Digital messaging in load control systems

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to digital messages in a load control system. A load control system includes load control devices for controlling corresponding electrical loads and a system controller, the system controller being operable to transmit digital messages including different commands to the plurality of load control devices in response to a selection of a preset. The different commands include preset commands and / or multi-output commands, the preset commands being configured to identify preset data in a device database stored in the load control devices, and the multi-output commands being configured to define the preset data stored in the device database. The system controller may determine which of the commands to transmit to the load control devices in response to the selection of the preset.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application "Digital Messages in Load Control Systems" with an application date of April 10, 2015 and application number 201580028811.5.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 978,579, filed on April 11, 2014. Background Art

[0004] For example, a user environment such as a residence or office building can be configured by using various types of load control systems. A lighting control system can be used to control lighting loads in a user environment. An electric window treatment control system can be used to control natural light provided to a user environment. A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can be used to control the temperature in a user environment. Each load control system can include various control devices including a control source device and a control target device. The control target device can receive a digital message for controlling an electrical load from one or more control source devices, which digital message can include a load control instruction. The control target device may be able to directly control the electrical load. The control source device may be able to indirectly control the electrical load via the control target device. Examples of control target devices may include lighting control devices (e.g., dimmer switches, electronic switches, ballasts, or light emitting diode (LED) drivers), electric window treatments, temperature control devices (e.g., thermostats), AC plug-in load control devices, and / or the like. Examples of control source devices may include remote controls, occupancy sensors, daylight sensors, temperature sensors, and / or the like.

[0005] Each load control system may allow for the selection of a preset configuration (e.g., a "preset" or "scene"). A preset may be a predefined setting that may be defined when commissioning the load control system. For example, a lighting control system may set a plurality of lighting loads to different preset intensities in response to the selection of a lighting preset. A preset may be selected in response to the actuation of a button on a control source device. For example, the control source device may transmit a separate digital message including a command to each control target device included in the preset, thereby enabling the control target device to adjust the controlled lighting load in response to the selected preset. However, if there are a large number of control target devices included in the selected preset, then the control source device may require a significant amount of time to transmit the digital message to the control target device. This may result in a noticeable delay between adjusting the first lighting load and adjusting the last lighting load. This visually completed lighting load adjustment one by one (which lighting load adjustment may be referred to as, for example, "popcorn") is not desired.

[0006] Thus, some lighting control systems have been configured so that a control source device can transmit a single digital message in response to a selection of a preset. The single digital message can include an indication of the selected preset. The control target devices can each store a preconfiguration database including configuration information detailing how the respective control target device should respond to each identified preset to which the control target device responds. Thus, upon receiving the single digital message including the selected preset, the respective control target device is able to appropriately control the respective lighting load in response to the selected preset. An example of such a lighting system is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 6,803,728, entitled “SYSTEM FOR CONTROL OF DEVICES,” issued on October 12, 2004, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] However, as the size of the lighting control system increases (e.g., as the number of control sources and control target devices in the load control system increases), the amount of time to transfer the database to each control target device during commissioning of the load control system also increases. In fact, the amount of time to transfer the database to each control target device during commissioning of the load control system may increase to an undesirably long time. Summary of the invention

[0008] A load control system may control the amount of electricity delivered to one or more electrical loads. The load control system may control multiple electrical loads in response to a selection of a preset. As described herein, the load control system may include multiple load control devices for controlling corresponding electrical loads and a system controller operable to transmit a digital message. The digital message transmitted by the system controller may include a first command or a second command to the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. The first command may describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. The first command may generally describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. For example, the first command may include a preset identification number, a preset identification name, and / or preset data. The second command may describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in detail in response to the selection of the preset. The second command may specifically describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. For example, the second command may define the preset. The system controller may be configured to determine which of the first command and the second command is transmitted to the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. For example, the system controller may be configured to receive a load control database defining the operation of the load control device in response to selection of a preset. The system controller may be configured to analyze the load control database in response to selection of a preset during a commissioning process of the load control system to determine which of the first command and the second command to transmit to the load control device. The system controller may also be configured to determine which of the first command and the second command to transmit to the load control device in response to selection of a preset, for example, based on whether the system controller has previously transmitted the second command to the load control device for the selected preset.

[0009] A method for controlling a plurality of electrical loads is described herein. The method may include: receiving a selection of a preset; and transmitting a digital message to a plurality of load control devices. The digital message may include a first command or a second command for controlling the electrical load in response to the selection of the preset. The first command may include describing the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. The first command may generally describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. For example, the first command may include a preset identification number, a preset identification code, and / or preset data. The second command may describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. The second command may specifically describe the operation of the selected preset or the load control device in response to the selection of the preset. For example, the second command may define the preset. The method may further include: before transmitting the digital message, in response to the selection of the preset, deciding which of the first command and the second command to transmit to the load control device.

[0010] Other features will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a simple schematic diagram of an example load control system for controlling one or more electrical loads.

[0012] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C A schematic diagram of an example digital message including a multi-output goto level command is shown.

[0013] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A simplified flow chart of an example process performed by a system controller of a load control system and / or a load control device to select a preset in a load control system is shown.

[0014] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A simplified flow chart illustrating other example processes performed by a system controller of a load control system and / or a load control device to select a preset in the load control system.

[0015] Figure 5 is a simplified block diagram of an example network device.

[0016] Figure 6 is a simplified block diagram of an example system controller.

[0017] Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example load control device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Examples are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals represent like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. However, the drawings and descriptions herein are not intended to be limiting.

[0019] Figure 11 is a simplified schematic diagram of an example load control system for controlling the amount of power delivered to one or more electrical loads from an alternating current (AC) power source (not shown). The load control system 100 may include a system controller 110 (e.g., a system controller or a load controller) operable to transmit and receive digital messages via wired and wireless communication links. For example, the system controller 110 may be coupled to one or more wired control devices via a wired digital communication link 104. The system controller 110 may be configured to transmit and receive wireless signals, such as radio frequency (RF) signals 106, to communicate with one or more wireless control devices. The load control system 100 may include a number of control source devices and a number of control target devices. The control source device may include, for example, an input device operable to transmit a digital message in response to a user input, an occupancy / vacancy condition, a change in measured light intensity, and / or other input information. The control target device may include, for example, a load control device operable to receive a digital message and / or control a corresponding electrical load in response to a received digital message. A single control device of the load control system 100 may operate as both a control source and a control target device. The system controller 100 may be configured to receive digital messages from a control source device and may transmit digital messages to a control target device in response to, for example, digital messages received from the control source device.

[0020] The load control system 100 may include a load control device, such as a dimmer switch 120, for controlling a lighting load 122. The dimmer switch 120 may be suitable for wall mounting in a standard electrical wall box. The dimmer switch 120 may include a countertop or plug-in load control device. The dimmer switch 120 may include a toggle actuator 124 (e.g., a button) and / or an intensity adjustment actuator 126 (e.g., a rocker switch). Continuous actuation of the toggle actuator 124 may switch, for example, off and on the lighting load 122. Actuation of the upper or lower portion of the intensity adjustment actuator 126 may increase or decrease the amount of power delivered to the lighting load 122, respectively, and may thus increase the intensity of the lighting load from a minimum intensity (e.g., about 1%) to a maximum intensity (e.g., about 100%) or decrease the intensity from a maximum intensity (e.g., about 100%) to a minimum intensity (e.g., about 1%). The dimmer switch 120 may include a plurality of visual indicators 128, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs). The visual indicators 128 may be arranged in a linear array and may be illuminated to provide feedback of the intensity of the lighting load 122. Examples of wall mounted dimmer switches are described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 5,248,919, entitled “LIGHTING CONTROL DEVICE,” issued on September 28, 1993, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0132475, entitled “WIRELESS LOAD CONTROL DEVICE,” published on May 15, 2014, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0021] The dimmer switch 120 may be configured to receive digital messages from the system controller 110 via the RF signal 106. The dimmer switch 120 may be configured to control the lighting load 122 in response to the received digital information. Examples of dimmer switches operable to transmit and receive digital messages are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 5,248,919, entitled “COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL FOR A RADIO-FREQUENCY LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM,” published on August 20, 2009, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The dimmer switch 120 may also or alternatively be coupled to a wired digital communication link 104.

[0022] The load control system 100 may include one or more remotely located load control devices, such as a light emitting diode (LED) driver 130 for driving a corresponding LED light source 132 (e.g., an LED light engine). The LED driver 130 may be remotely located, for example, in a lighting fixture of the corresponding LED light source 132. The LED driver 130 may be configured to receive digital messages from the system controller 110 via the digital communication link 104. The LED driver 130 may be configured to control the corresponding LED light source 132 in response to the received digital messages. The LED driver 130 may be coupled to a separate digital communication link, such as Or a digital addressable lighting interface (DALI) communication link. The load control system 100 may include a digital lighting controller coupled between the digital communication link 104 and the separate communication link. The LED driver 132 may include internal RF communication circuitry or be coupled to external RF communication circuitry (e.g., mounted external to the lighting fixture, such as mounted to a ceiling) to send and / or receive RF signals 106. The load control system 100 may further include other types of remotely located load control devices, such as, for example, electronic dimming ballasts for driving fluorescent lamps.

[0023] The load control system 100 may include a plurality of daylight control devices, for example, motorized window treatments, such as motorized roller blinds 140. For example, the load control system 100 may utilize a plurality of daylight control devices to control the amount of daylight entering a building in which the load control system 100 is installed. Each motorized roller blind 140 may include an electronic drive unit (EDU) 142. The electronic drive unit 142 may be located inside a roller tube of the motorized roller blind. For example, the electronic drive unit 142 may be coupled to a digital communication link 104 to transmit and receive digital messages. The electronic drive unit 142 may be configured to adjust the position of the window treatment fabric in response to a digital message received from the system controller 110 via the digital communication link. Each electronic drive unit 142 may include an internal RF communication circuit or be coupled to an external RF communication circuit (e.g., located outside the roller tube), for example, to send and / or receive an RF signal 106. The load control system 100 may include other types of daylight control devices such as, for example, cellular shades, draperies, Roman shades, venetian blinds, shutters, pleated shades, tensioned roller blind systems, electrochromic or smart windows, or other suitable daylight control devices.

[0024] The load control system 100 may include one or more other types of load control devices, such as, for example, a screw-in light including a dimming circuit and an incandescent or halogen lamp; a screw-in light including a ballast and a compact fluorescent lamp; a screw-in light including an LED driver and an LED light source; an electronic switch, a controllable circuit breaker, or other switching device for turning an appliance on and off; a plug-in load control device, a controllable electrical outlet, or a controllable power strip for controlling one or more plug-in loads; a motor control unit for controlling a motor load, such as a ceiling fan or exhaust fan; a drive unit for controlling a motorized window treatment or projection screen; Electric interior or exterior blinds; thermostats for heating and / or cooling systems; temperature controls for controlling set point temperatures for HVAC systems; air conditioners; compressors; electrical baseboard heater controllers; controllable dampers; variable air volume controllers; fresh air intake controllers; variable air volume controllers; hydraulic valves for use in radiator and radiant heating systems; humidity control units; humidifiers; dehumidifiers; water heaters; boiler controllers; pool pumps; refrigerators; freezers; television or computer monitors; video cameras; audio systems or amplifiers; elevators; power supplies; generators; chargers such as electric vehicle chargers; and / or alternative energy controllers.

[0025] The load control system 100 may include one or more input devices, such as, for example, a wired keypad device 150, a battery-powered remote control device 152, an occupancy sensor 154, and / or a daylight sensor 156. The wired keypad device 150 may be configured to transmit digital messages to the system controller 110 via the digital communication link 104 in response to actuation of one or more buttons of the wired keypad device. The battery-powered remote control device 152, the occupancy sensor 154, and / or the daylight sensor 156 may be wireless control devices (e.g., RF transmitters) configured to transmit digital messages to the system controller 110 via the RF signal 106 (e.g., directly to the system controller 110). For example, the battery-powered remote control device 152 may be configured to transmit digital messages to the system controller 110 via the RF signal 106 in response to actuation of one or more buttons of the battery-powered remote control device. The system controller 110 can be configured to transmit one or more digital messages to a load control device (e.g., a dimmer switch 120, an LED driver 130, and / or a motorized roller shade 140) in response to digital messages received from a wired keypad device 150, a battery-powered remote control device 152, an occupancy sensor 154, and / or a daylight sensor 156.

[0026] The load control system 100 may further include a wireless adapter device 158 coupled to the digital communication link 104. The wireless adapter device 158 may be configured to receive the RF signal 106. The wireless adapter device 158 may be configured to send a digital message to the system controller 110 via the digital communication link 104 in response to a digital message received from one of the wireless control devices via the RF signal 106. For example, the wireless adapter device 158 may retransmit the digital message received from the wireless control device over the digital communication link 104.

[0027] The occupancy sensor 154 may be configured to detect occupancy and vacancy conditions in the space in which the load control system 100 is installed. The occupancy sensor 154 may transmit a digital message to the system controller 110 via the RF signal 106 in response to detecting an occupancy or vacancy condition. The system controller 110 may be configured to turn one or more of the lighting loads 122 and / or the LED light sources 132 on and off in response to receiving an occupancy command and a vacancy command, respectively. The occupancy sensor 154 may operate as a vacancy sensor such that the lighting load is turned off in response to detecting a vacancy condition (e.g., not turned on in response to detecting an occupancy condition). Examples of RF load control systems with occupancy and vacancy sensors are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 8,009,042, entitled “RADIO-FREQUENCY LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM WITH OCCUPANCY SENSING,” issued on August 30, 2011; U.S. Patent No. 8,199,010, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING A WIRELESS SENSOR,” issued on June 12, 2012; and U.S. Patent No. 8,228,184, entitled “BATTERY-POWEREDOCCUPANCY SENSOR,” issued on July 24, 2012, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0028] The daylight sensor 156 may be configured to measure the total light intensity in the space in which the load control system is installed. The daylight sensor 156 may transmit a digital message including the measured light intensity to the system controller 100 via the RF signal 106 to control the intensity of one or more of the lighting loads 122 and / or the LED light sources 132 in response to the measured light intensity. Examples of RF load control systems with daylight sensors are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,410,706, entitled “METHOD OF CALIBRATING A DAYLIGHT SENSOR,” issued on April 2, 2013; and 8,451,116, entitled “WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED DAYLIGHT SENSOR,” issued on May 28, 2013, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0029] The load control system 100 may include other types of input devices, such as, for example, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, radiometers, cloud sensors, shadow sensors, pressure sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, air quality sensors, motion sensors, security sensors, proximity sensors, fixture sensors, partition sensors, keypads, multi-zone control units, slider control units, powered or solar remote controls, key fobs, cellular phones, smart phones, tablets, personal digital assistants, personal computers, laptop computers, clocks, audio-visual control devices, security devices, power monitoring devices (e.g., power meters, energy meters, utility submeters, utility rate meters, etc.), central control transmitters, residential controllers, commercial controllers, industrial controllers, or any combination of input devices.

[0030] The system controller 110 may be operable to couple to a network, such as a wireless or wired local area network (LAN), via a network communication bus 160 (e.g., an Ethernet communication link), for example, to access the Internet. The system controller 110 may be connected to a router 162 (or Ethernet switch) via the network communication bus 160 to allow the system controller 110 to communicate with additional system controllers for controlling additional electrical loads. The system controller 110 may be wirelessly connected to the network, for example, by using Wi-Fi technology. The system controller 110 may be configured to communicate with one or more network devices, such as a smartphone (e.g., Smartphone, Smartphone, or smartphones), personal computers 164, laptop computers, tablet devices (e.g., The load control system 100 may be a handheld computing device, a television capable of Wi-Fi or wireless communication, and / or any other suitable device supporting the Internet protocol. The network device may be operable to transmit digital messages in one or more Internet protocol packets to the system controller 110. An example of a load control system operable to communicate with a network device on a network is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0030589, entitled “LOAD CONTROL DEVICE HAVING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY,” published on January 31, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0031] The operation of the load control system 100 may be programmed and / or configured using a personal computer 164 or other network device. The personal computer 164 may execute a graphical user interface (GUI) configuration software to allow a user to program how the load control system 100 may operate. The configuration software may generate a load control database that defines the operation of the load control system 100. For example, the load control database may include information about the operational settings of different load control devices (e.g., a dimmer switch 120, an LED driver 130, and / or a motorized roller blind 140) of the load control system. The load control database may include information about the association between the load control device and the input device (wired keypad device 150, battery-powered remote control device 152, occupancy sensor 154, and / or daylight sensor 156), and information about how the load control device responds to input received from the input device. Examples of configuration processes for load control systems are described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 7,391,297, entitled “HANDHELD PROGRAMMER FOR A LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM,” issued on June 24, 2008; U.S. patent application No. 2008 / 0092075, entitled “METHOD OF BUILDING A DATABASE OF ALIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM,” published on April 17, 2008; and U.S. patent application No. 2014 / 0265568, entitled “COMMISSIONING LOAD CONTROL SYSTEMS,” published on September 18, 2014, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0032] The system controller 110 may be configured to select a preset (e.g., scene) for controlling one or more electrical loads of the load control system 100. The preset may be a predefined setting that may be defined when commissioning the load control system 100. For example, one of the actuators of the wired keypad device 150 and / or the battery-powered remote control device 152 may allow for selection of a lighting preset and / or an electric window treatment preset. The preset configuration may be included in the preset data. The preset data may include, for example, a level, a fade time, and / or a delay time of one or more load control devices. The preset level may be a lighting intensity level, a window treatment level (e.g., the bottom level of a curtain), or another preset level to which the load control device may control the electrical load. The fade time may be a length of time that the lighting intensity level may be changed, a length of time that the window treatment level may be changed, or another length of time that the load control device may control the electrical load to change to a preset level. The fade time may be indicated by a fade rate, which may be a speed at which the preset level may be changed. The delay time may be a period of time that the device may delay before implementing the preset.

[0033] The lighting preset can be characterized by the target light intensity of one or more of the lighting load 122 and the LED light machine 132. The electric window treatment can be characterized by the target position of one or more electric roller blinds 140. The lighting preset and / or the electric window treatment preset can be characterized by one or more gradient times (for example, the length of the time period over which the lighting load 122, 132 is adjusted from the current intensity to the target intensity or the length of the time period over which the position of the electric roller blind 140 is adjusted). The gradient times can be the same or different for each controlled electrical load of the lighting preset and / or the electric window treatment preset. The lighting preset and / or the electric window treatment preset can be characterized by a delay time (for example, the length of the time period from when the preset selection is made to when the controlled load begins to adjust the light intensity or the position of the electric window treatment).

[0034] The load control devices may store a device database (e.g., a portion of a load control database) respectively. The device database may predefine the operation of the load control device in response to one or more presets. The device database may store operational information of the load control device. For example, the device database may store commands, preset data, and / or multi-output commands. The device database may include preset data for each preset. The preset data may include preset configurations, such as levels (e.g., lighting intensity levels, window treatment levels, etc.), gradient times, and / or delay times of one or more load control devices. The system controller 110 may be configured to assign a unique address for load control to each load control device, and may transmit the corresponding device database to the associated load control device. The system controller 110 may assign and / or transmit the device database to each load control device during the commissioning process of the load control system 100. During the commissioning process, the system controller 110 and / or the load control device may be in a commissioning mode (e.g., a setup mode) to configure one or more devices in the load control system 100.

[0035] The device database may be transmitted to one or more load control devices of the load control system 100. The load control devices of the load control system 100 may download the device database and store the device database in a memory. The load control devices may download the device database during commissioning and / or upon user request or command. The device database may include preset data that the load control devices may reference upon receiving a preset command.

[0036] The system controller 110 may be configured to transmit (e.g., broadcast) a preset command to the load control devices of the load control system 100. The preset command may be transmitted in response to the selection of a preset. The preset command may be transmitted in a single digital message. The preset command may describe the selected preset or the operation of the load control device according to the selected preset. For example, the preset command may include a preset identifier (e.g., the name of the preset or the preset number). The preset command may include a load control device identifier with the preset identifier. The preset identifier may be 1 byte, and the load control device identifier may be 5 bytes. The preset command (e.g., the preset message) may be, for example, 30 to 35 bytes. The number of bits in the preset may vary, for example, based on the number of load control devices. The load control device may access a device database and look up the preset identified in the preset command to determine how to operate according to the preset identified in the preset command received from the system controller 100. The digital message format for transmitting the preset command may be different from the digital message format for transmitting the multi-output goto level command. Before using the preset command, each device may download the preset command.The multi-output goto level command may be a group message sent at runtime that includes a portion of the command addressed to a specific load control device.

[0037] The system controller 110 can be configured to transmit (e.g., via the digital communication link 104) a multi-output command (e.g., a multi-output goto level command) to one or more load control devices of the load control system 100. The multi-output command can be transmitted in response to the selection of a preset. The multi-output command can define the operation of the one or more load control devices according to the preset. The multi-output command can include information that can be used by the load control device to operate according to the selected preset. For example, the multi-output command can define preset data by which one or more load control devices can operate. The multi-output command can allow the load control device to determine the defined preset without the load control device having to download the preset data (e.g., in a device database), or one or more portions thereof, before receiving the multi-output command (e.g., during commissioning of the load control system 100).

[0038] A single multiple output command may be transmitted in a single digital message or in multiple digital messages. For example, a digital message transmitted over the wired digital communication link 104 may include 128 bytes and may be transmitted in a time period of approximately 50 milliseconds. The multiple output command may include information regarding preset data for multiple load control devices.

[0039] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C A schematic diagram of an example digital message including a multiple output command is illustrated. Figure 2AAn example digital message with a single level single fade multiple output command 200 is illustrated. The single level single fade multiple output command 200 may be generated and / or transmitted to multiple load control devices to control one or more load control devices to a single intensity level (or shade position) with a single fade time. The single level single fade multiple output command 200 may include a start address block 202, a bitmap block 204, a single level block 206, and a single fade time block 208. Each load control device receiving the single level single fade multiple output command 200 may use the data in the start output address block 202 and / or the bitmap block 204 to determine whether the load control device should respond to the multiple output command. The decision to respond to the multiple output command may be based on the level data in the single level block 206 of the single level single fade multiple output command 200 and / or the fade data in the single fade time block 208 of the single level single fade multiple output command 200.

[0040] Output addresses for load control devices may be identified in the starting output address block 202. Output addresses for load control devices may be grouped by type of device (e.g., window treatments may be adjacent, light controllers may be adjacent, etc.). Additional load control devices may be identified in the bitmap block 204. The load control devices identified in the starting output address block 202 and / or the additional devices identified in the bitmap block 204 may use the level data in the individual level block 206 to implement or not implement the identified dimming level. Similarly, the load control devices identified in the starting output address block 202 and / or the additional devices identified in the bitmap block 204 may use the fade data in the individual fade time block 208 to implement or not implement the identified fade time.

[0041] The order of the bits of data in the bitmap block 204 may indicate a specific output address of the load control device. For example, starting with the load control device identified in the starting output address block 202, the individual bits in the bitmap block 204 may indicate a control command for a different load control device in the sequence. The command may indicate whether the load control device should respond to the single level single ramp multiple output command 200. For example, the individual bits of data in the bitmap block 204, or within a predefined number of bits in the bitmap, may include a logic indicator indicating that the load control device responds or does not respond to the single level single ramp multiple output command 200. For example, a logic 1 (e.g., a 1-bit indicator with a value of 1) may indicate that the load control device responds to the single level single ramp multiple output command 200, and / or a logic 0 (e.g., a 1-bit indicator with a value of 0) may indicate that the load control device does not respond to the single level single ramp multiple output command 200. A load control device having an output address for load control in the starting output address block 202 may automatically implement the preset data in the single level single gradient multiple output command 200, or the load control device may determine whether to implement the preset data based on a corresponding bit or bit sequence in the bitmap 204 (e.g., the first bit in the sequence).

[0042] In an example, if the first bit of the data in the bitmap block 204 is a logic 1, a load control device having an output address for load control (e.g., output address for load control 00001) equal to the output address in the starting output address block 202 of the single level single gradient multiple output command 200 may control a corresponding electrical load according to the data in the single level block 206 and the single gradient time block 208 of the single level single gradient multiple output command 200. If the second bit of the data in the bitmap block 204 is a logic 0, for example, a load control device having an output address for load control (e.g., output address for load control 00002) immediately following the output address in the starting output address block 202 of the single level single gradient multiple output command 200 may not actuate a corresponding electrical load in response to the single level single gradient multiple output command 200. In another example, a load control device having an output address for load control in the starting output address block 202 may automatically implement the preset data in the single level single gradient multiple output command 200, and the first bit of the bitmap 204 may indicate whether the next load control device should implement the preset data in the multiple output command 200.

[0043] The bitmap block 204 may continue to control the load control devices in the sequence based on the load control output address for load control. The first load control device in the sequence may be the load control device having an output address for load control equal to the output address in the starting output address block 202. The data in the bitmap block 204 may include, for example, 64 bytes, so that the system controller 110 may control 512 load control devices by using the single level single gradient multiple output command 200. Because 1 byte is equal to 8 bits, a 64-byte bitmap is 512 bits. Each bit may refer to a load control device, and the order may determine the load control device being controlled.

[0044] The load control device may receive a command 200. The load control device may determine a starting output address 202 of the command 200. The load control device may calculate a difference between the output address of the load control device and the starting output address. Based on the calculated difference, the load control device may determine a corresponding bit, or bit sequence, for the load control device in a bitmap block 204. Based on the corresponding bit, or bit sequence, the load control device may execute or not execute the single level single gradient multiple output command 200 as identified in a level block 206 and / or a gradient block 208.

[0045] The system controller 110 may generate the multiple output command 200 by selecting the load control device starting output address of a group of load control devices to be controlled according to the selected preset. For example, the system controller 110 may identify devices in a space with certain output addresses. The system controller may determine the load control devices to be included in the bitmap block 214 based on, for example, user preferences, user input, preset data, etc. The system controller 100 may determine the output address of the load control device at the starting output address. The system controller 110 may input the load control device starting output address into the starting output address block 202. The system controller 110 may determine the sequence of load control devices and the associated output addresses according to the preset, and which output address in the sequence will be controlled. The system controller 110 may indicate the load control devices to be controlled according to the preset, and set the corresponding one or more bits in the bitmap block 204 for each load control device in the sequence, so that the appropriate load control device implements the selected preset. The system controller 110 may use the bitmap block 204 to transmit the preset data to the sequence of load control devices.

[0046] Figure 2BAn example digital message having a multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 is illustrated. The multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 may be transmitted to a plurality of load control devices to control one or more load control devices to different intensity levels (or shading positions) by using a single fade time. The multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 may include a starting output address block 212, a bitmap block 214, a plurality of level blocks 216a to 216n, and a single fade time block 218. For example, as in Figure 2B As shown in FIG. 1 , the system controller 100 can use the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 to control fifty load control devices using the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210. However, the data in the bitmap block 204 may include 64 bytes, so that the system controller 100 can control 512 load control devices by using the single-level single-fade multi-output command 200. Because 1 byte is equal to 8 bits, a 64-byte bitmap is 512 bits. Each bit can refer to a load control device, and the order can determine the load control device being controlled.

[0047] with Figure 2A 200, the order of the bits of data in the bitmap block 214 of the multi-level single-fade multiple-output command 210 may indicate a specific output address of a load control device that may respond to the multi-level single-fade multiple-output command 210. For example, each bit in the bitmap 214, or within a predefined number of bits in the bitmap, may include, for example, a logic indicator indicating that the load control device is responding to or not responding to the information in the multi-level single-fade multiple-output command 210.

[0048] The intensity level to which each load control device identified in the bitmap block 214 will be controlled can be indicated in a plurality of horizontal blocks 216a to 216n. Each load control device identified in the bit sequence in the bitmap block 214 can correspond to a corresponding horizontal block 216a to 216n. Each horizontal block 216a to 216n may include one or more bits for indicating intensity and / or shading level. The order of the devices indicated in the bitmap 214 may correspond to the order of the devices in the plurality of horizontal blocks 216a to 216n. For example, each bit in the bitmap 214 or within a predefined number of bits in the bitmap may indicate a load control device to which a gradient 218 and a corresponding intensity level (or shading position) indicated in the corresponding horizontal block 216 will be applied. For example, the first bit identified in the bitmap block may correspond to the first level. The corresponding level of the load control device can be identified by counting the difference from the first bit identified in the bitmap block 214 and counting the equivalent distance from the first horizontal block.

[0049] In an example, if the first bit of the data in the bitmap block 214 is a logic 1, a load control device having an output address for load control (e.g., output address for load control 00001) equal to the output address in the starting output address block 212 of the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 may control a corresponding electrical load according to the data in the level block 216a and the single-fade time block 218 of the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210. If the second bit of the data in the bitmap block 214 is a logic 0, a load control device having an output address for load control (e.g., output address for load control 00002) immediately following the output address in the starting output address block 212 of the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 may respond to the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 without actuating a corresponding electrical load. If the nth bit of the data in the bitmap block 214 is a logic 1, then a load control device having an output address for load control equal to the output address in the starting output address block 212 of the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210 plus n (e.g., an output address for load control 00001+n) can control a corresponding electrical load according to the data in the level block 216n and the single fade time block 218 of the multi-level single-fade multi-output command 210.

[0050] The bitmap block 214 may continue to control the load control devices in the sequence based on the load control output address for load control. The first load control device in the sequence may be a load control device having an output address for load control equal to the output address in the starting output address block 212. The data in the bitmap block 214 may include, for example, 64 bytes, so that the system controller 110 may control 512 load control devices by using the multi-level single gradient multiple output command 210. Because 1 byte is equal to 8 bits, a 64-byte bitmap is 512 bits. Each bit may refer to a load control device, and the sequence may determine the load control device being controlled. For example, a load control device may receive the command 210. The load control device may determine the starting output address 212 of the command 210. The load control device may determine the difference between the output address of the load control device and the starting output address 212. By using this difference, the load control device may calculate the corresponding instruction in the bitmap block 214 by adding the calculated difference to the output address identified in the starting output address block 212.

[0051] The load control device can determine which of the corresponding level blocks 216a to 216n in the multi-level single gradient command 210 identifies the appropriate level to be applied to the load control device. In an example, the load control device can determine the level to be applied to the load control device by counting the determined bit difference and applying the number to the level blocks 216a to 216n. For example, if the bit difference is determined to be 2, the load control device can determine the level by counting two level blocks starting from the first level block 216a (e.g., 216c). Each level block may include one or more bits indicating a preset level of the corresponding load control device. The level block corresponding to the load control device indicating no response to the command 210 may include a logical 0, a null value, or another bit or series of bits that identifies that the load control device does not respond to the command 210 by implementing a level or gradient time.

[0052] A load control device not identified in the bitmap block 214 for implementing preset data (e.g., level or fade time) may not have an intensity level indicated in the plurality of horizontal blocks. For example, a load control device having an output address for load control in the bitmap block 214 corresponding to an instruction not to respond to the command 210 (e.g., by not implementing the preset data in the command 210) may not have an intensity level in the horizontal block. If the first and second bits of the data in the bitmap block 214 are logic 0 and logic 1, respectively, then the first of the plurality of horizontal blocks 216a may include an intensity level to which a load control device having an output address for load control immediately following the output address in the starting output address block 212 may be controlled. A load control device indicated in the command 210 as applying the preset data may calculate its corresponding position within the bitmap block 214 within the subset of load controls indicated as responding to the command 210, and may look up the same position in the horizontal block for the level to be executed. For example, in command 210, a load control device having a third output address for load control (e.g., output address 00003 for load control) can be a second load control device in bitmap block 214 that is indicated to apply preset data (e.g., a second logic 1 bit in bitmap block 214), and a second level block can be identified for a preset level to be implemented by the load control device.

[0053] Figure 2CA digital message having a multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220 is illustrated. The multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220 may be transmitted to a plurality of load control devices to control one or more load control devices to have different intensity levels (or shading positions) by using different fade times. The multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220 may include multiple output addresses for load control blocks 222a to 222n, corresponding level blocks 226a to 226n, and corresponding fade time blocks 228a to 228n. A load control device having one of the output addresses of the load control blocks 222a to 222n of the multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220 may respond to the multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220 by using the intensity level in the corresponding level block 226a to 226n and the fade rate in the corresponding fade time block 228a to 228n. For example, the system controller 110 is capable of controlling nineteen load control devices by using the multi-level multi-fade multi-output command 220. The data packet size may be 128 bytes. In the multi-level multi-gradient multi-output command 220, each load control device may be allocated two bytes for output identification (e.g., output address), two bytes for level information, and two bytes for gradient information, as well as seven bytes for header information and one byte for additional information (e.g., checksum).

[0054] The level blocks 228a to 228n may respectively identify the level to which the corresponding load control device identified in the multi-output command 220 may be controlled. The fade time blocks 228a to 228n may respectively identify the fade time of the corresponding load control device identified in the multi-output command 220. For example, the output address identified in 222a may be controlled to apply the intensity or shading level identified in the level block 226a at the fade time identified in 228a. Similarly, the output address identified in 222n may be controlled to apply the intensity or shading level identified in the level block 226n at the fade time identified in 228n. Each level block 226a to 226n may include one or more bits for indicating the intensity and / or shading level. For example, the level blocks 226a to 226n may include a number of bits (e.g., 2 bytes totaling 16 bits) for the intensity and / or level, depending on the accuracy level of the message configuration. Each of the fade blocks 228a to 228n may include one or more bits for indicating the fade time. For example, the horizontal blocks 228a to 226n may include a number of bits (e.g., 2 bytes for a total of 16 bits) for the fade time, depending on the accuracy level of the message configuration. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C The levels and / or gradients indicated in the multi-output commands 200, 210, 220 may be absolute values ​​or relative values.

[0055] Although in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C 200, 210, 220 may include or otherwise indicate the delay time for each load control device if the preset includes the delay time. The load control device may delay the delay time after receiving the multi-output command and before executing the preset. In order to reduce the amount of data transmitted in each multi-output command, the delay time may not be included in the multi-output command. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C 200, 210, 220 shown in FIG. If the preset includes a delay time, the system controller 110 may delay an appropriate delay time after selecting the preset and before transmitting the multi-output command to the load control device. If the preset includes multiple delay times, the system controller 100 may issue multiple multi-output commands at each delay time.

[0056] The multiple output commands 200, 210, 220 may be stored (e.g., in a device database) as presets at the load control device. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C 200, 210, 220 may include or otherwise indicate a preset (e.g., an identification number and / or identification name) in the multi-output command 200, 210, 220 that may be used to reference the preset data. For example, the multi-output command 200, 210, 220 may include a preset block. The preset block may be located before or after the starting output address block 202, 222, after an information block such as a gradient block or a level block, or after the bitmap block 204, 214. The multi-output command 200, 210, 220 may define preset data that may be referenced later in the preset command, the preset data including a load control device that may be included in the preset. The preset may be stored with the preset data in the multi-output command 200, 210, 220 (e.g., stored in a device database) so as to be referenced later in the preset command identifying the preset.

[0057] The system controller 110 may be configured to determine which of a preset command and a multi-output command may be transmitted to a load control device in the load control system 100 in response to a selection of a preset. The multi-output command may be more efficient because the load control device may reference the device database using the preset command after the load control device has stored a device database including preset data for the preset. For example, the system controller 110 may be configured to analyze data regarding each preset (e.g., of a load control database) during a commissioning process. The system controller 100 may be configured to determine which of a preset command and a multi-output command may be transmitted based on the content of the preset data defining the operation of the preset and the number of load control devices involved in the preset. If the number of digital messages to be transmitted for the multi-output command is less than or equal to the maximum number of digital messages N MAX , then the system controller 110 may decide to transmit a multi-output command. The maximum number of digital messages N may be selected MAX , so that the maximum number N used to transmit MAX The total amount of time for the digital message is less than or equal to the popcorn notification time T POPCORN Popcorn notification time T POPCORN It can be the length of time between the moments when two lighting loads are turned on that is noticeable to a human observer. For example, if it takes about 50 milliseconds to transmit each digital message, then when the popcorn notification time T POPCORN is the maximum number of digital messages N at 50 milliseconds MAX Can be 1.

[0058] If the preset data for the preset can be transmitted in a single digital message FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C, then the system controller 110 may decide to transmit the multi-output command (e.g., instead of downloading the preset data to the device database at the load control device in the preset and sending the preset command). The size of the single digital message may vary depending on the number of load devices and / or the amount of information sent (e.g., from 20 bytes to 128 bytes, and the single-level single-gradient multi-output command 200 may be 80 bytes, the multi-level single-gradient multi-output command 210 may be 128 bytes, and the multi-level multi-gradient multi-output command 220 may be 128 bytes). The load control device may store the multi-output command in the corresponding device database. The stored multi-output command may also be stored in the system controller 110. The system controller 110 may adapt the multi-output command to an alternative or additional preset. For example, the system controller 110 may recognize that the multi-output command is repeatedly transmitted more than a predetermined number of times. The system controller 110 may assign a preset to the multi-output command and send the preset with the multi-output command so as to be referenced in the preset command.

[0059] If the preset includes a single level and a single ramp time, or multiple levels and a single ramp time, the system controller 110 may decide to transmit a multiple-output command in response to selection of the preset (e.g., instead of downloading the preset data to a device database at the load control device and sending the preset command in the preset). If the preset includes multiple levels and a single ramp time, and if the preset involves less than or equal to a predefined number of load control devices (e.g., 50 load control devices), the system controller 110 may decide to transmit a multiple-output command in response to selection of the preset (e.g., instead of the preset command). The predefined number of load control devices may be the number of load control devices that the multiple-output command may control in a single message using the preset command or in a message that is less than that which may be used to otherwise transmit the preset.

[0060] If the preset includes multiple levels and a single fade time, but involves more than a predefined number of load control devices (e.g., 50 load control devices), the system controller 100 may decide to transmit the preset command (e.g., instead of the multiple output command) and / or the preset data in the load control database in response to the selection of the preset. The system controller 110 may add appropriate data regarding the preset data defining the operation of the selected preset to the device database of the load control device involved. The system controller 110 may transmit the device database to the load control device after the system controller has analyzed the preset in the load control database.

[0061] One or more control devices (e.g., in addition to or different from the system controller 110) may be configured to transmit multi-output commands to the load control devices of the load control system 100. For example, it may be desirable to reduce the latency from receiving an input at an input device (e.g., actuating a slider of a slider control unit) to adjusting the appropriate lighting load. Thus, rather than transmitting a digital message to the system controller 110 in response to actuating the slider, the slider control unit may send multi-output commands directly to the load control devices of the load control system 100. The system controller 110 may be configured to transmit a device database to the slider control unit (or other input device) during the commissioning process. The device database may include appropriate multi-output commands. Upon receiving the device database, the slider control unit may store the multi-output commands in a memory for use in response to actuation of the slider during operation.

[0062] As described herein, the system controller 110 may be operable to analyze preset data during a commissioning process (e.g., a setup prior to operation of a load control device in the load control system 100), and make a determination regarding transmission of a preset command and / or a multiple output command. Additionally, or alternatively, the system controller 110 may transmit a multiple output command to a load control device of the load control system 100 after the commissioning process is completed. The system controller 110 may begin transmitting preset commands and / or multiple output commands to one or more load control devices at a time after the commissioning process is completed. For example, after commissioning, the system controller 110 may transmit a multiple output command to a load control device of the load control system 100 upon first selecting a preset. A load control device receiving a multiple output command may use the multiple output command to define preset data at the load control device, and the system controller 110 may transmit the preset command to the load control device upon subsequent selection of the preset. A load control device receiving an initial multiple output command may store appropriate preset data (e.g., level, fade time, and delay time) regarding the preset in a device database stored in the load control device. Appropriate preset data may be associated with the load control device.

[0063] The system controller 110 may be configured to determine which of a preset command and a multi-output command may be transmitted after the commissioning process is completed (e.g., during operation of the load control system 100). For example, when a preset is selected for the first time after the commissioning process is completed, the system controller 110 may transmit a multi-output command to a load control device of the load control system 100. Before transmitting the multi-output command, the system controller 110 may analyze the preset data and determine whether the preset command or the multi-output command should be transmitted. When transmitting the multi-output command, the system controller 110 may set a save data flag in the multi-output command currently being transmitted. In response to receiving the multi-output command with the save data flag set, the load control device may store appropriate preset data for the preset (e.g., preset data defined in the multi-output command for the device) in a device database stored in the load control device, so that the load control device can process the transmitted preset command in response to future selections of the preset. For example, the multi-output command may include a preset command (e.g., a name of the preset or a preset number) for referencing the preset data defined in the multi-output command in a subsequent data message. When transmitting a multi-output command, the system controller 110 may set the save data flag when the system controller 110 determines that a preset command may be subsequently transmitted (eg, in response to a future selection of a preset).

[0064] For example, rather than having the system controller 110 decide whether to set the save data flag in each transmitted multi-output command, the load control device may be configured to decide whether to store the appropriate preset data in the device database. If the load control device receives a multi-output command and the number of digital messages used to transmit the multi-output command exceeds the maximum number of digital messages N MAX If the system controller 110 determines that the preset command may be transmitted in response to a future selection of a preset, the system controller 110 may be configured to transmit the preset command, and the load control device may be configured to receive the preset command for the preset after transmitting the initial multiple output command.

[0065] The system controller 110 may operate in an initial operation mode, for example, after the commissioning process is completed. During the initial operation mode, when a preset is selected, the system controller 110 may transmit a multi-output command to the load control device. The load control device receiving the initial multi-output command may store appropriate preset data (e.g., preset data corresponding to the load control device) regarding the preset in a device database stored in the load control device.

[0066] The system controller 110 may be configured to transmit a configuration message to a load control device when one or more devices in the system 100 are in an idle mode, the configuration message including a device database, and / or a multi-output command that defines the operation of the load control device in response to a preset. A device may be in an idle mode, for example, when a communication link of the device is idle (e.g., when no digital messages are being transmitted from or received at the load control device). A configuration message may be transmitted when a communication link of the entire load control system 100 is idle (e.g., when no digital messages are being transmitted on the wired digital communication link 104 and no RF signal 106 is being transmitted). When the load control device has received the device database (e.g., in response to receiving a multi-output command or a configuration message), the system controller 110 may begin operating in a normal mode in which the system controller transmits a preset command to the load control device when a preset is selected.

[0067] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The diagram shows the load control system (e.g. Figure 1 A simplified flow chart of an example process performed by a system controller and / or a load control device of a load control system 100 shown in FIG. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The system controller can be configured to: during the debugging process, analyze the preset data about each preset of the load control database, and decide which of the preset commands and the multi-output commands can be transmitted based on the content of the preset data and the number of load control devices involved in the preset.

[0068] Figure 3A 300 is a simplified flow chart of an example of a preset message configuration process 300. At 302, the preset message configuration process 300 may be performed by a system controller, for example, during a configuration and / or commissioning process of a load control system. At 304, the system controller may retrieve configuration data (e.g., by receiving a load control database from a personal computer 164). At 306, the system controller may analyze the preset data in the load control database for the preset. At 308, the system controller may determine whether to transmit a preset command or a multi-output command. For example, the system controller may determine whether to transmit a command including a preset command. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2C308. In 308, if a single digital message including the multiple output command can be transmitted, then in 310, the system controller can store the digital message with the multiple output command for the preset in the memory. In 308, if a single digital message including the multiple output command cannot be transmitted, then in 312, the system controller can store the digital message with the preset command for the preset in the memory. In 314, the system controller can store the preset data (e.g., level, fade time, delay, etc.) in the device database of the load control device involved. In 316, if there are more presets to be analyzed in the load control database, then in 306, the system controller can analyze the preset data for the next preset, and in 308, the system controller can determine whether to transmit a preset command or a multiple output command. At 316 , if there are no additional presets to be analyzed in the load control database, then at 318 the system controller may transmit the device database to the load control device and the preset message configuration process 300 may exit.

[0069] Figure 3B 332. is a simplified flow chart of an example of a controller preset process 330 that may be performed by a system controller, for example, in response to a selection of a preset in 332. For example, in 332, the system controller 110 may receive a digital message indicating the selection of a preset from the wired keypad device 150 and / or the battery-powered remote control device 152. In 334, the system controller may retrieve the preset and / or message data from the memory of the preset selected in 332. If in 336 the preset and message data indicate that a multi-output command is to be transmitted, then in 338 the system controller may determine whether the preset includes a delay time. If so, then in 340 the system controller may wait for the delay time indicated in the preset and message data. In another example, in 340, the system controller may include the delay time corresponding to each load control device in the digital message so that the load control device waits for the delay time. In 342, the system controller may transmit the digital message. The digital message may include the multi-output command. The system controller may send a digital message before the controller preset process 330 exits. At 338, if the preset does not include a delay time, then at 342 the system controller may transmit a digital message including a multiple output command and the controller preset process 330 may exit. At 336, if the preset and the message data indicate that a preset command is to be transmitted, then at 344 the system controller may transmit a digital message including the preset command and the controller preset process 330 may exit.

[0070] Figure 3C 360 is a simplified flowchart of an example of a device preset process 360. For example, in response to the selection of a preset in 362, the device preset process 360 can be performed by a load control device of the load control system. For example, in 362, the load control device can receive a digital message from the system controller 110. The digital message can include a preset command or a multi-output command. In 364, if the received digital message includes a multi-output command, then in 366, the load control device can perform according to the preset data included in the multi-output command, and the device preset process 360 can exit. For example, the load control device can retrieve the level and the fade time from the multi-output command. In 366, the load control device can control the intensity of the controlled lighting load to the level by using the fade time. In addition, or alternatively, in 366, the electric window treatment can control the shading level according to the multi-output command. The electric window treatment can move the shading level to a level (e.g., an intensity level) identified by the multi-output command and at a speed (e.g., exceeding the fade time) identified by the multi-output command.

[0071] The load control device may determine whether to respond to the command. The load control device may receive the command and respond based on the identifier in the beginning of the message (e.g., as shown in Figure 2A , 2B , and the starting output address blocks 202, 212, and / or output address blocks 222a to 222n shown in 2C) determine whether to respond to the command. The load control device can determine the starting identifier output address and then count the number of bits to the position corresponding to the load control device's own output address in the bitmap. The load control device can determine whether there is a logical 1 or a logical 0 in the bit associated with its output address. If there is a logical 1, then the load control device can respond to the command and, for example, determine the associated intensity level and gradient time by looking up the intensity block and gradient block in the command. In another example, the command can include the actual identifier of the load control device, and the load control device can respond to preset data corresponding to the device output address.

[0072] At 364, if the received digital message includes a preset command, the load control device may retrieve preset data (e.g., level, fade time, and / or delay time) for the preset indicated in the received preset command from memory (e.g., a device database) at 368. Before the device preset process 360 exits, at 370, the load control device may perform according to the preset data recalled from memory.

[0073] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The diagram shows the load control system (e.g. Figure 1 2 is a simplified flowchart of an example process performed by a system controller and / or control device of a load control system (shown in FIG. 2 ) to select a preset in a load control system. When a preset is selected, for example, the system controller may Figure 4A and Figure 4B The system controller can transmit a preset command to the load control device when a preset is subsequently selected. Figure 4A and Figure 4B During the process of , the system controller may set a preset flag to indicate that the system controller has sent a multi-output command for a particular preset, so that the system controller can track the presets for which the system controller has sent the multi-output command.

[0074] Figure 4A 4 is a simplified flow chart of an example of a controller preset process 400. For example, in response to the selection of a preset in 402, the controller preset process 400 can be performed by the system controller. In 404, the system controller retrieves the preset and / or message data from the memory for the preset selected in 402. In 406, if the preset flag is not set for the selected preset, then in 408, the system controller can determine whether the preset includes a delay time. If the preset includes a delay, then in 410, the system controller can wait for the delay time indicated in the preset. In 410, the delay time can also or alternatively be indicated in the message data and / or preset for the load control device. When the preset is defined, the delay can be set by the user. The delay time can correspond to one or more devices based on the distance of the load control device from the system controller. Each load control device can individually delay the execution of the command, for example, delaying a period of time from receiving the message. In 412, the system controller can transmit a digital message including a multi-output command. In 414, the system controller may set a preset flag for the selected preset before the controller preset process 400 exits. In 408, if the preset does not include a delay time, then in 412, the system controller may transmit a digital message that may include a multi-output command (e.g., without delay). In 408, if the preset does not include a delay time, then in 414, before the controller preset process 400 exits, the system controller may set a preset flag for the selected preset. In 406, if the preset flag is set for the selected preset, then in 416, the system controller may transmit a digital message that may include a preset command, and the controller preset process 400 may exit.

[0075] Figure 4B4 is a simplified flow chart of an example of a device preset process 430. For example, in response to the selection of a preset in 432, the device preset process 430 can be performed by a load control device of the load control system. In 434, if the received digital message includes a multi-output command, then in 436, the load control device can perform according to the preset data included in the multi-output command. In 438, before the device preset process 430 exits, the load control device can store the preset data included in the multi-output command in a memory. In 434, if the received digital message includes a preset command, then in 440, the load control device can retrieve the preset data (e.g., level, fade time, and delay time) for the preset indicated in the received preset command from the memory (e.g., a device database). The preset command can include a name and / or identification number of the preset. For example, by using the preset command, the load control device can perform a search on the device database. Based on the search using the preset command, the load control device can determine the preset data. At 442, the load control device may execute according to the preset data recalled from memory, and the device preset process 430 may exit.

[0076] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example network device 500. Network device 500 may be, for example, a personal computer (e.g., personal computer 164), a server, a laptop, a tablet, a smart phone, a control source device (e.g., an input device), and / or other suitable network communication devices (e.g., a device supporting Internet Protocol). Network device 500 may be used to store, transmit, and / or execute one or more presets or (e.g., as in Figure 2A , 2B , and / or 2C) multi-output commands. For example, the network device 500 can perform the functions of the personal computer 164 in the load control system 100 and / or the functions of the control source device (e.g., input device). The network device 500 can receive preset data (e.g., in a device database and / or multi-output commands), store preset data, and / or transmit preset data to other devices such as input devices and / or system controller 110 in a command. The network device 500 may include a control circuit 502, which may include one or more of the following: a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any suitable processing device. The control circuit 502 can perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, imaging processing, input / output processing, and / or enable the network device 500 to perform any other functions as described herein.

[0077] The control circuit 502 may store information in and / or retrieve information from the memory 508. The memory 508 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory for storing computer-readable media. The non-removable memory may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, and / or any other type of non-removable memory storage device. The removable memory may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a memory card (e.g., a digital camera memory card), and / or any other type of removable memory. The control circuit 502 may access the memory 508 to obtain executable instructions and / or other information that may be used by the network device 500. The control circuit 502 may access instructions in the memory 508 to receive, store, and / or transmit preset data and / or data in other commands (e.g., in response to a selection of a preset).

[0078] The network device 500 may include network communication circuitry 504 that may be adapted to perform wired and / or wireless communications on behalf of the network device 500 (e.g., to communicate with the system controller device 110 or another device over a network). The network communication circuitry 504 may be wireless communication circuitry, for example, including an RF transceiver coupled to an antenna 512 for transmitting and / or receiving RF signals. The network communication circuitry 504 may communicate with the network device 500 using Wi-Fi, a proprietary protocol (e.g., protocol), Or any other RF communication to communicate. For example, the control circuit 502 can be coupled to the network communication circuit 504 to transmit and / or receive digital messages via RF signals.

[0079] Network device 500 may include actuator 506. Control circuit 502 may be responsive to actuator 506 to receive user input. For example, control circuit 502 may be operable to receive a button press by a user on network device 500 to make a selection or perform other functions on network device 500.

[0080] The network device 500 may include a display 510. The control circuit 502 may communicate with the display 510 to display information to a user. The communication between the display 510 and the control circuit 502 may be two-way communication because the display 510 may include a touch screen module capable of receiving information from a user and providing such information to the control circuit 502.

[0081] The network device 500 may include a power supply 514 for generating a DC power supply voltage V for powering the control circuit 502, the network communication circuit 504, the memory 508, the display 510, and / or other circuits of the network device 500. CCPower source 514 may be a battery or another source of power for network device 500 .

[0082] Figure 6 is a simplified block diagram of an example system controller 600, which can be deployed, for example, in Figure 1 . The system controller 110 of the load control system 100 shown in FIG. The system controller 600 may include a control circuit 610, which may include one or more of the following: a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a microcontroller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any suitable processing device. The control circuit 610 may perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, and / or enable the network device 600 to perform any other functions as described herein. The system controller 600 may include a network communication circuit 612 that may be coupled to a network connector 614 (e.g., an Ethernet socket), and the network communication circuit 612 may be suitable for connecting to a wired digital communication link (e.g., an Ethernet communication link) so that the control circuit 610 can communicate with a network device on the network. The network communication circuit 612 may be configured to connect to the network wirelessly, for example, by transmitting and / or receiving RF signals using Wi-Fi technology.

[0083] System controller 600 may include wireless communication circuitry 616, for example, including an RF transceiver coupled to an antenna for transmitting and / or receiving RF signals. Wireless communication circuitry 616 may communicate with the system controller 600 using a proprietary protocol (e.g., The control circuit 610 may be coupled to the wireless communication circuit 616 to transmit digital messages via RF signals, for example, to control a load control device in the load control system 100 in response to a digital message received via the network communication circuit 612. The control circuit 610 may be configured to receive digital messages from a load control device and / or an input device, for example.

[0084] The control circuit 610 may be responsive to the actuator 620 to receive user input. For example, the control circuit 610 may be operated to associate the system controller 600 with one or more control devices of the load control system 100 in response to actuation of the actuator 620 during a configuration process of the load control system 100. The system controller 600 may include additional actuators to which the control circuit 610 may be responsive.

[0085] The control circuit 610 can store information in the memory 618 and / or retrieve information from the memory 618. The memory 618 can include non-removable memory and / or removable memory for storing computer-readable media. The non-removable memory can include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk, and / or any other type of non-removable memory storage device. The removable memory can include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a memory card (e.g., a digital camera memory card), and / or any other type of removable memory. The control circuit 610 can access the memory 618 to obtain executable instructions and / or other information that can be used by the system controller 600. The control circuit 610 can store a unique identifier (e.g., a serial number) of a control device associated with the system controller 600 in the memory 618. The control circuit 610 can access instructions in the memory 618 to transmit preset commands, transmit multiple output commands, and / or perform other functions described herein. The control circuit 610 can store multiple output command data and / or other preset data that can be used to control the load control device in the memory 618.

[0086] The control circuit 610 may illuminate the visual indicator 622 to provide feedback to a user of the load control system 100. For example, the control circuit 610 may cause the visual indicator 622 to flash or strobe to indicate a fault condition. The control circuit 610 may be operated to illuminate the visual indicator 622 in different colors to indicate different conditions or states of the system controller 600. The visual indicator 622 may be illuminated by, for example, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The system controller 600 may include more than one visual indicator.

[0087] The system controller 600 may include a power supply 624 for generating a DC supply voltage V for powering the control circuit 610, the network communication circuit 612, the wireless communication circuit 616, the memory 618, the visual indicator 622, and / or other circuits of the system controller 622. CC The power supply 624 may be coupled to a power connector 626 (eg, a USB port) to receive a power supply voltage (eg, a DC voltage) and / or to draw current from an external power source.

[0088] Figure 7700 is a block diagram illustrating an example load control device 700. The load control device 700 may be, for example, a control source device and / or a control target device. The load control device 700 may be a dimmer switch, an electronic switch, an electronic ballast for a lamp, an LED driver for an LED light source, a plug-in load control device, a temperature control device (e.g., a thermostat), a motor drive unit for an electric window treatment, or other load control devices. The load control device 700 may include a communication circuit 702. The communication circuit 702 may include a receiver, an RF transceiver, or other communication modules capable of performing wired and / or wireless communications. Wireless communications may be performed via an antenna 716.

[0089] The communication circuit 702 can communicate with the control circuit 704. The control circuit 704 can include one or more general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, conventional processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), microprocessors, integrated circuits, programmable logic devices (PLDs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. The control circuit 704 can perform signal encoding, data processing, power control, input / output processing, or enable the load control device 700 to perform any other functions as described herein. For example, the control circuit 704 can execute control instructions according to preset data, retrieve preset data from a storage device, and / or the like.

[0090] The control circuit 704 can store information in the memory 706 and / or retrieve information from the memory 706. For example, the memory 706 can maintain a device database, preset data, multiple output command data, and / or other digital message information. The memory 706 may include a non-removable memory and / or a removable memory. The load control circuit 708 can receive instructions from the control circuit 704 and can control the electrical load 710 based on the received instructions. For example, the control circuit 704 can use the load control circuit 708 to control the electrical load 710 according to the received preset data. The load control circuit 708 can receive power via the hot connection 712 and the neutral connection 714, and can provide a certain amount of electricity to the electrical load 710. The electrical load 710 can include any type of electrical load.

[0091] Although features and elements are described herein according to a specific combination, each feature or element can be used alone or in any combination with other features and elements. Although specific embodiments are described herein, the embodiments described herein are non-restrictive, and some other variations, modifications, and other uses are apparent. The method described herein can be implemented in a computer program, software, or firmware included in a computer-readable medium for a computer or processor to perform. Examples of computer-readable media include (transmitted by wired or wireless connection) electronic signals and computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), removable disks, and optical media such as CD-ROM disks and digital versatile disks (DVDs).

Claims

1. An apparatus for controlling a load control device, the load control device being configured to control an electrical load, the apparatus comprising: a communication circuit configured to transmit commands for controlling the load control device; Control circuit; as well as A device memory having stored therein instructions that, when executed by the control circuit, direct the control circuit to: in response to a first selection of a preset, transmitting a first command to the load control device via the communication circuit, wherein the first command includes preset data defining one or more operations of the load control device in response to the selection of the preset and further including a preset identifier for referencing the preset data; storing in a device memory a preset flag indicating that the preset data is transmitted to the load control device; In response to a second selection of the preset, determining that the preset data is transmitted to the load control device according to the preset flag stored in the device memory; and In response to the preset data determined according to the preset tag being transmitted to the load control device, a second command is transmitted to the load control device via the communication circuit, wherein the second command includes the preset identifier and does not include the preset data.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the control circuit, further direct the control circuit to perform the following operations: analyzing preset data during the commissioning mode, the preset data defining one or more operations of the second load control device in response to selection of a second preset; determining a number of messages associated with transmitting second preset preset data to a second load control device; transmitting the preset data of the second preset to the second load control device in response to selection of the second preset when the number of messages associated with transmitting the preset data of the second preset to the second load control device is less than a predetermined number; as well as When the number of messages associated with transmitting the second preset preset data to the second load control device is greater than a predetermined number, During the commissioning mode, transmitting second preset preset data to the second load control device; as well as In response to selection of the second preset, a command excluding the preset data of the second preset is transmitted to the second load control device.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first command causes the load control device to store preset data in a memory of the load control device when the number of messages used to transmit the first command exceeds a predetermined number.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The first command further includes a save data flag, which, when set, causes the load control device to store preset data in a memory of the load control device.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the control circuit, further direct the control circuit to delay transmission of the first command for a delay time, and wherein the delay time is an amount of time that transmission of the first command is delayed after a preset selection.

6. A load control device for controlling an electrical load, the load control device comprising: a load control circuit configured to control an electrical load; a communication circuit configured to receive a command from a device; Control circuit; as well as A memory storing instructions that, when executed by the control circuit, direct the control circuit to perform the following operations: receiving, via the communication circuit, a first command, wherein the first command includes preset data defining one or more operations of the load control device in response to selection of a preset and further including a preset identifier for referencing the preset data; In response to receiving the first command: storing the preset data in a memory; and controlling a load control circuit to control an electrical load based on the preset data; receiving, via the communication circuit, a second command, wherein the second command includes the preset identifier and does not include the preset data; In response to receiving the second command: accessing the preset data from the memory using the preset identifier in the second command; and The load control circuit is controlled to control the electrical load using the preset data accessed from the memory.

7. The load control device according to claim 6, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the control circuit, further direct the control circuit to store preset data in the memory when the number of messages used to transmit the first command exceeds a predetermined number.

8. The load control device according to claim 6, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the control circuit, further direct the control circuit to store the preset data in the memory when the save data flag is set in the first command.

9. The load control device according to claim 6, wherein: The instructions, when executed by the control circuit, further direct the control circuit to: storing preset data in a memory during a debug mode, the preset data defining one or more operations of a second preset; receiving, via the communication circuit, a command, the command comprising a preset identifier for referencing second preset preset data; accessing preset data for a second preset from the memory using the preset identifier of the second preset; as well as The load control circuit is controlled to control the electrical load using the second preset preset data accessed from the memory.

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