USITC investigates Google over smart thermostat patents
The US International Trade Commision ( ITC) has instituted an investigation into certain smart thermostats and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems.
In a notice, published November 22, the ITC said it had launched an investigation following a complaint from EcoFactor, a California-based company that provides “energy-efficient” HVAC systems, on October 23.
EcoSystems said companies such as Google, Alarm.com, Schneider Electric, Daikin, Ecobee and Vivint were violating the US Tariff Act of 1930 by importing and selling smart thermostats and smart HVAC systems in the country.
The companies named in the suit all operate in these markets, including Google under its smart thermostat brand, Nest.
In its complaint, it said the companies were infringing four of its patents (US numbers 8,131,497; 8,423,322; 8,498,753; and 10,018,371).
The patents cover technology such as a system and method for calculating the thermal mass of a building, and a system and apparatus for just-in-time conditioning using a thermostat.
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