, the keys including at least a plurality of numeric keys; biometric reading means for receiving biometric information from the user; memory means for storing and accessing information entered by the user, the information including at least a master code, at least one password, and a biometric record of the user; the access control means being operative to: accept a password, the password being keyed in by the user-operable keys, the display means then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the password matches a password stored in the memory; reject a keyed in password if said password does not match a stored password, the display means communicating the rejection; accept a biometric reading and compare the reading to the stored biometric record, the display means then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the biometric reading matches a biometric record stored in the memory; reject a biometric reading if said reading does not match a stored biometric record of the user, the display means communicating the rejection; communicate the keyed in new thermostat temperature setting to the thermostat, the thermostat being adapted to adjust the temperature setting in response to the communication; accept a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code matches the master code stored in the memory, the display means then prompting the master code user to key in the user&#39;s choice of the access controller function the user desires to modify, and further prompting for keyed in entries to make those modifications, the available modifications at least including: modifying the acceptable passwords by adding new passwords or eliminating then stored passwords; and modifying the biometric record by adding new biometric records or eliminating then stored biometric records; reject a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code does not match the master code stored in the memory. 
     In another embodiment, modification of acceptable passwords includes at least the options of: adding a new password; eliminating a stored password; adding a temporary password, and information determining its duration; and eliminating a temporary password, and information determining its duration. 
     In another embodiment, the available modification to the master code user also includes: setting the time; setting the date; and setting a schedule wherein the thermostat temperature setting is adjusted at various times and dates keyed-in by the master code user. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means has a clearing key that, when depressed, restores the system to the un-accessed status. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means is further operative to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access or biometric access. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means further comprises a general access key that, when depressed causes the access control means to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access or biometric access. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means further comprises a master access key that, when depressed causes the access control means to prompt for the master code to be keyed-in. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means biometric reading is a thumb print, the access control means having a biometric reading device for the thumb to contact, the device reading the thumb print and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means biometric reading is a finger print, the access control means having a biometric reading device for the finger to contact, the device reading the finger print and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means biometric reading is a retinal scan, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s close gaze is directed, the device reading the retinal scan and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means biometric reading is an iris scan, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s close gaze is directed, the device reading the iris scan and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means biometric reading is a voice pattern, the access controller having a biometric reading device into which the user&#39;s voice is directed, the device reading the voice pattern and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access controller component biometric reading is a facial image, the access controller having a biometric reading device at which the user&#39;s face is presented, the device reading the facial image and communicating the biometric reading for the comparison to the biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means also has a lock mechanism and a key for manipulating the lock mechanism, the stored and accessible memory information includes an on or off status for the lock mechanism, and the access control means is operative to: accept a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored lock mechanism information indicates the lock mechanism is on, the display means then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting; reject a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored information indicates the lock mechanism is off, the display means communicating the rejection. 
     In another embodiment, the available modifications to the master code user also includes changing the on or off status for the lock mechanism. 
     In another embodiment, the access control means further comprises a general access key that, when depressed causes the access control means to prompt for a keyed-in selection of the user&#39;s choice of password access, biometric access, or key access. 
     A method is provided to control access to a thermostat at least one user in accordance with parameters set by of an operator, the thermostat being enclosed in a housing, and a controller being in electronic communication with the thermostat, in electronic communication with at least one display for displaying alphanumeric characters, and in electronic communication with user-operable keys, the controller being programmable and having a memory, the method comprising the steps of: accepting a master code as entered by the operator using the keys; allowing access to the controller memory if the master code is valid; accepting the operator&#39;s choice of one function from a plurality of functions for which function parameters are to be changed, including at least the functions of setting a permanent password, setting a temporary password and its duration parameters, and setting biometric access parameters; if the operator chose setting a permanent password, prompting for keypad entry of at least one permanent password; accepting the operator&#39;s keypad entry of the at least one permanent password and storing the at least one permanent password in the memory; if the operator chose setting a temporary password, prompting for keypad entry of at least one temporary password and duration determinative keypad entries for each of the at least one temporary passwords; accepting the operator&#39;s keypad entry of the at least one temporary password and duration determinative entries and storing the at least one temporary password and duration determinative entries in the memory; if the operator chose setting biometric reading parameters, prompting for a biometric reading of a biometric characteristic of the at least one intended user; accepting the biometric reading and storing the biometric reading in the memory as a biometric record; controlling access to keypad entry of a thermostat temperature setting by a user by: accepting the user&#39;s keypad entry of a password, if the entered password matches a stored permanent or temporary password, then accepting a keypad entry of a new thermostat temperature setting; rejecting the user&#39;s keypad entry of a password, if the entered password does not match either a stored permanent or temporary password, then displaying the rejection; accepting the user&#39;s provision of a biometric reading, if the biometric reading matches a stored biometric record, then accepting a keypad entry of a new thermostat temperature setting; rejecting the user&#39;s provision of a biometric reading, if the biometric reading does not match a stored biometric record. 
     In another embodiment, a lock mechanism is in electronic communication with the controller and the functions for which parameters are changeable by the operator also include setting the controller to accept or reject a keyed manipulation of a lock mechanism such that the controller accepts a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism by the user if the operator has set the controller to accept the same, and rejects the keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism by the user if the operator has set the controller to reject the same. 
     In another embodiment, the functions for which parameters are changeable by the operator also include: setting the time; setting the date; and setting a schedule wherein the thermostat temperature setting is adjusted at various times and dates keyed-in by the operator. 
     A system is provided for a user to control a thermostat temperature setting, comprising: a housing component enclosing the thermostat, the housing and thermostat being positioned on a hand-accessible wall; at least one display component for displaying temperature information and control information, the temperature information including at least the actual temperature, the control information including at least prompts and messages; an access controller component having: a plurality of user-operated keys, the keys including at least a plurality of numeric keys; a biometric reading device for receiving biometric information from the user; a lock mechanism and a key for manipulating the lock mechanism, the stored and accessible memory information includes an on or off status for the lock mechanism; a memory for storing and accessing information entered by the user, the information including at least a master code, a password, a biometric record of the user, an on or off status for the lock mechanism, a system time, a system date, a system schedule; the access controller component being operative to: accept a password, the password being keyed in by the user, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the password matches a password stored in the memory; reject a keyed in password if said password does not match a stored password, the display communicating the rejection; accept a biometric reading and compare the reading to the stored biometric record, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting if the biometric reading matches a biometric record stored in the memory; reject a biometric reading if said reading does not match the stored biometric record of the user, the display communicating the rejection; accept a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored lock mechanism information indicates the lock mechanism is on, the display then prompting the user to key in a new thermostat temperature setting; and reject a keyed manipulation of the lock mechanism if the stored information indicates the lock mechanism is off, the display communicating the rejection; communicate the keyed in new thermostat temperature setting to the thermostat, the thermostat being adapted to adjust the temperature setting in response to the communication; and accept a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code matches the master code stored in the memory, the display then prompting the master code user to key in the user&#39;s choice of the access controller component functions the user desires to modify, and further prompting for keyed in entries to make those modifications, the available modifications at least including: modifying the acceptable passwords by adding new passwords, eliminating then stored passwords, adding a temporary password and information determining its duration; modifying the biometric record by adding new biometric records or eliminating then stored biometric records; and modifying the on or off status of the lock mechanism; modifying the system time; modifying the system date; modifying the system schedule such that the thermostat temperature setting is automatically adjusted at various times and dates; and reject a keyed in master code if the keyed in master code does not match the master code stored in the memory. 
     The foregoing and other objects and advantages will appear from the description to follow. In the description reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments will be described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In the accompanying drawing, like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views. 
     The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is best defined by the appended claims. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES 
     FIG. 1 is an illustrative view of the present invention in use. The access controlled thermostat has a housing, and is typically mounted on a wall surface. 
     FIG. 2 is a frontal perspective of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the present invention with the user&#39;s thumb on the biometric reading device. 
     FIG. 4 is a block diagram depicting the operator&#39;s use of the master code to enable various methods of accessing the thermostat and/or to modify the parameters of various system functions. 
     FIG. 5 is a block diagram depicting the process by which another user can access the thermostat to the adjust the temperature setting. 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCED NUMERALS 
     Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, the figures illustrate the Access Controlled Thermostat System of the present invention. With regard to the reference numerals used, the following numbering is used throughout the various drawing figures. 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 10 
                 Access Controlled Thermostat System of the present invention 
               
               
                 11 
                 user 
               
               
                 12 
                 user finger 
               
               
                 13 
                 wall surface 
               
               
                 14 
                 user thumb 
               
               
                 20 
                 housing 
               
               
                 22 
                 keypad 
               
               
                 24 
                 numeric keys 
               
               
                 26 
                 “ADJUST THERMOSTAT” key 
               
               
                 28 
                 “MASTER” key 
               
               
                 30 
                 “CLEAR” key 
               
               
                 32 
                 up arrow key 
               
               
                 34 
                 down arrow key 
               
               
                 36 
                 lock mechanism 
               
               
                 38 
                 biometric reading device 
               
               
                 40 
                 control display 
               
               
                 42 
                 temperature display 
               
               
                 44 
                 “YES” key 
               
               
                 46 
                 “NO” key 
               
               
                 50 
                 step - press MASTER key 
               
               
                 52 
                 step - prompt for master code 
               
               
                 54 
                 step - validate master code 
               
               
                 56 
                 step - display error and prompt for retry or quit 
               
               
                 58 
                 step - check retry count 
               
               
                 60 
                 step - terminate process 
               
               
                 62 
                 step - prompt for system function to be modified 
               
               
                 64 
                 step - “Set Permanent Password(s)” function selected 
               
               
                 66 
                 step - “Set Time” function selected 
               
               
                 68 
                 step - “Set Temporary Password(s)” function selected 
               
               
                 70 
                 step - “Set Date” function selected 
               
               
                 72 
                 step - “Set Biometric Access Parameters” function selected 
               
               
                 74 
                 step - “Set Schedule” function selected 
               
               
                 76 
                 step - “Set Key Access” function selected 
               
               
                 78 
                 step - “Set Retry Counter” function selected 
               
               
                 80 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of password(s) 
               
               
                 82 
                 step - prompt for option to set other functions 
               
               
                 84 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of time 
               
               
                 86 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of password(s) and duration 
               
               
                 88 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of date 
               
               
                 90 
                 step - prompt with instructions for enabling biometric access 
               
               
                 92 
                 step - prompt for keyword entry of thermostat adjustment 
               
               
                   
                 schedule 
               
               
                 94 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of key access ON-OFF 
               
               
                 96 
                 step - prompt for keypad entry of retry counter number 
               
               
                 98 
                 step - press “ADJUST THERMOSTAT” 
               
               
                 100 
                 step - prompt for selection of access method 
               
               
                 102 
                 step - password access method selected 
               
               
                 104 
                 step - biometric access method selected 
               
               
                 106 
                 step - key access method selected 
               
               
                 108 
                 step - prompt for password entry from keypad 
               
               
                 110 
                 step - validate entered password 
               
               
                 112 
                 step - display error message and prompt for retry 
               
               
                 114 
                 step - terminate process 
               
               
                 116 
                 step - check retry count 
               
               
                 118 
                 step - prompt for new thermostat temperature setting entry from 
               
               
                   
                 keypad 
               
               
                 120 
                 step - prompt for appropriate biometric reading 
               
               
                 122 
                 step - validate biometric reading 
               
               
                 124 
                 step - prompt for key insertion and turning 
               
               
                 126 
                 step - check key access allowed 
               
               
                 128 
                 step - display error message 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The following discussion describes in detail the preferred embodiments of the invention. This discussion should not be construed, however, as limiting the invention to those particular embodiments. Practitioners skilled in the art will recognize numerous other embodiments as well. For a definition of the complete scope of the invention, the reader is directed to the appended claims. 
     FIGS. 1-3 depict the preferred embodiment of the Access Controlled Thermostat System  10 , with FIG. 1 illustrating a user  11  operating the system  10  using her finger  12 . A typical installation on a wall  13  is also shown in FIG.  1 . FIG. 3 depicts the user&#39;s thumb  14  being used with regard to certain system  10  features described below. 
     FIG. 2 depicts a frontal perspective view of the system  10 . A housing  20  encloses a thermostat that is conventionally connected to a typical air conditioning unit for cooling or heating a building. The system  10  has no external levers or other mechanically initiated means for setting the temperature at which the thermostat will start or terminate the operation of the air conditioning unit. 
     In the present invention the temperature setting is only adjustable by those that have been designated. A controller is provided for communicating with and setting the temperature on the thermostat, the controller being programmed to respond to input signals from external controls on the housing  20 , including, a numeric key pad  22  having numerically assigned keys  24 , an “ADJUST THERMOSTAT” key  26 , a “MASTER” key  28 , a “CLEAR” key  30 , up and down arrow keys  32 , 34 , a lock mechanism  36 , and a biometric reading device  38  for reading a thumb print. A control display  40  and a temperature display  42  are present on the front of the housing  20 . 
     The controller can be constructed using the conventional central processing unit technology that is common in office machines, handheld game devices, and other electronic devices that receive keyed information from the user. The controller has an accessible memory for storing inputted information. 
     The user  11  reviews the temperature display  42  to determine the actual room temperature and the current thermostat setting. The control display  40  will display text to inform the user  11  of the required steps necessary to change the thermostat setting. Both displays  40 , 42  are LCD displays, although other display mechanisms are contemplated in other embodiments. For example, the temperature display  42  can include mechanical needle indicators that are typically associated with a conventional thermostat. 
     The present invention provides multiple modes of access to the thermostat temperature setting status, all controlled and set by the user  11  having the master code. To initiate the operation of the Access Controlled Thermostat System  10 , the user  11  completes a series of steps, as shown in FIG.  4 . The user  11  depresses  50  the master key  28  causing the controller to prompt  52  for the master code to be keyed in using the numeric keys  24 . 
     The controller is programmed to recognize the master code and determine  54  if the entered master code is valid. If an invalid master code is entered an error message is displayed  56 , and the controller then determines  58  if the number of attempts to enter a correct master code exceeds a preset number. If the maximum number of master code entry attempts has not been exceeded then the controller then causes the control display  40  to prompt  52  for the master code again. If the maximum number has been exceeded the controller terminates  60  the process. 
     Once a valid master code has been entered the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  62  for the user to choose among the numerous user-programmable functions  64 , 66 , 68 , 70 , 72 , 74 , 76 , 78 , each function having a displayed number associated with the function, such that the user  11  selects the function he or she wishes to perform by pushing the associated number on the keypad  22 . These functions include adding or deleting  64  permanent passwords, setting  66  system time, adding or deleting  68  temporary passwords with duration determinative settings included, setting  70  the system date, setting  72  biometric access parameters, setting  74  the schedule, including one or more adjustments in the thermostat temperature setting at various scheduled times, setting  76  the controller to allow access in response to a designated key manipulating the lock mechanism  36 , and setting  78  the number of master code entry retries. 
     The user  11  who selects the “Set Permanent Password(s)” keys in the number associated with this function  64  as indicated on the control display  40 . The controller then causes the control display  40  to prompt  80  for the keypad  22  entry of new or additional passwords that will remain as valid passwords until deleted. In the execution of this prompt function  80  the control display  40  will also allow review of existing permanent passwords with an opportunity to key in a numeric delete command. Once the user  11  has successfully entered or deleted permanent passwords, the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  82  for an indication as to whether the user  11  wants to modify additional parameters in other functions. In the preferred embodiment  10 , a “YES” key  44  and a “NO” key  46  are provided, although the control display  40  can also include a numeric key  24  entry for either response. If the user  11  selects “NO” the controller terminates the parameter modification process. If the user  11  selects “YES” the controller returns to the prompt  62  for another function to be chosen. 
     If the user  11  chooses the “Set Time” function  66 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  85  for keypad  22  entry of the correct time. Once the time is entered by the user  11 , the control display  40  prompts  82  for a decision as to whether to modify the parameters for another function. 
     When the user  11  selects the “Set Temporary Password(s)” function  68  the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt for the keypad  22  entry of new or additional passwords that will remain as valid passwords for only an amount of time specified by the user  11  as the temporary password is added. In the execution of this prompt function  86  the control display  40  will also allow review of existing temporary passwords with an opportunity to key in a numeric delete command or a change in the duration. 
     The “Set Date” function  70  is one of the functions that can be selected by the user  11  at the prompt  54  for choosing the function for which parameters are to be modified. Once this function  70  is chosen, the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  88  for the keypad  22  entry of the correct date. Once the date is keyed in the prompt  82  is again displayed, offering the user  11  the option to move to other functions to review or modify. 
     If the user  11  chooses the “Set Biometric Access Parameters” function  72 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  90  for the entry of a biometric record to be stored in the controller memory. A biometric record must be stored for each user  11  for which such access will be provided. In the preferred embodiment  10 , each such user  11  places his or her thumb on the biometric reading device  38  and the scanned thumb print is stored. The control display  40  will indicate that the reading has been successfully recorded and, after all users  12  have had their thumb print recorded, the control display  40  again prompts  82  for an indication as to whether the user  11  wants to modify another function&#39;s parameters. 
     If the “Set Schedule” function  74  is selected by the user  11 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  92  for the dates, times, and temperature settings, which the user  11  wishes to schedule, thus providing an advance scheduling of automatic thermostat adjustments. 
     When the user  11  selects the “Set Key Access Parameters” function  76 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  94  for the an “ON” or “OFF” keypad  22  entry. When an “ON” entry is keyed in, the controller will recognize the manipulation of the lock mechanism  36  by an appropriate key, and allow access to the thermostat temperature setting function. When an “OFF” entry is keyed in, the controller will reject the manipulation of the lock mechanism  36 , even by a key that would otherwise manipulate the lock mechanism  36 . 
     If the user  11  selects the “Set Retry Counter” function  78 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  96  for a keypad  22  entry of a number that reflects the number of times the user  11  can attempt to gain access to the thermostat temperature setting function. 
     When the user  11  has set or modified the parameters for functions that he or she desires, the user  11  will respond with a “NO” response to the prompt  82  for “More Changes or Settings” and the controller will terminate the master code user&#39;s modification process. The system  10  is then ready for normal access procedures by authorized persons. 
     In regular use, it is the goal of the user  11  to change the thermostat temperature setting. In this event, the user  11  gains general access by first depressing  98  the “ADJUST THERMOSTAT” key  26 . The controller then causes the control display  40  to prompt  100  for the method by which the user  11  intends to gain access. In the preferred embodiment  10 , as shown in FIG. 5, these methods include password entry  102 , by a permanent or temporary password, biometric entry  104 , and key entry  106 . 
     When the user  11  chooses password entry  102 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  108  for a password to be keyed from the keypad  22 . The controller then determines  110  if the password is valid by comparing it to the permanent and temporary passwords in memory storage from the previous entries of such passwords using the master code. If the password is not valid, the controller causes the control display  40  to display  112  an error message and then prompt for a “YES” or “NO” decision as to whether to try another password. If a “NO” is keyed in, the controller terminates  114  the process. If a “YES” is keyed in, the controller then determines  116  if the number of retries exceeds the maximum number previously set using the “Set Retry Counter” function  78 . In the situation where the maximum has been exceeded, the controller then terminates  114  the process. If the maximum number of retries has not been exceeded, the controller returns to the prompt  100  for “Method of Access”. Alternatively, the controller can return to the prompt  102  for a password to be entered. 
     Once the user  11  keys in a valid password, the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  118  for a new thermostat temperature to be keyed in from the keypad  22 . When the new temperature is keyed in the controller terminates  114  the process. 
     If, at the prompt  100  for “Method of Access”, the user  11  chooses the biometric entry  104 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  120  for the user  11  to input a biometric thumb print reading by placing her thumb  14  on the biometric reading device  38 , as shown in FIG.  3 . The controller causes the thumb print to be read and compared  122  to those biometric thumb print records previously stored in the controller memory during the function parameter modification process using the master code. If the new biometric reading matches a stored biometric record the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  118  for a new thermostat temperature adjustment to be keyed in, and the process terminates  114  after this is done. If the biometric reading does not match a previously stored biometric record, the controller causes the control display  40  to display  112  an error message and prompt for a retry decision, as discussed above. 
     If the method of access chosen is key entry  106 , the controller causes the control display  40  to prompt  124  for insertion of the key and manipulation of the lock mechanism  36 . If the master code has previously been used to program the controller to allow key access, the controller will determine  126  that the key entry is valid and cause the control display to prompt  118  for the entry of a new thermostat temperature setting, and then terminate  114  the process. If the controller has not been set to allow key access, the controller will cause the control display  40  to display an error message and then terminate the process  114 . 
     At any time, during any process, the user  11  can depress the “CLEAR” key  30 , and the controller will terminate the then operative process. 
     Arrow keys  32 , 34  can be used to change the thermostat temperature setting by increments instead of typing in the temperature from the keypad  24 . 
     With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum material and dimensional relationships for the parts of the access controlled thermostat system  10 , will include variations in size, materials, shape, and form, which will occur to those skilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure. For example, the housing  20  can assume varying shapes, and have different key configurations and designations. The biometric reading device  38  can be designed for finger prints, retinal scans, iris scans, voice prints, and facial images. Also, an additional lock mechanism can be added that allows the same access as the master code. A smaller number of numeric keys  24  can be utilized, as well as, the addition or substitution of alpha characters. All equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.