Yates’ proposal involves enabling the i-opener as a "home automation system" capable of monitoring and controlling household functions. His plan is to put an i-opener in every room of a home, with each unit having oversight of specific functions. For example, the i-opener in the master bedroom could automatically turn lights on or off and manage the home’s climate control system.

Yates’ plan for a kitchen i-opener involves pantry management. For example, someone could choose a week’s worth of recipes, the system would determine which ingredients were on-hand, order anything necessary from a grocery provider, such as Peapod, and schedule supplies for delivery in time for a day’s designated recipe.

"The i-opener can make home automation affordable," said Yates. "I’m looking forward to setting up my prototype and showing what it can do."

About Netpliance

Netpliance offers Internet-based content, applications and services through devices specifically designed for Internet access, commonly known as Internet appliances. The company introduced its current i-opener service in November 1999, which combines its i-opener appliance, Internet access and its own consumer portal. The i-opener service includes all of the elements required for a user to easily access the Internet, delivering a truly simplified Internet experience for consumers. You can reach Netpliance at http://www.netpliance.com.