VARIABLE TIMING SYSTEM

2,493 VARIABLE TIMING SYSTEM A variable timing system. The system includes a remote control unit employed in the residence of an individual and interconnected with a centralized communication system by a telephone network. The remote control unit includes a plurality of storage devices arranged to store count data for use by the remote control unit in the performance of its operations and representing particular periods of time. The centralized communications center includes a disc storage unit which is also arranged to store count data therein representing particular periods of time. An operatorcontrolled unit at the communications center may be used in conjunction with a computer to selectively vary the value of any one or more of the count data stored in the disc unit thereby to correspond to increased or decreased periods of time. Under prescribed conditions the remote control unit operates to establish communication with the communications center for the purpose of transmitting specified data to the communications center. Upon establishing this communication, the computer operates to extract from the disc storage unit the various count data stored therein and to communicate the count data back to the remote control unit. The count data is then stored in the appropriate storage devices of the remote control unit for use by the remote control unit.