Control device with adaptive transmission threshold

Abstract

Wireless devices can perform improved carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) techniques in order to improve reliability while maintaining reasonable communication latency. A wireless device can perform a listen before talk (LBT) technique using an adaptive transmission threshold (e.g., an adaptive CSMA threshold). The transmission threshold can be compared to a measured signal strength magnitude to determine whether a frequency channel is quiet enough for transmission of a data packet. The transmission threshold can be initially set equal to a minimum value. The wireless device can increase the transmission threshold after each instance of LBT failure to allow the wireless device to gradually become more likely to transmit the data packet each time LBT fails.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 032,024, filed May 29, 2020, entitled “CONTROL DEVICE HAVING AN ADAPTIVETRANSMISSION THRESHOLD”, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] A lighting control system may include lighting fixtures comprising lighting loads for illuminating a space, such as electrical lighting control devices or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). These lighting fixtures may include lighting control devices for controlling power supplied to the lighting loads, such as LED drivers or electronic ballasts. The lighting control system may also include a system controller or hub capable of sending commands to the lighting control devices to control the power supplied to the lighting loads. The system controller may send commands to the lighting control devices wirelessly.

[0004] Many wireless devices can exist within a given space. For example (This includes lighting control devices, load control devices, moving devices, and / or system controllers). For example, in a multi-story office building, each floor may have a system controller. Each system controller can communicate with multiple lighting control devices on that floor. System controllers may use overlapping channels. Furthermore, there may be other devices in the space using channels that overlap with the system controller's channel. Therefore, there may be a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic on the channel used by the system controller. This could cause the lighting control devices to fail to respond to commands sent from the system controller, or the system controller to fail to receive information about the status of the lighting control devices. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Wireless devices ( For example Load control devices, input devices, moving devices, and / or system controllers may implement one or more techniques to improve the reliability of wireless communication over a network while maintaining a reasonable amount of latency. As described herein, a load control system may include load control devices for providing a certain amount of power to an electrical load. Control devices such as input devices, system controllers, or other control devices may ( For example The load control device sends a message containing control information (via wireless communication) to the load control device for supplying the specified amount of power to the electrical load. The load control device may receive the message via a communication circuit.

[0006] In some situations, multiple wireless devices using overlapping channels may exist within a relatively small space. For example, a building may have multiple floors, and each floor may have a system controller that controls a large number of lighting control devices. The system controller on each floor, along with the associated lighting control devices, may use overlapping channels. Furthermore, other devices using the same channel may also exist. For example Mobile devices, computers, electrical appliances, wireless access points wait Additionally, there may be noise sources generating RF energy on the same channel. For example Microwave ovens, motors, safety sign readers wait There may be a relatively large amount of RF traffic on the channel. For example (RF energy) and therefore a significant amount of radio frequency interference (RFI). RFI can cause the controllers of a load control system to discard data packets sent from other controllers in the load control system, thereby reducing reliability and increasing latency.

[0007] The control unit of the load control system can implement improved carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) technology to enhance reliability while maintaining reasonable latency. For example, the control unit can implement listen-before-speak (LBT) technology. When using LBT, the control unit can measure the signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on a given channel before transmitting data packets. For example The measured signal strength indicator (RSSI) value indicates that the channel is not being used by other control devices (e.g., the channel is quiet), while a measured signal strength value indicates that the channel is being used by other control devices. For example (Channel occupied). The control device can compare the measured signal strength amplitude with a transmission threshold. If the measured signal strength amplitude is less than the transmission threshold, the control device can transmit a message. If the measured signal strength indicator is not less than the transmission threshold, the control device can wait for a predetermined time period and attempt to transmit again after the time period has elapsed.

[0008] Implementing CSMA (Constant Continuous Modulation) technology can improve transmission reliability. However, this increased reliability may come at the cost of latency. For example, if the number of control devices in a load control system is large enough, the channel may be occupied for a relatively high percentage of the time even when the control devices are implementing CSMA. There is a relatively high chance that a given control device will measure a signal strength amplitude greater than the transmission threshold. Therefore, the control device may implement CSMA multiple times before transmitting the message, thereby increasing latency. For some applications, it may be desirable to have lower latency than that achieved using CSMA while still maintaining improved reliability.

[0009] The control device can use an adaptive transmission threshold ( For example The control device performs CSMA (CSMA-adaptive threshold) to measure the signal strength amplitude of the channel. For example The current signal strength amplitude is measured and compared to a transmission threshold to determine if the channel is "quiet" enough for message transmission. The transmission threshold can initially be set to equal to a minimum threshold. After each instance of an LBT failure, the control unit can increase the transmission threshold. For example, an LBT failure may occur when the measured signal strength amplitude on the channel fails to equal or fall below the transmission threshold. In one example, after each instance of an LBT failure, the control unit can increase the transmission threshold by (…). For example (periodic increase) increment ( example like (Fixed quantity, predefined quantity, or variable). This allows the control unit to gradually become more likely to transmit data packets after each instance of an LBT failure.

[0010] The control unit can use a maximum transmission threshold to perform CSMA (Continuous Switched Amplification) technology. After each instance of an LBT (Low Bit Brain) failure, the control unit can increase the transmission (…). For example (Add a fixed value, a predefined value, or a variable). If the transmission threshold reaches or exceeds the maximum threshold, the control device can transmit a message regardless of whether the measured signal strength amplitude continues to exceed the transmission threshold. Alternatively, the control device can record the number of times the measured signal strength amplitude exceeds the transmission threshold ( For example The system counts the number of LBT failures and transmits a message after a threshold number of failures is reached. The control device can reset the transmission threshold and / or the counted number of failures after the message is transmitted.

[0011] Minimum and / or maximum thresholds can be determined based on the message's priority context. For example, the message's priority context can be determined based on the type of control device, the message's type and / or content, the control device's network role, and / or the network communication link associated with the message. Priority context can be, for example, latency-critical or latency-noncritical. A latency-critical message is one where obvious or inappropriate delays exceeding a predefined threshold are unacceptable and / or undesirable. A latency-noncritical message is one where obvious or inappropriate delays exceeding a predefined threshold are acceptable and / or permissible. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1A This is a diagram of an exemplary load control system.

[0013] Figure 1B It shows that it is able to Figure 1A A block diagram illustrating an example of a device for processing and / or communicating in a load control system.

[0014] Figure 1C This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary load control device.

[0015] Figure 2A Is it permissible? Figure 1A A diagram of an exemplary network for communication between devices in a load control system.

[0016] Figure 2B Is it allowed? Figure 1A An exemplary network or network partition for communication between devices in a load control system. For example A graph (of a network or subnetwork).

[0017] Figure 2C It is shown that... Figure 1A A diagram of another exemplary network illustrating the costs and network overhead associated with communication between devices in a load control system.

[0018] Figure 2D This is an exemplary table showing exemplary link costs that can correspond to different link qualities.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary procedure for performing carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) technology using an adaptive transmission threshold.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary procedure for performing CSMA using an adaptive transmission threshold and a maximum threshold.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary procedure for performing CSMA technology using an adaptive transmission threshold and counter.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary procedure for determining the amplitude of the background signal strength of a channel to update the adaptive transmission threshold used when performing CSMA technology.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a flowchart depicting an exemplary procedure for performing CSMA using a minimum and maximum threshold of an adaptive transmission threshold in a message-priority context. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Figure 1 is a diagram of an exemplary load control system 100 for controlling the amount of electrical power delivered from an alternating current (AC) power source (not shown) to one or more electrical loads. The load control system 100 may be installed in a load control environment 102. The load control environment 102 may include a space in a residential or commercial building. For example, the load control system 100 may be installed in one or more rooms on one or more floors of a building.

[0025] The load control system 100 may include multiple control devices. These control devices may include load control devices configured to control one or more electrical loads in the load control environment 102 (also referred to as the user environment). For example, the load control device may control one or more electrical loads in response to inputs from one or more input devices or other devices in the load control system 100.

[0026] The load control device in the load control system 100 may include a lighting control device. For example, the load control system 100 may include a lighting control device 120 for controlling the lighting load 122 in a corresponding lighting fixture 124. The lighting control device 120 may include a light-emitting diode (LED) driver, and the lighting load 122 may include an LED light source. Although each lighting fixture 124 is shown as having a single lighting load 122, each lighting fixture may include one or more individual light sources. For example (lamp and / or LED emitter), the one or more individual light sources can be individually and / or uniformly controlled by a corresponding lighting control device. Although an LED driver is provided as an exemplary lighting control device, other types of lighting control devices can be implemented as load control devices in the load control system 100. For example, the load control system 100 may include a dimmer switch for controlling fluorescent lamps, an electronic dimming ballast, or other lighting control devices for controlling corresponding lighting loads. The lighting control device 120 may be configured to directly control the electrical power supplied to the lighting load 122. The lighting control device 120 may be configured to ( For example The lighting control device 120 receives messages via radio frequency (RF) signals 108 and 109 (via wired or wireless communication) and controls the lighting load 122 in response to the received messages. It will be appreciated that the lighting control device 120 and the lighting load 122 may be integrated and therefore part of the same fixture or bulb, or they may be separate.

[0027] The load control device in the load control system 100 may include RF signals 108, 109 ( For example One or more electrical appliances (wireless signals) to perform load control. In the example, the load control system may include a speaker 146 (wireless signal). example like (As part of an auditory / visual or intercom system), the speaker is capable of producing audible sounds, such as alarms, music, and intercom functions, in response to RF signals 108 and 109. wait .

[0028] The load control device in the load control system 100 may include one or more daylight control devices for controlling the amount of sunlight entering the load control environment 102. For example The system includes motorized blinds 150, such as motorized honeycomb blinds. Each motorized blind 150 may include curtain fabric 152 suspended from a curtain box 154 in front of the corresponding window 104. Each motorized blind 150 may also include a motor drive unit (not shown) located inside the curtain box 154 for raising and lowering the curtain fabric 152 to control the amount of daylight entering the load control environment 102. The motor drive unit of the motorized blind 150 may be configured to receive messages via RF signal 108 and adjust the position of the corresponding curtain fabric 152 in response to the received messages. For example, the motorized blinds may be battery powered. The load control system 100 may include other types of daylight control devices, such as honeycomb blinds, canopies, Roman blinds, soft Venetian blinds, Persian blinds, pleated Venetian blinds, tension roller blind systems, electrochromic or smart windows and / or other suitable daylight control devices. Examples of battery-powered motorized curtains are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 8,950,461, entitled “MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT,” published February 10, 2015; and U.S. Patent No. 9,488,000, entitled “INTEGRATED ACCESSIBLE BATTERY COMPARTMENT FOR MOTORIZED WINDOW TREATMENT,” published November 8, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0029] The load control device in the load control system 100 may include a plug-in load control device 140 for controlling plug-in electrical loads, wherein the plug-in electrical loads are plugged in. For example Plug-in lighting loads (such as floor lamp 142 or table lamp) and / or electrical appliances (such as televisions or computer monitors). For example, floor lamp 142 can be plugged into plug-in load control device 140. Plug-in load control device 140 can be plugged into a standard power outlet 144 and is therefore connected in series between the AC power supply and the plug-in lighting load. Plug-in load control device 140 can be configured to receive messages via RF signals 108, 109 and, in response to the received messages, turn floor lamp 142 on and off or adjust the intensity of the floor lamp.

[0030] The load control device in the load control system 100 may include one or more temperature control devices for controlling the room temperature in the load control environment 102. For example Thermostat 160. Thermostat 160 can be controlled via control link 161 ( For exampleThe thermostat 160 is coupled to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 162 via an analog control link or a wired digital communication link. The thermostat 160 can be configured to wirelessly transmit messages to the controller of the HVAC system 162. The thermostat 160 may include a temperature sensor for measuring the room temperature of the load control environment 102 and can control the HVAC system 162 to adjust the room temperature to a setpoint temperature. The load control system 100 may include one or more wireless temperature sensors (not shown) located in the load control environment 102 for measuring room temperature. The HVAC system 162 can be configured to turn the compressor on and off to cool the load control environment 102 and to turn the heating source on and off to heat the room in response to control signals received from the thermostat 160. The HVAC system 162 can be configured to turn the fans of the HVAC system on and off in response to control signals received from the thermostat 160. The thermostat 160 and / or the HVAC system 162 can be configured to control one or more controllable dampers to control airflow in the load control environment 102. The thermostat 160 can be configured to receive messages via RF signals 108, 109 and adjust heating, ventilation and cooling in response to the received messages.

[0031] The load control system 100 may include one or more other types of load control devices, such as screw-in luminaires including dimmer circuitry and incandescent or halogen lamps; screw-in luminaires including ballasts and compact fluorescent lamps; screw-in luminaires including LED drivers and LED light sources; electronic switches, controllable circuit breakers, or other switching devices for turning electrical appliances on and off; controllable power outlets or controllable power boards for controlling one or more plug-in loads; motor control units for controlling motor loads (such as ceiling fans or exhaust fans); drive units for controlling projection screens; motorized internal or external blinds; and more. Thermostats for heating and / or cooling systems; temperature control devices for controlling setpoint temperatures in HVAC systems; air conditioners; compressors; electric kickboard heater controllers; controllable dampers; variable air volume controllers; fresh air intake controllers; ventilation controllers; hydraulic valves for radiator and radiant heating systems; humidity control units; humidifiers; dehumidifiers; water heaters; boiler controllers; pool pumps; refrigerators; freezers; television or computer monitors; cameras; audio systems or amplifiers; elevators; power supplies; generators; chargers, such as electric vehicle chargers; and / or alternative energy controllers.

[0032] The load control system 100 may include one or more input devices capable of receiving input events for controlling one or more load control devices in the load control system 100. The input devices and load control devices may be collectively referred to as control devices in the load control system 100. The input devices in the load control system 100 may include one or more remote control devices, such as remote control device 170. The remote control device may be battery powered. The remote control device 170 may be configured to transmit messages via RF signal 108 to one or more other devices in the load control system 100 in response to input events such as actuation of one or more buttons or rotation of a knob on the remote control device 170. For example, the remote control device 170 may transmit messages via RF signal 108 to lighting control device 120, plug-in load control device 140, motorized curtain 150, and / or temperature control device 160 in response to actuation of one or more buttons located thereon. The messages may include control commands for controlling the load control devices in the load control system 100 and / or indications of actuation of one or more buttons. The remote control device 170 may also communicate with other devices in the load control system 100 via a wired communication link. In response to an input event at remote control device 170, a wired device to which remote control device 170 is connected can be triggered to transmit messages to one or more other devices in load control system 100. Remote control device 170 may include a keypad. In another example, remote control device 170 may include a knob configured to respond to rotation on the knob ( For example The remote control device 170 can transmit messages to one or more other devices (rotation over a predefined distance or time period). The remote control device 170 can be mounted to a structure such as a wall, a toggle actuator of a mechanical switch, or a base located on a horizontal surface. In another example, the remote control device 170 can be handheld. The remote control device 170 can provide feedback to the user of the remote control device 170 on a visual indicator such as a status indicator. For example(Visual feedback). The status indicator may be illuminated by one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to provide feedback. The status indicator may provide different types of feedback. Feedback may include indications of: actuation or other user interface events made by the user, the status of the electrical load controlled by the remote control device 170, and / or the status of the load control device controlled by the remote control device 170. Feedback may be displayed in response to user interface events and / or in response to received messages indicating the status of the load control device and / or the electrical load. Examples of battery-powered remote control devices are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 8,330,638, entitled “WIRELESS BATTERY-POWERED REMOTE CONTROL HAVING MULTIPLE MOUNTING MEANS”, published December 11, 2012; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0286940, entitled “CONTROL DEVICEHAVING A NIGHTLIGHT”, published November 15, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0033] The input devices of the load control system 100 may include one or more sensor devices, such as sensor device 141. Sensor device 141 may be configured to transmit messages via RF signal 108 to one or more other devices in the load control system 100 in response to an input event such as a sensor measurement event. Alternatively or additionally, sensor device 141 may be configured to transmit messages via a wired communication link to one or more other devices in the load control system 100 in response to an input event such as a sensor measurement event. Sensor device 141 may operate as an ambient light sensor or a daylight sensor and may be able to perform a sensor measurement event by measuring the total light intensity in the space surrounding sensor device 141. Sensor device 141 may transmit messages including the measured light level or control commands generated in response to the measured light level via RF signal 108. Examples of RF load control systems with daylight sensors are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 8,410,706, entitled “METHOD OF CALIBRATING A DAYLIGHT SENSOR”, issued April 2, 2013; and U.S. Patent No. 8,451,116, entitled “WIRELESSBATTERY POWERED DAYLIGHT SENSOR”, issued May 28, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0034] Sensor device 141 can operate as an occupancy sensor, configured to detect occupancy and / or vacancy conditions in the load control environment 102. Sensor device 141 may be able to perform sensor measurement events by measuring occupancy or vacancy conditions in response to user 192's occupancy or vacancy of the load control environment 102. For example, sensor device 141 may include an infrared (IR) sensor capable of detecting occupancy or vacancy conditions in response to the presence or absence of user 192. Sensor device 141 may transmit messages including occupancy or vacancy conditions or control commands generated in response to occupancy / vacancy conditions via RF signal 108. Similarly, additionally or alternatively, sensor device 141 may transmit messages including occupancy or vacancy conditions or control commands generated in response to occupancy / vacancy conditions via a wired communication link. Examples of load control systems with occupancy and vacancy sensors are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 8,228,184, entitled “BATTERY-POWERED OCCUPANCY SENSOR”, issued July 24, 2012; U.S. Patent No. 8,009,042, entitled “RADIO-FREQUENCYLIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM WITH OCCUPANCY SENSING”, issued August 30, 2011 and September 3, 2008; and U.S. Patent No. 8,199,010, entitled “METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONFIGURING A WIRELESS SENSOR”, issued June 12, 2012, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0035] Sensor device 141 can be used as a visible light sensor. For exampleThe sensor device 141 may operate by measuring the amount of visible light within the load control environment 102, including a camera or other device capable of sensing visible light. For example, the sensor device 141 may include visible light sensing circuitry with image recording circuitry (such as a camera) and image processing circuitry. The image processing circuitry may include a digital signal processor (DSP), microprocessor, programmable logic device (PLD), microcontroller, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or any suitable processing device capable of processing images or visible light levels. The sensor device 141 may be positioned toward the load control environment 102 to sense one or more environmental characteristics within the load control environment 102. The image recording circuitry of the sensor device 141 may be configured to capture or record images. The image recording circuitry of the sensor device 141 may provide the captured images to an image processor. The image processor may be configured to process the images into one or more sensing signals representing the sensed environmental characteristics. The sensed environmental characteristics may be interpreted from the sensing signals by the control circuitry of the sensor device 141, or the sensing signals may be transmitted via RF signals 108, 109 to one or more other devices ( For example The sensor device 141 can be used to interpret the sensed environmental characteristics (a computing device within the load control environment). For example, sensed environmental characteristics interpreted from the sensing signal may include the occurrence of movement, the amount of movement, the direction of movement, the speed of movement, the number of occupants, occupancy conditions, vacancy conditions, light intensity, visible light color, visible light color temperature, direct sunlight transmittance, or other environmental characteristics within the load control environment 102. In another example, the sensor device 141 can process (raw image or processed image) For example (Preprocessed) images are provided to one or more other devices in the load control system 100. For example (A computing device) for further processing. When sensing the color temperature of visible light, the sensor device 141 can operate as a color temperature sensor. Examples of load control systems with visible light sensors are described in more detail in the following patents: commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 10,264,651, entitled “LOAD CONTROL SYSTEM HAVING A VISIBLE LIGHT SENSOR”, published April 16, 2019; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0167547, entitled “CONFIGURATION OF AVISIBLE LIGHT SENSOR”, published June 14, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0036] The sensor device 141 can be located outside the lighting fixture 124. For exampleThe sensor device 141 may be attached to or connected to the ceiling or wall of the load control environment 102. The sensor device 141 may be positioned toward the load control environment 102 and may be able to perform sensor measurement events within the load control environment 102. In one example, the sensor device 141 may be attached to or connected to a window 104 of the load control environment 102 and operate as a window sensor capable of performing sensor measurement events on light entering the load control environment 102 through the window 104. For example, the sensor device 141 may include an ambient light sensor capable of detecting when sunlight directly illuminates the sensor device 141, when it is reflected back onto the sensor device 141, and / or when it is blocked by external means such as clouds or buildings, based on the measured light level received by the sensor device 141 from outside the window. The sensor device 141 may send a message indicating the measured light level. Although one or more sensor devices 141 are shown external to the lighting fixture 124, one or more sensor devices may be mounted within one or more (…) of the lighting fixture 124. For example (Mounted on the lower surface or outward-facing surface of the lighting fixture 124). For example, one or more sensor devices 141 may be electrically coupled to the control circuitry or load control circuitry of the load control device 120 to perform control in response to sensor measurement events of the sensor devices 141.

[0037] The load control system 100 may include other types of input devices, such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, radiometers, cloudy day sensors, shading sensors, pressure sensors, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, air quality sensors, motion sensors, safety sensors, proximity sensors, fixed device sensors, zone sensors, keypads, multi-zone control units, slider control units, power-powered or solar-powered remote controls, key fobs, cellular phones, smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, personal computers, laptop computers, clocks, audio-visual controls, safety devices, and power monitoring devices. For example Such as electricity meters, energy meters, utility sub-meters, and utility rate tables. wait ( ), central control transmitter, residential, commercial or industrial controller and / or any combination thereof.

[0038] The input device and the load control device can be configured to transmit messages to each other over a communication link within the load control system 100. The communication link between the control devices in the load control system may include one or more network communication links through which messages can be transmitted for performing end-to-end communication within the load control system 100. For example, the input device and the load control device may be able to transmit messages directly to each other via RF signal 108. RF signal 108 may be transmitted using proprietary RF protocols and / or standard protocols for different protocols, such as the CLEARCONNECT protocol. For example The standard protocols include CLEAR CONNECT TYPE A and / or CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X protocols, such as WIFI, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), ZigBee, Z-WAVE, and THREAD protocols. In one example, the input device may transmit input events via RF signal 108. For example The input device (button press, sensor measurement event, or other input event) or a message of control command generated in response to an input event is transmitted to the load control device for performing control of the electrical load controlled by the load control device. The input device and the load control device may be configured to communicate via RF signal 108 on a first wireless communication link via a first wireless communication protocol (…). For example Wireless network communication protocols, such as THREAD, CLEAR CONNECT TYPE A, CLEAR CONNECT TYPE X, and WIFI. wait ) communicates, and via RF signal 109 on the second wireless communication link via the second wireless communication protocol ( For example Short-range wireless communication protocols, such as Bluetooth and BLE wait Communication can be conducted via wired communication links. Although a communication link can be described as a wireless communication link, a wired communication link can be similarly implemented to enable the communication described herein.

[0039] To enable devices in the load control system 100 to recognize messages for and / or to respond to, devices can associate with each other by executing an association procedure. For example, for a load control device to respond to a message from an input device, the input device may first associate with the load control device. As an example of an association procedure, devices can be placed in an association mode to share a unique identifier for association with other devices in the load control system 100 and / or stored at other devices in the load control system. For example, the input device and the load control device can be placed in an association mode by user 192 actuating a button on the input device and / or the load control device. Actuation of the button on the input device and / or the load control device places the input device and / or the load control device in an association mode to associate with each other. In the association mode, the input device can (directly or via one or more other devices as described herein) transmit an association message to the load control device. The association message from the input device may include the unique identifier of the input device. The load control device may store the unique identifier of the input device locally in the association information, enabling the load control device to recognize messages from the input device. For example The message may include load control instructions or commands. Association information stored at the load control device may include a unique identifier of the device to which the load control device is associated. The load control device may be configured to respond to a message by controlling the corresponding electrical load according to a load control instruction received in a message from the associated input device. The input device may also store the unique identifier of its associated load control device in the association information stored locally thereon. Similar association procedures may be performed between other devices in the load control system 100 to enable each device to perform message transmission with its associated device. This is merely one example of how devices can communicate and associate with each other, and other examples are possible.

[0040] According to another example, one or more devices can receive system configuration data ( For example (or subsequent updates to system configuration data), the system configuration data is uploaded to the device and specifies association information including a unique identifier for the associated device. The system configuration data may include a load control dataset defining the device and operating settings of the load control system 100. The system configuration data may include information about the user environment 102 and / or the devices in the load control system 100, including configuration identifiers for the control devices ( For example (Fixed device identifiers or load control device identifiers, groups, zones, areas, and / or location identifiers). For example, system configuration data may include association information indicating defined associations between devices in the load control system 100. Association information can be updated using any of the association procedures described herein.

[0041] One or more intermediate devices may also maintain association information, which includes unique identifiers that constitute associations between other devices in the load control system 100. For example, input devices and load control devices may communicate on a communication link in the load control system 100 via one or more other intermediate devices (such as router devices or other devices in a network). Intermediate devices may include input devices, load control devices, central processing units, or other intermediate devices capable of enabling communication between devices in the load control system. The association information maintained on the intermediate devices may include unique identifiers of devices that are associated with each other for identifying and / or enabling message transmission between devices in the load control system 100. For example, an intermediate device may identify unique identifiers transmitted in association messages between devices during an association process and store the unique identifiers of the devices as associations in the association information. The intermediate devices may use the association information to monitor and / or route communication on the communication link between devices in the load control system 100. In another example, association information of other devices may be uploaded to and / or transmitted from the intermediate devices to other devices for local storage on the other devices. For example (Stored at the input device and / or load control device).

[0042] The load control system 100 may include a system controller 110. The system controller 100 may operate as an intermediate device, as described herein. For example, the system controller 110 may operate as a central processing unit for one or more other devices within the load control system 100. The system controller 110 may be operable to transmit messages to a control device (…). For example The system controller 110 can be configured to receive messages from input devices and transmit messages to the load control device in response to messages received from input devices. The system controller 110 can route messages based on associated information stored thereon. The input devices, load control device, and system controller 110 can be configured to transmit and receive RF signals 108 and / or via a wired communication link. The system controller 110 can be coupled to one or more networks, such as wireless or wired local area networks (LANs). For example For accessing the Internet. System controller 110 can connect to the network wirelessly using one or more wireless protocols. System controller 110 can also connect via a wired communication link such as a network communication bus. For example (Ethernet communication link) is coupled to the network.

[0043] System controller 110 may be configured to communicate with one or more computing devices via a network. For exampleMobile device 190, such as a personal computing device and / or a wearable wireless device. Mobile device 190 may be located on the occupant 192, for example, it may be attached to the occupant's body or clothing, or it may be held by the occupant. Mobile device 190 may be characterized by a unique identifier (…). For example The unique identifier (a serial number or address stored in memory) uniquely identifies the mobile device 190 and thus the occupant 192. Examples of personal computing devices may include smartphones, laptops, and / or tablets. Examples of wearable wireless devices may include activity tracking devices, smartwatches, smart clothing, and / or smart glasses. Furthermore, the system controller 110 may be configured to communicate with one or more other control systems via a network. example like Building management system, security system wait ) communication.

[0044] Mobile device 190 may be configured to transmit messages to system controller 110, for example, in one or more Internet Protocol (IP) packets. For example, mobile device 190 may be configured to transmit messages to system controller 110 via a LAN and / or via the Internet. Mobile device 190 may be configured to transmit messages to an external service via the Internet, and system controller 110 may then receive the messages. Mobile device 190 may transmit and receive RF signals 109. RF signals 109 may be of the same signal type and / or transmitted using the same protocol as RF signals 108. Alternatively or additionally, mobile device 190 may be configured to transmit RF signals according to a different signal type and / or protocol. Mobile device 190 and / or system controller 110 may be able to communicate with other devices via RF signals 108, 109 on a communication link.

[0045] The load control system 100 may include other types of computing devices coupled to a network, such as a desktop personal computer (PC), a television with wireless communication capabilities, or any other suitable device supporting Internet protocols. Examples of load control systems operable to communicate with mobile and / or computing devices on a network are described in more detail in co-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0030589, entitled “LOAD CONTROL DEVICE HAVING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY,” published January 31, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0046] The operation of the load control system 100 can be programmed and configured using, for example, a mobile device 190 or other computing device. For example(When the mobile device is a personal computing device). The mobile device 190 may execute graphical user interface (GUI) configuration software to allow the user 192 to program how the load control system 100 will operate. For example, the configuration software may run as a PC application or a web interface. Configuration software and / or system controller 110 ( For example System configuration data, which may include a load control dataset defining the operation of the load control system 100, can be generated via instructions from the configuration software. For example, the load control dataset may include information about different load control devices of the load control system. For example Information on the operational settings of the lighting control device 120, the plug-in load control device 140, the motorized curtain 150, and / or the thermostat 160. The load control dataset may include information on how the load control device responds to inputs received from the input device. Examples of configuration procedures for the load control system are described in more detail in the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 7,391,297, jointly assigned, entitled “HANDHELD PROGRAMMER FOR A LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM,” published June 24, 2008; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0092075, entitled “METHOD OF BUILDING A DATABASE OF A LIGHTING CONTROL SYSTEM,” published April 17, 2008; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0265568, entitled “COMMISSIONING LOAD CONTROL SYSTEMS,” published September 18, 2014.

[0047] Figure 1B It demonstrates the ability to control load systems such as Figure 1A This is a block diagram illustrating an example of a device 130 for processing and / or communicating within a load control system 100. In one example, device 130 may be a control device capable of transmitting or receiving messages. The control device may be located in an input device, such as sensor device 141. For example The device 130 may be a computing device, such as a mobile device 190, a system controller 110, a processing device, a central computing device, or another computing device in the load control system 100.

[0048] Device 130 may include control circuitry 131 for controlling the functions of device 130. Control circuitry 131 may 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. Control circuitry 131 may perform signal encoding, data processing, image processing, power control, input / output processing, or enable device 131 to function as the load control system described herein. For example Any other function performed by any of the devices in the load control system 100.

[0049] Control circuitry 131 may be communicatively coupled to memory 132 to store information in memory 132 and / or retrieve information from said memory. Memory 132 may include computer-readable or machine-readable storage media that maintains device datasets, network information, and / or computer-executable instructions for execution as described herein, including associated device identifiers. For example, memory 132 may include computer-executable or machine-readable instructions that include one or more portions of the program described herein. The program may enable device 130 and / or other devices to perform one or more CSMA techniques, as described herein, using an adaptive transmission threshold. The program may also enable device 130 and / or other devices to determine background signal strength, as described herein. Control circuitry 131 may access instructions from memory 132 for execution to cause control circuitry 131 to operate as described herein or to operate one or more other devices, as described herein.

[0050] Memory 132 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory. Non-removable memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk, or any other type of non-removable memory storage device. Removable memory may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory stick, memory card, or any other type of removable memory. Memory 132 may be implemented as an external integrated circuit (IC) or as internal circuitry of control circuitry 131.

[0051] Device 130 may include one or more communication circuits 134, which communicate with control circuitry 131 as described herein for sending and / or receiving information. Communication circuitry 134 may perform wireless and / or wired communication. Communication circuitry 134 may be a wired communication circuit capable of communication over a wired communication link. The wired communication link may include an Ethernet communication link, an RS-485 serial communication link, a 0-10 volt analog link, a pulse width modulation (PWM) control link, a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) digital communication link, and / or another wired communication link. Communication circuitry 134 may be configured to use power line carrier (PLC) communication technology via power line (PLC) communication. For example The device 130 communicates with the power line from which it receives power. The communication circuit 134 may be a wireless communication circuit, including one or more RF or infrared (IR) transmitters, receivers, transceivers and / or other communication circuits capable of performing wireless communication.

[0052] Although a single communication circuit 134 may be shown, multiple communication circuits may be implemented in device 130. Device 130 may include communication circuits configured to communicate via one or more wired and / or wireless communication networks and / or protocols, and at least one other communication circuit configured to communicate via one or more other wired and / or wireless communication networks and / or protocols. For example, a first communication circuit may be configured to communicate via a wired or wireless communication link, while another communication circuit may be able to communicate on another wired or wireless communication link. The first communication circuit may be configured to use a first wireless protocol (…). For example Wireless network communication protocol) via the first wireless communication link ( For example The second communication circuit can communicate using a second wireless protocol (wireless network communication link), and the second communication circuit can be configured to use a second wireless protocol (wireless network communication link). For example Short-range wireless communication protocol) via a second wireless communication link ( For example Communicate via short-range or direct wireless communication links.

[0053] One of the communication circuits 134 may include a beacon transmission and / or reception circuit capable of transmitting and / or receiving beacon messages via short-range RF signals. Control circuit 131 may be connected to the beacon transmission circuit ( For example, Short-range communication circuits (SLCs) communicate to transmit beacon messages. For example, a beacon transmission circuit can transmit beacons via RF communication signals. A beacon transmission circuit can be a one-way communication circuit (...). For example The beacon transmission circuit is configured to transmit beacon messages or a bidirectional communication circuit capable of receiving information on the same network and / or protocol as the transmitting beacon. For example The beacon transmission circuit is configured to transmit and receive beacon messages. Information received at the beacon transmission circuit can be provided to the control circuit 131.

[0054] Control circuitry 131 may communicate with one or more input circuits 133 from which input can be received. Input circuitry 133 may be included in a user interface for receiving input from a user. For example, input circuitry 133 may include an actuator ( For example A momentary switch (which can be actuated by one or more physical buttons), the actuator being user-actuable to transmit user input or selection to control circuitry 131. In response to actuation of the actuator, control circuitry 131 can enter an association mode, transmitting association messages from device 130 via communication circuitry 134, and / or receiving other information. For example(Control commands for executing control of electrical loads). In response to actuation of the actuator, the control circuitry can be configured to perform control by transmitting control commands indicating actuation and / or control commands generated in response to actuation on a user interface. The actuator may include a touch-sensitive surface, such as a capacitive touch surface, a resistive touch surface, an inductive touch surface, a surface acoustic wave (SAW) touch surface, an infrared touch surface, an acoustic pulse touch surface, or be configured to receive input ( For example Another touch-sensitive surface (such as a touch actuation / input from a user) is also a touch-sensitive surface. In response to actuation or input from a user on the touch-sensitive surface, the control circuitry 131 of device 130 can enter an associated mode, transmit associated messages, transmit control commands, or perform other functions.

[0055] Input circuit 133 may include sensing circuit ( For example (Sensor). The sensing circuit can be an occupant sensing circuit, a temperature sensing circuit, or a color ( For example Color temperature sensing circuit, visible light sensing circuit For example (camera), sunlight sensing circuit or ambient light sensing circuit, or another sensing circuit for receiving input ( For example (The sensing device 130 senses environmental characteristics in the environment). Control circuit 131 may receive information from one or more input circuits 133 and process the information to perform the functions described herein.

[0056] The control circuitry 131 can communicate with one or more output sources 135. The output sources 135 may include methods for providing instructions to a user. For example One or more indicators (feedback) For example (Visible indicators, such as LEDs). Output source 135 may include methods for providing information to the user ( For example Feedback) display For example (See display). Control circuitry 131 and / or the display can generate a graphical user interface (GUI), which is generated via software for display on device 130. For example (Displayed on the display of device 130).

[0057] The user interface of device 130 can combine the features of input circuitry 133 and output source 135. For example, the user interface may have a button that actuates the actuator of input circuitry 133 and may have an indicator that can be illuminated by a light source of output source 135. example like(See indicator). In another example, the display and control circuitry 131 may be in bidirectional communication because the display can show information to the user and includes a touchscreen capable of receiving information from the user. Information received via the touchscreen may be provided as information from the touchscreen to the control circuitry 131 for performing functions or control.

[0058] Each of the hardware circuits within device 130 may be powered by power supply 136. For example, power supply 136 may include a power source configured to receive power from an alternating current (AC) power source or a direct current (DC) power source. Furthermore, power supply 136 may include one or more batteries. Power supply 136 may generate a supply voltage V. CC To power the hardware within device 130.

[0059] Figure 1C This is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary load control device 180. The load control device 180 may be a lighting control device (…). For example Lighting control device 120), electric curtains ( For example Electric curtains 150), plug-in load control device ( For example Insertion load control device 140), temperature control device ( For example Temperature control device 160), dimmer switch, electronic switch, lamp electronic ballast and / or another load control device.

[0060] The load control device 180 may include control circuitry 181 for controlling the functions of the load control device 180. Control circuitry 181 may 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. Control circuitry 181 may perform signal encoding, data processing, image processing, power control, input / output processing, or enable the load control device 180 to function as the load control system described herein. For example Any other function performed by any of the devices in the load control system 100.

[0061] Load control device 180 may include load control circuit 185, which may be connected in series with power supply 187. For example A control circuit 181 is configured to control a load control circuit 185 to control the electrical load 188, for example, in response to a received command. The electrical load 188 may include a lighting load, a motor load, etc. For exampleElectrical load 188 may be an electric motor for controlling electric curtains, a component of a heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) system, a speaker, or any other type of electrical load. The electrical load 188 may be included in or located outside the load control device 180. For example, the load control device 180 may be a dimmer switch or LED driver capable of controlling an external lighting load. The electrical load 188 may be integrated with the load control device 180. For example, the load control device 180 may be included in an LED of a controllable light source, a motor in a motor drive unit, or a speaker in a controllable audio device.

[0062] Control circuitry 181 may be communicatively coupled to memory 182 to store information in memory 182 and / or retrieve information from said memory. Memory 182 may include a computer-readable or machine-readable storage medium that maintains device datasets of associated device identifiers, network information, and / or computer-executable instructions for execution as described herein. For example, memory 132 may include computer-executable or machine-readable instructions that include one or more portions of the program described herein. The program may enable load control device 180 and / or other devices to perform one or more CSMA techniques, as described herein, using an adaptive transmission threshold. The program may also enable load control device 180 and / or other devices to determine background signal strength, as described herein.

[0063] Control circuitry 181 can access instructions from memory 182 for execution to cause control circuitry 181 to operate as described herein or to operate one or more devices as described herein. Memory 182 may include non-removable memory and / or removable memory. Non-removable memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk, or any other type of non-removable memory storage device. Removable memory may include a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, memory stick, memory card, or any other type of removable memory. Memory 182 may be implemented as an external integrated circuit (IC) or internal circuitry of control circuitry 181.

[0064] The load control device 180 may include one or more communication circuits 184, which communicate with the control circuit 181 as described herein for sending and / or receiving information. The communication circuits 184 may perform wireless and / or wired communication. The communication circuits 184 may be wired communication circuits capable of communication over a wired communication link. The wired communication link may include an Ethernet communication link, an RS-485 serial communication link, a 0-10 volt analog link, a pulse width modulation (PWM) control link, a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI) digital communication link, and / or another wired communication link. The communication circuits 184 may be configured to use power line carrier (PLC) communication technology via power line (PLC) communication. For example The load control device 180 communicates with the power line from which it receives power. The communication circuit 184 may be a wireless communication circuit, including one or more RF or IR transmitters, receivers, transceivers, or other communication circuits capable of performing wireless communication.

[0065] Although a single communication circuit 184 may be shown, multiple communication circuits may be implemented in the load control device 180. The load control device 180 may include communication circuits configured to communicate via one or more wired and / or wireless communication networks and / or protocols, and at least one other communication circuit configured to communicate via one or more other wired and / or wireless communication networks and / or protocols. For example, a first communication circuit may be configured to communicate via a wired or wireless communication link, while another communication circuit may be able to communicate on another wired or wireless communication link. The first communication circuit may be configured to use a first wireless protocol (…). For example Wireless network communication protocol) via the first wireless communication link ( For example The second communication circuit can communicate using a second wireless protocol (wireless network communication link), and the second communication circuit can be configured to use a second wireless protocol (wireless network communication link). For example Short-range wireless communication protocol) via a second wireless communication link ( For example Communicate via short-range or direct wireless communication links.

[0066] One of the communication circuits 184 may include a beacon transmission and / or reception circuit capable of transmitting and / or receiving beacon messages via short-range RF signals. Control circuit 181 may be connected to the beacon transmission circuit (…). For example, Short-range communication circuits (SLCs) communicate to transmit beacon messages. For example, a beacon transmission circuit can transmit beacon messages via RF communication signals. A beacon transmission circuit can be a one-way communication circuit (...). For example The beacon transmission circuit is configured to transmit beacon messages or a bidirectional communication circuit capable of receiving information on the same network and / or protocol as the beacon messages are transmitted. For example The beacon transmission circuit is configured to transmit and receive beacon messages. Information received at the beacon transmission circuit can be provided to the control circuit 181.

[0067] Control circuitry 181 may communicate with one or more input circuits 183 from which input can be received. Input circuitry 183 may be included in a user interface for receiving input from a user. For example, input circuitry 183 may include an actuator ( For exampleA momentary switch (which can be actuated by one or more physical buttons) is provided, wherein the actuator can be actuated by a user to transmit user input or selection to control circuitry 181. In response to actuation of the actuator, control circuitry 181 can enter an associated mode, transmitting associated messages from load control device 180 via communication circuitry 184, and / or receiving other information. In response to actuation of the actuator, control can be performed by controlling load control circuitry 185 to control electrical load 188 and / or by transmitting control commands indicating actuation and / or control commands generated in response to actuation on a user interface. The actuator may include a touch-sensitive surface, such as a capacitive touch surface, a resistive touch surface, an inductive touch surface, a surface acoustic wave (SAW) touch surface, an infrared touch surface, an acoustic pulse touch surface, or be configured to receive input (…). For example Another touch-sensitive surface (such as a touch actuation / input from a user's point actuation or gesture). In response to an actuation or input from the user on the touch-sensitive surface, the control circuit 181 of the load control device 180 may enter an associated mode, transmit associated messages, control the load control circuit 185, transmit control commands, or perform other functions.

[0068] Input circuit 183 may include sensing circuit ( For example (Sensor). The sensing circuit can be an occupant sensing circuit, a temperature sensing circuit, or a color ( For example Color temperature sensing circuit, visible light sensing circuit For example (camera), sunlight sensing circuit or ambient light sensing circuit, or another sensing circuit for receiving input ( For example (The control circuit 181 senses the environmental characteristics of the environment in which the load control device 180 is located). The control circuit 181 may receive information from one or more input circuits 183 and process the information to perform the functions as described herein.

[0069] Control circuit 181 can enable light source 186 ( For example The light source 186 can be illuminated by, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to provide feedback to the user. Control circuitry 181 may be operable to cause the light source 186 to illuminate different colors. The light source 186 may be illuminated by, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0070] Refer again Figure 1A The network can be used to facilitate the corresponding devices of the load control system 100. For example Communication between control devices. A control device can first join the network and then attach to another control device on the network. For example (To form a mesh network) so that they can communicate with each other via the network. When initially installing a lighting control system, the control devices can be added to the network (to form a mesh network). example like (By exchanging credentials with the network debugging device). The control devices can then each attempt to attach to another control device network to form a mesh network. For example (Network formation). In order to attach to another control device on the network, the control device can send and receive multiple messages via the network.

[0071] Figure 2A This is an illustration of an exemplary network 200, which allows a load control system (...) For example This refers to communication between devices within the load control system 100. Network 200 may include any suitable network to facilitate communication within the load control system or in an Internet of Things (IoT) environment. Various control devices of the load control system 100 can communicate with each other via network 200. Figure 2A As shown, network 200 may include a single network partition. Alternatively, network 200 may be a network partition within a larger network. For example Examples of subnetworks (or subnets). For example, network 200 may be an example of a network partition within a larger network consisting of multiple network partitions. Network 200 is an exemplary network, and the techniques described herein can be applied to other networks, for example, that include more or fewer devices compared to network 200.

[0072] Figure 2A The circled node can represent a device that is attached to other devices on network 200. For example Various control devices of the load control system 100). The control device of at least one other control device attached to the network 200 can be connected to (…). example like Other control devices (attached to another control device on network 200) can communicate. Communication within network 200 can be achieved through a network communication link established within network 200. For example (Attached) to promote. Reference Figure 2A The network communication link between control devices can be formed by connecting the corresponding devices via a wire ( For example (Indicators include double solid lines, single solid lines, and single dashed lines).

[0073] A control device attached to at least one other device on network 200 may assume and / or be assigned a corresponding role in the network. For example, a role may include: a leadership device ( For example Leader device 210), router device ( For example Router devices 220a-220d), terminal devices ( For example Terminal devices 230a and 230b), and router-compliant terminal devices (REED) For example Terminal devices 240 that meet router requirements), parent devices, child devices, and / or dormant terminal devices ( For example (Sleep terminal device 250). The role of the control device can indicate the functions and / or capabilities of the control device relative to the network 200.

[0074] like Figure 2A As shown, network 200 may include a leadership device 210. Leadership device 210 can manage other control devices attached to network 200. For example, leadership device 210 can assign and maintain router identifiers for each of router devices 220. For example (Router ID). For example, a unique router identifier can be assigned to each of the router devices 220a-220d. The leader device 210 can assign and maintain the roles of other devices. The leader device 210 can be configured as a gateway for network 200. For example, the leader device can facilitate communication between network 200 and other networks or network partitions. For example (This involves routing and receiving messages between the network and other networks or network partitions.) (See reference) Figure 1A System controller ( For example , Figure 1A The system controller 110 shown can be an example of a leader device 210. Furthermore, control devices within the load control system that can be assigned a role to a router device can be assigned a role to the leader device. For example (control device).

[0075] Network 200 may include one or more router devices 220a-220d. Leader device 210 may support and be attached to multiple router devices. For example (More than 30 router devices). The leader device 210 can operate as a router device. Router devices 220a-220d on network 200 ( For example The leader devices 210, attached to network 200, can communicate with each other, for example, to form a mesh network. Router devices 220a-220d can communicate with each other. For example (As indicated by the double solid lines connecting router devices 220a-220d). Router devices 220a-220d can communicate with the leader device 210 directly or through one or more other router devices. For example (As indicated by the double solid lines connecting the leader device 210 to router devices 220a and 220c). Router devices 220a-220d can receive and route messages to other devices on network 200. For example (Terminal devices 230a, 230b, router-compliant terminal device 240, and / or hibernating terminal device 250). For example, router devices 220a-220d can receive / transmit messages between or among themselves for the purpose of forwarding messages received from an attached device to another device attached to another router device. Now refer to Figure 1A The load control system 100, such as an externally powered control device ( For example(Not a battery-powered control device) can be assigned the role of a router device, such as a system controller 110, a lighting control device 120, a plug-in load control device 140, an electric curtain 150, and / or a thermostat 160.

[0076] Refer again Figure 2A Network 200 may include one or more terminal devices 230a, 230b ( For example (Full-function terminal device or minimum-function terminal device). Terminal devices 230a and 230b can be attached to another device on network 200. For example The parent device, such as leader device 210 or router devices 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d), can transmit and / or receive messages via attached router devices 220a-220d. Although Figure 2A The diagram shows two terminal devices 230a and 230b, each attached to a different router device, but each router device 220a-220d can support multiple terminal devices. example like (More than 500 terminal devices). See again. Figure 1A The system 100 shown includes a system controller 110 and an input device. For example Remote control device 170 and / or sensor device 141) and / or load control device ( For example Lighting control device 120, plug-in load control device 140, electric curtain 150 and / or thermostat 160) can be examples of terminal devices 230a and 230b.

[0077] Refer again Figure 2A Network 200 may include a terminal device 240 that conforms to router requirements. The terminal device 240 that conforms to router requirements may be capable of ( For example A terminal device (possessing hardware and / or software capabilities) becomes a leader device and / or a router device. In some cases, the role of a router-qualified terminal device 240 can be updated to that of a leader device and / or a router device. For example, when a router-qualified terminal device 240 identifies itself as being within the range of terminal devices attempting to attach to network 200, it can upgrade itself to the role of a router device. The router-qualified terminal device 240 can transmit and / or receive messages via the attached router device 220d. Figure 2A As shown, the terminal device 240 that meets the router requirements can be one of the terminal devices attached to the router device 220d. (See reference...) Figure 1ASystem controller 110, lighting control device 120, plug-in load control device 140, motorized curtains 150, and / or thermostat 160 may be examples of terminal devices 240 that conform to router requirements. For example, externally powered control devices ( For example (Not a battery-powered control device) can be assigned the role of a terminal device that meets the router's requirements.

[0078] refer to Figure 2A Network 200 may include a hibernation terminal device 250. The hibernation terminal device 250 may include or resemble a terminal device. For example, the hibernation terminal device 250 may be powered by a limited power source (…). For example A battery-powered terminal device. The hibernation terminal device 250 may know its role as a hibernation terminal device based, for example, an indication stored on the hibernation terminal device 250. Communication with the hibernation terminal device 250 can be performed such that limited power is conserved and / or efficiently consumed. For example, the hibernation terminal device 250 may periodically disable its corresponding communication circuits between message transmissions. The hibernation terminal device 250 may transmit and / or receive messages via an attached router device 220a. Figure 2A As shown, the hibernation terminal device 250 can be one of the terminal devices attached to the router device 220a. Input device ( For example Remote control device 170) and / or load control device ( For example An electric curtain 150 that is powered by a battery can be an example of a sleep terminal device 250. Additionally, sensors and / or battery-powered devices can be examples of a sleep terminal device 250.

[0079] The leadership device 210 can, for example, update the role of the control device communicating within the network 200 based on changes to the network 200. For example (or confirm role update). In one example, a control device may be assigned a specific role when it is attached to network 200, and the leader device 210 may update the control device's role based on changes in network conditions. Changes in network conditions may include: increased message traffic, attachment of other control devices, and changes in signal strength. wait The update of the assigned role of the control device can be based on the capabilities of the control device. For example, the leader device 210 can update the role of the control device from a terminal device that meets router criteria to a router device. For example Because a terminal device that meets the router criteria is a terminal device qualified to perform the role of a router device. The leader device 210 can assign a router identifier (ID) to the control device to identify the terminal device (because a terminal device that meets the router criteria is a terminal device qualified to perform the role of a router device). For example The role of a terminal device that meets the router's requirements is updated to that of a router device.

[0080] Control devices of other devices attached to network 200 may further operate as parent and / or child devices. Attached to one or more terminal devices ( For example The leader device of terminal devices 230a, 230b, terminal device 240 conforming to router conditions, and / or hibernation terminal device 250. For example (leader device 210) and router device ( For example Router devices 220a-220d can operate as parent devices. Attached to the leader device ( For example (leader device 210) or router device ( For example The terminal device (one of the router devices 220a-220d) For example Terminal devices 230a, 230b, router-compliant terminal device 240, and / or hibernating terminal device 250 can operate as sub-devices. As parent devices, leader device 210 and router devices 220a-220d can each be attached to one or more sub-devices. For example One or more of terminal devices 230a, 230b, terminal device 240 conforming to router conditions, and / or dormant terminal device 250 (as described herein). Furthermore, leader device 210 and router devices 220a-220d can store and / or relay messages sent by their respective attached sub-devices. For example, leader device 210 and router devices 220a-220d can receive messages from their respective sub-devices and route the received messages to the intended recipient device (…). For example The message can be routed directly to the intended recipient device via its corresponding parent device, and / or to a router device or leader device on the path to the intended recipient. Similarly, leader device 210 and router devices 220a-220d can receive messages intended for their respective child devices and route the messages to the appropriate child devices. When the communication circuitry of the corresponding dormant terminal device is enabled, the parent of the dormant terminal device can schedule communication with the dormant terminal device.

[0081] like Figure 2A The relationship between the child device and the corresponding parent device is indicated. For example(Attached) can be indicated by a single solid line. For example, router device 220a can be configured as the parent device of terminal device 230a and dormant terminal device 250. Similarly, router device 220b can be configured as the parent device of terminal device 230b. Router device 220a can receive messages intended for terminal device 230a and forward said messages to terminal device 230a. Since router device 220a is configured as the parent device of terminal device 230a, terminal device 230a can transmit messages to router device 220a, and router device 220a can route messages to the intended recipient. For example, when terminal device 230a intends to transmit a message to terminal device 230b, terminal device 230a can initially transmit the message to router device 220a. Router device 220a can route messages to router device 220b. For example (The parent device of terminal device 230b). For example, router device 220a can route messages to router device 220b via router device 220c or router device 220d, and then router device 220b can forward the messages to terminal device 230b. Furthermore, as described herein and... Figure 2A As shown, router device 220a can be connected via router device 220c ( example like The auxiliary parent device of router device 230b routes the message to terminal device 230b.

[0082] Each sub-device can be configured to transmit unicast messages to its corresponding parent device. Messages transmitted by a sub-device to its corresponding parent device may include an indication of the intended recipient (…). For example (a unique identifier), and the parent device can route the message accordingly. See again Figure 2A Terminal device 230a can transmit messages to router device 220a. For example (The parent device of terminal device 230a), and router device 220a can route the message based on the intended recipient. For example, if terminal device 230a transmits a message intended for terminal device 230b, router device 220a can route the message to router device 220b via router device 220c or router device 220d. For example (The parent device of terminal device 230b that meets the router's conditions). For example, if router device 220a routes a message via router device 220d, then router device 220d can forward the message to router device 220b, and router device 220b can forward the message to terminal device 230b. Router device 220a can identify router device 220b as the parent device to which terminal device 230b is attached via a lookup table. Figure 2AAs shown, multiple paths can exist for routing messages through network 200, and the router device can identify the shortest path to transmit the message to the corresponding device. For example (Minimum number of jumps).

[0083] Each sub-device can be configured to communicate with one or more auxiliary parent devices. For example (Configured to communicate with more than one parent device). (See reference) Figure 2A For example, terminal device 230b can be configured to communicate with parent device ( For example (Main parent device) (such as router device 220b) communication ( For example (This involves transmitting messages to and receiving messages from the parent device). Terminal device 230b can also be configured to communicate with auxiliary parent devices (such as router device 220c). For example (Receive messages from the auxiliary parent device) For example ,like Figure 2A (As shown by the dashed line in the diagram). A child device can be derived from its parent device ( For example The child device (primary parent device) receives unicast messages. The child device can also receive unicast messages from its parent device (primary parent device). For example The primary parent device and one or more auxiliary parent devices receive multicast or broadcast messages, which improves the efficiency and reliability of message reception by child devices. Some messages can be propagated and broadcast by multiple devices in network 200, increasing the likelihood that the corresponding child device will hear the message. For example, instead of sending multiple transmissions, substantially similar multicast messages can be broadcast (…). For example (This includes messages containing the same load control command sent to multiple load control devices). See again... Figure 1A The load control system 100 and the remote control device 170 have buttons that can be actuated to adjust multiple lighting loads. For example The intensity of the lighting load (122 and floor lamp 142) can be adjusted, and the message can be broadcast to adjust the corresponding lighting load. Furthermore, the control device receiving the broadcast transmission can be configured to process and repeat the message in response to receiving the broadcast transmission.

[0084] As described in this article, Figure 2A The network 200 shown allows the load control system ( For example , Figure 1A Communication between devices in the load control system 100 shown. Terminal devices 230a and 230b may include load control devices and / or input devices that communicate with other devices in the load control system. For example, terminal device 230a may communicate with another terminal device in the load control system via RF communication.

[0085] Now for reference Figure 1AThe remote control device 170 can operate as a terminal device or a dormant terminal device to transmit instructions, including user input, and / or to control another terminal device. For example The system sends control commands to the lighting control device 120, the plug-in load control device 140, the motorized curtains 150, and / or the thermostat 160. For example, the remote control device 170 may communicate via one or more intermediate parent devices, such as a leader device and / or a router device. The leader device and / or router device may communicate with one or more other leader devices and / or router devices in the network to route messages to other terminal devices. For example (Lighting control device 120, plug-in load control device 140, electric curtain 150 and / or thermostat 160) for performing load control.

[0086] The control device can be attached to a network or network partition. For example , Figure 2A Another control device on the network 200 shown, so that the control device can communicate via the network. For example (Transmitting and / or receiving messages). The control device can initiate attachment to the network by transmitting a parent request message to discover potential parent devices. The parent request message can be transmitted by the control device to discover parent devices (…). For example (a leader device and / or router device) and / or attached to a parent device. The control device may multicast a parent request message, for example, to identify a leader device or router device attached to the network that can act as a parent device of the control device.

[0087] The potential parent device that receives the parent request message ( For example The leader device 210 and / or router device 220 of network 200 can respond by transmitting a parent response message. For example, each potential parent device receiving a parent request message can unicast the parent response message to the terminal device transmitting the parent request message. The parent response message can indicate that the leader device or router device transmitting the parent response message is available to act as a parent device. Therefore, the control device transmitting the parent request message can receive multiple responses to the parent request message and determine the parent device to be synchronized with based on the received parent response messages. The control device transmitting the attachment request message can identify the signal strength associated with the response message and attempt to attach to the parent device with the strongest signal strength in the response message.

[0088] Figure 2B It has multiple network partitions 201, 202, 203 ( For example An exemplary illustration of network 200a (with separate network partitions). Figure 2BAs shown, network partition 201 may include the following parent devices: leader device 211 and router devices 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d. Furthermore, network 201 may include sub-devices such as: terminal devices 231a and 231b; a router-qualified terminal device 241; and a dormant terminal device 251. For example, each of the router devices 221a-221d in network partition 201 may be assigned a unique router identifier. Network partition 202 may include the following parent devices: leader device 212 and router devices 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d. Furthermore, network 202 may include sub-devices such as: terminal devices 232a and 232b; a router-qualified terminal device 242; and a dormant terminal device 252. For example, each of the router devices 222a-222d in network partition 202 may be assigned a unique router identifier. Network partition 203 may include a single parent device, namely leader device 213, and a single terminal device, namely terminal device 223.

[0089] like Figure 2B As shown, network partition 203 may include a leader device 213 and a terminal device 223. However, network partition 203 may not include a router device. Instead, the leader device 213 may act as the sole router within network partition 203. A leader device that is not connected to or synchronized with a router device may be referred to as a singleton device. For example, leader device 213 may be a singleton device. Figure 2B As shown, a singleton device can be connected to one or more sub-devices. For example (Terminal device 223). Network partition 203 can be a singleton partition. For example... Figure 2B As shown, a singleton partition may include a leadership device ( For example (Leadership device 213). Furthermore, a singleton partition may include one or more terminal devices ( For example (Terminal device 223). However, as Figure 2B As shown, a singleton partition may not include a router device.

[0090] Network 200a allows load control systems ( For example Communication between devices in the load control system 100. Furthermore, network partitions 201, 202, and 203 may be formed because some control devices cannot attach to an existing network partition. For example, as described herein, a control device may attempt to attach to a network partition by transmitting a parent request message. However, if the control device fails to receive a response to the parent request message ( For example Since the control device is outside the communication range of the already formed network partition, the control device can attempt to form its own network partition.

[0091] A control device that cannot be attached to a network partition can form another network partition. For example, refer to Figure 2B The leader device 213 may not be able to attach to network partitions 201 and 202. For example Because the leader device 213 is outside the communication range of network partitions 201 and 202. Therefore, the leader device 213 can form network partition 203, and the terminal device 223 can be attached to network partition 203. Similarly, the leader device 212 may not be able to attach to network partitions 201 and 203. For example (Because the leadership device 212 is outside the communication range of network partitions 201 and 203) and forms network partition 202.

[0092] Network partitions can be associated with partition identifiers ( For example This is associated with a partition ID. The partition identifier can be randomly or pseudo-randomly assigned. For example (Randomly assigned from a range or list of identifiers). For example, the priority of a corresponding network partition can be based on the partition identifier of the network partition. The partition identifier can be assigned by randomly selecting numbers from a range of partition identifier values. Now refer to... Figure 2B Network partitions 201, 202, and 203 can each be associated with a corresponding partition identifier. For example, network partition 202 can be assigned partition identifier 1, network partition 203 can be assigned partition identifier 2, and network partition 201 can be assigned partition identifier 3. Although the partition identifiers of network partitions 201, 202, and 203 are sequential (…), For example (For the sake of simplification), but the assignment of partition identifiers to network partitions can be sequential, non-sequential, and / or randomized. As described herein, partition identifiers can also be indicators of the priority of the corresponding network partitions 201, 202, and 203. For example, partition identifiers can also be priority values ​​of the corresponding network partitions 201, 202, and 203 (...). For example The corresponding priorities for network partitions 201, 202, and 203 can be 3, 1, and 2, respectively. Furthermore, higher priority values ​​indicate higher network partition priorities. For example Then network partition 201 can be a higher priority network partition than network partitions 202 and 203.

[0093] As the control device is attached to other control devices in each of network partitions 201, 202, and 203, the effective communication range of each network partition can be increased. Furthermore, control devices that were initially unable to be attached to one or more control devices in network partitions 201, 202, and 203 ( For exampleBecause the control device was previously outside the communication range of all network partitions, it may subsequently be able to be attached to the control device in one of network partitions 201, 202, and 203. Furthermore, as with the formation of multiple network partitions ( For example ,like Figure 2B Compared to network 200a with multiple network partitions 201, 202, 203, when a single network partition is formed (as shown in the diagram), For example ,like Figure 2A When a network 200 with a single network partition is shown, communication within the load control system is better facilitated. For example, when a single network partition is formed, communication within the load control system is better facilitated because a control device in one network partition may not be able to transmit messages to a control device attached to another network partition. example like (Note that control devices within a network partition may be unable to communicate with other control devices outside the network partition.) Therefore, if a control device attached to a control device in the first network partition is also within the communication range of the second network partition, the control device may attempt to detach from the control device in the first network partition and attach to the control device in the second network partition. For example, when the second network partition has a higher priority than the first network partition, the control device may detach from the control device in the first network partition and attach to the control device in the second network partition.

[0094] Each router device in network partitions 201 and 202 can be associated with a communication range. The communication range of each of the respective router devices can be predefined and / or preconfigured. For example, the communication range of each of the respective router devices can be predefined and / or preconfigured based on the hardware components of each of the respective router devices. The effective communication range of a given network or network partition can be based on the communication range of the routers in that network. For example (The sum of the communication ranges of each router in the corresponding network). As a result, as the number of router devices in the corresponding network increases, the communication range of the corresponding network or network partition can increase.

[0095] As described herein, a control device attached to a lower-priority network partition may attempt to attach to a higher-priority network partition. For example, a control device attached to network partition 202 may attempt to attach network partition 201 to the control device. For example Because network partition 201 has a priority value of 3 and network partition 202 has a priority value of 1). Router device 222a can be controlled by a control device attached to network partition 201. For example The router device 221d receives an announcement message. The announcement may include the following indication: the partition identifier of network 201 (…). For example3) The partition identifier can be greater than that of network partition 202 and can indicate that network partition 201 is a higher priority network partition compared to network 202. Router device 222a can determine the control device attached to network partition 201 ( For example (Because network partition 201 has a higher priority).

[0096] Router device 222a can communicate with the leader device of network partition 201 ( For example The leader device 211 transmits a request to attempt to move to network partition 201. The request may include a request for a router device to move to network partition 201, for example, by requesting to move to network partition 201 and be assigned a specific router identifier. For example, router device 222a may request to move to network partition 201 and be assigned the router identifier assigned to router device 222a in network partition 201. In response, if another router device 212a-212d attached to network partition 210 has already been assigned the requested router identifier, the leader device 211 may reject the request. If none of the router devices 212a-212d attached to network partition 201 has been assigned the requested router identifier, the leader device 211 may accept the request. If router device 222a moves to network partition 201 and is assigned the requested router identifier, then the sub-devices of router device 222a ( For example Terminal device 232a and hibernating terminal device 252) can automatically move to network partition 201. For example, when a sub-device communicates with router device 222a using the router identifier. If router device 222a is assigned the requested identifier in the leader device 211 of network partition 201 ( For example If a router identifier is assigned in network partition 202, the sub-device can continue to communicate with router device 222a using the same router identifier.

[0097] Figure 2C This is a diagram of an exemplary network 200c. Figure 2C As shown, network 200c may include a leader device 215 and router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f. In network 200c, the router devices ( For exampleThe leader device 215 and router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f can periodically transmit announcement messages, which can be used to calculate the cost and / or quality of communication in network 200c. For example, router device 225c can send announcement messages received by leader device 215, and leader device 215 can send announcement messages received by router device 225c. Each router device can measure a received communication quality metric of the received announcement messages. For example RSSI) and calculate the link quality when receiving the notification message ( For example Link quality in (LQI) terms.

[0098] Each router device ( For example The leader device 215 and router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f can send announcement messages as broadcast or multicast messages. Announcement messages transmitted by the router devices can be received by neighboring router devices that share a single-hop network communication link with the router device transmitting the announcement message. The single-hop network communication link can directly transmit messages from one router device to another via unicast and / or multicast communication. For example, router devices 225a and 225c can be neighboring devices that share a single-hop communication link with the leader device 215, because router devices 225a and 225c can directly send messages to the leader device 215 and / or directly receive messages from the leader device. The single-hop network communication link can be such that router devices on it can directly receive messages of higher quality than a given link (…). For example Network communication links for announcement messages (where LQI is greater than 0).

[0099] After receiving a periodic advertisement message from another router device, the router device can calculate the link quality of the network communication link through which the advertisement message was received. For example LQI (Local Quality Index) can be calculated as a predefined number within a range indicating different link qualities of a network communication link between two devices. For example, LQI can be indicated by values ​​0, 1, 2, or 3. Different indicators of LQI can be assigned based on the RSSI of the received announcement messages and a link margin relative to a predefined reception level. The reception level can be a predefined minimum reception level. The reception level can be established as a predefined RSSI value for communication on the network. For example, the reception level can be defined by the noise floor, which is set as the average RSSI value of noise generated on the network over a period of time. In the example of using the reception level as the noise floor, when the RSSI values ​​of one or more announcement messages ( For example When the average RSSI of the announcement messages over a period of time is at least 2 dB above the noise floor, the router device ( For example The leader device 215 or router device 225c) can calculate that the LQI of the communication received from the neighboring router device on the link is 1. When the RSSI value of one or more advertisement messages ( For example When the average RSSI of the announcement messages over a period of time is at least 10 dB higher than the noise floor, the router device ( For example The leader device 215 or router device 225c) can calculate that the link quality of the communication received on the network communication link with the adjacent router device is 2. When the RSSI value of one or more advertisement messages ( For example When the average RSSI of the announcement messages over a period of time is at least 20 dB higher than the noise floor, the router device ( For example The leader device 215 or router device 225c) can calculate that the link quality of the communication received on the network communication link with the adjacent router device is 3. When the RSSI value of one or more advertisement messages ( For example When the average RSSI of the advertised messages over a period of time cannot be determined to be above the noise floor, a link quality value of zero can indicate that the link quality is unknown or infinite. Although examples are provided for predefined numbers indicating different link quality levels and / or different link margins that can be allocated to those levels, other indicators and / or values ​​can be used to define the link quality between two routing devices. Additionally, although a single routing device can be provided as an example (…), For example (e.g., leader device 215 or router device 225c), but other routing devices can similarly calculate the link quality of the network communication link between adjacent routing devices.

[0100] In each control device ( For example The LQI of the network communication link measured locally at the leader device 215 and the router device 225c can be exchanged with other devices on the network communication link. For example, the LQI can be measured locally at each control device and transmitted to other devices via announcement messages. The LQI can also be measured locally at another router device (…). For example The LQI (Level Quality Indicator) measured at the other end of the network communication link and received at the router device can be stored as the Link Quality Output (LQO) of the network communication link. The LQI and / or LQO can be stored in the local router table at each router device. For example, the leader device 215 can store the LQI and / or LQO of the network communication link with each router device in network 200c in router table 229. Similarly, router device 225c can store the LQI and LQO used for communication with each router device in network 200c in router table 261.

[0101] As described herein, from the perspective of the devices where router tables 229 and 261 are stored, each router table 229 and 261 can identify network information used for communication with each router in network 200c. The number of router devices in network 200c and / or the router identifiers used in network 200c can be determined from bitmap 227, as described herein. Bitmap 227 can be maintained by the leader device 215 and distributed to other routing devices for local maintenance of the router tables of other routing devices. For example, router devices 225a and 225c can receive bitmap 227 and update their local router tables. Bitmap 227 can indicate the number of rows in the router table ( For example This includes the number of identified router devices in the network and / or router identifiers to be included in the router table. Router devices may maintain updated network information for the indicated router identifiers in the router table. Updated network information in the router table may include the LQI and / or LQO of the network communication links between the router devices identified in bitmap 227. For example, router 225c may receive bitmap 227 from leader device 215 and update router table 261 to include router devices indicated in bitmap 277 in table 261, or remove router devices indicated in bitmap 277 as not being used in the network from table 261.

[0102] Leader device 215 and router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f can each use the LQI and LQO in their respective router tables to calculate the link cost for communicating with other router devices on the network communication link. The link quality of the network communication link between two router devices can be the link quality value of the transmitted messages (…). For example The link quality (LQO) and the link quality value of messages received on a single-hop network communication link between the two devices. For example The smaller of LQO and LQI. A zero LQO or LQI indicates that the router device has failed to have a direct network communication link with the router devices listed in the router table.

[0103] The link cost used to transmit communication between devices on a network communication link directly corresponds to the link quality of communication on that network communication link. Link cost can indicate the relative cost or loss of communication on a network communication link. Figure 2D Example Table 262 illustrates exemplary link costs that can correspond to different link qualities. (Example table 262 is mentioned here.) Figure 2D As shown, for communication on a network link between two adjacent devices, higher link quality corresponds to lower link cost.

[0104] A router device can use the link cost of each network communication link to calculate the path cost of communication between the router device and another router device in network 200c. Path cost can indicate the relative cost or loss of communication over the entire communication path that may include one or more router devices. The path cost of one communication path can be compared with the path cost of another communication path to determine a higher quality communication path for sending digital communication that may have a lower relative cost associated with message transmission.

[0105] Path cost indicates the total cost of transmitting a message from an originating router device to an end router device. For example, path cost can be calculated as the total link cost for each hop between the originating router device from which the message may originate and the end router device from which the message may be received in network 200c. Each router device can calculate the path cost to an adjacent device on a single-hop network communication link as equal to the link cost and store the path cost in a locally stored router table. For example, router device 225c can set the path cost for communicating with leader device 215 to be equal to the link cost on the network communication link. For example The path cost is set to the lower of LQI and LQO, and stored in router table 261. Similarly, router device 225c can set the path cost used for communication with router device 225b to be equal to the link cost on the network communication link (the lower of LQI and LQO). For example (LQI and LQO, the lower one), and store the path cost in the router table.

[0106] Each router device ( For example Leader device 215 and router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f can update the path costs for transmitting messages to / from each router device in their respective router tables based on path cost information received from another router device. For example, since router device 225b may not be able to communicate directly with leader device 215, router device 225b can receive path cost information for transmitting messages through another router in network 200c. Router 225c can transmit the path costs for transmitting messages to / from leader device 215 in multicast messages received by other router devices. For example Path cost = 2). For example, a multicast message can be an announcement message. Router device 225b can receive the path cost ( ) used to transmit messages between leader device 215 and router device 225c. For examplePath cost = 2). To calculate the total path cost for transmitting messages between router device 225b and leader device 215 via router device 225c, router device 225b can use the link cost for communication between router device 225b and router device 225c ( For example Link cost = 1) added to the path cost received from router device 225c ( For example , path cost = 1), to obtain the total path cost ( For example Path cost = 3). The link cost for communication between router device 225b and router device 225c can be determined from the link quality of the network communication link between router device 225b and router device 225c, which can be the smaller of the LQI and LQO of the network communication link. For example Link quality = 3).

[0107] Each router device can send / broadcast an advertisement message including path costs to one or more other router devices in network 200c. Router devices receiving path cost information from the router device that sent the advertisement message can update their corresponding path cost information in their local router tables. For example The link cost used to communicate with the router device sending the announcement message is added to the path cost in the received message. Each router device can use locally stored path cost information to identify the path through which a message can be transmitted. For example, a message transmitted from router device 225b to leader device 215 can be transmitted via router device 225a or router device 225c. Router device 225b can receive corresponding announcement messages from router devices 225a and 225c, which indicate that the path cost for transmitting a message between router device 225a and leader device 215 is the same as the path cost for transmitting a message between router device 225c and leader device 215. For example The path cost on each network communication link is 2. Router device 225b can calculate the link cost used to transmit messages between router device 225b and router device 225c. For example The link cost (=1) is added to the path cost information received in the advertisement message from router 225c. For example The path cost is 2), which determines the total path cost for communication between router device 225c and leader device 215. For example Total path cost = 3). Router device 225b can similarly use the calculated link cost for transmitting messages between router 225b and router 225a ( For exampleThe link cost (2) is added to the path cost information received in the advertisement message from router 225a. For example The path cost is 2), which determines the total path cost for communicating with the leader device 215 via router device 225a. For example Total path cost = 4). Router device 225b can utilize the lowest calculated path cost for communicating with leader device 215 and / or the router device through which messages will be transmitted ( For example The router (225c) uses its identifier to update its locally stored router table. Similarly, each router device can update its corresponding locally stored router table using the lowest computational path cost for communicating with other router devices in network 200c. For example, as... Figure 2C As shown, the leader device 215 and the router device 225c can each calculate the minimum path cost for transmission to other router devices in the network 200c, and store the path cost in the corresponding router tables 229 and 261. Router tables 229 and 261 can also store the router identifier of the next hop from the corresponding device 215 and 225c, and messages will be transmitted through these devices to realize the calculated path cost for transmission to the destination router device.

[0108] By periodically updating link quality ( For example The router device can use the optimal communication path (LQI and / or LQO), link cost and / or path cost, and transmit the path cost to other router devices in periodic announcement messages. Each router device may have the latest path cost information for transmitting messages to other router devices in network 200c. For example The routing mechanism allows router devices to detect when other router devices have gone offline from network 200c, or when the path cost between router devices has changed, and calculate the next lowest-cost path to maintain connectivity with other router devices in network 200c.

[0109] To distinguish between relatively older data transmitted in periodic announcement messages and relatively newer data transmitted in periodic announcement messages, the announcement message may be transmitted along with a sequence number. A leader device, such as leader device 215, may be responsible for updating the sequence number and distributing the updated sequence number to other router devices in the network. For example Router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f in network 200c. For example, the leader device 215 can periodically increment the sequence number ( example likeThis occurs after the transmission of one or more announcement messages and / or after a router device is added to the network. The sequence number can be updated to allow router devices in the network to (…). For example The leader device 215 and / or router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, 225f in network 200c identify the updated network information transmitted in the announcement message. For example, due to the router devices ( For example The leader device 215 and / or router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, 225f in network 200c may periodically transmit announcement messages, which include path cost information indicating the path cost for communicating with other router devices in the network, so that the sequence number can be updated to identify the updated path cost information.

[0110] After the leader device 215 updates the sequence number, it can distribute the sequence number to other router devices in the network. For example, the leader device 215 can use the sequence number in its own advertisement messages. After receiving the updated sequence number, each router device can use the updated sequence number in subsequent advertisement messages transmitted from the router device on the network. Each sequence number transmitted from the leader device 215 to other router devices can be used in the router device's advertisement messages until the leader device 215 distributes subsequent sequence numbers. For example, router device 225c can receive the sequence number directly from the leader device 215 and use the sequence number in subsequent advertisement messages. Router device 225b can receive the sequence number in the advertisement message transmitted from router device 225c and use the sequence number in subsequent advertisement messages transmitted from router device 225b. Each router device can use the current sequence number until it receives an updated sequence number originating from and distributed by the leader device 215. When a router device receives a sequence number from a non-leader router device (with an updated sequence number)... For example When router devices 225a, 225b, 225c, 225d, 225e, and 225f receive an advertisement message, each router device may update the locally stored network information in its router table. If a router device receives an advertisement message with the same sequence number as a previously received advertisement message and / or receives an advertisement message previously received from the same non-leader router device, the router device may be unable to process the advertisement message. If the router device fails to process the advertisement message within a predefined time period (…), it may also fail to do so. For example minutes, seconds wait If the router receives an updated sequence number, it can assume that the leader device 215 is not available for communication. For example (Offline, power outage, disconnection from the network, role change, or inability to communicate with the router device in other ways) and attempts to form another network or network partition with another leader device 215.

[0111] As described in this article, load control systems ( For example The load control system 100 can be configured to allow communication via a wireless network ( For example Networks 200 and 200a) transmit messages between control devices. Control devices communicating on wireless communication networks can overlap communication channels in the same space. For example Communication is performed on overlapping channels. For example, a building may have multiple floors, and each floor may have a system controller configured to communicate with various control devices. Communication can be sent on overlapping channels. In addition to devices in the load control system, other devices may exist using the same channel. For example (Other mobile devices, computers, electrical appliances, and / or other devices in space). A relatively large amount of RF traffic can exist on the channel, increasing the amount of radio frequency interference (RFI) on the channel. RFI can cause devices in load control systems to drop data packets transmitted over the network, thereby reducing network reliability and increasing latency.

[0112] Control devices in load control systems can implement improved carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) technology to enhance the reliability of communication over a network. CSMA technology reduces the chance of collisions between messages transmitted over the network. For example, control devices using CSMA technology in a load control system can employ a listen-before-speak (LBT) strategy when transmitting messages. Using the LBT strategy, the control device can measure the RF flow on a given channel before sending a message. For example RF energy) signal strength amplitude ( For example The current signal strength amplitude. For example, a control device can measure the current signal strength amplitude of a channel by determining the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value of the RF traffic on the channel. A high signal strength amplitude indicates that the channel is relatively open, thereby improving the reliability of message transmission over the network. For example The channel is quiet and / or not being used by other devices. Low signal strength amplitudes can indicate relative channel congestion and may lead to reduced reliability of message transmission over the network. For example (The channel is noisy and / or being used by other devices).

[0113] The control device can measure the signal strength value of the RF traffic on the channel and can compare the measured signal strength value with the transmission threshold ( For exampleThe signal strength amplitude is compared to the CSMA threshold. If the measured signal strength amplitude is less than the transmission threshold, the control device can transmit the message. If the measured signal strength amplitude is greater than or equal to the threshold, the control device can delay the transmission of the message. For example, the control device can wait for a predetermined period of time after performing a measurement of the signal strength amplitude, and / or compare the measurement result with the threshold. After the predetermined period of time expires, the control device can perform another measurement of the signal strength amplitude and / or attempt to transmit the message again.

[0114] When control devices execute CSMA (Constant Response Modeling), the reliability of message transmission between control devices in a load control system can be improved. However, this improved reliability may come at the cost of latency. For example, if the number of devices in the load control system is large enough, even if the control devices are executing CSMA, they may occupy channels for extended periods. For instance, a given control device in the load control system may perform signal strength amplitude measurements multiple times before transmitting a message, thus increasing latency.

[0115] The control device in the load control system can employ an adaptive transmission threshold TH when using CSMA technology. TX ( example like An adaptive transmission threshold (TH) is used to achieve lower latency while maintaining improved reliability. Before transmitting messages, the control device can use the adaptive transmission threshold TH. TX Analysis of communication channels ( For example The control device measures channel metrics, such as the signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on the channel, to determine whether a message should be transmitted. For example (Receive signal strength indicator), and compare the measurement results with the adaptive transmission threshold TH. TX A comparison is made. When the measured signal strength amplitude is lower than the adaptive transmission threshold TH... TX At this time, the control device can transmit messages. The control device can increase or decrease the adaptive transmission threshold TH. TX To improve the reliability of communication over the network, a balanced latency is achieved while considering the trade-offs in reliability improvement. When the control device first attempts to transmit a given message, it can adaptively set a transmission threshold TH. TX Set to a relatively low level. If the measured signal strength amplitude is higher than the adaptive transmission threshold TH TX Then the control device can increase the adaptive transmission threshold TH TX The next measurement, which increases the signal strength amplitude, will fall below the adaptive transmission threshold TH. TX The possibility of this, and the control device will transmit the message. The control device can continue to increase the adaptive transmission threshold TH. TXThis continues until the message is transmitted. By first analyzing the channel, an adaptive transmission threshold TH at a low level is established. TX Then gradually increase the transmission threshold TH TX The control device first has the opportunity to transmit messages when the channel is quietest, while gradually increasing the possibility of transmitting messages simultaneously with another control device.

[0116] Figure 3 It describes the use of adaptive transmission threshold TH TX A flowchart of an exemplary procedure 300 for executing CSMA technology. Procedure 300 may be executed by the control circuitry of a control device in a load control system. For example, the control device may be one of the control devices in the load control system 100. For example This refers to one of the following: a load control device, an input device, a moving device 190, and / or a system controller 110, and / or a control device capable of communication in a network similar to network 200, 200a. Since messages are transmitted between control devices in the load control system, a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic may exist in the network. As the amount of RF traffic in the network increases, the collision rate between transmissions may increase, which may lead to communication errors. For example (Message conflict). The control device in the load control system can execute program 300 based on a triggering event. For example, the control device can execute program 300 or a portion thereof after queuing messages to be transmitted or after receiving a message for which a response message is to be transmitted.

[0117] Procedure 300 can be used to attempt to reduce RF traffic in the network while balancing message transmission latency. For example, the control device executing procedure 300 can perform CSMA techniques while transmitting messages. Executing procedure 300 can cause the control device to have an increased probability of transmitting messages after each instance of LBT failure, which may occur when the measured signal strength amplitude fails to equal or fall below the transmission threshold TH. TX This occurs gradually. After each instance of an LBT failure, the control unit may become progressively more likely to transmit messages.

[0118] Program 300 can begin at 302. At 303, the control circuit of the control device can transmit the threshold TH. TX Initialized to the minimum threshold TH MIN Minimum threshold TH MIN This can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. For example, a minimum threshold TH. MIN It can be received by the control device from the system controller or another remote computing device. Minimum threshold TH MIN It can be approximately -90 dBm, and the control device can adjust the transmission threshold TH. TXSet it to a value with -90 dBm.

[0119] At position 304, the control circuit of the control device can measure the channel metric. For example (The current signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on the channel). For example, the control device can measure the signal strength amplitude at 304 by measuring the RSSI value of the RF traffic on the channel. For example, the channel can be a channel used by the control device to send messages to and / or receive messages from one or more other control devices in the network.

[0120] At point 306, the control circuit of the control device can compare the measured RSSI value with the transmission threshold TH. TX The comparison is performed. The control device can determine whether the measured RSSI value is greater than, equal to, or less than the transmission threshold TH. TX If the measured RSSI value is less than ( For example (less than or equal to) transmission threshold TH TX Then, the control circuit of the control device can transmit messages via the communication circuit at point 308, and program 300 can end at point 310. If the measured RSSI value is greater than the transmission threshold TH TX Then the control circuit of the control device can transmit the threshold TH at 312. TX Increase the increment ΔTH. For example, the increment ΔTH can be between approximately 5 dBm and 10 dBm. The increment ΔTH can be pre-configured in the control unit. For example The increment ΔTH (stored in the control device) and / or indicated in a message received by the control device. For example, the increment ΔTH may be received by the control device from a system controller or another remote computing device. The increment ΔTH may be a fixed amount, a predefined amount, or a variable. The value of the increment ΔTH may be determined based on one or more predefined parameters. For example, one or more parameters may include the number of previous attempts to transmit the message, the channel's communication quality metric, and the channel's communication quality metric combined with the transmission threshold TH. TX The difference between them, near-channel interference ( For example (Noise level on adjacent communication channels), link quality associated with the channel, path loss associated with the channel, etc. Incremental transmission threshold TH TX This increases the possibility that the control device can transmit messages without additional delay. (Increasing the transmission threshold TH) TX Subsequently, the control circuit of the control device can measure the RSSI value of the channel at 304, so as to compare it with the incremental transmission threshold TH at 306. TX The comparison is then performed. The control device can continue to increment the transmission threshold TH. TX until the measured RSSI value is less than or equal to the transmission threshold TH. TXAnd / or until the message is transmitted. For example, the control device may measure the channel's metric and compare the metric with the transmission threshold TH. TX Compare and / or increment the transmission threshold TH after each expiration of a predefined interval prior to message transmission. TX The control device can reset the transmission threshold TH after message transmission. TX .

[0121] With adaptive transmission threshold TH TX It can be increased further, and a maximum threshold TH can be set. MAX This is used to limit the delay or latency of message transmission. Figure 4 It describes the use of adaptive transmission threshold TH TX and maximum threshold TH MAX A flowchart of an exemplary procedure 400 for executing CSMA technology. Procedure 400 may be executed by a control device in a load control system. For example, the control device may be one of the control devices in load control system 100. For example This refers to one of the following: a load control device, an input device, a moving device 190, and / or a system controller 110, and / or a control device capable of communication in a network similar to network 200, 200a. Since messages are transmitted between control devices in the load control system, a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic may exist in the network. As the amount of RF traffic in the network increases, the collision rate between transmissions may increase, which may lead to communication errors. For example (Message conflict). The control device in the load control system may execute program 400 based on a triggering event. For example, the control device may execute program 400 or a portion thereof after queuing messages to be transmitted or after receiving a message for which a response message is to be transmitted.

[0122] Procedure 400 can be used to attempt to reduce RF traffic in the network while balancing message transmission latency. For example, a control device executing procedure 400 can perform CSMA techniques while transmitting messages. Executing procedure 400 can cause the control device to have an increased likelihood of transmitting messages after each instance of LBT failure. After each instance of LBT failure, the control device can gradually become more likely to transmit messages.

[0123] Program 400 can begin at 402. At 404, the control circuit of the control device in the load control system can transmit the threshold TH. TX Initialized to the minimum threshold TH MIN Minimum threshold TH MIN This can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. For example, a minimum threshold TH. MINIt can be received by the control device from the system controller or another remote computing device. Minimum threshold TH MIN It can be approximately -90 dBm, and the control device can adjust the transmission threshold TH. TX Set it to a value of -90dBm.

[0124] At position 406, the control circuit of the control device can measure the channel metric. For example (The current signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on the channel). For example, a control device can measure the signal strength amplitude at 406 by measuring the RSSI value of the RF traffic on the channel. A channel can be a channel used by a control device to send messages to and / or receive messages from one or more other control devices in the network.

[0125] At point 408, the control circuit of the control device can compare the measured RSSI value with the transmission threshold TH. TX The comparison is performed. The control device can determine whether the measured RSSI value is greater than, equal to, or less than the transmission threshold TH. TX If the measured RSSI value is less than ( For example (less than or equal to) transmission threshold TH TX The control device can then transmit a message at 414, and program 400 can terminate at 416. If the measured RSSI value is greater than the transmission threshold TH... TX Then the control circuit of the control device can transmit the threshold TH at 410. TX With the maximum threshold TH MAX Comparisons are made. For example, the maximum threshold TH. MAX It can be approximately -45 dBm. If the transmission threshold TH is at 410... TX Greater than or equal to the maximum threshold TH MAX Then, the control circuit of the control device can transmit messages via the communication circuit at 414, and program 400 can end at 416. A maximum threshold TH can be set. MAX This is used to limit the delay or latency of message transmission.

[0126] If the transmission threshold TH is at 410 TX Not greater than or equal to the maximum threshold TH MAX Then the control circuit of the control device can transmit the threshold TH at 412. TX Increase the increment ΔTH. For example, the increment ΔTH can be between approximately 5 dBm and 10 dBm. The increment ΔTH can be pre-configured in the control unit. For exampleThe increment ΔTH (stored in the control device) and / or indicated in a message received by the control device. For example, the increment ΔTH may be received by the control device from a system controller or another remote computing device. The increment ΔTH may be a fixed amount, a predefined amount, or a variable. The value of the increment ΔTH may be determined based on one or more predefined parameters. For example, one or more parameters may include the number of previous attempts to transmit the message, the channel's communication quality metric, and the channel's communication quality metric combined with the transmission threshold TH. TX The difference between them, near-channel interference ( For example (Noise level on adjacent communication channels), link quality associated with the channel, path loss associated with the channel, etc. Incremental transmission threshold TH TX This increases the possibility of the control device transmitting messages. Increasing the transmission threshold TH... TX The control unit can then measure the RSSI value of the channel at point 406, which is used to compare it with the incremental transmission threshold TH at point 408. TX The comparison is then performed. The control device can continue to increment the transmission threshold TH. TX until the measured RSSI value is less than or equal to the transmission threshold TH. TX And / or until the message is transmitted. For example, the control device may measure the channel's metric and compare the metric with the transmission threshold TH. TX Comparison, and / or each time a predefined interval before message transmission expires or a transmission threshold TH is reached. TX Then increase the transmission threshold TH TX The control device can reset the transmission threshold after the message is transmitted.

[0127] Adaptive transmission threshold TH TX The number of attempts can be adjusted to prevent the number of transmission attempts from exceeding the maximum, as the control device attempts to increase the likelihood of transmitting messages on the channel. Figure 5 It describes the use of adaptive transmission threshold TH TX A flowchart of an exemplary procedure 500 for executing CSMA technology with a counter. Procedure 500 can be executed by a control device in a load control system. For example, the control device can be one of the control devices in load control system 100 ( For example This refers to one of the following: a load control device, an input device, a moving device 190, and / or a system controller 110, and / or a control device capable of performing communication within networks 200, 200a. Since messages are transmitted between control devices in the load control system, a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic may exist in the network. As the amount of RF traffic in the network increases, the collision rate between transmissions may increase, which could lead to communication errors. For example(Message conflict). The control device in the load control system can execute program 500 based on a triggering event. For example, the control device can execute program 500 or a portion thereof after queuing messages to be transmitted or after receiving a message for which a response message is to be transmitted.

[0128] Program 500 can be used to reduce RF traffic in a network while balancing message transmission latency. For example, a control device executing program 500 in a load control system can perform CSMA (Constant Response Model) techniques while transmitting messages. Executing program 500 can cause the control device to have an increased probability of transmitting messages after each instance of LBT (Low Bit Transmission) failure. After each instance of LBT failure, the control device can gradually become more likely to transmit messages. Implementing a counter can ensure message transmission after a certain number of LBT failures, regardless of RF traffic or interference.

[0129] Program 500 can begin at 502. At 504, the control circuit of the control device in the load control system can initialize counter N to its minimum value. For example (0). The minimum value can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in a message received by the control device. For example, the minimum value for initializing counter N can be received by the control device in the load control system from the system controller or another remote computing device.

[0130] At point 505, the control circuit of the control device in the load control system can transmit the threshold TH. TX Initialized to the minimum threshold TH MIN Minimum threshold TH MIN This can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. For example, a minimum threshold TH. MIN It can be received by the control device from the system controller or another remote computing device. Minimum threshold TH MIN It can be approximately -90 dBm, and the control device can adjust the transmission threshold TH. TX Set it to a value with -90 dBm.

[0131] At position 506, the control circuit of the control device can measure the channel metric. For example (The current signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on the channel). For example, the control device can measure the signal strength amplitude at 506 by measuring the RSSI value of the RF traffic on the channel. For example, the channel can be a channel used by the control device to send messages to and / or receive messages from one or more other control devices in the network.

[0132] At point 508, the control circuit of the control device can compare the measured RSSI value with the transmission threshold TH. TX Compare. Transmission threshold THTX This can be pre-configured in the device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. For example, the transmission threshold TH. TX It can be received from the system controller or another remote computing device by the control device in the load control system. The control device can determine whether the measured RSSI value is greater than, equal to, or less than the transmission threshold TH. TX If the measured RSSI value is less than ( For example (less than or equal to) transmission threshold TH TX Then the control circuit of the control device can transmit messages via the communication circuit at point 516, and program 500 can end at point 518. If the measured RSSI value is greater than the transmission threshold TH TX Then the control circuit of the control device can set counter N to the maximum counter value N at point 510. MAX Compare. For example, the maximum counter value N. MAX It can be set to 10. If the counter N at 510 is greater than or equal to the maximum counter value N, then... MAX Then the control circuit of the control device can transmit messages via the communication circuit at point 516, and program 500 can end at point 518. Maximum counter value N MAX This prevents the number of transmission attempts from exceeding a defined value. Maximum counter value N MAX This can be pre-configured in the device and / or indicated in messages received by the device. For example, the maximum counter value N. MAX It can be received from the system controller or another remote computing device by the control device in the load control system.

[0133] If the counter N is less than or equal to the maximum counter value N MAX Then the control circuit of the control device can increment the counter N by a predefined value at 512. For example (i). Delaying message transmission while incrementing the counter N increases the likelihood that the control device can successfully transmit the message. At 514, the control circuit of the control device can set the transmission threshold TH. TX Increase the increment ΔTH. For example, the increment ΔTH can be between approximately 5 dBm and 10 dBm. The increment ΔTH can be pre-configured in the control unit. For example The increment ΔTH (stored in the control device) and / or indicated in a message received by the control device. For example, the increment ΔTH may be received by the control device from a system controller or another remote computing device. The increment ΔTH may be a fixed amount, a predefined amount, or a variable. The value of the increment ΔTH may be determined based on one or more predefined parameters. For example, one or more parameters may include the number of previous attempts to transmit the message, the channel's communication quality metric, and the channel's communication quality metric combined with the transmission threshold TH. TX The difference between them, near-channel interference ( For example(Noise level on adjacent communication channels), link quality associated with the channel, path loss associated with the channel, etc. Incremental transmission threshold TH TX This increases the possibility of the control device transmitting messages. Increasing the transmission threshold TH... TX Subsequently, the control circuit of the control device can measure the RSSI value of the channel at 506, so as to compare it with the transmission threshold TH at 508. TX A comparison is then made. The control circuit of the control device can continue to increment the counter N at 512 and increment the transmission threshold TH at 514. TX Until counter N equals or exceeds the maximum counter value N at point 510. MAX Or the measured RSSI value at channel 508 is less than or equal to the transmission threshold TH. TX So far. Therefore, when the RSSI value of the channel is less than or equal to the transmission threshold TH TX The control device may attempt to transmit a message after a predefined number of attempts have been made. For example, the control device may measure a channel metric and compare the metric with a transmission threshold TH. TX Comparison, and / or each time a predefined interval before message transmission expires, reaching the transmission threshold TH. TX Or, after making a predefined number of attempts to transmit the message, the transmission threshold TH is increased. TX The control device can reset the transmission threshold TH after message transmission. TX And / or counter N.

[0134] Since background noise may vary in different locations within the space in which the network is deployed, if the channel is measured at a specific time and / or at a specific location where the control device is installed in the space, an adaptive transmission threshold TH is required. TX Based on the background signal strength amplitude ( For example (Background RSSI value). Adaptive transmission threshold TH TX The background signal strength amplitude ensures that control devices located in spaces with different RF flow rates can maintain a similar probability of transmitting messages. Figure 6 It describes the amplitude of the background signal strength used to determine the channel. For example A flowchart of an exemplary procedure 600 (background RSSI value). Procedure 600 can be executed by a control device in a load control system. For example, the control device can be one of the devices in the load control system 100 (background RSSI value). For exampleThis refers to one of the following: a load control device, an input device, a moving device 190, and / or a system controller 110, and / or a control device capable of communication in a network similar to network 200, 200a. Since messages are transmitted between control devices in the load control system, a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic may exist in the network. As the amount of RF traffic in the network increases, the collision rate between transmissions may increase, which may lead to communication errors. For example (Message conflict). The control device in the load control system can execute program 600 based on a triggering event. For example, the control device can periodically execute program 600 or a portion thereof.

[0135] Program 600 can be used to ensure that control devices located in spaces with different RF traffic volumes maintain a similar probability of transmitting messages. For example, a control device executing program 600 can dynamically adjust the transmission threshold TH based on the amplitude of the background signal strength in the space. TX The control device can adjust the transmission threshold TH based on, for example, the measured background RSSI value. TX Dynamically adjust the transmission threshold TH TX The value can be increased by controlling the average RF traffic volume in the space where the control device is located, thereby increasing the likelihood of message transmission. A control device in a space with more RF traffic can have a higher transmission threshold TH compared to a control device in a space with less RF traffic. TX The value. For example, the control device may be located near a noise source, such as a wireless access point (WAP), microwave oven, safety sign reader, motor and / or other radio frequency noise generating device.

[0136] Program 600 can begin at 602. At 604, the control circuit of the control device in the load control system can measure the channel metric ( For example The current signal strength amplitude of the RF traffic on the channel. For example, the control device can measure the signal strength amplitude at 604 by measuring the RSSI value of the RF traffic on the channel. At 606, the control circuit of the control device can update the value of the background signal strength of the channel. For example Background RSSI value). For example, a control device can determine the background RSSI value by continuously or periodically measuring the RSSI value of a channel. The background RSSI value can be obtained at 606 using the peak, time-weighted average, mean, median, and / or measured background signal strength amplitude over a period of time. For example RSSI values ​​are another form of measurement result used for calculation and updating. Background RSSI values ​​can be updated continuously or periodically. For example (When measuring the RSSI value of a channel).

[0137] At point 608, the control circuit of the control device can update the transmission threshold TH based on the background RSSI value. TX value ( For example Transmission threshold TH TX Minimum threshold TH MIN For example, the control device can transmit the threshold TH. TX Minimum threshold TH MIN Set to equal to the background RSSI value plus an offset value. The offset value can be, for example, 10 dBm. For example, if the background RSSI value is determined to be -90 dBm, the control device can set the transmission threshold TH. TX Minimum threshold TH MIN Set to -80 dBm. At 610, program 600 can exit. Execute program 600 to update the transmission threshold TH. TX Minimum threshold TH MIN Afterwards, when used subsequently Figure 3 The program 300 shown Figure 4 The program 400 and / or shown Figure 5 When the program 500 shown attempts to transmit a message, the control device can set the transmission threshold TH based on the background signal strength amplitude. TX Set to minimum threshold TH MIN start.

[0138] Figure 7 It describes the use of adaptive transmission threshold TH TX A flowchart of an exemplary procedure 700 for implementing CSMA technology, wherein the transmission threshold TH TX Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX It can be based on the message priority context. Method 700 can be executed by the control circuitry of a control device in the load control system. For example, the control device can be one or more of the control devices in the load control system 100. For example This refers to one of the following: a load control device, an input device, a moving device 190, and / or a system controller 110, and / or a control device capable of communicating in a network similar to network 200, 200a. Since messages are transmitted between control devices in the load control system, there may be a relatively large amount of radio frequency (RF) traffic in the network. As the amount of RF traffic in the network increases, the collision rate between transmissions may increase, which could lead to communication errors. For example (Message conflict). The control device in the load control system can execute program 700 based on a triggering event. For example, the control device can execute program 700 or a portion thereof after queuing messages to be transmitted or after receiving a message for which a response message is to be transmitted.

[0139] Program 700 can be used to attempt to reduce RF traffic in the network while balancing message transmission latency. The control device can use a transmission threshold TH based on the message priority context. TX Different values ​​( For example CSMA threshold TH TX Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX (Different values). For example, when a message has a higher priority context, the control device can use the transmission threshold TH. TX higher values ​​( For example Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX (one or both of these), and when the message has a lower priority context, the transmission threshold TH is used. TX The lower value ( For example Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX One or both of them). Use the transmission threshold TH for messages with higher priority contexts. TX A higher value increases the chance that a message will be transmitted at a given instance. For example (Despite increased RF traffic). Transmission of messages with lower priority contexts can be further delayed to allow other messages to have a higher success rate.

[0140] Program 700 may begin at 702. At 704, the control circuitry of the control device may determine the priority context of the message to be transmitted. For example, the priority context may be determined as a higher priority context for delay-critical messages or a lower priority context for delay-non-critical messages. Delay-critical messages may be those where delays exceeding a predefined delay threshold are unacceptable and / or those requiring a higher transmission threshold TH. TX ( For example Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX One or both of these can mitigate the latency of a message. Latency-noncritical messages can have a latency exceeding a predefined latency threshold that is acceptable and / or can be mitigated by using a lower transmission threshold TH. TX ( For example Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX Messages that are permitted by one or both of them.

[0141] For example, a latency-critical message can be greater than a latency threshold ( For example A latency of 350-375 milliseconds is unacceptable and / or undesirable for a message. Message latency can be measured as the latency of the triggering event (…). For exampleLatency is the time between a button press, sensor activation, scene activation, etc., and the corresponding change in the state of the control device. The control device can be, for example, a lighting control device, a thermostat, a speaker, motorized curtains, etc. Changes in the state of the control device can include changes in the intensity or color temperature of the light output from the lighting control device, temperature changes, volume changes, and / or the speed or height level of the motorized curtains. Latency can include one or more hops between devices in the network. Latencies greater than a latency threshold may be perceptible to the user of the control device. For example, a delay greater than 350-375 milliseconds from the time a user triggers a message configured to perform electrical load control (e.g., button press, sensor activation, scene activation) to the time the electrical load is controlled may be perceptible to the user and is therefore undesirable in a load control system. Latency-non-critical messages can be the following messages in the load control system ( For example, System status messages, heartbeat messages, and / or sensor measurement results) can tolerate greater delays without causing undesirable results in the load control system or causing noticeable delays to the user when not controlling electrical loads in the load control system. For example, delays of more than 350-375 milliseconds for non-critical delay messages may not be perceptible to the user.

[0142] The control circuitry of a control device can determine a priority context based on the device type of the control device from which messages are transmitted. For example, a control device can be classified as a delay-critical device or a delay-non-critical device by having instructions stored therein in its memory. Device types may include, for example, load control device types (…). For example Lighting control device 120, plug-in load control device 140, motorized curtain 150, thermostat 160, controllable socket, speaker 146 and / or other types of control target devices), input device type ( For example Remote control device 170, sensor device 141 and / or other types of input devices), system controller ( For example System controller 110), mobile device ( For example Mobile device 190) wait The device type indicates the form of communication transmitted from the control device. Each control device type can be associated with a desired latency. For example, an input device can be associated with a lower desired latency compared to a load control device.

[0143] The control circuitry of a control device can determine the device type based on information stored in the device's memory. A time-delay-critical device can be a control device from which input from the user can be received. For example, a remote control device (…). For exampleInput devices such as keypads and / or dimmer switches can be classified as time-delay critical devices. These input devices are classified as time-delay critical devices because delays exceeding a certain threshold can cause significant delays in executing load control in response to user input. Occupancy sensors can also be classified as time-delay critical devices. Occupancy sensors are classified as time-delay critical devices because delays exceeding a certain threshold can cause significant delays in executing load control in response to user entry into the load control environment. For example There is a significant delay in turning on the lighting load. Other input devices can be classified as time-delay non-critical devices, having indicators stored in memory for the control device to determine the priority context at 704. For example, daylight sensors, temperature sensors, humidity sensors, and / or other sensor devices can be classified as time-delay non-critical devices. These input devices are classified as time-delay non-critical devices because they are sensor devices acquiring incremental measurement results that may fluctuate less than the threshold change within a time period of the time delay threshold, which may not cause a significant delay in performing load control in response to the measurement performed by the sensor device. Furthermore, incremental changes in the values ​​detected by the sensor device may cause the light level ( For example The incremental changes in light intensity (such as illumination intensity) may be imperceptible to the user. Furthermore, since the user may not be aware that the sensor device is acquiring measurement results, the delay between the measurement result and the corresponding change in light level may also be imperceptible. Input devices can be classified as time-delay critical devices. Load control devices can be classified as time-delay non-critical devices.

[0144] The control circuitry of the control device can determine the priority context based on the type and / or content of the message. For example, messages can be classified as time-critical or time-noncritical messages based on their type and / or the content transmitted within them. Messages containing control instructions for controlling electrical loads can be classified as time-critical messages. Messages configured to cause a level greater than the electrical load ( For example Messages that indicate a threshold change in lighting intensity and / or color (lighting load) exceeding the lighting load can be classified as latency-critical messages. For example Messages regarding threshold changes in color temperature (or color temperature) can be categorized as latency-critical messages. For example, dial-up messages (…) For example Messages configured to cause a threshold change in state less than the electrical load can be classified as time-critical messages. Messages configured to cause a change in lighting intensity and / or color less than the lighting load can be classified as time-noncritical messages. For exampleMessages indicating threshold changes in color temperature (or similar parameters) can be classified as delay-non-critical messages. Messages containing status information indicating the state of the electrical load or load control environment (such as feedback messages, heartbeat messages, or other messages including system status information) can also be classified as delay-non-critical messages. Messages configured to cause threshold changes greater than the electrical load level can be classified as delay-critical messages, as such commands can result in changes that are noticeable or more noticeable to the user.

[0145] Messages that include sensor information configured to cause a threshold change greater than the electrical load level can be time-delay critical messages, while messages that include sensor information configured to cause a threshold change less than the electrical load level can be time-delay non-critical messages. For example, a message indicating a detected occupancy / vacancy event in a space could be classified as a time-delay critical message because occupancy or vacancy conditions in the space might trigger the switching of lighting loads. For example (Open and / or close). Messages that include sensor information indicating relative changes in light intensity or temperature transmitted by a sunlight sensor or temperature sensor can be classified as time-delay non-critical messages because relative measurements in space can be status information indicating the state of the load control environment and / or configured to cause a threshold change amount less than the electrical load level.

[0146] The control circuitry of a control device can determine a priority context based on the message transmission type. For example, the transmission type can be unicast, multicast, or broadcast. Unicast messages can be classified as delay-critical messages, while broadcast or multicast messages can be classified as delay-non-critical messages. Multicast or broadcast messages can be classified as delay-critical messages to allow multiple control devices to be controlled similarly upon receiving a multicast message, and unicast messages can be classified as delay-non-critical messages because a single control device remaining unchanged may not be noticeable to the user. Additionally, multicast or broadcast messages can be used to transmit delay-critical message types, while unicast messages can be used to transmit delay-non-critical message types. In another example, multicast or broadcast messages can be classified as delay-non-critical messages because they can be received by multiple control devices and forwarded to other control devices in the load control system. Unicast messages can be classified as delay-critical because they can be configured to be received by a single control device for processing. Repeated messages can be classified as delay-non-critical messages, while the initial message in a series of transmitted messages can be classified as a delay-critical message.

[0147] The control circuitry of the control device can determine the priority context based on the network role associated with the message and / or the control device. For example, a message transmitted by a router device on the network can be classified as a latency-critical message, while a message transmitted by a terminal device can be classified as a latency-non-critical message. The priority context of messages transmitted by the control device can change as the control device's role on the network changes.

[0148] The control circuitry of the control device can determine a priority context based on the quality of the network communication links on which messages are being transmitted to / from the control device. Messages to be transmitted on relatively low-quality network communication links can be classified as delay-critical messages, while messages to be transmitted on relatively high-quality network communication links can be classified as delay-non-critical messages. The strength of the network communication links can be determined based on link quality, link cost, link margin above noise floor, and / or another communication quality metric. The control circuitry may have stored quality thresholds on it, which are used to establish relative quality levels to identify the quality of network communication links on which messages being transmitted are classified as delay-critical or delay-non-critical messages. Messages to be transmitted on relatively low-quality network communication links can be classified as delay-critical and given a higher priority context to give these messages a greater chance of success at initial transmission, while messages to be transmitted on relatively high-quality network communication links can be classified as delay-non-critical and given a lower priority context because these messages may already have a relatively high chance of success at initial transmission.

[0149] Transmission threshold TH TX ( For example Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX One or both of these can be adjusted based on the determined priority context. At 705, the control circuitry of the control device can determine the transmission threshold TH based on the determined priority context. TX Minimum threshold TH MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX The value of TH. For example, if the message is a delay-critical message and / or if the control device type is associated with a relatively low expected delay, the control circuitry of the control device may select a minimum threshold TH. MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX The relatively high value. If the message is a delay-noncritical message and / or if the device type is associated with a relatively high expected delay, the control circuitry of the control device may select the minimum threshold TH. MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX The relatively low value.

[0150] The control circuit of the control device can transmit the threshold TH. TXMinimum threshold TH MIN The transmission threshold TH is determined by selecting a value from two or more potential values. TX Minimum threshold TH MIN The value of . For example, there may be a transmission threshold TH. TX Two or more potential minimum thresholds TH associated with latency-critical messages and / or control devices MIN For example, there may be conditions higher than the second critical minimum threshold TH. MIN The first critical minimum threshold for latency TH MIN The first critical minimum threshold for latency TH MIN Second delay key minimum threshold TH MIN Each can exceed the minimum threshold TH for latency-free non-critical messages and / or control devices. MIN The first critical minimum threshold for latency TH MIN Second delay key minimum threshold TH MIN Each can be lower than a predefined threshold. This allows for a latency-critical minimum threshold TH. MIN The threshold is set to a relatively high value for time-critical messages and / or control devices, but may be set to a higher or lower threshold depending on network conditions or devices on the network. Minimum threshold TH MIN The potential values ​​can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in the messages received by the control device. For each message transmitted by the control device ( For example (Latency-critical and latency-non-critical), maximum threshold TH MAX The same applies. The minimum threshold TH for increasing delays in critical messages and / or control devices. MIN It can be set to a higher value to reduce the initial latency of critical messages.

[0151] For example, the control device can be an input device ( For example The control source device and / or the message can be a delay-critical message. The control device can select a minimum threshold TH. MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX A relatively high value. For example, the control device can set the minimum threshold TH. MIN The value was determined to be -70 dBm and the maximum threshold TH was set. MAX The value is determined to be -25 dBm. In another example, the control device could be a load control device and / or the message could be a delay-non-critical message. The control device can select a minimum threshold TH. MIN and / or maximum threshold TH MAX The relatively low value. For example, the control device can set the minimum threshold TH. MIN The value was set to -90dBm and the maximum threshold TH was set. MAX It was determined to be -45 dBm.

[0152] At point 706, the control circuit of the control device can be set with a transmission threshold TH. TX The initial value. For example, the control device can set the transmission threshold TH. TX Set to the minimum threshold TH determined at 705. MIN ( For example (Based on the determined priority context). Furthermore, the minimum threshold TH MIN This can be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. For example, a minimum threshold TH. MIN It can be received by the control device from the system controller or another remote computing device.

[0153] At point 708, the control circuitry of the control device can measure the metric of the network communication link. For example The current signal strength amplitude of RF traffic on the network communication link. For example, at 708, the control device can measure the signal strength amplitude by measuring the RSSI value of RF traffic on one or more frequencies of the network communication link. For example, the network communication link may include a communication channel consisting of one or more frequencies used by the control device to send messages to one or more other control devices in the network and / or receive messages from one or more other control devices in the network. At 710, the control device can compare the measured RSSI value with a transmission threshold TH. TX The comparison is performed. The control device can determine whether the measured RSSI value is greater than, equal to, or less than the transmission threshold TH. TX If the measured RSSI value is less than ( For example (less than or equal to) transmission threshold TH TX The control device can then transmit the message at 716, and program 700 can terminate at 718. If the measured RSSI value is greater than the transmission threshold TH... TX Then the control device can transmit the threshold TH TX With the maximum threshold TH MAX Compare. If the transmission threshold TH TX Greater than or equal to the maximum threshold TH MAX Then the control device can transmit messages at 716, and program 700 can end at 718.

[0154] If the transmission threshold TH is at 712... TX Not greater than or equal to the maximum threshold TH MAX Then the control device can set the transmission threshold TH at 714. TXIncrease the increment ΔTH. For example, the increment ΔTH may be between approximately 5 dBm and 10 dBm. The increment ΔTH may be pre-configured in the control device and / or indicated in messages received by the control device. The increment ΔTH may be a fixed amount, a predefined amount, or a variable. The increment ΔTH may be determined based on a priority context. For example, there may be a delay-critical increment ΔTH that is higher than the non-critical delay increment ΔTH. The value of the increment ΔTH may be determined based on one or more predefined parameters. For example, one or more parameters may include the number of previous attempts to transmit the message, the channel's communication quality metric, and the channel's communication quality metric combined with the transmission threshold TH. TX The difference between them, near-channel interference ( For example (Noise level on adjacent communication channels), link quality associated with the channel, path loss associated with the channel, etc. Incremental transmission threshold TH TX This increases the possibility of the control device transmitting messages. The control device can measure the RSSI value of the channel at 708, which can then be compared with the incremental transmission threshold TH at 710. TX The comparison is then performed. The control device can continue to increment the transmission threshold TH. TX Until the RSSI value measured at 710 is less than or equal to the transmission threshold TH. TX Or transmit threshold TH at 712. TX Greater than or equal to the maximum threshold TH MAX Up to this point, the control device can then transmit messages at point 716, and program 700 can terminate. The control device can reset the transmission threshold TH after message transmission. TX .

[0155] Although features and elements are described herein in specific combinations, each feature or element may be used alone or in any combination with other features and elements. The methods described herein may be implemented in a computer program, software, instructions, or firmware stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable or other machine-readable media for execution by a computer or machine or a portion thereof. For example, a computer-readable or machine-readable medium may be executed by control circuitry such as a processor. Examples of computer-readable or machine-readable media include electronic signals (transmitted via a wired or wireless connection) 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 magnetic disks, and optical media such as CD-ROM disks and digital versatile disks (DVDs). Control circuitry may access computer programs, software, instructions, or firmware stored on a computer-readable or machine-readable medium for execution to cause the control circuitry to operate as described herein or to operate one or more devices as described herein.

Claims

1. A control device comprising: A communication circuit configured to wirelessly transmit messages over a communication channel; as well as Control circuit, the control circuit being configured to: Measure the amplitude of the first signal strength of the communication channel; When the amplitude of the first signal strength is less than the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit. If the first signal strength amplitude is not less than the transmission threshold and the transmission threshold is less than the maximum threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to the second value in increments, and then the second value is compared with the second signal strength amplitude of the communication channel to determine whether the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit; as well as If the transmission threshold is not less than the maximum threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit.

2. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is further configured to: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength in the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; If the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit; and If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value by the increment.

3. The control device of claim 1, wherein the first value is configured based on a message received at the control circuit via the communication circuit.

4. The control device of claim 1, wherein the increment is in the range of 5 dBm to 10 dBm.

5. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is further configured to: Determine the background signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; and The first value is determined based on the amplitude of the background signal intensity.

6. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is further configured to determine the first value of the transmission threshold based on the priority context of the message.

7. The control device of claim 6, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine the priority context of the message based on at least one of the device type of the control device, the content of the message, the transmission type of the message, the network role of the control device, and the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device.

8. The control device of claim 7, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine whether the message is a delay-critical message or a delay-non-critical message based on the priority context, wherein when the message is determined to be the delay-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a higher value to achieve a delay lower than a predefined delay threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the delay-non-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a lower value to allow the delay to be higher than the predefined delay threshold.

9. The control device of claim 8, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the control device, wherein the control device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on whether the control device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

10. The control device of claim 8, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions for controlling electrical loads.

11. The control device of claim 10, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the control circuit is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

12. The control device of claim 11, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color that is less than the lighting load.

13. The control device of claim 10, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message, including the state of the load control environment or electrical load.

14. The control device of claim 8, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

15. The control device of claim 8, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the control device, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the latency-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

16. The control device of claim 15, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the network role being a terminal device.

17. The control device of claim 8, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

18. The control device of claim 1, wherein, when the measured signal strength amplitude is not less than the transmission threshold, the control circuit is further configured to: Determine whether the signal strength amplitude of the communication channel has been measured at least a threshold number of times; and The message is transmitted over the communication channel via the communication circuit after the signal strength amplitude has been measured at least the threshold number of times.

19. The control device of claim 1, wherein the first signal strength amplitude is a received signal strength indicator of the communication channel.

20. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to determine the value of the increment based on one or more of the following: the number of previous attempts to transmit the message, the first signal strength amplitude, the difference between the first signal strength amplitude and the transmission threshold, the amount of near-channel interference associated with the communication channel, the link quality associated with the communication channel, or the path loss associated with the communication channel.

21. A control method, comprising: Measure the amplitude of the first signal strength in the communication channel; When the amplitude of the first signal strength is less than the transmission threshold, a message is transmitted on the communication channel; If the first signal strength amplitude is not less than the transmission threshold and the transmission threshold is less than the maximum threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to the second value in increments, and the second value is compared with the second signal strength amplitude of the communication channel to determine whether to transmit the message on the communication channel. as well as If the transmission threshold is not less than the maximum threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit.

22. The control method of claim 21, further comprising: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength of the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; If the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel. as well as If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value by the increment.

23. The control method of claim 21, further comprising: Determine the background signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; as well as The first value is determined based on the amplitude of the background signal intensity.

24. The control method of claim 21, further comprising: The priority context of the message is determined based on one or more of the following: the device type of the control device transmitting the message, the content of the message, the transmission type of the message, the network role of the control device, and the network communication link associated with the control device. as well as The first value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the priority context of the message.

25. The control method of claim 24, further comprising determining whether the message is a latency-critical message or a latency-non-critical message based on the priority context, wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a higher value to achieve a latency lower than a predefined latency threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-non-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a lower value to allow the latency to be higher than the predefined latency threshold.

26. The control method of claim 25, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the control device, wherein the control device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the method further includes determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on whether the control device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

27. The control method of claim 25, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, and wherein the method further includes determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message, which includes control instructions for controlling electrical loads.

28. The control method of claim 27, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the method further comprises determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

29. The control method of claim 28, wherein the method further comprises determining, based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color less than the lighting load, that the message is a delay-noncritical message.

30. The control method of claim 27, wherein the method further comprises determining, based on the content of the message including the state of the load control environment or electrical load, that the message is a delay-non-critical message.

31. The control method of claim 25, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the control method further includes determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and determining that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

32. The control method of claim 25, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the control device, and wherein the control method further includes determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

33. The control method of claim 32, wherein the control method further comprises determining, based on the network role being a terminal device, that the message is the delay-non-critical message.

34. The control method of claim 25, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device, wherein the control method further includes determining that the message is the delay-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the control method further includes determining that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

35. A control device comprising: A communication circuit configured to wirelessly transmit messages over a communication channel; as well as Control circuit, the control circuit being configured to: Determine the background signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; The first value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the background signal strength amplitude plus the offset value; The current signal strength amplitude of the communication channel is then measured, wherein the current signal strength amplitude is the first signal strength amplitude; If the current signal strength amplitude is less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted via the communication circuit; and If the current signal strength amplitude is not less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to a second value in increments, and the second value is compared with a second signal strength amplitude of the communication channel to determine whether the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit.

36. The control device of claim 35, wherein the control circuit is further configured to: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength in the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; If the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the second value of the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit; and If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the second value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value by the increment.

37. The control device of claim 35, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the background signal strength amplitude by calculating the peak value or time-weighted average value of the measured signal strength amplitude of the communication channel.

38. The control device of claim 35, wherein the offset value is approximately 10 dBm.

39. A control device comprising: A communication circuit configured to wirelessly transmit messages over a communication channel; as well as Control circuit, the control circuit being configured to: Determine the message to be transmitted via the communication circuit for controlling the electrical load; Measure the signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; Determine the priority context of the message used to control the electrical load, wherein the priority context indicates whether the message used to control the electrical load is a delay-critical message or a delay-non-critical message; The value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the defined priority context of the message used to control the electrical load; and If the measured signal strength amplitude is less than the value of the transmission threshold, the message for controlling the electrical load is transmitted on the communication channel.

40. The control device of claim 39, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine the priority context of the message based on at least one of the device type of the control device, the content of the message for controlling the electrical load, the transmission type of the message for controlling the electrical load, the network role of the control device, or the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device for transmitting the message for controlling the electrical load.

41. The control device of claim 40, wherein when the message is determined to be the delay-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a first value, wherein the first value is set to achieve a delay lower than a predefined delay threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the delay-non-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a second value, wherein the second value is set to allow the delay to be higher than the predefined delay threshold.

42. The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the control device, wherein the control device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on whether the control device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

43. The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions for controlling the electrical load.

44. The control device of claim 43, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the control circuit is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

45. The control device of claim 44, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color that is less than the lighting load.

46. ​​The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the content of the message including the state of the load control environment or the electrical load.

47. The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

48. The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the control device, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the latency-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

49. The control device of claim 48, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the network role being a terminal device.

50. The control device of claim 40, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device, wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

51. A load control system, comprising: A plurality of load control devices configured to control electrical power supplied to respective electrical loads, wherein each of the plurality of load control devices includes a corresponding communication circuit configured to receive transmitted radio frequency (RF) signals; and Input device, the input device being configured to: Determine a message to be transmitted on a communication channel, the message including control information for controlling at least one of the plurality of load control devices; Measure the amplitude of the first signal strength of the communication channel; If the first signal strength amplitude is less than the transmission threshold or the transmission threshold is not less than the maximum threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel to at least one of the plurality of load control devices. If the amplitude of the first signal strength is not less than the transmission threshold and the transmission threshold is less than the maximum threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to the second value incrementally.

52. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the input device is further configured to: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength of the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; If the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel; and If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value by the increment.

53. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the first value is configured based on a message received at the input device.

54. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the increment is in the range of 5 dBm to 10 dBm.

55. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the input device is further configured to: Determine the background signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; and The first value is determined based on the amplitude of the background signal intensity.

56. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the input device is further configured to determine the first value of the transmission threshold based on the priority context of the message.

57. The load control system of claim 56, wherein the input device is configured to determine the priority context of the message based on at least one of the device type of the input device, the content of the message, the transmission type of the message, the network role of the input device, and the network communication link associated with the input device.

58. The load control system of claim 57, wherein the input device is configured to determine whether the message is a latency-critical message or a latency-non-critical message based on the priority context, wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a higher value to achieve a latency lower than a predefined latency threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-non-critical message, the first value of the transmission threshold is set to a lower value to allow the latency to be higher than the predefined latency threshold.

59. The load control system of claim 58, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the input device, wherein the input device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on whether the input device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

60. The load control system of claim 58, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, and wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions for controlling the electrical load.

61. The load control system of claim 60, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

62. The load control system of claim 61, wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is a delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message including a control instruction configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color less than the lighting load.

63. The load control system of claim 60, wherein the input device is configured to determine, based on the content of the message including the state of the load control environment or electrical load, that the message is a delay-non-critical message.

64. The load control system of claim 58, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

65. The load control system of claim 58, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the input device, wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the latency-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

66. The load control system of claim 65, wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the network role being a terminal device.

67. The load control system of claim 58, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the input device, wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the input device is configured to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

68. The load control system of claim 51, wherein, when the measured signal strength amplitude is not less than the transmission threshold, the input device is further configured to: Determine whether the signal strength amplitude of the communication channel has been measured at least a threshold number of times; and The message is transmitted on the communication channel after the signal strength amplitude has been measured at least the threshold number of times.

69. The load control system of claim 51, wherein the first signal strength amplitude is a received signal strength indicator of the communication channel.

70. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed by a control circuit, cause the control circuit to perform the method as described in any one of claims 21 to 34.

71. A control device comprising: Control circuit; as well as A memory coupled to the control circuit for storing instructions, which, when executed from the memory, cause the control circuit to perform the method as described in any one of claims 21 to 34.

72. A control device comprising means for performing the method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 34.

73. A method implemented in a control device, the method comprising: Determine the amplitude of the background signal strength in the communication channel; The first value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the background signal strength amplitude plus the offset value; The current signal strength amplitude of the communication channel is then measured, wherein the current signal strength amplitude is the first signal strength amplitude; If the current signal strength amplitude is less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted. as well as If the current signal strength amplitude is not less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to a second value in increments, and the second value is compared with a second signal strength amplitude of the communication channel to determine whether to transmit the message on the communication channel.

74. The method of claim 73, further comprising: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength in the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; The message is transmitted on the communication channel when the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the second value of the transmission threshold. and If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the second value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value by the increment.

75. The method of claim 73, wherein the background signal strength amplitude is determined by calculating the peak value or time-weighted average value of the measured signal strength amplitude of the communication channel.

76. The method of claim 73, wherein the offset value is approximately 10 dBm.

77. A method implemented in a control device, the method comprising: Determine the message to be transmitted for controlling the electrical load; Measure the signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; Determine the priority context of the message used to control the electrical load, wherein the priority context indicates whether the message used to control the electrical load is a delay-critical message or a delay-non-critical message; The value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the defined priority context of the message used to control the electrical load; as well as If the measured signal strength amplitude is less than the value of the transmission threshold, the message for controlling the electrical load is transmitted on the communication channel.

78. The method of claim 77, wherein the priority context of the message is determined based on at least one of the device type of the control device, the content of the message for controlling the electrical load, the transmission type of the message for controlling the electrical load, the network role of the control device, or the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device for transmitting the message for controlling the electrical load.

79. The method of claim 78, wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a first value, wherein the first value is set to achieve a latency lower than a predefined latency threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-non-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a second value, wherein the second value is set to allow the latency to be higher than the predefined latency threshold.

80. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the control device, wherein the control device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the message is determined to be the delay-critical message based on whether the control device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

81. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, wherein the message is determined to be the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions for controlling the electrical load.

82. The method of claim 81, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the message is determined to be the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

83. The method of claim 82, wherein the message is determined to be a delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message, including control instructions configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color that is less than the lighting load.

84. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, and wherein the message is determined to be a delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message including the state of the load control environment or the electrical load.

85. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the message is determined to be the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and wherein the message is determined to be the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

86. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the control device, wherein the message is determined to be the latency-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

87. The method of claim 86, wherein the message is determined to be a delay-noncritical message based on the network role being a terminal device.

88. The method of claim 78, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device, wherein the message is determined to be a latency-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the message is determined to be a latency-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

89. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed by at least one control circuit, cause the control circuit to perform: Determine the amplitude of the background signal strength in the communication channel; The first value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the background signal strength amplitude plus the offset value; The current signal strength amplitude of the communication channel is then measured, wherein the current signal strength amplitude is the first signal strength amplitude; When the current signal strength amplitude is less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted via the communication circuit; and If the current signal strength amplitude is not less than a first value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the first value to a second value, and the second value is compared with a second signal strength amplitude of the communication channel to determine whether the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit.

90. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 89, wherein the instructions, when executed by at least one control circuit, further cause the at least one control circuit to perform: Measure the amplitude of the second signal strength in the communication channel; The second signal strength amplitude is compared with the transmission threshold having the second value; When the amplitude of the second signal strength is less than the second value of the transmission threshold, the message is transmitted on the communication channel via the communication circuit; and If the amplitude of the second signal strength is not less than the second value of the transmission threshold, the transmission threshold is increased from the second value to the third value incrementally.

91. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 89, wherein the instructions are configured to cause the at least one control circuit to determine the background signal strength amplitude by calculating the peak value or time-weighted average value of the measured signal strength amplitude of the communication channel.

92. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 89, wherein the offset value is approximately 10 dBm.

93. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed by at least one control circuit, cause the control circuit to perform: Determine the message to be transmitted via communication circuit for controlling electrical loads; Measure the signal strength amplitude of the communication channel; Determine the priority context of the message used to control the electrical load, wherein the priority context indicates whether the message used to control the electrical load is a delay-critical message or a delay-non-critical message; The value of the transmission threshold is determined based on the defined priority context of the message used to control the electrical load; as well as If the measured signal strength amplitude is less than the value of the transmission threshold, the message for controlling the electrical load is transmitted on the communication channel.

94. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 93, wherein the instructions cause the at least one control circuitry to determine the priority context of the message based on at least one of the device type of the control device, the content of the message for controlling the electrical load, the transmission type of the message for controlling the electrical load, the network role of the control device, or the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device for transmitting the message for controlling the electrical load.

95. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a first value, wherein the first value is set to achieve a latency lower than a predefined latency threshold, and wherein when the message is determined to be the latency-non-critical message, the value of the transmission threshold is set to a second value, wherein the second value is set to allow the latency to be higher than the predefined latency threshold.

96. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the device type of the control device, wherein the control device is a remote control device or an occupancy sensor device, and wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on whether the control device is the remote control device or the occupancy sensor device.

97. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, wherein the instructions cause the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message including control instructions for controlling the electrical load.

98. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 97, wherein the electrical load is a lighting load, and wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuit to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the content of the message, which includes control instructions configured to cause a threshold change in lighting intensity or color greater than that of the lighting load.

99. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 98, wherein the instructions cause the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message, including control instructions configured to cause a threshold change in the lighting intensity or the color less than the lighting load.

100. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the content of the message, and wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the content of the message including the state of the load control environment or the electrical load.

101. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the transmission type of the message, wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the transmission type being a unicast message, and wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the transmission type being a multicast message or a broadcast message.

102. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the network role of the control device, wherein the instructions cause the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the latency-critical message based on the network role being a router device.

103. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 102, wherein the instructions cause the at least one control circuitry to determine that the message is the delay-noncritical message based on the network role being a terminal device.

104. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 94, wherein the priority context includes the quality of the network communication link associated with the control device, wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuit to determine that the message is the delay-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being below a threshold, and wherein the instruction causes the at least one control circuit to determine that the message is the delay-non-critical message based on the quality of the network communication link being above the threshold.

105. A method implemented by the control device as described in any one of claims 35 to 38.

106. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that are executed by a control circuit of a control device as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 38.

107. A method implemented by the control device as described in any one of claims 39 to 50.

108. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that are executed by a control circuit of a control device as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 50.

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